Tag Archives: just so you know

Jan11

Is A Bunny The Pet For You?

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Is A Bunny The Pet For You?

Hello!! Johnny and I have had our sweet Lionhead bunnies, Melvin and Penelope, for over two months now and they are the absolute best. I have wanted pet rabbits for so long and it was worth the wait because I couldn’t imagine having anything but Mel and Pen. Prior to bringing our bunnies home, I did extensive research to make sure that Johnny and I could provide amazing care for them because they deserve nothing less. Having a small animal as a pet might seem easy but there is so much more that goes into it than you would think. If you are considering adding a pet bunny to your family, think about all of the following before you make your choice. Remember, pets are a life commitment!

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Constant Cleaning:

The girls who I adopted Mel and Penelope from were working on litter training them and Mel was pretty good about using his. Penelope, on the other hand, would go potty right outside of the box and that meant not only cleaning litter boxes daily but the surrounding bedding too. It took a little over a month to get both of them going consistently in their boxes and it took a lot of trial and error with the placement, amount of boxes, and hay and treats in the litter area. The fact that they use the boxes now is so awesome but it is still something that needs cleaned daily so they can live their best lives.

Oh yeah, the cleaning outside of the hutch is a constant too so make sure you have a broom and pan as well as a Dustbuster. It is astounding how much bedding, bunny hair, hay, and food pellets can make its way outside of their hutch in just one day. Thankfully, this is one thing that I don’t deal with because it’s Johnny’s chore! 😀

Time Commitment:

Mel and Penelope live in a great big hutch but come out twice daily (Morning and evening) to play and explore our bunny proofed area of the apartment. Their “recess” can last anywhere from a half hour to two hours and is such a necessary part of their well being. They deserve to run around, jump, and go on bunny adventures to decrease boredom, have fun, and keep them at a healthy weight. If I didn’t mainly work from home in the mornings, I would have had to take a second thought about adopting them. Because their rec time is so important, I get up at 5:15 during the work week to make sure they can come out before I leave for my other job.

Nonstop Chewy Orders:

Bunnies are surprisingly more expensive than you would think and I put in an order for supplies on Chewy at least once a month. These orders include essentials like bedding, food, and hay as well as their toys, treats, and spray cleaner for the hutch. Not to mention going to the grocery store weekly for their leafy greens and other safe veggies and fruits for them to consume (This is very important to research!). If this is a monetary commitment that you can’t make, it is best to hold off because every item listed (and others not included) are absolutely necessary for them to live healthy, happy lives.

Adequate Space:

There should be at least one bunny proofed area in your home that you are okay with your bunnies roaming in and I highly recommend it to be hard floored. My bunnies rarely have accidents outside of the hutch but it would be such a pain if they aren’t litter trained and are playing on a carpeted area. The hard flooring also helps keep their nails filed! Be vigilant about bunny proofing your area because they are such curious little things and that can really increase their chances of hurting themselves (IE: A stack of something falling, a space that is too tight of a squeeze, etc).

The list above isn’t even scratching the surface of how much care pet bunnies entail and you must think realistically if a bunny is a good pet for you. Despite all of the hard work, they are truly the perfect pets for me and Johnny and it makes me feel so good to care for them every day. I promised that Mel and Penelope would have healthy, happy lives and I know I am making good on that! ❤

What kind of pet do you have? Are you considering adding a small animal to your family? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Jan10

Protect Your Home From Water Damage With These Tips

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Protect Your Home From Water Damage With These Tips

Water damage is one of the most common forms of property damage and it can be incredibly costly to repair. In many cases, water damage can be prevented by taking a few simple precautions. This post will discuss some tips that will help you protect your home from this usually avoidable damage:

Inspect your plumbing regularly:

Inspecting your plumbing regularly is one of the best ways to protect your home from water damage. This means checking that all faucets, shower heads, toilets, and other fixtures are in good working order. If you notice any leaks, replace the broken parts as soon as possible. You should also take a look underneath sinks and around plumbing fixtures for any signs of corrosion or blockage.

In addition to regular inspections from a Plumber in Grand Prairie, TX or your local area, make sure that you are aware of potential signs of trouble with your plumbing system. For example, if a toilet is running continuously or a faucet is constantly dripping, this could be an indication of a larger issue. Pay attention to higher than normal water bills—it could mean that there is a leak in your pipes somewhere.

Check your water heater:

Another important step in protecting your home from water damage is to check on the condition of your water heater. Make sure that you inspect all parts of the unit, including its temperature and pressure relief valve, anode rod, and any seals or gaskets.

Invest in preventive maintenance:

In addition to regular inspections and checks, investing in preventive maintenance can help protect your home from water damage. This may include having professionals come to inspect and clean out drains, pipes, toilets and other fixtures. Additionally, you should consider installing sump pumps or battery-operated back-up pumps in areas where there is a high risk of flooding.

Know the signs of water damage:

It is important to be aware of the signs of water damage in order to quickly identify and address any issues. Look for discolored or warped walls, floors, and ceilings as well as any abnormal odors or musty smells in your home. If you notice mold growth on surfaces around your house, this could indicate that there is an underlying issue with your plumbing system. If you see these telltale signs, you’ll want to search for “water damage chicago” or your local area to rectify things before they get worse.

Keep your roof in optimal condition:

Finally, one of the best ways to prevent water damage is to keep your roof in optimal condition. Inspect your roof regularly for any signs of wear and tear, such as cracked or missing shingles and other signs of aging. If you can’t do an inspection on your own, it is wise to call in a roofing expert to do a routine check. To find a professional for the task, simply enter a search for “Roofing contractor in Denton, TX” (or your local area) to get the process started. Using a local contractor can ensure faster response times and familiarity with regional weather conditions. Make sure that your gutters are clear of debris so that they can properly channel away rainwater from your home’s foundation and siding. If you notice any signs of damage on your roof, it’s important to call a roof repair company as soon as possible to come and have a look.

By taking these steps to protect your home from water damage, you can help avoid costly repairs down the line. Although some of these tips may require a bit more effort than others, they are all essential components when it comes to safeguarding your property against unwanted damage.

Featured Image By: Pexels

Jan10

How To Recover Stress-Free After A Work Injury

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How To Recover Stress-Free After A Work Injury

Injuries can happen at any workplace, no matter how safe the environment is. If you find yourself injured while on the job, it can be a scary and overwhelming experience. However, there are steps that you can take so that your recovery is as stress-free as possible. Let’s get started:

Stay Calm:

The first step in recovering from a work injury is staying calm. It may be hard to do this in the heat of the moment, but remaining calm helps you think more clearly and make better decisions about your next steps. Take deep breaths and focus on staying present until help arrives to make an informed decision about what comes next. Being knowledgeable about workplace injuries can also help maintain your sense of calm as well as assist in making an informed decision after the fact. Take the time to learn the policies at your place of employment and find out how does workers comp work there. Every job site is different so this will be valuable information to have.

Document Everything:

Any professional at a personal injury law firm will recommend that after an injury occurs, document every detail, including when and where it happened, what caused it, who was involved, and any other information that might be important. This documentation should be completed while everything is fresh in your mind so that you have accurate answers if any questions arise later. In addition, be sure to document all conversations with supervisors or other personnel related to the injury incident. This is going to be most important, especially if you choose to work with a personal injury lawyer like https://www.warfortol.com/ or one in your local area.

Seek Medical Attention:

When an injury happens at work, seek medical attention immediately if necessary. Even if you don’t feel like anything serious has occurred, it’s essential to follow up with a doctor for further evaluation and treatment if recommended by a health professional. From there, your doctor might suggest a visit to a specialist or put in an order for X-rays. If the latter is the case, you may need to head to a practice that offers X-Rays in Lake Hopatcong, NJ (or your local area) for the procedure to be carried out.

Make sure that any medical visits related to the injury are documented for further review by employers or insurance companies if needed.

Understand Your Rights:

After being injured at work, you must understand your rights when going through workers’ compensation processes or filing a legal claim against your employer if necessary (depending on circumstances). Researching relevant laws and getting yourself an expert Personal Injury Attorney ahead of time will give you a good idea of what type of compensation is available so that you know what steps you need to take to receive them (if applicable).

Follow Up With Employer:

Once medical attention has been sought out and documented accordingly, follow up with your employer to check that all paperwork related to the injury is filled out correctly and filed within the required time frames (depending on state laws). This is also something that a personal injury lawyer like Stewart Bell (or a similar practice in your local area) can assist with. It can be most helpful to have someone in your corner, especially if you are feeling anxious about the situation. Keep copies of all documents related to the injury for future reference and check back with your employer periodically for updates or changes regarding the incident that may have occurred since its initial reporting date.

Take the time to research the protocol for your employer about work related injuries so you will know exactly what to do if getting hurt on the job ever happens to you or a coworker!

Featured Image By: Pixabay

Jan9

4 Concerns About Feeding Your Dog Answered

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4 Concerns About Feeding Your Dog Answered

When you have a dog to care for, feeding them is always going to be one of the major things you need to get right. As long as their nutrition is how it should be, they are going to be so much healthier in general, and you will find that you are more likely to feel that you are really caring for them. There are a few key and common concerns that you need to be aware of if you are keen to feed your dog properly. Let’s take a look at what they are:

The Right Amount:

One of the simplest things you need to get right can also ironically be one of the hardest: Knowing how much to feed your dog. Getting the amounts right is important because, otherwise, you might find that you struggle to keep them healthy. You need to research the specifics of the breed of dog you have, along with considering their size to ensure that you feed them right. Too much, and they might experience the problems of being overweight. Too little, and they might be malnourished, so you must find the balance. Find out more at https://www.zumalka.com/blogs/blog-pet-health/health-issues-caused-by-feeding-your-dog-or-cat-the-wrong-diet.

Routine:

A lot of people swear by having a routine for feeding their dog, and this is something that you will want to think about. For one thing, dogs are smart enough to know a routine and to fall into it. This makes it easier for you too, because they will know that their food is coming at a certain point in the day, which will stop them from begging for it at other times of the day. Generally, feeding at the same time each day will benefit both of you.

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Human Food:

Many owners get to a point where they start wondering if they can feed their dog any human food, along with the dog food that should be the staple. As it happens, there are a lot of human foods that your dog can eat, and some that are even quite good for them. Just take a look at https://www.nextritionpet.com/blogs/nutrition/can-dogs-eat-mussels for an example. But you should always take care when doing so, and make sure, again, that you have thoroughly researched the matter and discussed with your vet before feeding them something specific.

Budgeting:

The dog food is one of the main expenses, if not the main expense, that you will have as a dog owner. So you need to make sure that you are able to afford it. If you are not, it might be something that you need to think about before getting a dog. Expenses for pets can add up quickly between the vet, grooming, food, and toys. Your dog deserves to have what it needs to live a healthy life and food is one of the most important aspects.

As always, remember to discuss any changes to your dog’s diet with their vet so you can make the best choices for your companion!

Featured Image By: Pexels

Jan2

8 DIY Projects That Should Always Be Left To The Pros

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8 DIY Projects That Should Always Be Left To The Pros

DIY projects can be a great way to save money and get hands-on with home renovations. However, some DIY projects should only be attempted by the average homeowner with professional help. The projects below take a lot of skill and knowledge to be completed safely so leave these to the professionals in your area:

Electrical Wiring:

Amateur electrical work is not only dangerous, but it can also lead to costly mistakes down the line if done incorrectly. It is important to leave any wiring issues in your home to an electrician certified by your local government or corresponding trade association who knows exactly how to address your issue correctly and safely.

Plumbing Work:

Home plumbing repairs can quickly become complicated and expensive when done wrong, so it’s best not to meddle with them yourself. Instead, to avoid costly mistakes, always hire a certified plumber to handle any plumbing services in your home.

Foundation Repairs:

While minor foundation issues can be fixed on a DIY basis using kits available at most hardware stores, more serious damage should never be attempted without qualified help. Always contact a professional contractor specializing in foundation repair if you suspect your home suffers from significant structural damage. And, please do so ASAP! This is so important for the safety of yourself and family so it is not the time to over estimate your DIY skills. If this is a service you are in need of, simply enter a search for “concrete contractor in Fort Worth, TX” (or your local area) to find the right professional for the job.

Roofing Work:

The simple fact is that Roofing work is dangerous. Leaving it to the pros will ensure the safety of anyone attempting to do repairs or maintenance on their roof. Professionals are also better equipped to assess potential problems and provide lasting solutions. To find a reliable roofing expert near you, you can make a search for “roof replacement old saybrook” or your local area. Be sure to read reviews and ask around for recommendations too.

Installing Floors:

Installing floors can be a difficult and tedious task, requiring special tools and skills to do it properly. Can you imagine almost finishing a hardwood project to realize you didn’t line things up as well as you thought? Yikes!

Installing Siding or Windows:

Installing siding or windows is a precise and intricate process. Attempting to take on this task yourself will almost certainly result in costly mistakes that could cause major damage to your home. Always leave this job to professionals who have the necessary tools and know-how to get the job done right and safely.

Installing Insulation:

Improperly installed insulation can lead to energy loss and higher utility bills, not to mention a risk of fire. Hire an experienced contractor specializing in installing insulation to ensure your home is properly insulated and safe from potential hazards.

Gas Line Repairs:

Gas lines should never be worked on by a DIYer. Even the slightest mistake could cause a catastrophic accident that would be far more expensive than just hiring an expert in the first place. Leave gas line repairs to certified professionals who know exactly how to safely and correctly handle any problems with your gas line.

For any DIY project you’re considering, make sure you weigh the risks of attempting it yourself versus hiring a professional. Professional contractors have the training and expertise needed to handle complex home improvement tasks correctly and safely, so the extra cost will be well worth the peace of mind.

Featured Image By: Annie Gray on Unsplash

Dec2

How To Better Protect Your Money

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How To Better Protect Your Money

If you want a secure life, then you need to look after your money. Money buys security and can prevent you from a lot of stress and worry. It is not a good feeling wondering if you can pay the heating bill this winter. As we get older, this security is ever more needed. We are going to have to retire with no real set income coming in and making do with the money we protected in our youth. So, let’s discover a few ways we can protect our money better:

Get Out of Debt:

If you have debts, then you must get out of debt and stay out of it too. There is nothing worse for your finances than paying interest rates. This is a great way to have nothing. If you can, contact your creditors and increase your payments to get rid of the debt as fast as possible. For some of you, it may be wise to enlist the help of a financial planner. You may be able to consolidate all your debts to make them far easier to understand and more manageable. 

Learn to Live Within your Means:

A lot of people spend more than their wages every month, which means they dip into their overdraft. If this is a continual thing, you will end up further and further into your overdraft and this leads to debt. It is not like a mortgage where you will have something at the end of it, it is simply wasted money. So, you need to start living within your means. There are many methods to do this. First, you need to become more financially aware so you need to track your spending better. You can download a banking app if you have not done this already and keep an eye on your balance. You can even set alerts to message you when your account is running low. Other methods include disabling the contactless feature on your bank card, trying to save your income that is not used for essentials, and only using a set amount for spending cash. You also need to learn how to practice delayed gratification. Instead of caving into your urges to buy something, you need to wait and see if you still want it in thirty days or once you have saved the cash for it.

Invest:

Investing wisely is one of the best ways to protect your money. Unlike savings, you can actually invest and keep up with inflation. One of the best ways to do this is invest in property. Buying your own home is wise. It can actuary end up being a lot cheaper than renting. A dual occupancy home from Meadan Homes, for example, allows you to rent out part of your home and make money on it too. Other ways to invest are with bonds, either corporate or government, the stock market, and collectibles. Investing in yourself is another great one, meaning paying for a higher education. You can do things like side hustles too, which is essentially running your own business and giving you valuable experience.

Spending money is an obvious part of life but you need to be smart about it to keep increasing your savings. Get started with the tips above today!

Featured Image By: Pixabay

Nov27

Coming Soon To lifewithlilred

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Coming Soon To lifewithlilred

Hello! You might have noticed something severely lacking in the content department here on lifewithlilred and that is OOTD posts. For a while, I was so happy to have almost weekly photo shoots to share with all of you that coincided with date days with Johnny. Then, the metaphorical shit hit the fan and date days just weren’t an option due to pure and utter chaos in Lil Red’s world. That is why I am so pleased to say that coming soon to theaters everywhere will be not one, nor two, but THREE new OOTDs on lifewithlilred!

Three?! Yes, three. This past week, Johnny and I had not one, nor two, but THREE Thanksgiving celebrations and you’re not going to not look your best when you’re just sitting there eating lol. I have missed having some fashion fun so I am very excited about this recent development and hope that all of you are too. I also have my fingers crossed that all of these clothes will still fit after three Thanksgiving feasts. 😀

Tune in tomorrow for outfit number one from my Thanksgiving look book and, for now, enjoy some pictures of your favorite Lil Red blogger and JOHNNY!!

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^^^ Besties! ❤

What is your favorite Thanksgiving food? How did you celebrate Thanksgiving? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Nov23

Black Friday Shopping Pro Tips

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Black Friday Shopping Pro Tips

Hello!! I can hardly believe that it is Thanksgiving this week and, of course, with Thanksgiving comes Black Friday. I have actually never shopped during Black Friday before. However, I worked retail for about five years and have five insane Black Fridays under my belt to show for it. During this time, I acquired a lot of pro tips for a successful Black Friday so keep these in mind when you set out for your day of shopping:

Check The Store Hours:

This might seem like a no brainer but it needs to be said since so many stores have updated their Thanksgiving/Black Friday hours in the past few years. A lot of places are no longer open during Thanksgiving evening and that is a wonderful thing. But, you will need to know the store opening and closing times to go about planning your day. This way, you can stagger your shopping and pencil in driving/waiting time if, for example, Target opens at midnight on Friday and Best Buy opens at two AM.

Have A Plan A, B, & C:

A ton of people are very serious Black Friday shoppers and the chances are high that you won’t walk away with everything on your shopping list. This is why it is a MUST to have a plan B and C in place for the items you want that are no longer available. It will also save you the time and frustration of scrambling on the spot to find something else.

Maximize Efficiency:

If you have never shopped or worked Black Friday, you can only imagine how crazy it really is. Jam packed stores, frazzled employees, and picked over inventory are all things that can slow your shopping down. If you know that you are going to need help from an employee, you can help them too! Have pictures of what you want pulled up on your phone or printed out so you can get an immediate yes or no on if it’s still available and where it would be in the store.

Fuel Up/Hydrate:

Crowded stores will get incredibly stuffy really quickly all over top of the fast paced atmosphere of the day. I don’t think I have to spell it out for you why a fall or other medical emergency is dangerous on Black Friday! For that reason, it is so important to make sure you have ate and are properly hydrated. Keep water bottles on hand and snacks in the car and do make sure you make a reservation at a restaurant if you plan on eating out so you know you will have a table.

Just So You Know:

So many people think that once Saturday rolls around, the Black Friday deals are simply over and that is not the case. SO many stores continue to offer Black Friday prices and promotions for several days after the fact. While Black Saturday doesn’t have the same ring as Black Friday, you are more than likely still going to receive a deal. Speaking of deals, remember that you might not be able to use coupons or rewards perks on top of a Black Friday deal so do your research to see which option will save you the most money.

Finally…

This is the time of the year when stores are hiring seasonal workers and a lot of them might not have much retail experience. In fact, Black Friday was one of my first shifts at fifteen and a half. Please keep this in mind and keep your cool because the day is already stressful enough for an employee without getting yelled at by angry customers too. If you think you could do a better job, then put on a name tag and get to work! 🙂

Shop smart on Black Friday with the tips above so you can walk away with something for everyone on your list… And maybe something for yourself too! 😀

Have you ever shopped or worked on Black Friday before? What was your experience like? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Oct13

Repairs That Can’t Wait

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Repairs That Can’t Wait

If you look around your home, there are sure to be some issues that could use a little attention. Squeaky doors, threadbare carpets, or an unsteady shelf are annoyances but not necessarily things that need an immediate solution. On the other hand, there are some problems that you shouldn’t wait to fix. We’re talking appliances and fixtures in the home that can prevent you from living your normal life. Let’s discuss further:

Appliances:

Broken appliances are the first thing that comes to mind when you think of things that could alter your normal routine. A washer or dryer on the fritz means a trip to the laundromat. Broken refrigerator? Say goodbye to all of your perishable food. And, of course, a nonfunctional oven means spending additional money on takeout. These are all issues that need to be repaired ASAP as the longer you hold off could lead to even more costly repairs or become a safety hazard.

In the instance of a broken appliance, it is so important to call in the professionals. You also want someone who specializes specifically in your problem, say for common stove issues and solutions. If you have a newer appliance that is malfunctioning, the repairs might be covered under a warranty if you purchased one so do check on that to help save money.

Weather Related Issues:

It is never a good thing when the weather outside is coming into your home. This means drafty doors, cracks in the walls, or leaks and breakages in the roof. Not only can this invite pests into your home but it can also be a major health and safety hazard for you and your family. An out of shape roof or leaks can cause mold and damp, which can exacerbate issues like asthma. Drafts and cracks can also make for bitter temperatures inside your home come winter. These are all problems that should be prioritized for everyone’s well being.

Heating/Air Conditioning:

A too hot or too cold home is just downright unpleasant and could mean that something is wrong with your HVAC system. The solution might be as simple as a tune up or a few replacement parts or it could be a complete overhaul of your system entirely. Remember, it is best to have a professional check on this annually for the comfort and safety it provides. You can find an expert by entering a search for “HVAC contractor in Tampa, FL” or your local area. Stifling temps indoors in the summer can lead to someone overheating while too cold in the winter can cause flooding and frozen pipes. A freshly repaired HVAC system will keep your home just right all year round.

When you are considering repairs, priority number one should always be if the problem is effecting your family’s comfort and safety. If it is, then it is time to call a professional!

Sep8

4 Solutions To Reduce Your Carbon Footprint

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4 Solutions To Reduce Your Carbon Footprint

Everyone should be trying to keep their carbon footprint to a minimum as much as they can. This means that you are going to be affecting the planet a lot less as an individual. It also means that you are using less energy in general too, which has many other benefits such as helping you save money. How can you make sure you are doing this properly? In this post, we’ll take a look at a few of the long-term solutions for reducing your carbon footprint that you might want to be aware of:

Change How You Heat Your Home:

One of the first things you might want to do is change how you heat your home. Doing this is going to mean that you are much less likely to waste carbon, and it’s the kind of thing that can provide you with a genuine long-term solution. For instance, one of the best heating methods in terms of low carbon output is to use All Seasons Energy and their air source heat pumps, so they are definitely worth thinking about here.

Take A Look At Your Commute:

There are all sorts of ways to commute to work, and you need to make sure that you are choosing one that is going to be as eco-friendly as possible. That would include taking a bicycle, walking, or using public transport – really anything other than traveling privately in your own car. Maybe start an office carpool crew?

Be Careful With What You Eat:

Your diet is another thing that you can look into if you want to make sure that you are keeping your carbon footprint as low as possible. There are a few important changes in particular that are worth thinking about. For one thing, you should aim to eat as few animal products as possible, because the processes involved in rearing livestock is often very carbon heavy. You might also want to think about eating as local as possible for similar reasons, to avoid the carbon produced through transportation.

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Avoid Fast Fashion:

When it comes to environmental awareness, the fashion industry has a lot to answer for, being an industry that is predicated on the idea of always buying something new. If you want to keep your carbon footprint small, you should make sure that you are avoiding fashion of this kind, in favor of hanging on to clothes as long as you can or shopping at secondhand stores.

Keeping your carbon footprint to a minimum will help you do good for the planet and your bank account. Talk about a win/win update to your lifestyle!

Featured Image By: Pexels