Tag Archives: love

Jun20

Puppy Talk: How To Keep Your Pet Happy This Summer

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Puppy Talk: How To Keep Your Pet Happy This Summer

Have you just adopted a puppy for your family? Would you like to make sure it’s as happy as possible this summer? Then, you just need to use some common sense and the information from this article! Today, we’re going to highlight a foolproof plan for ensuring that your new dog has the best life possible. At the end of the day, canines are simple creatures. In most instances, they just want to feel loved and get your attention. The tips below will help to ensure that you leave no stone unturned when caring for your pet. Just put them into action from today forward, and your furry friend will have everything that he or she needs for a super fun summer:

Make sure they spend a LOT of time outdoors: If you’ve bought a dog, you should have a decent-sized garden. That means that there is no excuse for leaving the animal cooped up in your home. Instead, you should adjust your outdoor space so that it’s suitable for your pet. Specialists from Pet Education say that’s essential. For instance, you’ll need to make sure that there is a shaded area where your pooch can get out of the sun. You have to remember that they are wearing a thick coat all of the time and can’t exactly take it off! So, it’s possible your pet could overheat or become ill if you don’t give them somewhere to hide from the sun. You also need to always have a water bowl outside. There are dripping devices that you can purchase to guarantee that the water never runs out. Handy!

Get them some toys to bust the boredom: All dogs love playing with toys. For that reason, you should head out to your local pet store and get literally every single toy that there is. 😉  You should also check online suppliers, because sometimes you get better deals. Experts from Fast Dogs and similar firms say that you’ll also find a better selection on the internet. There are mechanical toys that can make playing “catch” a little more exciting. It doesn’t matter if you don’t have the time to throw a ball over and over again. Those products will perform the action on your behalf. So, they’re perfect for when you’re having a busy afternoon.

Walk your pooch twice every single day: Walking your dog is one of the most important responsibilities that you have as an owner. You should ask your children to help out as much as possible, too. Your pooch needs as much exercise as possible during its first few years. That is because it will have a lot of energy that needs burning off. You should aim to walk your pup at least twice every day. Do it in the morning before you leave for work, and then again when you return home. If anyone can stop by on their lunch break for a third walk, that’s a bonus. Each time you go out of the house, you should aim to find a route that takes between a half an hour to an hour. A sleepy pup is a happy pup!

Dogs are fantastic pets. However, they have needs just like every other animal on the planet. If you’re going to keep a canine at home, make sure that you provide everything they require. Also, enjoy the summer!

Featured Image By: Flickr

Jun19

Monday Update: Canine LifeLine Edition

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Monday Update: Canine LifeLine Edition

Good morning everyone and happy Monday! I had a lovely afternoon yesterday with my mom and sister. We all volunteer for the rescue group, Canine LifeLine, and each of our schedules worked out so that we could go together and walk some of the pups that are up for adoption. It was a beautiful, dog-filled time and it was nice to be able to walk the puppers all together for the first time in the years that we’ve been volunteering.

Canine LifeLine is the rescue group that both of my sweet pups, Gem and Ollie, were adopted through. CLL brings dogs up from rural shelters (both of my dogs are from Kentucky) and provides them with medical treatment and a new shot at life in Ohio. I believe so strongly in the work that this group does and it only makes sense to try and give back to them as often as we can since they made our home complete with our two beloved pets.

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^^^ My babies! ❤

If you are located in Ohio or have family and friends here that are yearning for a rescue pup, please direct them in Canine LifeLine’s way! There is sure to be a sweet dog for you and you might just run into yours truly! And, of course, if you have no Ohio relations, then we always accept donations too. 🙂 #shamelesspromotion

So there you have it, this week’s Monday Update: Canine LifeLine Edition! Do you have a beloved pet at home? Who else is a proud dog mom or dad? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Jun19

Paws For A Moment: 3 Simple Checks For Dog Owners

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Paws For A Moment: 3 Simple Checks For Dog Owners

Everyone wants to make sure that their dogs live the best lives possible. Indeed, that is why we spend a fortune on the best food and veterinary care. However, most owners don’t perform health checks at home. It’s vital that all of us get into the habit of performing these checks during the summer months when our animals spend a lot of time outside romping around and exploring. Failure to do that could mean that you don’t spot issues before they become severe. That could result in your dog suffering from something avoidable. You’re not going to feel like a good owner if that happens. So, pay attention:

Check your dog’s paws every time they come inside: The last thing you want is for your dog to get an infection in their paw. That can happen when the animal stands on something dirty that pierces the skin. In most instances, you will notice that your canine walks with a limp when that happens. That is because the injury can become very painful for the animal and it can make them ill. To ensure that your dog’s paw doesn’t become infected, you need to check them every time your doggo comes into your home. A quick two-minute assessment will put your mind at ease. If there are any injuries, you have to call your vet. Dealing with the issue early could limit the chances of an infection.

Spend time checking your dog’s coat for fleas: Nobody wants their dog to bring fleas and ticks into their home. If that happens, you might end up getting an infestation (Yuck!). That could result in you having to leave your property while the exterminators clean your home. It’s an expensive and disrupting situation that you should always aim to avoid. You can check your dog’s coat using just your eyes and fingers, but there are also specialist combs that you can purchase. Also make sure that you’re keeping the best flea and tick medicine for dogs at home. That way, you can treat any outbreaks before they spread. If you’re unsure of what to buy, just ask your vet.

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 PUPPER!

Take a look at the inside of your dog’s mouth: It’s vital that all dog owners get used to checking the inside of their canine’s mouth. That is because this area is prone to infection and other issues. At the end of the day, your dog doesn’t have opposable thumbs (It would be cool if they did, though!). That means that they use their mouths for almost everything. Common problems include bee and wasp stings, cuts, and bacterial infections. When you get used to looking inside of your dog’s mouth, you will be able to stop any problems early. You will notice when something has changed. Again, if you have any concerns, book an appointment to see a professional. It’s always better safe than sorry.

This summer, remember that dogs are more prone to becoming ill when there is hot weather. So, you’ll need to ensure that your pet always has enough water when they spend time outside. You’ll also have to place extra emphasis on performing the checks mentioned on this page for the next couple of months. LONG LIVE DOGS!!! ❤

Featured Image By: Flickr

Jun16

Exciting News!!

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Exciting News!!

Helloooo everyone and TGIF! So earlier this week, I got contacted by one of my former teachers inquiring about a consultation with yours truly for her humor based memoir. We had our first meeting today and it went absolutely swimmingly. I will be helping her out as far as editing/prompting/and adding on goes and it’s such a joy to learn more about someone who I considered one of my “favorites” in high school.

Because lifewithlilred is a platform for all voices, not just mine, some excerpts from her short stories will be featured on my page for your viewing pleasure. Feedback is an important part of the writing process, so it only makes sense to showcase her work to my darling readers so we can hear all of your thoughts! I am SO excited for what promises to be a fantastic partnership and am looking forward to sharing some of the works in progress with all of you! ❤

Who else has some exciting news to share? What are you up to this weekend? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Jun15

Rabbit Owners: HELLLLLP!!!

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Rabbit Owners: HELLLLLP!!!

Hi everyone and happy Thursday! For those of you who don’t know, I desperately want a pet rabbit. A black, female, Netherland Dwarf bunny to be specific. For the past year or so, I’ve been toying with the idea of getting my very own, adorable, precious pet and now I feel like I’m ready to take the plunge and welcome a sweet little girl home. I live in Akron, Ohio but I am willing to travel up to two hours to a reputable rescue group, as it’s very important to me that my lil furball is a rescue. If anyone has any groups in mind, as well as tips for the new rabbit owner – PLEASE LET YOUR GIRL KNOW!!

THANKS!!!!! ❤

Featured Image By: Bunnies Are Us

Jun14

Things To Consider When You’re Designing A Kitsch Kitchen

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Things To Consider When You’re Designing A Kitsch Kitchen

Whether you prefer a vintage interior or a retro space; if you’re into everything kitsch, each room in your home should be able to reflect your style. Your kitchen (or kitschen) should be no different; as the heart of your home and where you’ll spend time cooking and hanging out, the space should exude your interior taste and any personal style elements that you enjoy. The following are some ideas to consider if you’re in the mood for an injection of kitsch character to your cooking environment:

Colorful Appliances: Nothing screams 1950s diner more than a large curved fridge in a bright or pastel hue. Your refrigerator doesn’t just have to be a functional item in your kitchen; it can become the focal point of the room and a joy to open when you’re craving a strawberry milkshake or a cola. If your budget doesn’t stretch to a shiny new fridge, then consider replacing some of your smaller appliances with colorful alternatives, instead. Toasters, food processors, and tea kettles are all items that will look great in a mint green, pastel pink, or candy-apple red shade. Do your research and bring a kitsch kick into your kitchen counter tops. For some tips on maintaining your new purchases, take a look here!

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So cute!

Your bowls, plates, glassware, and utensils don’t have to come in shy colors either. Think about investing in a polka dot range of silverware or a striped collection of cups and saucers. Display them all with pride on a vintage dresser or some shelves above your work surfaces. You can add even more vintage charm by incorporating any antique ornaments, old utensils, and postcards that you’ve picked up at a flea market. The possibilities are endless, because it’s all about adding what you love and running wild with your retro theme.

Fixtures And Fittings: A modern array of halogen lights and a sleek, stainless steel stove aren’t going to enhance a retro kitchen space, but are likely to do the opposite. So it’s worth taking a look around your cooking space and discovering what you can change so that it represents a kitsch character, and more importantly, your personal style. Consider looking at a range of sinks and think about replacing your basic steel basin with an old school-style ceramic one. The perfect choice for when you’ve got your gingham pinny on and you’re chopping up fruits for a salad. If replacing your hobs and stove isn’t an option for you, then you could look into having areas of them spray painted to give a colorful enamel finish. By the time you’ve surrounded it with all of your vintage accessories, it’ll look like a retro dream.

The lighting in your kitchen can be sourced and reclaimed from vintage stores and auctions. You’ll pay a fraction of the price of a brand new light fitting, and it’ll boast tons more character and charm. Get your polishing equipment at the ready and hunt down some personality-packed lampshades and lights for over your dinner table. Light switches and power points are also areas to consider when you want the design details in your kitchen to be a nod to kitsch charm. Look into brushed metal finishes and the shape of each fitting; paying attention to these little things will ensure that you’ll be baking your cupcakes in a kitsch environment that will keep you smiling.

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Pexels Image

A Splash Of Paint: If you’re not in the position to replace your appliances, fixtures, and fittings; a lick of fresh paint can go a long way and will add instant charm and character to a room, depending on which hues you choose. Painting the walls in a pastel, ice cream shade will create the perfect backdrop for your old enamel advertisements and signs, taking you back to a golden era every time you cook. For a bold choice, you could choose a primary color to paint on the walls, or perhaps you could have a feature wall, where the shelving that was mentioned earlier could go.

Update your tiles and flooring with fun shades of paint and be brave with your choices; it’s your ideal kitchen space, after all. Maybe you’ll be able to source a terracotta tile or two and collect some retro tiles and could craft a lively backsplash behind the sink or stove. The braver you are, the more creative you’ll be with your choices, and you’ll have your kitschy dream kitchen before you know it!

Don’t Forget the Outside: You want your kitchen to look great from the outside looking in too. Make sure to keep control of any bushes or trees outside its windows and you may want to consider new siding to make everything look really modern and clean. Use siding company, JD Hostetter.

Maintain your kitchen: When you’re designing a cute kitchen you won’t want to forget about those important maintenance checks. Here are a few pointers to help you:

  • Check your appliances to ensure that they are working correctly.
  • Deep clean your kitchen, including the oven.
  • Inspect the drain for foul smells or signs of blockage (you may require the help of a plumber).
  • If you’re using regular light bulbs, replace these with LED bulbs.
  • Ensure that any toxic materials are stored in a high cupboard.
  • Water your plants and replace them if necessary.

Simple tips like these will help you to keep your kitchen looking cute and fresh. Your kitchen is so much more than a place to cook, it’s a space for entertaining too. Looking after your home will help you to improve your lifestyle.

Featured Image By: Miserv

Jun14

Are You Ready For A Pet?

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Are You Ready For A Pet?

Owning a pet is special because the animal becomes a huge part of your life. Welcoming a pet into your home is like bringing in a brand new family member. Still, pets don’t work out for everyone. Sometimes, things get in the way and stop the special bond from occurring. The good news, is that you can tell if you’re ready or not. All you have to do is ask these questions and consider your answers. If all goes well, then congratulations are in order. If not, maybe put off going to the pound for now. And, as always, lifewithlilred supports the “Adopt, don’t shop” point of view and PuppyWire has an amazing article to help prep your home for your new rescue dog!

Do You Have The Time? Firstly, there are animals which need a whole lot of love, and that means spending quality time together. Dogs are the main culprits, yet they aren’t the only ones. For those of you with busy schedules, there might be a gap that is hard to bridge. Unless you’re willing to change your lifestyle, a pet isn’t going to work for both parties. Even animals like cats, which are a lot less high maintenance, require a bit of effort. Plus, what is the point of having a pet if you only see it for a few hours in the evening? It’s a waste of time and money, and it’s unfair.

Can You Commit For The Long-Term? Figuring out whether you have the time isn’t just about the present or the near future. It’s about the long-term outlook more than anything. Most animals have a long lifespan. Turtles, for example, can even outlive humans. So, getting one today and then getting bored with it after a couple of weeks isn’t an option. It’s like the cliché saying, a pet is for life, not just for Christmas (and it’s so true). Anyone that wants a new addition has to ensure that they will be there for the long haul. Otherwise, it isn’t a savvy move for all parties involved.

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Aww :*)

Do You Have The Money? Regardless of the animal, you will need a decent sized budget. Let’s take a look at dogs for a moment. They need basics such as food and water, but they also need everything from healthcare to an inside bed and toys. And, as http://www.pawcastle.com points out, doggy beds do not come cheap. Plus, there are the extras that no one thinks out beforehand. For example, the dog will need to be warm in the winter, which means that you’ll use the central heating more. As energy prices rise, this could cost a fortune. It’s wise to cover every base that’s necessary for your new pet before committing.

Is It A Family Decision? You might be totally on board because pet lovers can be extreme. In fact, www.wired.com thinks that some of you even love animals more than humans (I know I do!)! However, the pertinent factor is whether everyone else in the house is okay with a new pet. They live there too, so their opinion is just as important. Sure, the kids will probably jump at the idea of having a dog to play with, but that doesn’t mean that your partner will feel the same.

Getting a new pet should be treated as a big deal because it is. Ask yourself all of the above questions before committing and be ready to provide the loving home that your new furry friend so deserves!

Featured Image By: Public Domain Pictures

Jun13

Happy Birthday, Ankhor You!

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Happy Birthday, Ankhor You!

Helloooo everyone and happy Tuesday! Today is a special day because it is my fellow Gemini darling’s 27th birthday! K.M., the author of the wonderful, fantastic, amazing blog, Ankhor You, is one of my literal favorite people on the planet. Not only is she immensely talented and a beautiful fashionista, but she is sweet, kind, and freaking hilarious. I am SO lucky to have such a lovely lady as a friend and it has been so much fun getting to know her better during our almost weekly FaceTime dates and frequent texting. I hope that all of you will join me in wishing K.M. a very happy birthday and I just know that 27 will be her best year yet! ❤

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HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!

I LOVE YOU!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Jun11

Lauren Conrad Ballin On A Budget Buy

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Lauren Conrad Ballin On A Budget Buy

Helloooo everyone and happy Sunday! Okay, so yesterday I got the prettiest shirt in the history of ever and the best part (other than it being gorgeous) is that I got it for: FIVE DOLLA HOLLA. My mom and I went to Kohl’s last night to get our shop on because we had coupons for days and wanted to make good use of them. It was difficult to tear myself away from binging on Orange Is The New Black, but this shirt was well worth it. Take a look and let’s discuss:

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If there’s one thing that Lil Red loves, it’s romantic, dreamy clothing. Which is kind of ironic considering that black is my favorite color and I prefer to dress in punk/grunge fashion. But, alas, the heart wants what it wants. Lol, seriously though, I love the contrast that flowy, girly style clothes has with my punk rock princess appearance thanks to my piercings, tattoos, and bright hair. It’s not often that I find a beautiful dreamer piece of clothing that I totally swoon over, but it’s pretty magical when I do!

This Lauren Conrad top combined all things fairy princess into one cohesive look. The creamy color, gauzy material, draped sleeves, flowy shape, and embroidery in one magnificent top is something straight out of the fairy tales and I am obsessed. My mom and I joked that this pretty little number looks like the modern day Puffy Shirt a la Seinfeld and I actually think this makes me love it more considering that’s my favorite show.

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^^^ Me.

Describing this shirt is weird because it’s one of those pieces that actually makes me feel pretty. Don’t get me wrong, lol I always think I look fabulous in the edgy, confident, badass way but I don’t have a lot of clothes that make me feel boho princess worthy. And the fact that I scored this wonder top for a whole five dollars? GET OUT!

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^^^ Elaine is my spirit animal. ❤

I can’t wait to wear this LC number throughout the summer with black short shorts and a peekaboo black lacy bra underneath to add that necessary touch of badassery to the look. A killer pair of platforms or wedges are also a must to toughen up the ensemble and make it feel a bit more Sarah. And as it gets colder? Swap the shorties for skinnies and you’re off!

So there you have it, my Lauren Conrad Ballin On A Budget Buy! How would you describe your personal style? How do you score the best deals while out shopping? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Jun9

New Black & Navy Nails

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New Black & Navy Nails

Hello everyone and TGIF!! I hope everyone has super fabulous weekend plans on the horizon – I most certainly do! My boyfriend is up from North Carolina for my birthday so he has some weekend surprises in store! AHHH! So yes, I’m way excited and all of the girly things. And speaking of all of the girly things, I got my nails done yesterday and they look gorgeous so take a looksee and let’s discuss:

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^^^ Pretty! :*)

It wouldn’t be my birthday week without treating myself to getting my talons filled and sharpened. As always, my darling nail tech, Steve, did a beautiful job giving me the princess treatment. As we were chatting while he worked his magic, I told Steve that I don’t think I’m ever going to not get my nails painted black. I have enough anxiety picking out my accent nail color for two nails let alone all ten!

Black is my go to color for literally anything because I’m never going to not like it, lol. Like, I’m never going to be disappointed with the color black and it saves me the hassle of having to analyze outfit choices if I were ever to venture away from sweet sweet noire. Long story short, it’s the best. And, believe me, I totally am aware of how redundant these nail posts are considering they legit look the exact same EVERY THREE WEEKS but they’re so pretty that I just can’t help myself! :’)

So there you have it, my New Black & Navy Nails! What color do you have on your nails right now? What is your go to polish color? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah