Tag Archives: anything and everything

175 Day Duolingo Streak!

Standard
175 Day Duolingo Streak!

Hello! The last time I gave an update on my Duolingo progress, I had just achieved a one hundred day streak and I finally received my badge for adding seventy-five more days to it. I am so pleased with my progress and am proud of myself for continuing to practice five different languages every day for close to half a year. I am leaving previous goals in the dust and I feel like my skills in French, Spanish, Italian, German, and Czech are improving tenfold.

Thanks to Johnny gifting me Duolingo Plus for Christmas, practicing every day has become an exciting thing rather than an inconvenience because Plus gives you unlimited life. This is so handy on especially tough lessons and I don’t think I would have made it to a one hundred seventy-five day streak without it. I will most definitely be renewing my Plus subscription at the end of the year and highly recommend it.

Other than writing, learning languages is my favorite hobby and I feel good about committing myself even more to it. Similarly to how I feel after I finish a blog post for the day, I feel accomplished every time I complete my language lessons and it has really helped me shake away the pandemic boredom blahs. It’s hard to feel like there is “nothing” to do when I can go on Duolingo and learn brand new words and phrases in multiple different languages!

While I am over the moon with my one seventy-five day streak, I am nowhere close to being done yet because I will not be satisfied until I have a full year’s worth of days on my streak counter. I am almost halfway there and cannot wait to see the results of my hard work after one full year of practicing five languages. Great success!

Have you made progress on your pandemic hobbies? What is your favorite hobby? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Pineapple On Pizza: Yay Or Nay?

Standard
Pineapple On Pizza: Yay Or Nay?

Hello! Much to the annoyance of others and the delight of Johnny and myself, we have a handful of movie or TV scenes that we quote constantly. It’s never not funny to us and a shining example of that would be the Pizza Order sketch from Key & Peele. If you haven’t seen it, do yourself a favor and give it a watch:

^^^ As always, I have no rights to this video.

In this sketch, a man named Wendell tries to order three pizzas with pineapple, meat, and cheesy crust and the phone call to the pizza shop gets really weird really quick. To Johnny’s surprise, I have never tried pineapple on pizza before so he decided that this past Sunday was the day to change that. He ordered a pizza with pineapple, bacon, and cheesy crust for himself and one with pineapple, jalapenos, and (of course) cheesy crust for me.

As always, the Pizza Hut presentation never ceases to amaze me, lol. Take a look at this masterpiece:

As a vegetarian, I thought that pineapple and jalapeno would be the way to go for a little sweet and heat. The pineapple was a huge success and I loved the sweet and salty combination between the fruit and the sauce. The jalapenos, however, were a totally different story and I never plan on getting it again. It’s so weird because I enjoy spicy food and never have shied away from it but my mouth was on freaking fire from these peppers. I felt like my mouth was burning long after I ate and my stomach wasn’t thanking me, either.

I feel like such a baby to be saying that the Pizza Hut jalapenos were really spicy but DAMN, lol. In conclusion? I say “yay” to pineapple on pizza and while I wouldn’t order it every time, I would definitely get it every once in a while. And a big fat “nay” to jalapenos!

What are your favorite pizza toppings? Should pineapple go on pizza? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Back To School: My Reoccurring Dream

Standard
Back To School: My Reoccurring Dream

Hey! I have reoccurring dreams fairly frequently and if it isn’t dreaming that I’m back to working retail or in a play and have forgotten all of my lines, then I am dreaming about going back to school. In fact, I just had the dream last night and it never fails to freak me out as soon as I wake up. Not because it’s “scary” by any means but it feels so real that I wake up really thinking that I never took a class that was essential for me to graduate!

The dream always starts out with me in the counselor’s office at Cuyahoga Community College and he or she is explaining to me that there were a few classes in grade and high school that I didn’t take and, technically, never graduated from either of them. Then, with a flash, I am back at my grade school and retaking classes and tests like my life depends on it. It’s so wild!

Last night, the dream ended with me completing grade school because I was kind of waking up. Sometimes, however, the dream will end with me finishing the high school classes too. It’s basically the dream equivalent of Adam Sandler’s “Billy Madison” but not anywhere near as fun lol. No matter how the dream ends, trust and believe that I always wake up with a start! I dream really vividly and, as soon as I am waking up, I feel like I need to rush to get ready for school.

I have been having the same reoccurring dreams for literal years and each of them have never really changed. Clearly, that doesn’t mean that I don’t feel shocked every time they happen, though! Whether they are reoccurring or a one time thing, dreams can be so crazy and I am curious about everyone else’s so feel free to answer the following prompts:

What is the craziest, scariest, or funniest dream that you have ever had? Do you have any reoccurring dreams? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

 

Is Your Home Vulnerable To A Break-In?

Standard
Is Your Home Vulnerable To A Break-In?

We all have the nightmare that one day we’re going to come home and find that our house has been broken into. Even if you have the right insurance coverage, it will still be a horrific experience. You will question whether you are safe in your home and struggle to build back up the feeling that you are secure. It can also be difficult to replace everything that was stolen. Particularly, if you have one-of-a-kind things in your home that you never want to lose. That’s why it’s important to think about whether your home is vulnerable to a potential break-in. There are a few possibilities to think about:

On Display:

One of the key things that you need to ask is whether you are showing people the expensive items that are inside your home. Part of this is about how you layout your furniture and things like the TV. Ideally, you should make sure that you’re not placing your TV somewhere that can be seen from outside the property or even the road. If you do this, then you’re essentially just tempting criminals. There are of course other ways to hide expensive items that might be inside your home.

For instance, you can think about the windows. If you get the right windows, then you can make it impossible for people to look inside your home. Tinted windows are ideal and not as expensive as you might imagine. They make your home look distinct too. For a more subtle choice, you might want to think about using screener trees. These trees have thick foliage and are fast-growing to ensure that they completely conceal an area.

While You’re Away:

It’s fair to say that your home is going to be most vulnerable while you are away from it. However, there are a few steps that you can take to correct issues here. For instance, you might want to think about investing in a CCTV system for your property. With the right CCTV system, you can better protect your home. CCTV systems can act as a deterrent but will also provide peace of mind while you’re not at the property. Some of the latest CCTV systems will even allow you to check-in remotely and ensure that there’s nothing worrying happening.

You might also want to think about getting your neighbors involved too. If you can trust them, then you should consider giving your neighbors a key to your home for when you are away. They can remove some of the signs that you have not been there like the build-up of mail by your front door or the lights always being on.

Poor Maintenance:

When you are thinking about how to secure your home, you should make sure that you consider different entry points. There are likely to be multiple different entry points to your home and some of them could be more vulnerable than others. For instance, the locks in your doors could have seen better days. If your locks are stiff or old, then you might want to think about replacing them. Don’t forget, you should always change the locks when you move into a new property. You never know who might still have the keys to your home. You should also repair any entry points that have been damaged like the garage door. A garage door repair company will be able to fix issues like this for you with ease.

Neighborhood Watch:

A neighborhood watch is another excellent way to deter crime in your area and it also gives you some added peace of mind to know that your neighbors are looking out for you. If you don’t have one, then you may want to consider speaking to your local community members about setting one up.

Better protect yourself, family, and home with the tips above!

Featured Image By: Pexels

Is It Worth It? Let Me Work Out

Standard
Is It Worth It? Let Me Work Out

Hello!! Despite not ever really “working out”, I am a fairly athletic person. In my youth, I figure skated for about ten years and had just gotten back into it a year and a half before the pandemic began. I also enjoy running and going for hikes. Throughout my life, I was never worried about the muscular lower half of my body from years on the ice. However, my upper body strength is a totally different story because I don’t have any lol.

This past month, I have been working at home quite a bit and had extra free time in between jobs. I don’t really know what inspired me to start a little at home work out routine but, I gave it a shot on one of my more low key days and have been completing my exercises every day since. In my apartment, I have been doing arm circles, walking my stairs, and doing twenty-five push ups – which I actually didn’t know I could do! Next, I plan on adding sit ups and increasing the amount to thirty.

Don’t get me wrong, I am very proud of my body and that, in itself, is a huge step for me because I had an eating disorder in the past. But, I’d like to tone up the upper half of my body for the first time in my life and I know that I am not going to achieve the results I want just sitting on the couch. Even though my work outs are small and basic, I feel really good after I do them and it’s a nice feeling to have because I haven’t been able to skate for the past year.

I’m not trying to get a six pack or super jacked arms but a bit more toning and definition and I feel confident that I will get there even with a slow and steady approach. In the past, I never bothered working out because I got all of the exercise that I need on the skating rink but there is no better time than the present to try something new. I feel proud of myself and it was awesome to hear Johnny say that he was too and I am looking forward to lots of hikes together this spring and summer. 🙂

How do you work out from home? How would you go about toning your upper half? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Issues To Look Out For When You Have Trees In Your Yard

Standard
Issues To Look Out For When You Have Trees In Your Yard

Trees can be an amazing addition to any outside space. In fact, this is such a wonderful little extra that it’s not unheard of for homeowners to ultimately make their decision to buy based on something like a lovely oak tree in a corner. Unfortunately, as amazing as they are, trees are also pretty extreme forces of nature. While this needn’t be a problem if your yard is large enough that they’re well out of reach, it could soon spell issues if your trees are up close and personal with your property.

Of course, you’re going to want to do everything that you can to avoid resorting to removal. Still, it’s vital to look out for these signs that your tree might be taking its toll on your house in the wrong ways:

Blocked gutters:

Autumn leaves can get everywhere, including into your gutters. This is the case no matter how much you sweep them up and, left unchecked, those autumnal remnants could well cause blockage issues that lead to everything from leaking pipes to damp interiors. To avoid this, it’s fundamental to rake leaves at least once a day in the fall, and also to install a drain cover that keeps the worst at bay. If your tree has branches hanging over or close to your gutters, the best thing you can do is call in the professionals like 911 Tree Experts (or a similar business in your local area). The company you choose will be able to trim those branches back to prevent gutter blockages. When the leaves start to fall in autumn, this can happen much quicker than you think! Make sure, too, that you invest in professional gutter cleaning or tackle this task yourself at least twice a year. That way, you can keep enjoying that tree, without once feeling its impact in your waterworks.

Overhanging branches:

Unlike flowers, trees grow wherever they want to, meaning that overhanging branches can soon become a problem. This can cause safety issues even in your own yard, but, most often, branches have a habit of growing over the garden fence. This can cause rifts with your neighbors like little else, especially seeing as they’re not legally allowed to chop those branches down. Make sure it doesn’t happen by getting any errant branches pruned at least every two to three years. This will instantly refresh your outside space, and might just ensure that you stay on the best terms with everyone else on your street. Dealing with branches is something that should be left to the professionals. If your trees are in need of some maintenance, simply enter a search for “tree trimming & pruning Red Deer” (or your local area) to find the right team for you.

Pexels Image

Structural damage:

Unfortunately, trees can also cause structural damage if surprisingly large tree root systems make their way under your property. If this happens, your structural foundations are at real risk, and immediate action is necessary if you notice warning signs such as cracks in your stonework, bulging walls, or uneven floors. Luckily, tree surgeons can cut longer roots without damaging your tree itself, meaning that there’s no reason this needs to spell the end. Depending on where roots are, professionals may even be able to install root barriers that stop a repeat performance. However, this is dependent on fast action, because a tree that’s too deeply embedded underneath your house might need to go, after all.

Structural damage can also occur if a tree falls onto your property from severe storms and weather. If you live in a particularly rainy climate, it is a good idea to have an emergency tree removal service on standby. The professionals will be able to remove the tree from your property in the safest most time effective way. To get started, simply enter a search for “arborist in Melbourne” (or your local area). Having a team already in mind can save precious time should this happen to you.

Whether you spend much time in nature or not, trees can be an amazing addition to your yard. Or, at least, they can be if you stay vigilant of these key issues at all times!

Featured Image By: Pexels

Steps To Take After A Car Accident

Standard
Steps To Take After A Car Accident

Car accidents are not only incredibly scary but they are incredibly stressful because you now have a lot of unexpected things to deal with all at once. Injuries, car repairs, dealing with insurance, and So. Many. Bills – just to name a few. It’s important to note that if you have sustained injuries after being involved in a collision then it’s crucial to visit a specialist like an auto accident chiropractor, especially if you have endured spinal injuries, as this can lead to long-term damage and chronic pain. Being in an accident is stressful and it can all feel really overwhelming but there are some steps that you can take to help make the process easier. Let’s get started:

Hire A Lawyer:

The answer to “what do to after a car crash” is always going to be: Hire a lawyer. I was in a serious car accident a year and a half ago when my fiance and I got hit head on and I wish that I had hired a lawyer immediately instead of waiting. It would have saved so much hassle between the nonstop hospital and doctor bills and hang ups from the insurance companies. Not to mention all of the stress that came from trying to deal with it all by myself! As soon as I hired a lawyer, it was like a weight was lifted off of my shoulders and I could breathe a lot easier knowing I had a professional on my side.

When hiring a lawyer, always do your research before you commit to anyone. You want a knowledgeable professional who is truly in your corner so you can have the best outcome. To get started, check out this attorney here and start receiving the help you need.

Car Repairs:

If you have not been injured, you will want to tend to any car repairs or, potentially, car shopping so that you can be mobile and keep your daily life running smoothly. While it’s understandable to want to get this done quickly, don’t be afraid to shop around for the best deals. Lots of collision repair centers offer AAA or veteran’s discounts. You can also keep your eye out for coupons too when you take your car to SmogMart, as their website offers plenty to help cut costs. Some places like collision repair Richmond Hill even offer in house car rental services to save you from endless Uber rides.

Document Everything:

Not only will you want pictures of the damage to your car but it is also important to take pictures of your injuries if you were hurt, which is standard. Have hard and backup copies of all of your documents and keep them well organized so you can reference them quickly as needed. Don’t forget to take note of time missed from work as well as anything that you have difficulty doing now due to injuries. It’s also a good rule of thumb to send any bills or other communication that you receive in the mail to your lawyer at Schuerger Shunnarah Trial Attorneys as you get it so they stay up to date on everything.

Take Your Time:

As mentioned above, car accidents are, first and foremost, really scary so it’s understandable to be a bit wary of driving after being in one. This is completely normal and it’s so important to not get behind the wheel of a car again until you feel ready. It’s not safe for yourself or other drivers if you are really anxious on the road. Give yourself time and a break because you just went through something so dangerous. It’s also good to talk about these worries and fears instead of bottling them up so a video chat with a friend or therapist could go a long way.

While these tips won’t take all of the stress of a car accident away, they will certainly help. Also so glad you are okay!

Guess What?!

Standard
Guess What?!

Hello everyone! I have got some big news for all of you so I am going to get right to it… JOHNNY AND I ARE ENGAGED!! He proposed to me on Saturday the thirteenth and I am still floating on cloud nine. You guys will have to tune in tomorrow for the full proposal story but here’s a little sneak peek of our day:

yay

I am, truly, the happiest, luckiest girl in the universe and this past Saturday was one of the best days of my life. I just melt every time I think of how Johnny proposed and we are so excited to share our joy and story with all of you. See you tomorrow! Much love. -Sarah

Random Lil Red Fun Facts

Standard
Random Lil Red Fun Facts

Hi! I bet none of you knew before my recent post about my old school phone that I was using such an outdated model. Meanwhile, I am constantly getting comments on it whenever people notice it in public in my neck of the woods! I am very open on both my blog and Facebook page (Sarah Mushenheim) about all of my little quirks and favorite things but I’m sure there are many that I have overlooked. So, today, I am going to share some Random Lil Red Fun Facts that you might not have known before:

  1. My favorite fast food restaurant on planet Earth is and will always be Taco Bell forever and ever, Amen.
  2. I am a Diet Coke fiend and I always have to have it in my apartment.
  3. I never don’t want to watch America’s Next Top Model and freaking love Tyra Banks even though she butchered hosting on Dancing With The Stars.
  4. I used to despise listening to the radio a few years back but now I keep fairly up to date on all of the top forty hits. My current favorite is Dua Lipa – I loved watching her perform on Saturday Night Live!
  5. It’s no secret that I am a die hard TJMaxx Maxxinista and my favorite thing to shop for is definitely shoes. Mainly because you don’t have to worry about them not fitting when you online shop lol.
  6. I worked retail for a good four and a half years as well as participated in theater throughout high school and my early twenties. I still have dreams to this day that I am running late to open up the clothing store I worked at or have forgotten all of my lines before a big show.
  7. I have worked in the care field for people with special needs for over five years now and enjoy my job so much!
  8. I am a really organized and clean person. However, there are just some chores that I freaking hate doing – taking out the trash and cleaning the bathroom, blegh.
  9. Saying I am obsessed with soup is a severe understatement and I will crave a big bowl of French Onion even in the summertime. Don’t even get me started on minestrone, tomato, broccoli cheddar, cauliflower cheese, butternut squash, and lentil soup… The list goes on!
  10. My boyfriend is currently on a huge Popeye’s kick and, I kid you not, just ordered it four times in one week lol. Their biscuits are heaven on Earth. ❤
  11. The things I miss the most during the pandemic include figure skating, seeing family and friends regularly, and going to see my boyfriend play shows with The Outside Voices.
  12. My blog will have its seven year anniversary in September!

What are some fun facts about you? Do you have any questions for me? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Projects To Work On As A Family

Standard
Projects To Work On As A Family

A project that you work on as a family is a wonderful bonding experience that encourages team work and improving communication skills. Projects can bring siblings closer together and help teach new things to your children. In this post, we are going to look at a few projects both big and small that will create lasting memories with your loved ones. Let’s get started:

Make Something Grow:

Now is the perfect time to start thinking about a family gardening project. It will get you out into the sunshine after a long winter indoors and you will get to enjoy the fruits (and veggies!) of your labor all spring and summer long. If you can’t all agree on what should get planted or not, each family member could be assigned with their own plot of the garden to grow what they would like.

Build A Home:

One of the ultimate family projects would have to be building a home. It is not only an exciting project but will be a great exercise in learning how to compromise when planning out each room because everyone is going to have an opinion. Have family meetings to determine the “must haves” and “nice to haves”. You can also look for inspiration together. Browse on Pinterest, binge watch HGTV, or even enter a search for “home builder in cincinnati” (or your local area) to see completed projects. You never know where you will find exactly what you are looking for!

When you have a solid idea of what you want your build to turn out like as well as your budget, consult with Toronto home builders or the experts in your area to turn your dream home into a reality.

Plan A Trip:

When it’s safer to travel again, a vacation or weekend getaway will be like the light at the end of the tunnel of this pandemic for your family. Once you agree on a location, things like restaurants and activities will have to be determined. Have each of your family members plan their ideal vacation day and do your best to make it happen. With ample time to plan, you can book your airport transportation in advance as well as find the best restaurants, activities, and local hot spots to make it the best trip ever.

Art Projects:

You don’t have to be good at art to have fun doing it and a family paint or craft night will help get you in touch with your creative sides. Paint along with Bob Ross or look for inspiration for canvas art on Pinterest. Or, maybe you could all learn a skill together like macrame, woodworking, or pottery. Creating some artwork as a family could even turn into a home decorating project next!

Learn A New Language:

Learning a different language is so beneficial and it’s a cool project to work on as a family because you will always have someone to practice with. Sign up for some classes at the library or your local community center. You can also practice on Duolingo together. Foreign film movie nights and trying to cook some of the food that is traditional to the language you are learning is a must too.

The COVID-19 pandemic is not over yet and the ideas above will give you something exciting and meaningful to do together as a family. Have fun!