Tag Archives: nature

Sep21

A Perfect Walk With Your Pup

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A Perfect Walk With Your Pup

Daily walks with your dog are one of the greatest joys of dog ownership. But not everyone sees it that way all of the time. When it’s cold or wet or you’re feeling tired, walking your dog can be the last thing on your mind!

But the truth is, walking your dog is a great activity for you to bond, as well as helping you both get some daily exercise. It’s a must for your dog, and should be a must for you too! So how can you make your dog walks more enjoyable? Take a look at some of the following tips.

Make sure you’re dressed for the occasion:

A dog walk is much more enjoyable when you both feel happy and comfortable. By making sure you’re both dressed for the occasion – with a nice coat for your dog and either waterproofs or removable layers for you, you can make sure your walk is a good one no matter what the weather.

Take some water for your dog and yourself:

Water is a must for you and your dog – you both don’t want to be dehydrated. There are some fantastic lightweight bottles you can get with a built-in bowl for your dog that will make it easy to keep them hydrated as needed.

Change up your route:

Taking the same route every day can soon get boring for both you and your dog. Switch things up by exploring different routes and making sure you vary the length of the walk too. You can even turn your dog walk into a workout! Explore different terrains as well as areas they can be let off the leash to burn off some excess energy and play with other dogs too.

Use it as a chance to socialize:

Dog walking is a great chance to socialize – you’ll be surprised at how much people want to talk about their dogs! By approaching other dog walkers or walking with a friend, you’ll be able to enjoy some conversation and social time. It’s also ideal for your dog, as they’ll get to meet other dogs and perhaps make some new friends of their own!

Reward yourself after a walk:

As with all exercise, a little reward once it’s done can be a great motivator. Whether it’s a coffee on your way back or a tasty treat, you’ll soon be able to develop a welcome post-walk ritual. You can do the same for your dog too! A nice treat for a job well done will keep them happy, while some petness.com balm can also be welcome to soothe tired paws.

Walking your dog can be a wonderful and rewarding part of your day. Find ways to make your walk more enjoyable for you and your dog, and it will soon become something you look forward to as much as they do.

Featured Image By: Unsplash under Creative Commons

Sep9

Give Your Garden A Boost With These Tips

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Give Your Garden A Boost With These Tips

The backyard is the one private space you have in your home that gives you a chance to be in touch with nature and get outside at the same time. It’s also the place you have free rein to be as creative as you like. Getting outside and enjoying your garden space means choosing to reinvigorate and redesign your garden to make it look as beautiful as possible.

You should be able to head into the back yard with a book and a drink and soak up the scenery. The kids should be able to play safely and happily. You should be able to plant your favorite fruits and vegetables, knowing that they are in a healthy place to grow. With the tips below, you can make your garden the most extraordinary place possible, so that you can kick back and enjoy it no matter the season.

Use Trees:

Planting trees in your backyard to frame the garden is one of the prettiest ways to add something amazing. Asking New Life landscape to help you with your lawn is going to help you to map out exactly how you want your garden to look. Adding fruit trees is a great way to not only grow your own fruit, but you will be able to add these trees to the corners of the garden to frame that newly laid lawn of yours. Choose apple trees and lemon trees and watch them grow!

When planting trees, you will want them in their own individual spots while still looking natural with the landscape. To create seamless edges from the mulch bed to grass or the patio, use Metal Garden Edging From Core LP. The results will allow your greenery and hardscapes to flow together effortlessly.

Don’t forget that any new or existing trees will require care too. When looking for a professional to tend your trees, you will want to search online for a “Tree Service in Charlottesville, VA” (or your local area) and enlist the services of a reputable service for trimming, removal, or storm clean up. A professional arborist will also be able to check the overall health of the tree to ensure that it is thriving in your yard.

Design The Beds:

Between those new trees you’ve planted, adding garden beds will enhance the edges of the garden. You can make it as informal or as formal as you like, and you can plant beautiful flowers in the flowerbeds. The beds can vary in length, and you can plant flowers and bushes of a variety of colors to make it pop. You can coordinate the flowers by height and by color, and you can share your ideas with a professional landscaping team to bring it all to life properly.

While the end result is lovely, clearing the space for new flowerbeds can be a lot of hard work, especially on top of the upgrades and maintenance you’re already working on. Give yourself a break and call a Roanoke excavating contractor to get the job done as you lounge in the shade. Then, it will be onto the fun part: Planting!!

Go Beyond Greenery:

Garden beauty comes in more than just flowers and bushes. You need to consider hardscaping. Hardscapes like decorative rocks and stone patios will help you to make your living space comfortable and low maintenance. You can add different types of hardscapes to the garden, too, to really give it a unique look. Imagine a gorgeous stone patio where you can lounge on sun chairs, grill, and entertain friends, evoking all of the feels of endless summer! If this sounds like a must for your backyard, contact a local hardscaper to make it a reality. You will be thanking yourself every time you sit out to catch some rays.

Irrigate:

You should look at installing a drip irrigation or soaker hose system to water your garden properly. Irrigating your landscaped backyard will keep it fresh, healthy and it will stop it from flooding in the rain. Choose the right size irrigation system and make sure that you have your garden covered. You have the chance to create a beautiful backyard, and you should use these tips to give your garden the boost you need.

With the right inspiration, you can make your garden stand out and improve the way that you spend time in it at the same time. Take the time to landscape your garden this year, and you’ll be enjoying it by next summer!

Featured Image By: Pexels

Sep2

Creating A Perfect Garden

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Creating A Perfect Garden

Having some outside space at your home is a significant asset and one that enables you to enjoy spending time at your property both indoors and outside. Keeping your yard looking great has many benefits; for a start, it improves your home’s curb appeal, which could add to its value should you decide to sell it. Secondly, having a yard that is in tip-top condition enables you to get outdoors and spend time in the beautiful natural surroundings of your garden.

If you don’t naturally have a green thumb, you may feel a little daunted by the idea of taking care of a garden, and the thought of keeping it looking great may feel overwhelming. However, creating a gorgeous garden is well worth the effort, and is so much easier than you may think. Plus, being outdoors and closer to nature is believed to have significant benefits on your wellbeing, so having a lovely garden is most definitely a winner.

Ready to get to work on creating a photo worthy outside space? Here’s how to create a perfect garden:

Luscious lawns:

Your lawn is likely to cover your yard’s largest area, so it is worth taking the time to get your grass looking its best. Achieving a perfect lawn requires the right tools for the job. You will need a mower that makes light work of trimming your grass, plus a trimmer to neaten up the edges. It is worth doing some research for the perfect garden machinery to match your needs, as it does make a big difference. You can click here to read handy reviews to help you decide on the right tools for you. You might also want to check out https://www.lawncare.net/service-areas/georgia/ for the best professional care for your yard.

Pick Your Plants:

When you pick the right plants for your yard, they will stay looking good for longer and will really enhance your space. You will need to consider the climate that you live in along with the soil conditions where you live to choose the perfect plants for your yard. Some plants are better suited to colder conditions, and some flowers are hardy enough to survive even the hottest climates. It is also worth thinking about how much time you have to take care of your garden. If you are short of time, there’s no reason why your backyard cannot stay looking great. It would be best if you simply choose low maintenance options to keep your garden looking awesome with minimal effort.

A Place to Relax:

No garden is complete if you are unable to enjoy it. When creating your perfect garden, you need to consider how you plan to spend your time outdoors, so that you can ensure that your yard matches your needs. Do you love to entertain? If so then you will certainly need a grill, or you could even look into these pizza oven kits for an exciting fixture and a delicious meal. Alternatively, perhaps you like to relax in the sunshine with a good book, or maybe you want to practice yoga on the lawn. Whatever you love to do in your garden, you can create an outdoor space that fits the bill.

Create your own outdoor oasis with new lush garden landscapes!

Featured Image By: Pixabay

Aug11

How To Protect Your Home From Storm Damage

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How To Protect Your Home From Storm Damage

The impact of severe storms and natural disasters are hard to predict. If caught off guard and not prepared, you could end up dishing out several thousand dollars for repairs. Whether you just moved into an area that experiences frequent storms or you are looking to up your preparedness, these tips will help you better protect your home:

Get Home Insurance Or Update Your Policy:

Having home insurance is crucial to protecting your home. It ensures that if something awful happens, you may not have to pay for the expense solely out of your pocket. When shopping for home insurance or updating your policy, make sure the policy covers the basics of what you need. If your home is surrounded by trees, it would be a good idea to make sure that your policy covers for that type of damage. Keep in mind it is up to you to find that out before a big storm comes. Read through your policy. Even though it may cover some storm-related damages, it may not cover all. For instance, damage from flooding, hurricanes, and earthquakes requires a special policy. It is always a good idea to shop around until you find the best plan for your home. To get started, simply enter a search for “home insurance jacksonville fl” (or your local area) to get the coverage that your family needs.

Seal Your Doors And Windows:

This is imperative to protecting your home. You do not want to be caught in a storm and your windows are not sealed or boarded up. Make sure that you seal your windows tightly without any breaks. The littlest break can cause a myriad of problems. If you are facing a tornado or hurricane the strong winds can get in, allowing for those storms to travel through while taking your home with it.

Maintenance To The Stormwater Drain: 

If your property has a stormwater drain, it is imperative that you have it serviced routinely by a Stormwater Waste Removal company. Neglecting to do so can cause flooding as well as environmental damage and this can be further exasperated by a heavy storm. Significant rainfall can cause blockages of debris in your drain and can do more damage than you might have thought if it isn’t regularly maintained.

Repair The Roof:

You have been putting it off long enough! Check your roof to make sure there are not any loose or missing shingles. If you find some, replace or fix them as soon as possible. You do not want a strong wind to catch onto a shingle coming loose. Your roof will suffer and so will you when you have to pay storm damage repair. It is also recommended that you seal your chimneys or vents if they are located on the roof. If they are not sealed up properly, you leave your home vulnerable to the elements, putting you in danger.

Repair Loose Siding:

Keep an eye out for loose pieces of siding that may catch a gust of wind. You also want to look for unattached edges. If the siding catches a powerful wind, it can fly off and leave your home exposed to the elements. Flying siding also causes a lot of damage. Attach it back to the frame of the house and check that they are secure often or consider new Siding Installations to avoid further problems in the future.

Repair Your Fences:

Your fences can cause a lot of damage to your home if they are not secured or repaired before a storm. Look for places where the fence is loose and ensure that the gates are tightly secured. It is also a good idea to survey your property, making sure to put away things that could fly around and cause more damage. Any outdoor furniture on your patio, deck, or lawn should be put inside the house. If your fence is in need of repairs, simply enter a search for “Fence contractor in Rockwall, TX” or your local area to prevent future damage.

Once the outside of your home is secure, settle in with a good book and enjoy the thunderstorm!

Featured Image By: Pexels

Aug5

Garden Goodies

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Garden Goodies

Hi! I looove having lots of fresh fruits and veggies at my apartment and, during the summer, I am never lacking in that department. My dad as well as all of the families of my clients have gardens and I always seem to be returning home from work with surplus veggies. It’s freaking awesome and I haven’t been without cucumbers, zucchinis, tomatoes, peppers, and green beans in weeks.

I know that all of the families I work with are up to their ears in produce and they have entire gardens but, shit, I am too! I can’t even get to the bottom of my crisper drawer until it’s filled up again with all of the garden goodies I am constantly being gifted with. The last thing I am doing is complaining about it, though!!

My appetite changes drastically in the summer because I get nauseous when it’s really hot. I find myself craving light dishes as I think I would keel over even thinking about eating a heavy meal in my hot ass apartment. Having a never ending supply of veggies has been a game changer because I can snack on them all day totally guilt free and it has added a lot of variety to my cooking.

This past week, I had an overflow of produce that I needed to purge from my fridge – cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, lemon, and lots of garlic. So, I decided to prepare a cucumber salad with the ingredients I had available. My recipe went as so:

Lemon Cucumber Salad

  • 2 large cucumbers with the skin peeled and cut in slices
  • 1/2 large red onion, thinly sliced
  • Multicolored grape tomatoes, halved
  • 4 large cloves garlic
  • Juice from one lemon, with some of the pulp added too
  • 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • Salt, pepper, Italian seasoning to taste

I am obsessed with the salad I whipped up and have been eating a few servings daily. I just love the tart lemon mixed with the tang of the balsamic vinegar and when it’s poured over crisp veggies it is an absolute treat. Get creative with your cooking and try making a salad recipe of your own next family dinner!

How has your garden been doing? What do you have growing? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Aug2

In Summer, We Wear Black OOTD

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In Summer, We Wear Black OOTD

Howdy! Something I really miss doing while I continue to keep my distance amidst the coronavirus pandemic is having photo shoots for lifewithlilred. I loved doing my makeup, styling the perfect outfit, and feeling like America’s Next Top Model for the day. This past month, I felt comfortable enough to schedule a social distance photo shoot with my usual photographer. But, unfortunately, he had to cancel due to a COVID case at his work (All has since been resolved!).

After that, I decided that I would have my mom take my pictures for me over the weekend – just like she used to when lifewithlilred first started! Now, sweet JANE has no photography experience at all but, unlike my dad, she knows how to take pictures on my iPod. This makes it very easy for me because I can set up the shot, have her stand exactly where I want her to, and she can snap away.

After ten or so shots, I usually take a look at what we have, evaluate what I liked and didn’t like, and then continue the process until I’m satisfied. JANE was a rock star, as per ushe, and I was very happy with the following shots for this All Black Everything OOTD:

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Who? What? Wear?

Nine times out of ten in the summertime, you can find me posted up in my normal uniform of all black. Ten times out of ten, you will hear me complaining about how hot it is. Be that as it may, I never “outgrew” my emo phase. It has turned into a lifestyle at this point so I can’t just stop dressing in a way that I’m almost always prepared for a funeral for a little thing like the sun, lol. Besides, the feathery fake lashes I was rocking were enough of a neon pop to make up for the, otherwise, bleak color palette.

I have become a huge fan of fake eyelashes lately and when I saw the funky pair I’m sporting in the pics while online shopping Sephora, I couldn’t pass them up. I knew that I wanted them to make a major statement in my pictures because they are so unique, so my all black OOTD only enhanced it. It also made the beautiful flowers in my dad’s garden pop, which was another goal I had in mind when preparing this shoot.

When it comes to my personal style, I love having a lot of essential pieces that have an extra something to them. The skort is such a fun take on traditional shorts and they also give the illusion of a romper when styled properly (Which is great for me because I look awful in real rompers!). With a playsuit vibe in mind, I opted for one of my favorite tops to wear tucked in and the end result was an, in my opinion, more modern take on an actual romper or shorts and T-shirt combo.

After the initial outfit was styled, it was all about accessories. I chose one of my smaller brimmed hats for this shoot because I didn’t want a huge floppy one taking away from the eyelashes. Wearing Johnny’s sunglasses was another easy choice because they’re relatively plain and it definitely popped nicely against the black.

Bat wing embellished platforms helped complete this chic goth in the sun OOTD. In fact, I know they did because one of the neighborhood kids said they looked vampire-y. Great success! And, finally, I am extra enough to carry a parasol. Enough said.

I am not exaggerating when I say to you all that I felt like a million bucks in these pictures. It was a hot day but my outfit kept me nice and cool and I felt freaking sexy in it. Lol, since coronavirus, I have not put the most effort into my personal appearance and it felt amazing to both feel and look good. I definitely spammed Facebook with pictures of myself but, damn, I couldn’t help it! Your girl was feeling herself!!

This wasn’t exactly the fancy shmancy photo shoot that I had in mind but it was easily one of my favorites. I loved being able to spend time with my mom and I got a HUGE boost of self-confidence. Some new content on the blog is nothing to sneeze at, either. 😉 Keep it posted for more pics this week!

When do you feel confident? Which color do you wear the most often? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Jul23

5 Ways To Be An Eco-Friendly Pet Owner

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5 Ways To Be An Eco-Friendly Pet Owner

The choices you make for your pets can affect the environment in the same way as the choices you make for yourselves. It’s important to try to reduce your pet’s carbon paw print whenever possible. This might not always be an easy task and their health and happiness should always come first. There are, however, several ways you can be a more eco-friendly pet owner:

Adopt a pet:

By adopting a pet from a shelter rather than buying one, you could end up saving two lives. You’ll be giving a home to an animal that needs one, and also freeing up space in the shelter for another stray or abandoned pet. It’s a more ethical choice to adopt a pet from a shelter.

Be responsible about the type of pet you adopt. If you want a dog but only live in a small home, then it’s best to go for dogs for small spaces. If you get a larger dog, then remember to take it for walks once or twice a day as it will need regular exercise.

One additional way to ensure your pet’s safety while staying environmentally conscious is by installing an invisible dog fence. This system creates a secure, boundary-defined space for your dog to roam freely without the need for traditional fencing that can disrupt natural habitats or require resource-heavy materials to build. Modern invisible fence systems are energy-efficient, low-maintenance, and designed to work with your yard’s layout, meaning you can keep your dog safe without compromising the surrounding landscape. They also reduce the risk of pets wandering into unsafe areas, which helps protect both your animal and local wildlife. For eco-minded owners, an invisible fence is a thoughtful choice that blends pet welfare with environmental respect. It allows you to avoid the chemicals and upkeep associated with some physical fence materials, while also providing your dog with the freedom to explore. Choosing such a solution supports a balanced lifestyle for your pet, keeps them close to home, and aligns with sustainable living practices.

Sustainable pet food:

There are several ways to make pet food more sustainable. You could try to make your own dog food, it’s actually a lot easier than it sounds. Speak to your veterinarian about the dietary needs of your pet. Certain animals might need more specialist food that you can only buy.

If you’re buying pet food, check out the best brands for healthy and sustainable products. There are several brands that aim to reduce their environmental impact by limiting shipping, emissions, and GMOs.

Recycled toys:

Some animals such as dogs and cats can really go through toys. These will probably end up in a landfill. It’s better to go for recycled toys or toys made from natural, biodegradable materials. These toys are much better for the environment in the long run.

There are also some great brands that sell eco-friendly toys. These toys are made from durable recycled plastic. You can also find recycled leashes and other accessories. These can even be made from earth-friendly fabric like hemp and other certified recycled materials.

Non-toxic shampoo:

Use organic and natural shampoos for your pet’s bath time. You can find plenty of organic pet products online and they’re not very expensive. Look at the label and see if it’s free of dyes and parabens, as it will be better for your pet’s fur. Not only are non-toxic shampoos gentler on your pet’s skin, but they’re also better for the environment. There will be fewer nasty chemicals running down the drain as a result.

Clean up waste:

You can get a hold of recycled eco-friendly cat litter from big brands such as Purina. This is made from old newspapers. If your dog or other animals do their business outside, then clean it up. It can actually be damaging to the environment to leave it. When cleaning up after your pet, use bags made from plant-based or recycled materials and throw it out immediately.

We can all do our part to help the environment and now your pet can be included with the tips above!

Featured Image By: Pixabay

Jul9

Summer Home Sprucing

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Summer Home Sprucing

When the sun’s shining and the temperature heats up, you’ll want to make the most of your home and garden. Fortunately, it’s easy to transform your property in time for everything the season has to offer. With these simple sprucing tips, you can enjoy the summer weather in your own relaxing retreat:

Overhaul your garden:

It’s easy for gardens to get overgrown in the spring, particularly if you haven’t had a chance to undertake any winter maintenance. However, now’s the time to catch up if you want your garden to be summer-ready. Mow the lawn, trim back overgrown plants, and power wash the patios for simple but effective transformations.

Book pest control services:

One of the most important things you can do to prepare your home for summer is to ensure your property is pest-free. Unfortunately, it’s not unusual for pests to infiltrate gardens and homes, especially during the spring when they’re often building nests. This is when you might run into issues like squirrels in the attic, mice in the garage, and other pests that you do not want in your home. Nothing will ruin summer vibes faster than an infestation!

With residential pest control services, you can ensure there are no nasty surprises awaiting you. Both pest prevention and removal are essential if you want to make sure your property is safe and hygienic. Professional pest control services will give you peace of mind that no vermin or bugs are present and allow you to relax and enjoy the summer.

Add shade:

When you can combine indoor and outdoor areas, you maximize the space in your property and make it far more functional. Bifold and trifold doors are a fantastic way to do this but even adding an awning or cabana to your garden can have a similar effect. When you can escape the blistering rays of the sun or take cover while there’s a shower of rain, you’ll truly get to make the most of the season.

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Pixabay Image

Keep things cool:

Warmer temperatures can be lovely but only if you don’t get overheated. If you have an AC system, you’ll certainly want to get it serviced and cleaned before temperatures get any hotter. With regular servicing, your AC will use less power and perform better, which means lower running costs and cooler temperatures. In addition to this, professional cleaning will remove potential allergens from the AC system, such as dust or pollen, and help to improve the air quality in your home.

Be bold with color:

Warmer, earthier tones are perfect for fall or winter, but spring and summer give you the opportunity to explore with bolder shades and more vibrant colors. From sweet pastels to vivid reds, oranges, greens, and pinks, there are no limits when it comes to summer color. Updating your accessories, tableware, and fabrics make it easy to change your décor to suit the season, so you can stay on-trend with minimal effort.

It’s never too late to make the most of summer, so why not start transforming your property now? With a few minor tweaks and changes, you can turn your property into a summer idyll and make the most of the longer days, lighter evenings, and spectacular sunsets.

Featured Image By: Pixabay

May27

Searching For The Sun In Quarantine

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Searching For The Sun In Quarantine

Hello! As the crazy times dealing with coronavirus continue, I have encouraged all of my readers to have a go at creating guest content for lifewithlilred. It gives you an afternoon of entertainment, publicity for your page, and it helps me keep daily content coming. Believe you me, it’s very hard under these stay at home circumstances!

Luckily, some very kind and talented guest bloggers have answered my call to action, including the lovely Sheryl Rose of Sheryl’s Light. She is literally the sweetest ever and her blog is filled with great content to get lost in for the evening. So, do be sure to check it out and give it some love. Now, find out how Sheryl keeps things on the sunny side during these trying times:

Searching For The Sun In Quarantine:

The last few days here in Vermont have been quite warm being in the ’60s. Growing up in California as a young girl and later on a young woman I loved to sunbath. Having a nationality of Black Irish and Cherokee Indian all the hours spent in the sun would result in a deep brown tan which I loved. As I grew older, I spent less and less time in the sun becoming more aware of skin cancer and harmful UVB rays. Plus, since moving and living on the East Coast, there is way less sun.

Since this COVID-19 started I had started counseling. I was feeling depressed because of how badly I missed my family and old friends. This was before the outbreak. I went to one session instantly bonding with my new counselor. He has a very kind face. I trusted him immediately. Shortly after, this nasty little virus came to light prompting stay at home orders. I was bummed that we couldn’t continue our meetings so he suggested video chat, instead. I was so happy. Trust me I’m getting to the point of this post.

Sure enough on Thursday at noon, I get the awaited phone call from John to let me know he sent me the link for our video chat. I click on it, put my name in the on-screen box, and presto, we were at my session. As we are chatting away I notice my little screen of myself in the corner and my face is what I think a deadly white skin tone. Yesterday, I went over to where the apartment complex storage area is and retrieved my lounge chair, bringing it upstairs. Then the clouds came suffocating that idea.

I spent some time on Amazon researching sun tanning equipment and aside from the cost, they weren’t quite what I was looking for. I looked at the spray tan kits that came with a six foot tall tent. Where would I put that?! I even looked at the tanning creams which, from experience, don’t work all that well with the streaking and darkened elbows and knees.

I decided that tanning for free with only the cost of baby oil (which I already have) was the way to go. Today looks pretty good so I’m going to give it another try outside. I took a big plastic bin out to the trash this morning so I know it’s already really warm and it’s only nine AM. I need color. REAL color and, if nothing else, getting outside will definitely be a big plus!

image

This is not me, but reminds me of how I looked when I used to sunbath complete with painted toenails and anklet. Plus I dreadfully miss the beach.

About The Author:

Hello, my name is Sheryl Rose. I have three grown children, a husband of fifteen years all together who I met online, two grandsons ages three and four, and a baby hamster named Zoey. My husband and I live in Vermont. We have lived here for six years moving from Maine. I miss Maine, the seafood, and ocean. My children live out of state. One daughter in California, middle daughter lives in Florida with her life partner, and my son who is married to his wife and two sons live in Texas. My deal is, despite the trials and tribulations you can still come up smelling like a rose. Get it!? My vision is to share my journey helping others like me. Life is love. Life can smack you around but you still can rise above it all and be kind. Life is a lark, as I’m fond of saying. Let’s have some fun.

Thank you so much again to Sheryl for her charming guest post! How do you keep a positive attitude amidst uncertainty? Who always helps to cheer you up? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah
Apr28

Making The Most Of Spring When You’re Stuck Indoors

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Making The Most Of Spring When You’re Stuck Indoors

Hello! In an effort to keep everyone occupied, I have offered guest blogging opportunities on lifewithlilred during the lock down. Not only is it interesting and fun to hear from people all around the world but it also is a huge favor to me to keep content coming when there’s not much to write about!

In today’s post, you can find plenty of great tips to get you in touch with nature from your home from my friend, Helen, at The Feminist Gadabout. Her page is a wonderful treasure trove of cool content so do be sure to give it some love. Now, let’s get to it:

Making The Most Of Spring When You’re Stuck Indoors

With many of us around the world stuck indoors, the usually cheerful season of spring has taken on a frustrating note as we are unable to get outside and enjoy it. It is vitally important that we follow government advice about physical distancing, and do our best to avoid unnecessary contact with other people. But that doesn’t mean that we have to completely miss out on the joys of the season! Here are just a few ideas for how to make the most of spring, without having to leave your house:

Nature webcams:

Now is a time to take advantage of everything modern technology has to offer. From HouseParty to Zoom, we’re all even more reliant on our devices, and internet speed, than we were before. If you feel you’re missing out on your usual dose of nature because of the lock down, webcams are here to help! There are hundreds of different nature webcams to choose from all over the world. Yellowstone National Park, for instance, has its own full set of webcams, offering views of the Old Faithful Geyser, Mount Washburn, and Yellowstone Lake.

These are a great way to watch spring emerging in one of the US’s most stunning natural locations. For a close look at wildlife you can head over to the Explore website, where you can see everything from eagle chicks growing up in Iowa to a hummingbird nest in California. These cute little birds make remarkable parents! Watching nature go about its day is a nice way to feel in touch with the wild, even if you can’t get out in it.

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Grow Something:

Spring is the season of sprouting shoots and new leaves. Even if you don’t have access to a garden, you can still get in on the action. All you need is a bit of soil and a few dishes.  You can even use old toilet paper rolls or egg boxes to make pots! Growing plants from seeds is hugely therapeutic. It is a wonderfully positive reminder of the steady progress of life and the seasons when you see your first baby plants poking up through the compost. There are thousands of plants to choose from, but herbs like basil and cilantro are fun (and edible!) places to start. If you’re looking to add a little color to your indoor life, go for miniature sunflowers or sweet peas. Watching your little pants grow is enormously satisfying, and will provide you with interest for months to come.

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Nature Diary:

Lots of wildlife charities host annual animal and bird counts. All you have to do is note down what birds, animals, and sometimes butterflies and moths, you see in your local area in a given period. Having year-on-year information is really helpful for scientists and organizations tracking wildlife populations and the impact of human activity. You may think you’ll be left out of this is you live in an urban area, but it can be just as useful to know what creatures are thriving in our cities as in our countryside.

Sit out in the garden or at your window and take some time to chill out and watch the world – and all of its creatures – go by.  This is a great one to do with kids, as it offers a chance to teach them as you go. My grandfather used to tell me about the names and habits of all of the different birds, and gave me knowledge that I still cherish to this day.  So take a look at what your local groups are offering, and get involved! You may be surprised by the biodiversity of your area, and with spring progressing you’re sure to spot some cute baby birds and critters.

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Celebrate your personal growth:

Spring is all about renewal and rebirth. You don’t just have to turn to nature to get into this spirit. Spring offers an opportunity to look back and appreciate how far we’ve come, and think about where we want to go next. Why not try something as simple as taking a selfie of your lock down hairstyle, grow-out and all? Think about all you’ve managed to achieve, and thank yourself for your fortitude and perseverance. This is going to be a tough year for all of us, so why not indulge in a little springtime self-love, and take a moment to appreciate and celebrate yourself. We all deserve to be kind to ourselves, now more than ever.

Get Crafting:

Spring is a singularly creative season. The world is bursting with newness, all waiting to inspire you. Whether you craft all the time or rarely pick up a paintbrush, spring is a season for starting projects, and having a go at something new. There are lots of simple crafts, from origami and painting to crochet, which are easy to learn and require minimal equipment. The satisfaction of creating something new that you can proudly display in your home is its own reward, and you’ll also have mastered a new skill!

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What are you doing to keep busy and happy during these indoors spring days? I’d love to hear your ideas!

Helen runs The Feminist Gadabout, a culture, lifestyle, and travel blog that looks at the world through the lens of social awareness. It covers everything from product, film and book reviews, to social justice long-reads and travel recommendations. With the new indoor life tag there’s also plenty of material to help you stay healthy and happy indoors during lock down.

Thanks again to Helen of The Feminist Gadabout! If you are interested in guest posting on lifewithlilred, please email me at: sarah.mush6794@gmail.com !