Tag Archives: apartment

Mar22

Keeping Your Home Clean – Even With A Pet!

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Keeping Your Home Clean – Even With A Pet!

Are you thinking about bringing a pet into your life? If so, then it’s important to make sure that the right precautions are taken to keep your home in good shape during the process. New pets have lots of exploring to do in their new digs, which can sometimes lead to disaster! Here are some of the key points to consider:

Choose The Right Option:

First, you need to make sure that you are choosing the right pet. If you have a smaller home, for example, you might want to avoid bringing home a larger breed of dog. It could be in your best interest to think about a smaller dog like a Terrier rather than a German Shepherd. Larger dogs can also be more difficult to train and control. You should also think about how much time you are going to have for your pet. Some dogs need almost constant attention or company to keep them happy. If you’re out a lot of the day, then a cat could be a better choice. They are more independent.

Training:

With a new pet, it is crucial to put in the time and effort to train them from day one. There are lots of training options that are going to make your life a little easier in the long run. For instance, you might want to think about training them to chew their toys instead of your furniture. This is particularly important when your pet is teething. If you don’t train your pet, you can’t be mad when they do something you don’t like!

Pest Treatment:

Pets can mean pests in your home. Some of the common pests include fleas and tics. The good news is that this doesn’t have to be an issue. You just need to make sure that you invest in the right pest treatment. A lot of vets will provide this as a standard. As such, you don’t have to worry about it costing you a fortune. Dog flea treatment and other pest solutions are available to purchase directly at a low cost from a wide range of sources.

Cleaning Products:

Finally, you need to make sure that you are choosing the right cleaning products and equipment. If you are bringing a dog into your home, it’s important to be aware that some breeds shed more than others. The best way to stop your home from becoming a furry nightmare is to make sure that you have the right pet vacuum. The best pet vacuum will ensure that your floors are spotless in a matter of seconds. You should also research carpet cleaners if you are worried about your pet causing stains that can permanently damage your carpet. Or, alternatively, consider switching to flooring that is easier to maintain such as laminate tiles.

Bringing a new pet home is exciting! Keep the good vibes in check by preparing accordingly so you can focus on your new friend as opposed to a potential mess!

Featured Image By: Pexels

Mar21

She Sells Seashells

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She Sells Seashells

Hello!!! I work as an Independent Provider for people with special needs and specialize in community inclusion and daily living skills. I have worked in the field for almost a decade and all of my clients new and old will always hold a very special place in my heart. It is the best job in the whole world and I am so thankful to have assisted so many amazing families. It means so much to be trusted to provide quality care and I deliver nothing less every day at work.

Whenever I can’t see my clients due to vacations or days off, I miss them terribly! My days feel so off without my normal shifts and all smiles and I couldn’t wait for one of my clients to return from a family vaca. I know for a fact this young man was missing me too because he collected seashells on the beach just for me and proudly presented them when I saw him again:

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When I was given my seashells, I seriously almost cried. I was SO touched that my client took the time out of his vacation to search for shells that he thought I would like. He was completely right, because I LOVE them. He told me that they have to drive to the beach next time because all of the shells that he wanted to bring me wouldn’t fit on the plane! I cannot wait to find a pretty jar to house my shells in and display it on my knick knack shelves so I can see them and smile every day. ❤

Between three jobs, I am a busy lady. However, I will never be too busy to see my clients; I simply could not imagine my life without any of them! It brings me such great joy to teach new things when I am at work, but every day, I am the one who learns something new. My seashells will serve as a reminder to always be thoughtful, generous, and kind – just like the dear young man who gave them to me. I am the lucky one to even know him and feel proud to continue to grow as people together!

As the weather in Ohio remains awful, I will be on the beach in the sunshine every time I see my seashells. Always turn your face towards the sun and have the best day, darling friends!

Where is your dream vacation location? Who has seashells on display in their home? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

 

Mar20

Find Your Dream Home In 2023

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Find Your Dream Home In 2023

Searching for your dream home can be an exciting yet daunting task. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to know where to begin. However, following a few simple steps can make the process much easier, and you can be well on your way to finding the perfect place for you! Let’s get started:

Determine Your Budget:

The first step is to determine your budget. It is important to understand how much you can afford to spend on a home. This will help you narrow your search to homes within your price range. You can also get pre-approved for a mortgage to better understand what you can afford.

Create a List of Must-Haves and Nice-to-Haves:

Once you have determined your budget, the next step is to create a list of your must-haves and nice-to-haves. This is most helpful if you are working with an estate agent like those at Wooster & Stock Estate Agents Camberwell (Or a similar company in your local area). When you provide a list of home must haves for an estate agent, they can focus their search on homes that meet your specific criteria.

Some examples of must-haves might include:

A certain number of bedrooms

A specific location

A certain style of home

Nice-to-haves might include:

A swimming pool

A large backyard

A gourmet kitchen

Chase The Dream:

If the kind of home you crave cannot be found by simply moving across town, then are you ready to chase the dream? Perhaps you want to be immersed in a big city. Maybe you want somewhere quiet in a wooded area. Or do you dream of sprawling land and livestock at Ranches in south Texas? Even if this big of a move isn’t possible right now, do not put it on the back burner. If a move to a new state is your goal, you would be wise to stay put and save until you can make it happen.

Start Searching for Homes:

After you have created your list of must-haves and nice-to-haves, it’s time to start searching for homes. There are many ways to search for homes, including working with a real estate agent, using online real estate websites, or driving around neighborhoods to look for “For Sale” signs. You can also attend open houses to get inspiration for what you are looking for in a home.

Consider Your Home/Apartment Size:

Your home or apartment size is essential when searching for your dream home. For example, you may need a home with multiple bedrooms and bathrooms if you have a large family. On the other hand, if you are a single person or a couple, a smaller home or apartment may be more appropriate. Looking into different shapes, like square apartments, may also be of interest to you. It’s important to consider your current lifestyle and any potential future changes when deciding the size of your home.

Schedule Visits to See Homes in Person:

When you find a home that interests you, schedule a visit to see it in person ASAP. This will give you a better idea of the layout, the size of the rooms, and the home’s overall condition. It’s also a good idea to take notes and pictures to compare homes later. If you are working with a real estate agency, this is something that we highly recommend. Your agent will be able to handle scheduling and alert you to houses that might not be listed online yet. They can also accompany you to home visits for advice in that very moment.

Make an Offer and Move Forward with the Home Buying Process:

Once you have found a home you love, it’s time to make an offer. Your real estate agent can help you with this process, which involves submitting a written offer to the seller. The seller will then have the option to accept, reject, or counter your offer. If your offer is accepted, you will move forward with the home-buying process, including getting a home inspection, securing financing, and closing the sale.

Although searching for your dream home can be a long process, remember that it’s worth taking the time to find the right home for you and your family. Happy moving!

Featured Image By: cottonbro studio on Pexels

Mar14

Modernize Your Home With These Tips

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Modernize Your Home With These Tips

Do you have a smaller home and feel like it doesn’t look as stylish as it could? A lot of this could come down to your lack of floor space. Interior designers are always looking to turn petite homes into stylish spaces, and there are a number of tricks that you can adopt to try and make a positive change. Want to find out more? Let’s get started:

Draw a Scale Plan:

Even if you have a large home, you still need to make sure that you plan everything out before you start the design process. You have to know what space you are working with so you can then sketch out every room. This will help you to see the size and the shape of what you have before you go ahead and make changes. You don’t want to find out the couch you ordered is way too big when it’s being installed!

Use Earthy Tones in Smaller Rooms:

Neutral earth tones tend to have a knack for making a small space look way bigger than it is. The great thing about earth tones is that they are contemporary and they can make your room look modern too. If you want to do something about the space you have, then it is helpful to make sure that the ceiling and the trim are lighter than the walls. You can also replace the windows in the room if you want to let way more natural light in. Look up local energy efficient windows if you want to know more.

Vivid Colors Are Great for Adding Personality:

Modern homes are not just about neutral colors. If you want to add a lot of style and personality to your smaller home, then make sure that you are incorporating bright and vivid shades. This will help to draw the eye; if people are looking at a chair that is bright blue, then they probably won’t be paying much attention to how big or how small the room is.

Indoor Garden:

Indoor gardens are very popular and you would be surprised at how much you can use them to your advantage. You only need a very small amount of space to work with, such as under your stairs. You can then transform this and make a contemporary statement as a result.

Don’t Overlook the Kitchen:

The kitchen is the heart of the home. If you want your home to be more modern, pay special attention to this room. Brushed metal and even industrial tones work well together and they are ideal if you want to get that functional look. If you aren’t quite sure how to get the result you want out of your kitchen, look up inspiration online. When you are good and inspired, you will soon find that it is easier to work with the space you have.

Whether your home is big or small, it is only as stylish as you make it. Use the tips above to get started today!

Featured Image By: Pexels

Mar14

Brighten Up Your Home With These Simple Tricks

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Brighten Up Your Home With These Simple Tricks

If you feel like your home is gloomy and dark, then you will know how frustrating this can be to work with. You may feel that anything you do to your home doesn’t work and this can work against you. If you want to brighten your home today, check out these simple tricks to put some sunshine back in your step and decor:

Use White Furniture:

Where possible, you should try to use white furniture over dark colors. Think about using white bookcases, cream couches, or even tables. If you have dark wood or dark floors then you may not want to replace it. That being said, adding a white, or light rug is a fantastic way for you to make a positive change here. If you are scared about getting your rug dirty, then think about getting one that can be washed for a no muss no fuss option.

Keep Tall Items Away from Natural Light:

If you have a large bookcase, plant, shelf or any other furniture that is blocking the light in your home. then you need to move them. It is recommended that you put big pieces of furniture at the opposite end of the room to where your windows are. If you can do this, then you will be able to let in a lot of natural light and this will work in your favor.

Use White Curtains:

Having thick curtains is always nice but at the same time they can block out a lot of natural light. If you want to do something about this, try and buy some white, sheer curtains. When you do this, you will be able to let a lot of natural light into the room and you can also add a lot of drama, which will spice things up. If you feel as though your windows are looking a bit old and tired, then now could be the time for you to look up the best window replacement brand so you can give your home an instant face lift..

Add some Mirrors:

Mirrors come in very handy, especially when you look at home decor. They help to make your home look bigger than it actually is and they also reflect any natural light. If you want to make a big difference here, think about adding a mirror to your dark room to see what a change you could bring about.

Paint:

This is an obvious, but important suggestion. If your home has very dark paint then you may be giving off a dark feel overall. Paint can transform a room, so try and add some white paint or even light grey. When you do this you will be able to see a huge change in the way that your home feels. Why not experiment with some lighter tones and see what happens!

The bright days of spring will soon be upon us. Let the sunshine into your home by enhancing the natural light with the tips above!

Featured Image By: Pexels

Jan23

Halloween Pop Up Tree

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Halloween Pop Up Tree

Hello! This past holiday season, my client’s mom offered my family her pop up Christmas tree to use since we didn’t put one up. She also learned that Johnny and I didn’t have a tree, either, but if we ever got one then, of course, it had to be black. As a bonus Christmas gift, I was surprised once again by her generosity because Johnny and I got the Christmas or should I say Halloween tree of our dreams! Check it out:

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^^^ Lol, please don’t mind our corral of bunny supplies in the background!

When I originally brought the borrowed pop up tree to my family home, I had no idea what it entailed because I had never heard of it before! It is, however, exactly what you would think it would be and is so very cool. A pop up tree is basically a base, poles, and a “tree” to place over them. The Christmas pop up tree that we used was five feet tall and came pre-decorated with ornaments, ribbons, and lights. Similarly, our Halloween tree came pre-lit and adorned with glittery pumpkins. 😀

It took me less than two minutes to assemble the tree and I couldn’t believe its perfection. Everything about it is just right for me and Johnny. The narrow size is also ideal for our apartment setting and we will be able to put it anywhere without taking up too much space. Every year for Christmas, Johnny’s mom gifts us with a couple of ornaments apiece and they have all been sitting on our knick knack shelves. Now, we finally have a tree of our own to decorate and I can’t wait to dress it up with our fairly extensive ornament collection!

I am obsessed with my Halloween Pop Up Tree and am so appreciative to my client’s mom for the amazing gift. And, yes, just like all of our other Halloween gear, the tree will be staying up all year round!

Do you use real or artificial Christmas trees? What is your favorite Christmas ornament? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Jan12

How To Prep For Your Move In Advance

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How To Prep For Your Move In Advance

Moving houses or apartments is a huge task and involves lots of steps that should never be left until the last minute. In a perfect world, your preparations should be done well in advance of the move itself. A mad dash the day of is a liability for people to get hurt, property to get damaged, and belongings to be left behind. Of course, there are things that need to be left until moving day like packing toiletries and your food. All of the following, however, can be done in advance to save you some stress on your big day:

Hiring Movers:

The main thing that can’t wait when it comes to moving is hiring the movers! Remember, you are not the only person in your area planning a move and trusted companies get their schedules filled quickly. Research reliable long-distance movers in Ottawa or in your city and find the best team for what you need. As soon as you have a set moving date is when you should make the call so you have time to explore other options if you can’t get in the schedule.

Additional Help:

If you are hoping for help from friends, it is best to give them the date ahead of time too. Especially if they have a truck! Getting help from your friends and family is a great way to lower the cost of the bill from the movers so give them ample time in advance so they can save the date.

Pack What You Can:

You never really realize how much stuff you have until it’s time to start packing it all up. Set a goal for how many boxes you would like to fill per day and work hard to keep up with it. Start with the items and rooms that are the least used so you still have access to the things that you need daily. Books, knick knacks, art, and out of season clothes are all great categories to begin the process. Once the less used items are complete, you can start with the next batch of things. And, if you think there is a chance of it being used before the move, then hold off on packing it! Designate a room (Ideally on the first floor) to keep your packed up items so all you need to do is carry them out the front door the day of your move.

Clean As You Pack:

As each room gets packed and emptied out, take the time to give it a deep clean right now. This is especially important if you are living in an apartment! Vacuum, dust, patch any holes from hanging art, and clean the windows. These are all things that will need done anyways so it’s better to do it now rather than waiting until the day of.

The more you can get done before your move, the smoother your day will go. You’ll be thanking yourself later when you think back on your moving day and say “that wasn’t so bad”!

Jan11

How To Prevent Dust In Your Home

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How To Prevent Dust In Your Home

Dust can find its way into any space, explaining why even with closed doors and windows, you may still find a thin layer on your surfaces. Dust generation in your home can negatively affect your family’s health and well-being. That is because dust contains harmful pollutants and allergens which can trigger allergic respiratory responses. According to research, the average home collects 40 pounds of dust annually, indicating how essential it is to know how your home generates dust and how to prevent it. Here are a few tips to help guide you:

Tiny openings and cracks:

Gaps around your windows, doors, vents, and your home’s foundation, can provide small openings for dust. Although these tiny openings may not be noticeable initially, they become conduits for significant amounts of dust to enter your home. That explains why people who travel away from home for long periods cover their essential items to protect them from dust. You can help reduce the dust that comes through these openings by weatherstripping and sealing gaps. After taking care of the cracks and tiny openings, consider alternatives like screen installation to limit indoor dust accumulation.

Air vents and HVAC systems:

Another way your home can become dusty is through the air vents and heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. These ventilation appliances interact with outdoor air to function, which sometimes leads to dust accumulating in the ducts of your HVAC system. Aside from causing mechanical problems (for which you may need to hire a repair company like Sandri Energy), this dust can remain afloat for longer hours and breathing it in increases the risk of respiratory problems, especially in children, aging adults, or persons with weakened immune systems. When your HVAC system is on, its air circulation function forces dust from the vents into your living space.

Experts recommend cleaning your home’s air vents and HVAC system often. Doing this will enhance appliance performance and also improve indoor air quality. You will be amazed by the difference after your scheduled appointment. Do you need a HVAC company? Make sure you do your research before selecting a professional as you will want someone who comes highly recommended. Ask friends and family members if they have any leads or simply enter a search for “HVAC service Florence, SC” (or your local area) to take a look at online reviews.

Human and pet activities:

Daily activities in the home, like cooking, cleaning, and even walking around, can generate dust. Food particles released into the air while cooking may land on surfaces and accumulate into dust over time if not cleaned. If your windows have nets, these particles could also get trapped in them and, due to their oily nature, may eventually trap dust. Meanwhile, sweeping and vacuuming can stir up a significant amount of dust which can stay on surfaces for a long time. It is best to thoroughly clean exposed surfaces immediately after cooking to reduce the dust generated by these home activities. Sometimes, a multipurpose surface cleaner is best, especially because it can cut through grime.

If you have indoor pets that shed, they may also contribute to dust in your home. That is because their fur traps dust and dust mites when they’re outdoors and they inadvertently transfer it indoors. Dogs and cats, especially, shed wherever they go. It will help to brush their fur regularly to capture loose hair and dander straight from their bodies to prevent dust from getting trapped in their fur.

It’s important to take a multi-faceted approach to reduce dust in your home. Making a conscious effort to keep your home clean at all times will help create a home with better indoor air quality for all!

Featured Image By: Pexels

Jan10

Transform Your Home In 2023

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Transform Your Home In 2023

The new year is a time for new beginnings. Even if you have already scrapped your new year’s resolutions, there are still plenty of ways to bring forward change in your daily life. How about using this as an opportunity (or excuse) to finally redecorate or renovate your home? With that in mind, here are some top tips that you can use to transform your home in 2023:

Tap into your own creativity:

Your home should be your safe space, a place where you can truly relax and be yourself. As such, your design choices should be a reflection of your personality, not the catalogues of the latest interior design magazines. Tap into your own creativity and create the kind of home you’ve always dreamed of. For example, while neutral tones are set to be one of the biggest design trends of the year, if you love bright, bold colors, don’t be afraid to showcase them throughout your home!

Seek out some inspiration:

Many people feel as though they are unsure of where to start when decorating their homes. However, reading some Amazing furniture and home guides could serve as an excellent starting point. This is because it will help you to understand what colors, furniture, and styles pair nicely together – or even help you find the perfect pieces for your home makeover.

Learn about color psychology:

Whether you’re redecorating your entire home or a single space, learning about color psychology (The way in which different colors impact our mood) can help you create the kind of space you enjoy spending time in. If you are struggling to get enough sleep, you may want to feature soft, pastel colors in your bedroom. This is because “cooler and more neutral tones are less visually stimulating, so they are more restful to the body and mind.”

Remember, the finer details make all the difference:

Spoiler alert: you do not need to carry out a complete remodeling of your home to create a meaningful change. In fact, smaller details often make the biggest difference. The right lighting can make a space appear bigger, brighter, or more welcoming. An art feature, such as a photo wall or canvas piece, can create an interesting focal point. Paying attention to the smaller details that are often overlooked could also add luxury to your home.

Embrace the change of a new year starting in your home with these tips!

Featured Image By: Spacejoy on Unsplash

Jan7

Add Luxury To Your Home With These Improvements

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Add Luxury To Your Home With These Improvements

Home is where we spend most of the time in our lives and at some point, you have to think about how much you enjoy that time. There’s nothing wrong with loving your home or wanting more from your home – which is why people put a lot of money into renovations and remodels. It’s important to consider how much your home impacts how you feel on a daily basis. You want the place you spend the majority of your life to be a happy place, something that makes you proud, and somewhere you can relax and unwind. Making small improvements to add luxurious touches to your home will freshen your place up as well as increase your home’s value. Let’s look at a few ways to begin this process:

Start with the bathroom:

If there’s one place in your home that should offer a lot of comfort, it’s your bathroom. Newly done bathrooms have a lot fewer issues with dampness and leakage, so it’s one less thing to worry about. Luxury is important everywhere, but your bathroom is the first place you should start – unless your bedroom is in dire need of an update. Take a look into bathroom, kitchen, and home remodeling services if you want to learn a bit more about what you can do. Great places to start include tile flooring, updated fixtures, and fresh paint.

Your sleeping arrangement:

Your bedroom is another place that needs heavy focus because life is going to be a daily struggle if you aren’t sleeping well. Even if you’re used to it, a lack of sleep can contribute to heightened stress and multiple health conditions. Invest in a high-quality mattress and bed to make sure you’re getting the full amount of sleep you need each night. It might not seem like it, but a new bed alone can make a huge difference. You’ll be looking forward to sleeping each and every night – the only problem you’ll have is getting out of bed in the morning!

Repainting:

The paint you choose for your home can do a lot for the overall atmosphere that you want to create in each room. Opt for soft tones in rooms that are meant for relaxation and bright shades for rooms to entertain like the kitchen and living room. Old coats of paint aren’t going to leave your home feeling luxurious, and while comfort doesn’t come into it here – how you view your home does affect how you feel while you’re there.

Spend the remaining months of winter in a cocoon of comfort and all of the lux vibes with the simple improvements above!

Featured Image By: Pixabay