Aug30

Terrific T OOTD Bloopers

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Terrific T OOTD Bloopers

Hello everyone and welcome to the Blooper Reel from my Terrific T OOTD! Wearing jeans and a T-shirt is my standard throughout the work week. However, T’s rarely have a place in my weekend OOTDs as I love to get dressed to the nines. This outfit was an exception, though, because I just couldn’t wait to wear my Twilight “I ❤ Hot Dads” T-shirt from Hot Topic! It’s never not going to be funny to me and, honestly, it somehow felt so appropriate to the lunch date with Johnny I wore it to because it was the most subpar meal we have ever had lol. And these pictures? Rank even lower than subpar:

I’m *almost* ready for my closeup

Probs singing some Repo! The Genetic Opera (IYKYK)

Beaming with pride over my purchase

Finding my center of gravity as I often lose it after popping my foot lol

I LOOK GREAT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Waiting for the bartender to notice me

Sup dudes

Obviously there are no good barbecue restaurants in Ohio but there is Jimmy’s Backyard BBQ which has somehow stayed open for years. Johnny and I drive by it several times per week and always have to take note of a beloved Cuyahoga Falls mascot: Their giant Sasquatch statue that watches over the premises. It once got stolen a few years back and finally got replaced to everyone’s delight! Out of nowhere a few days before our lunch date, Johnny suggested we try it. Although I am a vegetarian, I go hard on BBQ side dishes and sheer curiosity got the best of us so we locked it in the calendar.

After dressing for success and taking pictures, we made our way to Jimmy’s with stomachs rumbling. We were served quickly and couldn’t wait to dig in. And that first bite? Lackluster at best! Believe you me, Johnny and I weren’t expecting blow your mind BBQ but we weren’t expecting that. The meat was dry, my mac n cheese was watery, and the most noteworthy thing we had were the hush puppies. Credit where it’s due: They were bomb AF. Needless to say, we would never go to Jimmy’s again. BUT it’s always nice to support local, it made for a fun story, and we got to get up close and personal with Sasquatch. This situation was still a massive win and that’s saying a lot considering I take my mac n cheese very seriously!

Although our meal was disappointing, the company couldn’t be beat. Johnny and I can always make a good time out of anything!

What is your favorite local restaurant? Is there a restaurant you visited that didn’t live up to the hype? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Aug29

Happy Birthday, Best Friend!

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Happy Birthday, Best Friend!

Hi!! There was a very important birthday earlier this week – my best friend Lea was the birthday girl!! Between her recent engagement and big day, there has been so much to celebrate and it brings me an incredible amount of joy. Johnny and I loved being able to enjoy her post engagement party with friends and family and her and I shared a delicious Mexican meal at El Meson for her b-day. For the past eighteen years and change Lea and I have celebrated our birthdays together and I would say a hefty portion of our festivities took place at El Meson lol. It is the best! Regardless of how long we have been besties, it is always special to be together for our special days and I can’t wait for eighteen more years of summer birthdays! ❤

Lea makes life sparkle. She is one of the most vibrant, kind, hilarious, energetic, goofy gals I have ever met and being her friend is like having permanent sunshine. She single-handedly made high school not suck and all of the years that followed, for that matter. It’s kind of insane that we became best friends in freshman year of high school and have not had one fight that entire time. But that’s just what our friendship is. This sounds cheesy but we literally have a soul connection and have no care for anything but fun when we are together. Even during the hardships that life brings, we emerge from our hang outs feeling lighter because we have been laughing for hours on end!

My girl has accomplished so much in her life and is easily one of the hardest workers I know. It makes me unspeakably proud because even during struggles she still came out on top and is perfectly happy with where she is at. We all are too because she is going to make the most beautiful bride and I wish that her wedding was next weekend! The pleasure is truly all mine to be a part of her milestones and cheering her on every step of the way. Just like she does for me. ❤ I don’t know how I lucked out so hard to have a best girl like her!

To my darling best friend going eighteen years strong:

Happy birthday!!!! I love you so!!!!

Are you celebrating any birthdays soon? How long have you been best friends with your bestie? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Aug28

Seasonal Decor Refresh: Easy Updates For Every Season

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Seasonal Decor Refresh: Easy Updates For Every Season

Changing up your home’s decor with the seasons is a lovely way to feel more in tune with the world just outside your window. A few simple swaps can totally change how a room feels, making it fresh and new without a huge effort. It’s all about making your space reflect the energy of the current season, whether that’s the bright, hopeful vibe of spring or the snug comfort of winter:

Spring into New Decor:

When everything outside starts to bloom, it’s only natural to want to bring that fresh feeling indoors. Spring decor is all about light, air, and a sense of newness. A great place to start is by swapping out heavy winter fabrics for lighter ones, like linen or cotton. Think pastel throw pillows, a light-colored rug, or crisp white curtains that let the sunshine stream right in.

Bringing nature inside is another big part of it. A vase of fresh tulips or daffodils on your dining table instantly brightens things up. You can also add botanical prints to your artwork or fabrics. This is also the perfect time to do a good decluttering, which helps create a more open and spacious feel. Looking at different seasonal decor ideas can give you tons of ideas, from color palettes to flower arrangements, helping you nail that perfect springtime mood.

Cozy Fall and Winter Vibes:

As the days get shorter and cooler, create a warmer, cozier home with rich textures and autumn-inspired colors. Add chunky knit blankets, velvet cushions, faux fur rugs, and shades like deep orange, mustard, burgundy, and forest green. Use warm lighting and candles to create a soft, inviting glow. Layered textures and gentle lighting can make your home into a cozy retreat from the cold.

Beyond the Decor: Deeper Updates:

Sometimes, a simple decor swap just doesn’t quite cut it when your home needs a refresh. If you feel like a room needs a bigger change, you might think about updates that go beyond just accessories. A fresh coat of paint is one of the most impactful things you can do. A new color can completely change the mood and energy of a space. Other small projects, like updating cabinet hardware in the kitchen or bathroom, or swapping an old light fixture for a modern one, can make a surprising difference. If you find your home needs more extensive work to truly feel right, you might start thinking about bigger renovations. These deeper updates can transform not just how your home looks, but how it functions and feels overall, making it a more enjoyable place to live all year round.

Decorating on a Budget:

You definitely don’t need to spend a fortune to keep your home feeling current and stylish each season. There are plenty of budget-friendly ways to spruce up your home decor. One of the easiest tricks is to focus on textiles. Instead of buying brand new decorative pillows, just grab new covers to slip over the inserts you already have. The same goes for kitchen towels, bathmats, and throw blankets. Thrift stores and flea markets are fantastic places to find unique decor items. Look for interesting vases, picture frames, or small decorative pieces that you can easily add to your space. And don’t forget the power of nature! A bowl of pinecones in the fall, a jar of seashells in the summer, or a few branches in a tall vase can be beautiful, free decorations.

Seasonal updates can be a mindful way to appreciate your home and the present moment. Once the changes are made, take time to enjoy how they affect your mood and daily routine. Small seasonal touches can keep your home feeling personal, welcoming, and comforting!

Featured Image By: Unsplash

Aug28

Lil Red’s Book Club: Ambush By Colleen Coble Edition

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Lil Red’s Book Club: Ambush By Colleen Coble Edition

Hello everyone and welcome to a brand new edition of Lil Red’s Book Club! In a spoiler free setting, as always, we are going to be discussing a sort of thriller, sort of romance, sort of religious (Yuck!) book by Colleen Coble called Ambush. Had I known that Coble was known for Christian literature, I would have vetoed it from the jump. However, I was too far into the book to abandon it and saw it through. Ambush was a below average read that appears to be the first part of a series. Will I read the next one when it comes out? The jury is still out but let’s discuss anyways! Before we begin, I will be placing a trigger warning on Ambush for sexual violence, graphic crime scene descriptions, and general violence. Now, let’s get to it:

Paradise has had a tough go in life. After losing both of her parents she was bounced from foster home to foster home, each one being worse than the last. The only high point in those years was her relationship with Blake which came to a crashing halt when his attempt to help her failed. The two high school sweethearts never spoke again afterwards but Paradise’s past is about to catch up to her fifteen years later. Since her and Blake’s falling out, she went on to become a vet specializing in wild and exotic animals. Although she loves her job, an almost deadly attack by a big cat has left her broken and she takes the first opportunity she is offered to get her groove back. She will now be the vet at The Sanctuary.

The Sanctuary is exactly what it sounds like – a place for wild animals that were injured to roam, heal, and live the rest of their lives under expert care. It would be perfect minus the fact that Blake’s mother is the owner of The Sanctuary and he has returned in the wake of tragedy after the suspicious death of his father. Tensions are, indeed, high at The Sanctuary as the two former flames meet again but it is softened by Blake’s two younger brothers and his caring mom, Jenna. Paradise’s world at The Sanctuary revolves around caring for the animals and avoiding Blake at all costs. Soon, her avoidance of the man she has held a grudge against for so long will be the least important thing on her mind.

Since Paradise began her job, strange things have been happening at The Sanctuary and the surrounding properties. A body was found at a nearby ranch and angry activists have targeted The Sanctuary, committing break ins, arson, and shootings. The detective on the case feels no sympathy for Blake and his family and makes it clear that Blake and Jenna are his prime suspects in the murder at the ranch. With no help to be found for The Sanctuary from the police, the team decides to investigate themselves and that includes Paradise. As her and Blake work together to solve their own mysteries, they continue to grow closer and closer. If a flame is rekindling, it must wait until The Sanctuary’s problems are solved and Blake and his mom are in the clear. Will Paradise finally have the happy ending that she so needs and deserves? Read Ambush to find out!

In theory, Ambush offered a little bit of everything I like in a book. A juicy mystery, old love blossoming, and crooked cops. In practice, it was just very okay. My main qualm had nothing to do with the religious aspect of Ambush but had everything to do with the writing. Throughout the book, Colleen Coble made the decision to regurgitate the exact same phrases, words, and descriptions that had already been used several times over. It was verbatim and it drove me absolutely bonkers because lazy writing is the one thing I won’t stand for. There were countless times when it felt like I was rereading the same pages over again and it got to the point that it was laughable.

So the writing wasn’t great but what about the characters? Meh lol. Paradise as a leading lady was neither here nor there for me as she was extremely milquetoast. The personality factor was definitely lacking and she often read as bland and bored. Blake and his family, on the other hand, was too perfect and it was so unrealistic. I’m sure one would argue that god was on their side as they were ultra religious. What I mean by too perfect is that in the midst of all of this violence at The Sanctuary, no one got angry. Lives could have been lost and not one voice was ever raised. I don’t know about all of you, but I would be PISSED if I ended up being almost mauled by hyenas! Once again, I chalk this up to lazy writing to not even bother hinting at conflict within themselves and Ambush often read as a first draft as opposed to a published book.

Overall, I am going to rate Ambush with a two and a half out of ten stars. This is one that can certainly be skipped on but I’d be a liar if I said I don’t want to find out what happens in the next book!

What are you currently reading? What should I read next? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Aug27

Refreshing Your Space Beyond New Decor

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Refreshing Your Space Beyond New Decor

A home refresh is so much more than just grabbing new pillows or a trendy rug. It’s actually a fantastic chance to hit the reset button on your space, clear out anything that’s not serving you anymore, and create a home that truly feels like you. Often, the biggest changes don’t come from adding more stuff, but from really thinking about what you already have and getting rid of what you don’t need. This whole process might sound daunting, but if you break it down into smaller, bite-sized steps, it turns from a huge chore into a pretty exciting project. By focusing on clearing out the old before you even think about styling the new, you’ll build a solid foundation for a home that feels open, calm, and authentically yours:

Evaluating Your Current Decor:

Before you start tossing things or making a beeline for the store, take a moment to walk through your home with fresh eyes. Try to imagine you’re a guest seeing it for the first time. What do you genuinely love about each room? What makes you feel a little stressed or cluttered? Maybe your entryway always seems to be a mountain of shoes and mail, or a certain corner of the living room has become a magnet for random bits and bobs. Think about why you wanted to do this because your decor might need a refresh in the first place. Has your style changed over time? Or has the room’s purpose shifted? A dining room that’s now pulling double duty as a home office needs a different setup than one used only for meals. Just make a simple list of what’s working and what isn’t for each area. This first look is your personal roadmap for the entire project.

The Impact of Unused Items:

Every single item in your home takes up both physical and mental space. That broken lamp you keep meaning to fix, the stack of magazines you’ll never actually read, or the exercise equipment that’s somehow become a clothes hanger – they all add to a general feeling of clutter. All of this visual noise can make it really hard to relax and enjoy your home. Getting rid of these unused items is often the single most effective thing you can do to refresh your space. Letting go of things can be tough but try to think of it as making room for new energy and possibilities. For items that are just sitting there, consider if you can donate them or sell them. For bigger jobs that go beyond a few bags for charity, professional junk removal can be a lifesaver. They can quickly clear out old furniture, broken appliances, or all that accumulated clutter from a garage or basement. The main goal here is to end up with only the things you actually use, genuinely need, or truly love.

Planning Your Home Refresh Project:

Once you have a clear idea of what needs to go and what you’re hoping to achieve, it’s time to make a plan. A little bit of structure will keep you from feeling overwhelmed and giving up halfway through. Start by setting a realistic timeline. You definitely don’t have to tackle the whole house in one weekend. Maybe you focus on one room per week or dedicate a few hours every Saturday. Next, figure out your goals for each space. Do you want the living room to feel cozier? The bedroom to be more peaceful? The kitchen to be more practical? Write these goals down. This will help you make decisions later on. Creating a simple mood board on Pinterest, or even just a folder of inspiring images, can help you visualize the final result and keep you motivated.

Handling Large-Scale Clear Outs:

After you’ve sorted your belongings into “keep,” “donate,” “sell,” and “toss” piles, you’ve got to deal with the aftermath. Smaller items are usually pretty easy to handle. You can drop a few bags at a local charity or list some things on a marketplace app. But what about the big stuff? That old mattress, the broken dresser, or a mountain of yard waste can be tricky to get rid of on your own. For these larger clear-outs, you have a couple of options. You could rent a truck and make multiple trips to the dump or a recycling center, but that can eat up a lot of time and be physically draining. This is another area where professional services can make a huge difference. They have the right equipment and know-how to remove bulky items safely and efficiently, and they often make sure things are disposed of in an eco-friendly way.

Styling Your Revitalized Rooms:

Now for the fun part: styling your newly decluttered space! With all the extra stuff gone, you can finally see the true potential in your rooms. The first step is to “shop your own home.” Try moving furniture, art, and decor from one room to another to see if they look better in a new spot. Sometimes just rearranging the layout can make a room feel completely different. Once you’ve made the most of what you already have, you can think about adding a few new pieces. This doesn’t have to cost a fortune. A new set of curtains, a colorful throw blanket, or a few healthy plants can really breathe new life into a room. There are tons of simple tips for a vibrant space that focus on small, impactful changes. Pay attention to lighting, different textures, and those personal touches that make the space feel like it belongs to you.

After all your hard work, take a moment to kick back and enjoy your revitalized home. You’ve created a space that not only looks better but also works better for your life right now!

Featured Image By: Unsplash

Aug27

Preparing Your Outdoor Space For Any Season

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Preparing Your Outdoor Space For Any Season

Your outdoor space is like another room in your home, a lovely spot to chill out, host friends, and feel connected to nature. Keeping it looking great doesn’t have to be a huge headache. If you break down yard work into easy seasonal tasks, you can create a simple routine for preparing your home landscape that keeps everything thriving all year. A little effort each season really pays off, giving you a stunning yard to enjoy, rain or shine:

Spring Clean-Up Essentials:

Once the snow melts and things start to warm up, it’s time to gently wake your yard from its winter nap. First, clear away any fallen branches, leaves, and other bits that piled up over the colder months. This initial tidy-up makes a big visual difference and stops mold or fungus from growing in damp, leafy spots. Next, give your garden beds some love. Carefully rake back old mulch so the soil can warm up and dry out. This is also the perfect moment to add a fresh layer of compost, giving your plants a nice nutrient boost for the growing season. Finally, check your lawn for any squished areas or bare patches. Early spring is ideal for sprinkling new seeds on thin spots and getting your lawnmower serviced so it’s ready for that first cut of the year.

Pro Tips for Tree Health:

Your trees are a real treasure for your property, offering shade, beauty, and boosting your home’s value. After a long winter, they definitely deserve a good look-over. Carefully check them for any branches that might have been damaged by snow, ice, or strong winds. Look for cracks, splits, or big limbs that seem to be hanging a bit dangerously. Dead or damaged branches can be a safety risk, so it’s best to deal with them quickly.

While you can probably handle a bit of light pruning on small, low-hanging branches yourself, bigger jobs often need special gear and know-how. For major limb pruning or figuring out if a tree is stable, it’s usually safest to call in the pros. If you have large, damaged trees or worry about a tree being too close to your house, getting an expert for services like tree removal and trimming is the smartest move. They can check your trees’ health and suggest the best way forward.

Summer Landscape Protection:

Summer is when your yard really shines, but the heat can also throw some curveballs. The secret to a healthy landscape during hot months is smart watering. Give your lawn and gardens a good, deep drink, but not too often. Early morning is usually best to avoid too much water evaporating. This encourages roots to grow deeper, making your plants tougher against dry spells. Mulch becomes your best friend in summer. A two to three-inch layer around your plants and trees helps the soil hold onto moisture, keeps roots cool, and fights off weeds that would otherwise steal water and nutrients. Also, keep an eye out for common summer pests and diseases. Catching issues like Japanese beetles or powdery mildew early makes them much easier to handle without needing harsh treatments.

Fall Yard Refresh Ideas:

We often think of autumn as the time for gardens to wind down, but a little work now can set you up for a much healthier yard next spring. While it’s tempting to rake up every single leaf, try mowing over them instead. Shredded leaves create a natural mulch that will break down over winter, enriching your soil with good organic stuff. This is also a great time to aerate your lawn. This helps loosen compacted soil, letting water, air, and nutrients get right down to the grassroots. And if you’ve always dreamed of a burst of spring color, fall is the moment to plant bulbs like tulips, daffodils, and crocuses. They’ll settle in over winter and be ready to put on a show as soon as the weather warms up.

Winterizing Your Property:

Getting your outdoor space ready for winter is all about protecting it. Cold temperatures, ice, and heavy snow can really damage plants and outdoor gear if they’re not prepped properly. For delicate shrubs like roses or hydrangeas, you might want to protect your plants from frost by wrapping them in burlap or building a little protective frame. Don’t forget your tools and furniture! Drain and store your garden hoses to stop them from cracking in freezing temperatures. Clean and cover or store your patio furniture to help it last longer. A thorough cleanup means less work when spring rolls around, letting you jump straight into enjoying your beautiful yard.

With this simple seasonal approach, you can keep your outdoor space healthy and inviting all year long. Each task builds on the last, creating a sustainable cycle of care that makes maintenance feel less like a chore and more like a rewarding hobby!

Featured Image By: Unsplash

Aug27

Pajama Party OOTD

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Pajama Party OOTD

Hello! It has been SO much fun seeing Halloween goodies in store and I say the earlier the better. In fact, it should be all year round! Halloween is, indeed, my favorite time to shop for home decor and scary cute clothes and 5 Below is one of my go to spots. There is nothing better than scoring little treats on the cheap! I am an avid fan of 5 Below’s pajamas and I couldn’t say no to two adorable sets during my first spooky shopping spree. They are the comfiest, softest PJs to snuggle up in and I have a feeling I’ll be living in them this fall. Check it out:

Who? What? Wear?

Pajama Sets: 5 Below

Candy Corn Plushie: TJMaxx

The Gengar plushie was a surprise from Johnny! ❤

I never used to buy pajamas because I always prefer to spend my money on clothes and shoes lol. However, 5 Below offers sets for under fifteen dollars and that is a deal that I would be hard pressed to find even at TJMaxx. I have purchased several pairs of pajamas from 5 Below and have quite the collection now. But, in my defense, I had a lot of time to make up for because my pajamas used to just consist of a few sad pairs of sweatpants and random T-shirts! While all of the PJs at 5B are uber cute, I think these Halloween themed ones take the cake!

Seriously, how darling are those little costumed bears doing their spooky best? And those teeny tiny ghosts?! Forget about it! Both of these pairs were hanging up at the front of 5B and I clocked them as soon as I walked in. They immediately went into my cart because I just knew they were going to sell out quickly. I was so right! The following week after buying them I ended up back at 5 Below with a client and there were no more sets of these pajamas in sight. I got them at the perfect time and feel like such a lucky duck. I can’t wait to curl up and watch scary movies and Supernatural in them all October long. 🙂

My plushies were my plus one to my pajama party and made for excellent company. Stay tuned for the Blooper Reel and stay comfy cozy!

What do you like to wear to bed? Is your wardrobe lacking any specific type of clothing? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Aug26

Managing Pelvic Discomfort To Improve Your Daily Life

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Managing Pelvic Discomfort To Improve Your Daily Life

Pelvic discomfort is more than just a minor annoyance. It can disrupt your work, social life, and overall sense of well-being. That feeling of pressure, aching, or fullness in your lower abdomen can make it difficult to focus on anything else. The good news is that you don’t have to simply live with it. Understanding the potential causes and knowing your care options can empower you to take control and find relief. Managing this condition starts with recognizing the signs, adopting supportive health habits to start today, and learning about the self-care strategies and professional help available to improve your daily life:

Understanding Pelvic Pressure:

Pelvic pressure often feels like a sensation of heaviness, fullness, or a dull ache in the lower belly and pelvic region. For some, it might feel like something is pushing down or sitting heavily in the pelvis. This discomfort can be constant, or it may come and go, sometimes worsening after standing for long periods, exercising, or at the end of the day. Many things can be causes of pelvic pain, from muscle strain and bladder issues to more complex conditions involving the pelvic floor. The pelvic floor is a group of muscles that forms a supportive sling for your bladder, uterus, and bowel. When these muscles are weakened or too tight, they can contribute to feelings of pressure and discomfort. Identifying the specific source of the problem is the first step toward finding an effective solution.

Recognizing When to See a Specialist:

While mild or occasional discomfort might resolve on its own, persistent or worsening pelvic pressure is a clear signal to consult a healthcare professional. If the pain interferes with your daily activities, comes with changes in bladder or bowel habits, or simply doesn’t feel right, it’s time to seek an expert opinion. Don’t dismiss your symptoms as “normal.” Navigating the medical world can be confusing, especially when you’re not sure which type of doctor to see. For pelvic health, two common specialists are urologists and urogynecologists. Understanding the difference in urologist and urogynecologist can help you find the right care faster. A urologist treats urinary tract conditions for all genders, while a urogynecologist has specialized training in female pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgery, focusing on pelvic floor disorders.

Self-Care for Pelvic Health:

While you’re seeking a professional diagnosis, there are several self-care practices you can adopt to help manage your symptoms. These strategies focus on reducing strain on the pelvic floor and promoting overall wellness. Gentle movement can be particularly beneficial. Certain exercises and stretches can help release tension in the pelvic muscles and surrounding areas like the hips and lower back. Consider incorporating the following into your routine:

  • Deep Diaphragmatic Breathing: Lie on your back with your knees bent. Place one hand on your chest and the other on your belly. As you inhale slowly through your nose, allow your belly to rise. As you exhale, let it fall. This helps relax the pelvic floor.
  • Gentle Stretches: Poses like child’s pose, happy baby, and gentle hip openers can alleviate tightness.
  • Mindful Posture: Pay attention to how you sit and stand. Slouching can put extra pressure on your pelvic organs, so try to sit upright with your feet flat on the floor.

These simple strategies for pelvic pain relief can make a significant difference in your comfort levels. Also, staying hydrated and eating a fiber-rich diet can prevent constipation, which often worsens pelvic pressure.

Preparing For Your Appointment:

Once you’ve decided to see a specialist, preparing for your appointment can help you get the most out of your visit. Before you go, take some time to write down your symptoms. Note when the pressure started, what it feels like, what makes it better or worse, and any other related symptoms you’ve experienced. This detailed history will give your doctor valuable clues.

Don’t let pelvic discomfort dictate the terms of your life. Understanding your symptoms and proactively seeking the right care helps you find a path to relief and get back to doing the things you love!

Featured Image By: Unsplash

Aug26

Signs Your Home Needs Some Extra TLC

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Signs Your Home Needs Some Extra TLC

Our homes are our sanctuaries, those cozy spots where we kick back and recharge. But let’s be real, every house settles and ages over time, sending out little hints that it might need a bit of TLC. Sometimes it’s just a tiny crack we spot while sipping our morning coffee, and other times it’s a door that suddenly decides it doesn’t want to close anymore. Catching these subtle clues early can help you tackle small issues before they balloon into big, expensive headaches:

Cracks and Imperfections:

Spotting a crack in your wall or ceiling can definitely be a bit alarming, but don’t panic just yet – not all cracks are created equal. Those thin, hairline cracks that pop up around windows or door frames usually just mean your house is settling naturally. They’re mostly cosmetic and a little spackle and paint can fix them right up. But you’ll want to pay closer attention to cracks that are wider than a quarter-inch, run diagonally across walls, or show up above doorways and stretch all the way to the ceiling. These bigger, more jagged cracks could be a sign that your house’s frame is shifting because of foundation movement. If you notice these more serious imperfections, it might be time to chat with a professional foundation repair company to get their take.

Doors and Windows Sticking:

Ever had a door that used to swing open easily but now scrapes the floor or gets stuck in its frame? It’s a common household annoyance, but it can also be a little warning sign. Sure, high humidity can make wood swell and cause doors and windows to stick, but if it’s a persistent problem, something else might be going on. When a house’s foundation shifts, it can warp door and window frames, making them jam or not latch properly. If you notice that several sticking doors and windows are giving you trouble throughout your home, especially if there are also visible cracks around their frames, it’s a pretty good indicator that the structure is under some stress.

Uneven Floors and Surfaces:

Your home’s floors should feel solid and level. If you start to notice a definite slope in a room, or if your floors feel bouncy or soft when you walk on them, that’s a clear signal of an underlying issue. A quick trick to check for a slope is to put a marble or a small ball on the floor and see if it rolls on its own. Uneven floors can stem from problems with the floor joists or, more seriously, from a foundation that’s sinking or heaving in certain spots. You might also spot related signs like ceramic tiles cracking under pressure or baseboards pulling away from the floor, leaving a noticeable gap.

Moisture Concerns and Drainage:

Water is one of the biggest enemies of a healthy foundation. If you have constant dampness in your basement or crawl space, a musty smell that just won’t go away, or visible water stains on walls, those are all big red flags. These signs of excess moisture tell you that water is getting into places it really shouldn’t be. It’s also important to check your home’s exterior drainage. Are your gutters clogged? Are your downspouts sending water far enough away from the foundation? If the ground around your home slopes inward, rainwater can pool right against the foundation walls, creating huge pressure and eventually leading to leaks and structural damage.

When to Call a Professional:

It’s awesome to be a hands-on homeowner, but it’s also smart to know your limits. You can totally fix a small cosmetic crack or adjust a door hinge yourself. But when you start seeing multiple warning signs then it’s time to call in an expert. A structural engineer or a foundation specialist can do a thorough inspection to figure out the real cause of the problem. Trying to ignore or just patch over serious structural issues will only lead to bigger, more expensive repairs down the road.

Catching these problems early can truly make all the difference. A little proactive care helps ensure your home stays a safe and stable haven for many years to come!

Featured Image By: Unsplash

Aug26

How To Be The Life Of The Party

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How To Be The Life Of The Party

If you have ever stood in a crowded room wondering what you are going to say to other people who are holding drinks and shouting too loudly over the music, you are not alone. Many people often wonder how they can be the life and soul of the party. What is actually involved in taking on this role? How can you become that person, at least for one evening? Here is what to do:

Bring the right kind of energy:

You’ll want to start by bringing the right kind of energy to the party. You don’t necessarily need to kick the door down and tell everyone a joke that you’ve been thinking about all week. All it requires is going with an approachable demeanor, smiling a lot, and bringing people together. Often, the person who’s considered the life and soul of the party is the person who is “facilitating.” Try to make that person you.

Master the art of active listening:

We’ve all been there. You go to a party, and the person you’re talking to only wants to discuss their experiences and their life. It’s boring and dull. The good news, though, is that if you can stomach it, you can turn this around and master the art of active listening. The idea is to encourage the person you’re speaking to and to say the right things at the right time. You’ll notice that if you do this, the person will warm to you far more quickly, and you can potentially have a much more interesting conversation with them. When you really engage with them, they become friendlier and view you as a charismatic person.

Learn how to do what party goers do:

Another thing you might want to do, depending on the crowd, is to learn the steps and do what other partygoers do. What this means, of course, depends on context. It could be bringing a tasty appetizer, being the resident mixologist, or putting together an awesome playlist. If you have an understanding of the general expectations of the party, then you are putting yourself in a very good position. For example, let’s say you’re going to a corporate party. Expectations there will be very different from a party you’re going to with your friends!

Know when to pass the mic:

Don’t be one of those people at the party who tries to dominate every conversation. Instead, exercise your quiet power and then move swiftly when the situation calls for it. Being a great social presence is often about knowing when to step back and let others take the lead. You don’t necessarily have to be the literal life of the party if you don’t want to be. Try to read the room and gracefully exit when necessary.

Become a connector:

Finally, it’s a good idea to become a connector when you want to make an impression. As mentioned earlier, if you can bring people together through shared common interests, then you’re the person everybody goes to because you’re someone that they can rely on.

Step up your party approach with these tips and have fun!!

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