Tag Archives: house

TJMaxx Mini Halloween Haul

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TJMaxx Mini Halloween Haul

Hello! In terms of shopping, I think that right now is the most wonderful time of the year. I love when fall clothing starts making a comeback and, of course, all of the Halloween goodies! This past week, I couldn’t help indulging in the former and the latter during some much needed retail therapy. I went to TJMaxx at just the right time when they started putting out their Halloween decor and walked away with the following:

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Johnny and I keep our spooky decorations up all year round so I was excited to get some new additions for our little slice of Halloween heaven. I freaking LOVE the snow globe featuring a skull and striking snake. The best thing about it, of course, is the little bats floating around in lieu of glitter. It is just so cute and looks great on one of the shelves in our book nook. It was also the only one in the store. 😀

I also just had to get two new plates by Royal Stafford with his and hers skulls on it. When I saw these on display, I literally clutched my pearls because I have several plates from this brand already. I purchased them almost three years ago and have never seen anything like it at TJMaxx since so I felt lucky to find more to add to my collection. They are way too pretty to use for its intended purpose of eating off of but I like having them just to have them lol.

Halloween is in my home all of the time but is officially in the air in stores and I am so there for it. Johnny and I plan on having a Halloween shopping crawl soon for more decor and I can’t wait!

What is your favorite holiday to shop for? Which stores have the best holiday decor? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

How To Change Your Garden Layout In 8 Easy Steps

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How To Change Your Garden Layout In 8 Easy Steps

Your garden is your own little piece of paradise. It’s a place where you can relax and enjoy the outdoors, surrounded by beautiful plants and flowers. But after a while, you may start to feel like your garden is a bit lackluster. If you’re looking for a change, there’s no need to wait until springtime to do it. With a little planning, you can easily change up your garden layout in just a few easy steps:

1. Decide what you want to change:

The first step in changing your garden layout is deciding what exactly you want to change. Do you want to add more color? Or are you looking for a more functional space? Once you know what you want to achieve, you can start planning your new layout. Consider Dumpster Rental to get rid of any debris you may accumulate.

2. Sketch out your ideas:

Once you have a general idea of what you want to do, it’s time to start sketching out your ideas. Get a piece of paper and a pencil and start drawing. Don’t worry about getting everything perfect – this is just for planning purposes. Once you have a basic idea of your new layout, you can start refining it.

3. Choose your plants:

One of the most important aspects of any garden is the plants. Carefully choose the types of plants that you want to include in your garden. Consider things like sunlight and water needs, as well as their growth habits. You’ll also want to think about how the plants will look when they’re in bloom.

4. Place your plants:

After you’ve chosen your plants, it’s time to start placing them in your new garden layout. Again, sketching things out first can be helpful. Once you have a general idea of where you want to put each plant, you can start digging holes and planting them. If you have pets, remember to keep in mind that they may want to rearrange your plants after you’ve placed them!

5. Add some mulch:

Mulch is a great way to add nutrients to your soil and help your plants retain moisture. It can also give your garden a polished look. When you’re adding mulch, be sure to use a layer that’s two or three inches thick.

6. Water regularly:

One of the most important things you can do for your garden is to water it regularly. Depending on the type of plants you have, you may need to water daily or just a few times a week. Be sure to check the soil before watering to make sure it’s not already moist.

7. Fertilize as needed:

Fertilizing your garden is important to help your plants stay healthy and thrive. However, you don’t want to overdo it. Apply fertilizer according to the package directions and be sure not to use more than recommended.

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8. Enjoy your new garden:

After you’ve finished all of these steps, sit back and enjoy your new garden layout. With a little bit of planning and effort, you can easily transform your space into something you’re proud of.

Changing your garden layout is a great way to give your space a fresh look. By following these eight easy steps, you can achieve the results you want in no time. So what are you waiting for? Get started on your new garden today!

Featured Image By: Unsplash

Simple Solutions For A Pest Free Home This Winter

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Simple Solutions For A Pest Free Home This Winter

Pests are not something that anyone wants to have around the house. However, these little creatures sneak into our homes when the weather outside is cold and dry. They look for places with minimal airflow and humid conditions as these help them thrive in such situations. Keeping your home pest-free during  the winter is not an easy task.

However, typically, the best way in which to prevent pests from sneaking into your home is by, first, checking possible entry points at all times and, then, if you discover a problem, enlisting the services of a Pest control service in Heath, TX (or elsewhere) for quick and painless removal. Here are some further tips to keep your home pest-proof this winter:

Maintain a clean and tidy home:

Cleaning and tidying up your home are essential to keeping your home pest-free. As a part of your regular cleaning schedule, keep your house free of clutter. Make sure to eliminate all messes that may be providing shelter to pests. Pests love dark, humid, and warm places filled with tiny particles. Regular cleaning will help you keep favorable conditions for your family and not pests. Remember that pests will always be in search of food so clear countertops and sweep regularly. Common signs of raccoons in your home can often circle back to a food source, so be diligent.

If you are having a problem with pests, a deep cleaning can go a long way in helping. This is understandably a tough job that you might not have the time for. Should this be the case for you, consider using the services of www.wecleanhomes.co.uk (or a similar company in your local area). Once a cleaning service has provided a good deep clean, it will be so much easier for you to maintain what they have done. A clean home is a happy, pest free one!

Seal up your home correctly:

Doors and windows are the most common entry points for pests. Make sure there is no gap between the window and the frame and that house doors are tightly fitted against the jamb to prevent pests from entering your home. Roofs and foundations are other areas where pests can quickly enter your home. Make sure there are no gaps or cracks in these areas too.

Use pest control services:

If you cannot control pests on your own, hiring professionals for pest control services is a good idea. They will help you identify the pests that have entered your home, determine the best way to remove them, and prevent them from returning. If you opt for pest control services, make sure to do your research and learn more about the services available. You should look for companies with a good reputation, eco-friendly chemicals, and knowledgeable staff.

Bear in mind that depending on where you live, you will need full expertise of the pests in your area from the pros you choose. For example, you might need scorpion pest control in Arizona or help with mosquitos if you live in a humid climate. This might call for a more specific pest control company as opposed to a general one.

Use essential oils:

Essential oils are natural and non-toxic. They can repel pests without causing any damage to your furniture, carpets, or walls. Moreover, they do not leave any harmful residue behind. They have a strong smell and can be used to keep pests away. You can place them in a diffuser or even use a cotton ball to rub them on door knobs, hinges, or any other area where pests might enter your home. Apart from pests, these oils can also be used to repel mice and other insects. Choose peppermint, eucalyptus, or lavender to help keep your home pest free this winter.

Pests are a real problem that can affect the health of your family. Keep on top of the tips above to keep any unwanted guests at bay!

Featured Image By: Pexels

4 Ways To Fortify Your Home From The Elements

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4 Ways To Fortify Your Home From The Elements

There are plenty of fun and unique ways to make your home more comfortable and match your style. However, you also need to think about protecting your home. While this may not make it comfortable in the traditional sense, it’s still a vital component of maintaining your home, especially from all types of extreme weather. Whether you own your home or are renting the property, here is some advice to keep you as safe as you are comfortable all year round:

Keep Out the Storms:

If you live somewhere that gets more rain than you’d ever thought possible, you need to make sure you keep your house secure from the water pounding at your door like a particularly aggressive salesperson. Storms can often cause much more damage than you expect, which is why plantation shutters and robust guttering are essential. The shutters offer a sophisticated yet protective barrier, while guttering will direct heavy rainfall away from your home to prevent flooding in the basement. This is crucial as the basement is typically the area of your home most prone to flooding, after all – the water will always drain downwards to the lowest point it can. Contacting a reputable company and getting a high quality adam basement waterproofing service performed at your property can seal the problem areas of your basement. This can help to prevent water from entering your basement and works in tandem with your other storm management systems to keep your house safe and dry.

Repair Your Insulation and Ventilation:

You should also focus on improving insulation and ventilation within the house. This is beneficial throughout the year, helping your home remain warm during the winter while allowing it to breathe during the blistering summer months. This is especially important if you live in an older property, as the existing features may have worn down or are unsuitable for the current climate. An inspector can check your house and provide advice to give you an idea of what you need to do to make the house more livable.

Check Your Pipes:

The drastic temperature drop during winter means there’s a chance that frozen water occurs within your pipes if they have not drained correctly. This can cause severe problems if you are not aware of it, and your home may flood if you don’t get ahead of the issue. You can use foam insulation strips to cover the pipes and keep the water from freezing. Draining the pipes regularly will also reduce the chances of ice forming. Again, it may be worth getting the pipes inspected by a company to check that they have not rusted or disintegrated.

Invest In Dehumidifiers:

Many people think a dehumidifier is only necessary if you live in a humid part of the country, but this is not the case. Dehumidifiers can reduce the risk of mold in your home no matter where you are. This improves the air quality and prevents respiratory problems that could lead to even worse issues. Identify the dampest parts of your house (typically the basement or laundry room) and install the dehumidifier. By doing this, you should keep damp from spreading throughout the house and make it easier to breathe, especially during rainy seasons.

You don’t need to raise the battlements and invest in a moat (although that would be cool). Instead, these tips can help you keep your home safe from the elements all year!

Featured Image By: Unsplash

How To Lower Your Home’s Dust Levels

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How To Lower Your Home’s Dust Levels

Dust is a significant problem in many people’s homes. It seems like no matter how much time you spend cleaning and dusting, it is never enough and the dust never stays away for long. This can be a problem because not only does it look unsightly, but if you suffer from allergies, dust can cause you to feel less than your best! Thankfully, there are a number of things you can do to lower your home’s dust levels once and for all:

Make sure you have door mats:

Door mats are a simple solution that helps to prevent various debris from being tracked into your home. If your guests wipe their feet before entering, they will not bring in dust and dirt that can cause problems in your house. It really is that simple.

Install new windows and doors:

If your windows and door are older, then talking to a replacement windows and door company about installing a new set that fits more snugly could be a good move. The tighter the seal in your windows and doors, the less likely it is that various debris, including pollen and pollution from outdoors will get inside your home where it can turn into dust and cause your allergies to flare.

Wash sheets every week:

A lot of dust in the home comes from our own skin. Our bed sheets and pillows are a prime location for this dead skin to accumulate and turn into dust, while also providing dust mites with a nice meal. Hot washing your sheets and pillowcases at least once a week is a good way to keep dust at bay.

Wash pets regularly:

Pets can also cause a lot of dust with their skin and dander, so washing them and grooming them at least once a month will help to lower dust levels in your home. Vacuuming daily when you have pets is also essential if you are serious about keeping things dust free.

Get rid of carpets:

Carpets and rugs may look cozy but they are a breeding sport for dust and bacteria. When you walk on carpets, whether in shoes or barefoot, you will deposit, dirt, skin, and other debris into the fabric, which is very difficult to move without lots of regular vacuuming and dusting. On the other hand, hardwood floors and tiles can be wiped clean in seconds, removing all of the accumulated dust quickly.

Invest in an air purifier:

An air purifier is a simple device that is able to filter dust and pollution particles out of the air. Having one in as many rooms of your home as you can will make the problem much less significant.

As you can see, it is possible to lower the dust levels in your home significantly, to the point where you will not notice it nearly as much, nor will you need to spend as much time removing it!

Featured Image By: Pexels

Make Your Home More Comfortable With These Improvements

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Make Your Home More Comfortable With These Improvements

After a while, your home could use a little upgrade in the comfort department. As time goes on things get old and need repair or something new comes out that you know you have to have. If you feel your home needs a boost in comfort, here are a few ideas to get you started:

Get a New Couch:

Couches are the ultimate in comfort. You are going to want to sit on them, sleep on them, lay on them, and have guests stay on them. After a while, they can lose their high level of comfort. Do yourself a favor and get a new couch.

You can visit stores like Ashley Home Furniture or any other affordable furniture store and find an amazing couch that is fluffy, soft, and reclines. Newer couches come with zero gravity reclining to take the pressure off of your back and make you feel as relaxed as possible.

Get Central Air and Heating:

A great way to up the comfort level of your home is to get central air and heating. This eliminates having to have wall or window units that only heat and cool certain rooms. With a central air system, you can evenly heat and cool your entire home.

A reputable company like Eggert Cooling and Heating knows exactly what your home needs to be at the perfect temperature at all times. It’s affordable and one of the best things you can do for your home.

Repaint Your Rooms:

Changing up the color of your rooms can really set a comfortable mood. Choosing soothing colors matched with the right color furniture will put you at ease while you are watching TV, going to sleep, or sitting in your favorite spot to read or relax.

Visit your local paint store and choose colors that speak to you and are universally regarded as soothing like some grays, browns, or blues. Let all parts of your home set the tone that will make you and your guests feel nice and cozy.

Improve Your Lighting:

When you can set the room with the right lighting, comfort will abound. The first thing to do is put your lights on dimmers. Dimmers will give you full control over the strength of the light and you can set it to be at the perfect level so you will feel chill at all times. Next, pick the right kind of lighting for your room. Some people enjoy indirect recessed lighting, while others choose to work with lamps or track lighting. Whatever your choice, the right lighting will set the right mood.

There are several other things you can do from blankets to carpeting and window treatments that will help set a great vibe in your home. As you improve upon one thing, you will discover something else that you can do and before long your entire home will be the epitome of comfort!

Featured Image By: Pexels

Simple Ways To Make Your Outdoor Space Better

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Simple Ways To Make Your Outdoor Space Better

Getting and taking care of your dream backyard is a lot of work. If your space looks a little unloved, try making some of these easy to do improvements. You’ll be able to enjoy your outdoor space in no time:

Have A Deck Or Patio:

When designing a backyard, you may be struggling to come up with ideas, but the best ones feature “areas.” Begin by creating an area where you can sit back and take in the scenery. In the summer, Custom Built Decks or patio spaces are a wonderful location to relax and take advantage of the beautiful weather. Plus, during the summer months, you will be able to host gatherings and socials for friends and family and have somewhere that is separate from the rest of the garden for people to sit or stand on. It will also be such fun to design your perfect patio colorado springs co or wherever you may be! Additionally, if you ever decide to sell your house, the average return on investment for a deck addition is between 67 and 72 percent.

Enjoy Outdoor Living:

Now that you have a patio or deck area, you need to fill it with things to use. Depending on the patio furniture you choose, you can have a lovely dinner under the sky with a bench and table set or pop open a beer and relax in a lounger. If you want a “living room” outside, for example, choose a sofa, chairs, and a coffee table. Or you could have a kitchen outside. There are a lot of choices, so it’s a good idea to browse an outdoor living store for inspiration.

Lay A Stone Pathway:

A stone path from your patio or deck to your new dining area gives your landscape some charm and texture. There are a lot of different designs, from brick and gravel to natural stone and mosaic stones. This is one of the more challenging backyard upgrades that add value, so choose the type that fits your style and level of DIY home improvement skill the best.

Not too keen on a pathway? That’s okay! You can focus on your patio or deck area to work on improving. It’s a wonder what a fresh coat of paint on weather worn boards can do! If your seating area still leaves a lot to be desired, consider having a local professional or paver patios Roanoke take a look and start creating the ultimate outdoor hang out.

Add A Gateway:

By putting arbors at the entrance to your backyard, you can make it feel like a summer oasis for your guests. Think about putting your favorite flowers or creepers on the arbors to give them a personal touch. Add a few trellises if you want to make your yard more private. This is one of the best and cheapest ways to landscape your backyard.

Use The Shade:

Pergolas are great additions to a backyard because they make a unique space, gives you privacy, and keeps you cool in the summer, thanks to the shade they provide. Plus, they look elegant in a well kept garden with beautiful climbing plants and vines. If pergolas aren’t your thing, you could also consider patio awnings by Caribbean Blinds to add some shade to your outdoor seating areas. It will be so nice to sit comfortably on a lawn chair under an awning without the sun baking you!

Add Lighting:

Installing patio string lights is an excellent do-it-yourself project. It’s simple to install and a lot of fun to use in your garden. Pergolas, gates, and trees can all benefit from hanging lights over them to create a nighttime gathering spot that your guests will adore just as much as you do.

Buy A Fire Pit:

A fire pit might be the best thing to add. Not only will you be able to roast marshmallows during the long summer evenings, but when the hot weather begins to fade, the warmth of the fire will take you into fall. Also, this is one of the easiest things you can do to improve the value of your home in your backyard.

Turn your backyard into the place to be with these ideas. Yourself and your guests will be sad to go indoors!

Featured Image By: Tom Swinnen

Top 2022 Home Decor Trends

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Top 2022 Home Decor Trends

Do you want to upgrade your home or give it a new look, but you’re not sure where to begin? When you want to make a change in your home, it can be overwhelming with the plethora of options that you can choose from. This can turn what should be a fun and exciting project to embark on into a stressful one. It shouldn’t have to be that way!

To help you on your journey to create an improved space, you may wish to learn the top home decor trends in 2022. This can help you see what is popular right now and hopefully spark some inspiration while you design your rooms. It can be great fun to experiment with new furniture choices and color palettes that you may not have thought of before. The fun thing about trends is that they introduce you to new ideas and concepts. Here are some of the most popular decor trends you should know about:

Patterns:

While 2019 to 2021 took you in the direction of neutral color palettes, it looks like 2022 is taking you in the opposite direction with bold and unique patterns. People seem to be embracing large and bold prints on their wallpaper and furniture while contrasting this with a more subtle flooring installation such as vinyl. The most popular patterns being used are animals print.

Vintage:

Decor from the 70s and 80s is quickly coming back into style and there appear to be no limits. From the bright, neon colors to the chunky furniture, it is all making a comeback. Elements from the 70s and 80s are a great way to add pops of color and visual interest into any room and can be adapted to suit your personal color preferences. You can even opt for additional features such as neon signs, brass shelves, tropical prints, rounded accessories, and much more.

3D Art:

Perhaps as a result of spending more time inside from the COVID-19 pandemic, people are pushing toward adding more life into their homes. 3D art is an excellent way to make your home unique and turn the heads of your guests. Whether it is sea shells or portraits that pop out from their frames, they are both stunning and whimsical additions to your home. They can bring your walls to life and add character to a bare room.

Smart Storage:

The increase of remote working has changed the way that people live and use their homes. Many rooms have been adapted into multi functional spaces so that they can do more at home. This is a great way to make the most of your space. This is anything from home offices, home gyms, libraries, nurseries, craft rooms, and much more. For a multi functional space to work, you will need smart storage solutions. These are custom designed storage spaces, such as cupboards, that keep your space free from clutter and able to adapt for multiple uses.

If you’re not sure what upgrades to make to your home, follow these top decor trends of 2022 to help you spark some inspiration. Happy decorating!

Featured Image By: Pexels

Preparing Your Home For Guests

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Preparing Your Home For Guests

Summer is the perfect time to welcome guests into your home. People are on vacation from school or work and there is nothing better than sharing in warm weather activities with close friends or family. While you don’t need to do a whole HGTV level overhaul of your house to prepare for guests, there are a few things that you can do to make them more comfortable:

Dietary Restrictions/Preferences:

Before your guests arrive, it is important to ask if they have any dietary needs to accommodate. Are they gluten free? Do they prefer tea or coffee in the morning? Not only does this show that you care but you can also stock your fridge ahead of time to skip a mad dash to the grocery store. Planning accordingly also means that you can plan meals ahead of time as well as find local restaurants that have options for dietary needs.

Prep The Guest Room:

Your guest room does not need to be set to the standards of a five star hotel but a little effort can go a long way. If you want to go all out, Pinterest has great suggestions for decorating a guest room. If not, that’s okay too! Extra blankets, towels, and toiletries will always be appreciated. How many times have you traveled to realize you forgot your toothbrush or shower gel?

Make Necessary Repairs:

Before you receive your guests, it is crucial to repair any home appliance that needs it. Extra people in your home means more dishes, laundry, and meal prep so it’s good to get these appliances checked out if they are not functioning as they should. The last thing you want is to be waiting around for a repair person all day while you could be having summer fun!

Have Activities In Mind:

Of course, all of your days with your guest don’t need to be jam packed. But, it will be fun to show them around the area especially if they have never been before. Local attractions, restaurants, and boutiques are all part of what makes your neck of the woods special so show it off! For chill days at home, a BBQ and backyard or indoor games work just as well.

Summertime is even better when it’s enjoyed with good company. Follow the tips above and I’m sure your guests will want to come by next summer too!

Home Flooring Renovations: 5 Tips To Keep In Mind

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Home Flooring Renovations: 5 Tips To Keep In Mind

Flooring is an important part of any home renovation project. However, choosing the right type of flooring for your needs can be tricky and there are a few things you should keep in mind before starting your renovation. This blog post will discuss five tips for renovating your home’s flooring:

Choose the type of flooring you want:

There are many different types of flooring on the market and each has its own advantages and disadvantages. First, you need to decide what type of flooring will best suit your needs. There are four main types of flooring: hardwood, laminate, vinyl, and carpet.

  • Hardwood floors are a classic choice that can add beauty and value to your home. However, they require regular maintenance and can be scratched or damaged easily.
  • Laminate floors are a more affordable option that looks like wood but is less durable.
  • Vinyl floors are a great option for high traffic areas and are very durable. But, they can be damaged by water and are not as comfortable to walk on as other types of flooring.
  • Carpet is a cozy and comfortable option but it can be stained easily and is difficult to clean.

If you are unsure of what type of flooring would look best in your home, call in an expert! They will be able to assist in the design and installation to tie the whole space together. To find a flooring professional, simply enter a search for “Flooring contractor in Columbus, OH” or your local area.

Consider the cost:

Flooring can be a significant investment so you must choose a material that fits your budget. Hardwood floors are typically the most expensive option, while carpet is usually the least expensive. You should also remember that installation costs can vary depending on the flooring you choose. Installation costs for hardwood floors tend to be higher than other types of flooring because they require special tools and skills. Laminate and vinyl floors are often less expensive to install but they may not last as long as hardwood floors. Carpet is usually the most affordable option to install but it may need to be replaced more often than other types of flooring.

If a complete makeover for flooring is not in your budget, you can still improve its overall appearance. Professional Floor Cleaning services can make your current flooring sparkle and shine. Problem areas can easily be covered with a rug until they’re dealt with. Or, you can always focus your flooring efforts one room at a time to fit your budget.

Think about durability:

You need to choose a material that can withstand heavy traffic and wear and tear. Hardwood floors are durable but can be scratched or damaged easily. Laminate and vinyl floors are also durable but they may not last as long as hardwood floors. Carpet is not as durable as other types of flooring and can be stained easily. There is a lot to pick from when it comes to flooring and it can transform your home for good or bad. If you are working with a professional team, they will help you determine the best option for your lifestyle and aesthetic. Hiring installers is an excellent way to go for this project to ensure it is done right the first time. To get started, simply enter a search for “Flooring Naples, FL” (or your local area). They will be able to work with you to make your home look brand new.

Cleaning & maintenance:

Hardwood floors require regular cleaning and maintenance but they can be damaged easily if not properly cared for. Laminate and vinyl floors are easy to clean and require little maintenance. However, carpet is difficult to clean and requires regular vacuuming and shampooing. Or you can try this robot vacuum for high pile carpet. You should also remember that some flooring types require more care than others. For example, hardwood floors need to be refinished every few years, while laminate and vinyl floors do not need to be refinished.

The warranty:

When investing in new flooring, you want to ensure a warranty covers it. Most hardwood floors come with a 25 year warranty, while laminate and vinyl floors typically have shorter warranties. Carpet usually has a one year warranty. Make sure you understand the terms of the warranty before purchasing the flooring. Some warranties require that you use a certain type of cleaner or follow specific cleaning instructions.

Keep these five factors in mind when choosing new flooring for your home and you will be able to find the perfect option for your needs!

Featured Image By: Pexels