Tag Archives: apartment

Jun3

Making Your Home A More Comfortable Space

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Making Your Home A More Comfortable Space

Our homes serve so many functions. They provide us with shelter from the elements and warmth. They provide us with somewhere to bathe and eat and with a space to keep our belongings. They are our safe havens and keep us secure. But it’s important to make sure that your home is as comfortable of a space as possible. If you’re going to spend a whole lot of time here, you’re going to want to be able to kick back and relax. The good news is that with a little time, effort, and smart financial investment, you can make almost any home a comfortable and enjoyable space to spend time in. Here are a few ideas that you might like to consider:

Invest In a Good Quality Mattress:

Sleep is essential to your health and well being. There’s a good reason that it’s recommended the average adult gets between seven and eight hours’ worth a night. Sleep gives your body a chance to relax and recuperate and can help with memory retention. Sleep deprivation can make you uncomfortable and can make day to day life extremely difficult and drawn out. There are many factors that play into sleep quality, but mattress quality can be one of them. It’s recommended that you change your mattress once every eight years – used mattresses collect dirt and dust and can provide less support after a few years.

Get Air Conditioning:

Air conditioning can make your house a lot more comfortable during the summer months when the temperature rises and becomes stifling. Sure, it’s an investment that not every home has. But it’s a luxury that can really make a difference and will be worth it! Research different units and determine which will be best for your home setting. You may want to consider air conditioning repair if you have an old unit that has been out of use for a while.

Have Plenty of Seating:

If you’re going to accommodate guests from time to time, it’s important to have enough seating for everyone. A sofa is an essential, but you can buy complementary seating too. A chaise lounge or an armchair can make all of the difference rather than having to sit on the floor or stand when others are over. It’s a good idea to try different styles out in store before buying them so that they are up to your comfort level standards.

Improve Air Quality:

If your home is particularly humid, it can quickly get uncomfortable. A good quality dehumidifier can help with this. Air quality can also be improved by having plenty of houseplants around. Just make sure to opt for types that don’t have too much pollen, as this can worsen any existing allergies. And, always check that the plants you choose are safe for any children or pets you may have.

These are just a few steps you can take to make your home more comfortable, since we’re all spending a lot more time in our dwellings amid COVID-19!

Featured Image By: Pexels

Jun3

Cut Your Energy Bills With These Tips

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Cut Your Energy Bills With These Tips

One of the many things that the COVID-19 pandemic is having on society is a rise in energy bills. After all, we are all spending a lot more time at home, so it is only natural that we will consume a lot more energy.

A study carried out in 2009 found that as a nation, the United States was wasting over $130 billion a year on energy. Energy and money that escapes through our roof, through the inefficient seals around our windows, through cracks and holes in the walls, and appliances and lights left switched on or in standby mode. More than ten years later and a massive increase in the technology that we use on a day to day basis and you can imagine how much that amount has probably jumped up by since then.

The one good thing, however, is that our energy consumption is something we have power over, so we can take measures to reduce it. Here, we will look at some ways you can cut back on your bills:

Tackle your temperature:

Depending on the season, the cooling down or heating up of your home does not only bring you comfort during the day but may be the only thing that gives you a pleasant and restful night of sleep.

In the colder months, endeavor to keep the temperature between 18-20 ° C. Any degree higher than this will add up to 10% to your bill. Test the auto timers on your heater, too. By raising your heating time by one hour a day, you can save up to ninety hours of heating costs over the winter.

Once the warmer months have come back, strive to keep your air conditioner above 24 ° C. Any degree lower will add 10% to your electricity bill. Make sure your house is sealed well so that they work efficiently and keep all of the heat or the cool air in.

Increase your insulation:

Think about why you wear a hat in the winter. It is because your head is where you lose most of your heat. The same goes for your home – your roof is the head of your home. By making sure your attic space has the very best insulation possible from somewhere like https://www.insulatekansascity.com/attic-insulation/, you can reduce the amount of heat lost from your house and save you plenty of cash, particularly over the winter months.

Audit your appliances:

Old, outdated appliances can be power-hungry and can really add to your energy bill. If you have older air conditioning units, a flue gas heating system, or water heaters and fixtures, you might want to think about an upgrade. Modern appliances are made to function more efficiently. They also will be using the latest in technology and assembly methods, which is beneficial should you need repairs. It can be hard to find replacement parts for outdated models. Sure, it costs an outlay of money initially but, in the long term, it will really end up saving you. If updating these appliances isn’t possible, it would be a good idea to have an expert in, for example, Hot Water System Installations (or whatever system is problematic) to come by for a maintenance check.

Cutting your energy bills does not need to involve anything dramatic or necessarily expensive. A few minor tweaks to your lifestyle here and there and making sure everything is working efficiently is enough to save you hundreds of dollars every year – global pandemic or not.

Featured Image By: Pixabay

May29

5 Ways Of Keeping Your Home Consistently Pristine

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5 Ways Of Keeping Your Home Consistently Pristine

Having the most beautiful home is what we’d all like, right? We know that perfection doesn’t exist, but we’d like to be able to say we hang our hats in a very pretty little abode. While we can’t just snap our fingers and magic up a clean and pristine home, we can put in the work and make things as close as possible. If you’re a homeowner or if you’ve rented a place before, then you’ll know all about how it’s a job that requires constant effort with a watchful eye. These kinds of domestic chores can be very tedious and frustrating if you don’t have the right mindset or ideas going into them. Here are a few ways that can help make (and keep) your home in pristine condition:

Create A Plan Of Action:

Everything flows smoother when there’s a plan of working around the house involved. If you can figure out a little timetable of events, then you’ll be able to keep things in order a lot smoother. When your ideas are just kind of stored in your head, it’s easier to put them to the back of your mind and procrastinate. It’s also easier to confuse yourself when the thoughts are tucked firmly in your brain. If you write them out, then they become real, easier, and more motivating.

Have The Appropriate Services Completed:

You won’t be able to handle everything, of course. There will be certain tasks that you just can’t do as you aren’t trained in them. That’s where handy people come to the rescue. The likes of window fitters/cleaners, renovators, carpet fitters, and all others you can think of should be considered from time to time. The interior and exterior of your home need to have that touch of expertise every now and again!

Create Rules Around The House:

Whether you have a family, housemates, or you’re by yourself; it’s good to set rules to follow. They don’t need to be completely strict and rigid, but they should be adhered to. Not taking drinks to certain rooms and leaving your shoes in the porch area could be a good couple of ideas here. If you stick to what you set, then you’ll probably have a lot more joy in terms of what we’re trying to get at here. That systematic approach could save you a lot of hassle.

Be Proactive And Take Preventive Measures:

Stop issues happening at the source. For instance, stop bugs and other pests by using things like bug spray and a moth catcher trap that eliminates them quickly. Think about buying low-maintenance furniture and items so that you’re not constantly working away trying to fix/clean them. Prevention is a lot better than the cure.

Be Careful!

Last but by no means least, simply be careful with what you’re doing around the house. This obviously goes without saying, but that doesn’t mean it shouldn’t be said from time to time! Again, it’s another case of preventing something and stopping it from happening entirely!

Finish up your spring cleaning with the tips above and keep your home sparkling by maintaining it!

May27

How To Live A Calmer Existence At Home

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How To Live A Calmer Existence At Home

Our homes should be much more than just places to lay our heads at night and store our belongings. It should be the place where we recover the energy that we’ve lost during the day; it should be our retreat from the mania of the outside world. But, of course, this is only in theory: sometimes we find that our homes are just as stressful as public spaces. If you find yourself in this position, then it’s recommended that you take steps to make your home calmer. Take a look at our tips below and turn your home into the ultimate place for relaxation:

Set the Tone:

You should always try to start as you mean to go on. If you’re walking into a chaotic home, then it’ll be little surprise if your state of mind is chaotic while you’re there. Instead, look at making a few small changes to your entrance way. For example, you could look at adding plants, making the space brighter, and having a space for your coat and keys. Setting the tone is about more than getting the space organized, however: it’s about adding those touches that enhance the mood. For example, candles and incense can both make your entrance space much more enjoyable!

Clean and Spacious:

It’s much harder to live a calmer existence when it feels as if our material possessions are piling up all around us, or we’re living in an unclean and all-around disorganized space. As such, one of the best ways to create a better environment at home is to look at taking the minimalist route, and creating a clear and calm space. If you’ve been in your home for a few years, then you’ve probably got more material goods than you really need. So take a look at having a clear out. You can sell the items or, if you know that you’ll need them in the future, you can put them in climate controlled storage. You’ll find that it’s much easier to enter a calm state of mind when you’re not doing battle with all your possessions.

Tech-Free Spaces:

There’s much to love about technology, especially in the home. Who doesn’t enjoy playing video games, watching videos, or browsing the web? However, it’s important to remember that there is such a thing as too much tech in the home. Technology generally isn’t very calming, so if there’s too much of it in your home, then you might find it difficult to really relax. It’s recommended to put together a tech-free room in your house. There, you’ll do nothing but read, meditate, talk, and other activities that help to calm your mind.

Deep Comfort:

Finally, look at upping your home’s comfort levels. Things like new blankets, towels, and bed sheets can really take your home’s comfort credentials to the next level. It’ll allow you to fully sink into all of the cozy goodness that your property can provide, especially during the chilly winter months, when there’s nothing better than curling up on the couch.

Get ready, get set, and relax at home with the tips above!

Featured Image By: Pexels

May24

Just Something Nice :)

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Just Something Nice :)

HELLO! So, this quarantine has been lots of fun… I mean not the quarantine itself, everything kind of sucks. But, hanging out with my boyfriend at home when I’m done at work has been a hoot. Johnny and I have binge watched series after series and played countless hours of Animal Crossing to help us pass the time and, although it’s boring, I wouldn’t want to be quarantined with anyone else. :*)

One of my favorite nice Johnny stories that I never shared was from after I attended a wine and paint night with my best friend and some of the bridal party for her upcoming wedding. I came home with my tail between my legs because I thought my painting turned out like BOO BOO:

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But, the first thing Johnny said when he saw my painting was that he liked it and it looked like a Christmas card. Now, I have the painting proudly displayed in the living room. He always knows how to turn something I see negatively into a positive which I suck at doing and I always feel happy when I look at my masterpiece now.

Another thing that never fails to put a smile on my face is when I notice that Johnny has put my little artist’s wooden body model into a different position:

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^^^ It’s the little things, right?! 😅

Although things are far from awesome right now, I get to spend my excess free time safely tucked away in our goofy apartment world and I am so thankful for that. Especially when such fun surprises are scattered about if you know where to look! 🙂

Who has helped make this time in quarantine more tolerable for you? What is a silly tradition between you and someone your close with? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

May23

Home Renovation: 4 Tips For A Successful Project

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Home Renovation: 4 Tips For A Successful Project

Starting your home renovation project can be challenging, especially if it is your first time. When planning a house remodeling, you can be drawn to skip the exciting stages of renovation, like choosing fittings, fixtures, and new colors. However, for the house renovation to be successful, there are things that you will need to consider. Careful planning and making the right choices are the best ways to guarantee the success of your home renovation project:

Plan Ahead:

Come up with a plan that clearly defines the goal for your renovation. You should include your needs and wants in an outline of the work that needs to be finished. Proper planning will also help you stay on your budget. The vital point to consider is the use of the interior design rather than the aesthetics.

Before you start your renovation, you should research a wide variety of information, keeping in mind that renovation is entirely different from construction. With a renovation, you will need to focus on structural requirements and legal limitations. You can start by looking for designs in magazines and ask your architect or contractor such as those from Dans Construction Services, if they can achieve the same outcomes. Make just one plan and stick to it; changing your mind in the middle of a renovation will cost you more money, and you will need an additional permit.

When you are planning a renovation, it’s helpful to compile a list of professionals near you to take on the job. These pros should come highly recommended as a renovation is a big project to complete. To find the best contractor in your region, you can search online for a “construction company in Amarillo, TX” or your local area, for example, to find some options for companies you’d like to work with.

Budget:

When it comes to house renovations, the sky is the limit. The amount of money you will need for the improvement will depend on the size and the design, the amount of demolition and renovation that will be done, and the customization as well as the amenities you want to add. Therefore, before you plan to renovate a house, ask yourself how much will you be spending? Once you have planned for the precise budget, make sure that you add extra money for surprise renovations.

One way to make your budget stretch is through minor, occasional renovations. For example, instead of shelling out on new flooring, can you make what you already have work until a better time? Accents like area rugs or services for carpet stretching and repair can freshen things up until you have a bigger budget to accommodate a bigger renovation.

Store your Stuff:

Some renovation projects will need your furniture and your belongings to be moved out. You will be required to move everything out of the construction area because;

  • It safeguards your belongings
  • The renovation project will be easier
  • You will have peace of mind knowing that all of your belongings are not in the construction site

You can stuff your belongings in the garage or pick another room and store them. Additionally, you can rent portable containers. Pick any storage choice and give yourself peace of mind.

A renovation is also a great time to do some decluttering as you pack away items for storage. If you have a large cache of unwanted items or waste left over from the clean out, you will need the proper means to get rid of everything. Considering Commercial Waste Removal Greensboro (or elsewhere more relevant to your area) is a straightforward approach that will help with cleaning out quickly. You could otherwise consider doing a yard sale for some more expensive items or donating useful items to charity.

Find a Skilled, Trustworthy Contractor:

When planning for a renovation, the best thing to do is hire a contractor. Remodeling contractors can help make the whole process stress-free and straightforward. Avoid choosing a contractor in cost estimates alone. There are other things to consider when selecting a contractor for your renovation project, for instance:

  • Years of experience
  • References
  • Payment schedules
  • Contracting license
  • Certificate of insurance

Contractors will tell you what will work and what won’t work in your renovation project. They will offer professional insight into the design, style, and current technologies in home improvement. Contractors are also priceless when it comes to hiring subcontractors like electricians, plumbers, and carpenters who focus in various areas of your home.

There is a lot of planning involved when it comes to renovating your house. Regardless of whether you are doing a whole-house renovation or some simple updates, you need to leave the bigger jobs to the professionals. A successful home improvement project can increase the value of your house while making it a much more stylish place to be in!

Featured Image By: Adobe Stock, by Andy Dean

May21

What To Ask Yourself Before You Emigrate

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What To Ask Yourself Before You Emigrate

Ah, to move abroad. Some people have the nerve to do it, while others prefer to stay in their hometown. Both decisions are absolutely fine, but if emigrating elsewhere is your biggest itch to scratch, then you have a lot of decisions to make. It’s not just about where you go, but why. There are also plenty of questions you should ask yourself, which are detailed below.

Emigrating to a new country is not a small thing to do; it’s huge. There is so much that you should be getting on with and it’s important that you get these decisions right the first time. So, with that in mind, let’s take a look at those questions you should be asking before you jump into emigrating:

Where?

The big one. Where do you want to go? Where is your heart calling you to? The location you want to live in really does matter, as you will find that the further you go, the more it costs. Location counts when you want quotes from local moving services, for your travel time and tickets and when it comes to finding work. You could want to go to the remotest place in the world but there wouldn’t be any way for you to work and you’d struggle. So, get your destination right and the rest should fall into place.

Where isn’t just limited to where in the world but where you will be staying. Will you be rooming with relatives? Staying in a hotel until you get on your feet? Or are you using services like HousingAnywhere to have an apartment or flat ready for you as soon as your plane lands? It’s all well and good to want to move abroad but this is one of the most critical aspects in making your move successful. Do not overestimate what you really have in savings because you will find yourself in a bind quicker than you would think without affordable lodging.

Why?

What is pushing this move for you? There’s always a reason, whether it’s simply that you want to, or you have better job prospects. This is a big move, so you want to seek out things that make sense for you. Some people want to move purely for sunshine more than they want rain – and that’s okay! The key is to know your “why”.

Can You Speak The Language?

Most people tend to emigrate to places that speak the same way that they do, but not everyone thinks the same. Choose to start learning the language for the country you want to move to if you don’t know it and you’ll be set once you arrive. This is a big deal; learning the language will help!

Who?

Who is going with you? A big thing is to work out who will be traveling with you as you will need to financially plan for their visas and plane tickets, too. Make sure that you have support around you: emigrating is a huge deal and the more people that you have backing your corner, the more help you’ll have with packing once the time comes!

When?

So, when do you want this whole thing to happen? Are you planning for the long term or are you wanting to make an immediate change? Your future’s in your hands and you should give yourself time to make this happen. You may need to gain extra qualifications or spend some time saving your money. Either way, you need to make sure you have a plan mapped out in your mind for a big move.

Moving to a different country is an exciting adventure. Use the tips above to plan for the best new location for you!

Featured Image By: Pexels

May16

Top 5 Dogs For Small Spaces

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Top 5 Dogs For Small Spaces

Getting a dog is a big step that requires commitment and dedication you have to be ready for. Some of the factors on the dog’s side you should consider include age, size, nutrition, and training requirements while sorting out financial status and space on your end. The fantastic news is that even if you have a small space, some specific breeds will fit you perfectly. But size is not what only matters here; how loud, friendly, and energetic is the dog? Take a look at these five breeds that can thrive in small spaces. Also, note that they are all super cute, so choosing one might be hard:

1. Bichon Frise:

This dog breed does not usually grow taller than a foot even and weigh about fifteen pounds. This means that they won’t take up much space on the couch and in the apartment. Even though they require daily exercise, they also love to play, and so are very energetic. These hypoallergenic cuties learn very fast and are very friendly, making them well behaved with company.

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Angel!

2. Boston Terrier:

This is one of the short-haired breeds which go well in apartments. They usually do not grow taller than a foot and a half and are also very lively and energetic. They are called the ‘American Gentlemen’ for a good reason; they are gentle and generally wonderful to be around. Once they’re well-fed and exercised, they’re content.

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Another angel!

3. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel:

If you love the silky dog breeds, then you’ll enjoy this one. They love going on walks and lounging on your lap when you’re ready to relax. They weigh thirteen to eighteen pounds so space is not a problem at all. In fact, their preference to stay attached to their owners even makes small spaces good for them. The only issue is that they are quite hard to train, but a lot of outdoor time and positive reinforcement can solve that problem fast.

4. French Bulldog:

These dogs are compact and engage in very minimal activity, two reasons why they’re perfect for small spaces. They also very rarely bark, which is a good thing if you have neighbors. This is also beneficial because they will only bark when there is a reason to which is a characteristic good watchdogs have. Daily brisk walks are enough to keep them in shape, and so it’s not a problem if you spend most of the time inside.

5. Havanese:

This 10-pound dog is another favorite among apartment dwellers because not only is it cute, but it also loves to stay indoors. They are clingy and love to play with their owners, and so it is easy to keep an eye on them.

Knowing the type of dog you can have for your space will save you a great deal of trouble. You will have to take care of them like any other pet, paying attention to their inner and outward health. You can protect them from parasites with https://it.nexgardspectra.com/ and visit your vet for regular check ups.

Featured Image By: Pixabay

May14

Choosing The Best Flooring For Different Rooms In Your House

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Choosing The Best Flooring For Different Rooms In Your House

We all want the best for our homes. We carry a lot of work out on them and focus a lot on interior design. But flooring tends to be an aspect of our properties that we neglect a little. Many of us take it for granted and completely forget that we can easily change it. Different types of flooring suit different people and different rooms. To help you get started on your flooring journey, we recommend visiting a showroom of a Flooring store in San Diego, CA or your local area. Here are a few of the most common and popular types of flooring out there to ask about:

Wooden Flooring:

Wooden flooring is a hugely popular choice. It looks great. It’s easy to clean. It lasts pretty well. Some people will like this flooring throughout their entire house. Others will only want it in some rooms, where the colder and harder aspects of it are fine. When looking at real wood flooring, Solid wood flooring has relatively minimal work carried out on it. Hardwood flooring is generally a layer of hardwood placed on top of high-quality plywood. Solid wood flooring, on the other hand, is literally slats of complete wood. Hardwood tends to be much cheaper and gives the same appearance. However, if you’re focused on authenticity, solid wood could be the way to go.

With something like wooden flooring, it is possible to go the DIY route for the installation. However, we would recommend using professional services for this so the end result is perfect. To find an expert near you, simply enter a search for “flooring chicago” or your local area to minimize the risk of errors that could compromise the longevity of your flooring.

Epoxy Flooring:

You might not have heard of Epoxy flooring before, but it’s extremely popular. Generally speaking, Epoxy flooring is designed for outdoor use or industrial use. But nowadays, many people are starting to incorporate it into their homes. It’s made of polymers and has a plastic-like feel and appearance. The main perk of this flooring? It’s heavy duty and will take some serious wear and tear, meaning you won’t find yourself having to replace it for years. But people generally have questions. Does it look good? Is Epoxy Flooring Slippery When Wet? Is it right for my home? Now, the first and last questions are largely subjective. Have a look at some images and you’ll be able to determine whether it has the right aesthetic for your home. In terms of slipperiness, most Epoxy floors tend to be slip resistant. Just make sure to clean up spills on it as you would any other floor. Of course, like all types of flooring, it will still require maintenance despite being more durable. This type of flooring can especially benefit from polishing and sanding so it is wise to get quotes from different experts in this field before committing to the renovation. To begin this process, simply enter a search for “Epoxy Resin Floor Holland Park” (or your local area) to read testimonials and see projects previously completed by each company.

Carpets:

Those looking for comfort while they’re home tend to go for carpet. This is common in lounges and bedrooms, where people seek soft and warm environments. There are many types of carpet out there, so you may need to do a bit of research and request some test samples to determine exactly what you’d like. Long pile tends to be softer but harbors more dirt. Short, looped pile is good for high traffic areas, but won’t be as soft for other rooms. Make sure to shop around and eventually you’ll find the perfect carpet to suit your needs and preferences.

These are just three types of flooring. There are a number of alternatives on the market that you might like to look into. But hopefully, the insight into those listed above may have helped you settle on what best suits you and your home!

Featured Image By: Pexels

May12

5 Tips For Preparing For Your Next Dinner Party (While Quarantined!)

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5 Tips For Preparing For Your Next Dinner Party (While Quarantined!)

As we move into warmer months ahead, you may be nostalgic for the days of sunshiny afternoons and barbecues with friends. While many of us are still in quarantine, we’re all hopeful that life can go back to resembling some form of normalcy in the coming months.

What are some of the things you could do now to prepare your home for friend get-togethers later when the world starts reopening? Let’s go over five easy tips to help you prepare for your next dinner party… all while you are quarantined:

Get your yard under control:

There’s no time like the present when it comes to doing yard work. Trim hedges and bushes. Power washing any exposed concrete, deck boards, or sidewalks is a great way to make your home really seem well taken care of. If weeds are starting to crowd out plants now, get on top of them since they will only get worse as the weather gets better.

Get those windows washed:

Better yet, consider hiring a monthly window cleaner to make sure your house windows shine like the top of the Chrysler building. Smudges from dirty fingers, dog and cat noses, and bugs make a home look messier than it is.

Speaking of bugs…

Call a local pest control to make sure you don’t have any potential critters coming. Yellow jackets, hornets, and wasps are best taken care of in late spring or early summer months, and nobody wants those bugging them at our friendly get-togethers. Mosquitoes, ticks, and other yard bugs can be controlled with a semi-annual pest control visit.

Do that deep cleaning you’ve been putting off:

You can check out an older blog that mentions the cleaning musts that many of us forget when doing deep or spring cleaning. If you’re not a fan of scrubbing floors and the weird crevices in your bathroom, do all the basic cleaning, then hire a company to do the deep cleaning for you. If the weather has turned beautiful in your neck of the woods, open up those doors after you’ve cleaned to get any of the cleaning product scents out of the home while bringing in some fresh air.

Planning makes perfect:

Plan the perfect dinner party ahead of time. When you throw a get-together, it always seems to take more time to organize than what you expect. Run down a list of things that you need to do before you would want people eating and chatting over a delicious dinner at your house. If you need extra utensils, cloth napkins, citronella candles, or tablescape items like tablecloths and vases, research affordable ones and order them online or place a curbside order for them.

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Lovely!

Quarantine life has been difficult, but making the most of it doesn’t have to be. As we transition into some form of new normal, many of us are craving social interaction that we took for granted before. Now is the time to get your home in a great place to host the get-together we’ve all been dreaming of for the past several months once it’s safe to do so!

Featured Image By: Pexels