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Dos and Don’ts of Cleaning Marble
July 30, 2021
Marble countertops and other surfaces are aesthetically pleasing and can instantly make any home seem more luxurious. However, they do come with a bit of careful maintenance. It’s not always as easy as wiping them down! Keep these tips in mind when it’s time to clean your marble: Dos:
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- Take steps to prevent stains or spills before they happen. If there are cups or containers on a marble counter, be sure to place coasters underneath to avoid moisture rings. You can also apply a food-safe sealant to the marble if needed. If there is marble in your bathroom, keep a towel, tray or protective mat on the counter when using makeup or nail products.
- Use a soft cloth or sponge with warm water and a non-abrasive, higher-end cleaning solution to keep the stains and marks at bay. Try to clean them at least once per week.
- A soft cloth dipped in water or a combination of baking soda and chalk are great solutions to polish the marble.
- Generic cleaning products may work for everyday messes on less delicate surfaces, but avoid using them on marble. Many of these products contain acids or other agents that can scratch the countertops. Avoid anything with vinegar, bleach or ammonia.
- Don’t use any abrasive agents or scrubbing pads on marble. They can leave the surface scratched and dull.
- Marble is durable, but not invincible. The surfaces can break if too heavy of a weight is applied. Avoid putting anything heavier than a basic small appliance on the counter and do not ever sit or stand on marble.
- Don’t let spills sit on the countertop for too long. Try to clean them immediately, as letting them sit can cause stains that may not come out. Blot the spills gently and wipe with a damp, soft cloth.
Easter Decorating Ideas
July 30, 2021
Easter weekend is here. Doesn’t it seem like it snuck up on us quickly? If you are planning an egg hunt or Easter dinner with family and friends at your house, you may be scrambling (pun intended) for some last-minute decor. Try a few of these tips to brighten up your home this weekend. Egg Carton PlantersGrab a cardboard carton, tissue paper, small potted flowers, tape, a stapler and green pipe cleaners. First, line your carton with tissue paper. Place the bottom of the plant in a small plastic sandwich bag and place it into the carton. Next, tape or staple the pipe cleaner to both sides of the carton so that it makes a handle. These make great centerpieces for smaller tables and are the perfect gift to send home with guests. Candy TreeThis one is perfect for an Easter egg hunt or to go on a kids’ table. Take a small, tabletop-sized faux tree and add cones made out of scrapbook paper and ribbon to the branches. Stuff a small piece of tissue or tissue paper into the bottom of each cone and add Easter candy such as pastel M&Ms or creme-filled chocolate eggs. Classic Blue and White TablescapeThis look is hard to beat any time of year, but is definitely a classic when it comes to Easter meals. Small bursts of greenery give a garden accent to celebrate spring and light blue hydrangeas with china dishes make for a sophisticated atmosphere. Add white chargers under blue and white patterned china with pale blue napkins. Create a centerpiece of blue speckled eggs surrounded by greenery. Bunny Photo PropIf your Easter gathering is more lighthearted with children running around, a fun photo prop is sure to bring smiles and laughter. You’ll need 2 white paper plates, a stapler, a large stick, pastel paint colors of your choice, twine, cotton balls and a few different types of ribbon. Cut a hole in the center of both paper plates to create an opening for a face. Attach the stick to the bottom of one plate and staple both plates together around it. Cut ear shapes with cardstock and paint your favorite colors on them, and attach to the top of the plate. Make whiskers with your twine by bundling it and cutting one loop to create multiple pieces. A bit of glue should adhere it to the plate. Add strips of ribbon around the stick for an extra piece of fun and snap away! 2x4 Wood BunniesCut different lengths of 2x4 planks. Sand them and dry-brush with white paint. Paint pink noses on them, add strips of white felt for the teeth and bent black wire for the whiskers. Add googly eyes or paint them on and attach ribbon bows to the top for girly bunnies. These are great for the front porch or coffee table! Don’t stress if your home isn’t picture-perfect for Easter. The most important thing is spending time with those you love, and if you have time for a few decorations, that’s great!
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Earth Day
July 30, 2021
Thursday, April 22 is Earth Day. The modern environmental movement began in 1970, giving the public a voice about the state of the planet. Americans had been using large amounts of leaded gas through inefficient vehicles and industry workers pumped out smoke and sludge with no worries about consequences from the law and media. Pollution in the air was accepted and even thought of as the smell of prosperity. Gaylord Nelson, a Wisconsin senator, had been concerned about the condition of the environment in America. He approached national media with the idea of a teach-in at colleges to bring about more of a consciousness of air and water pollution. The day chosen to organize these teach-ins was April 22, now known as Earth Day. By the early 1990s, Earth Day grew to be a global trend with more than 200 million people in 141 countries bringing environmental issues to the world’s stage. With yet another unusual year of being in the midst of a pandemic and trying to stay home to avoid large gatherings, you may be looking for creative ways to celebrate Earth Day. Here are a few ways you can practice it at home: Support PollinatorsBring bees and other pollinating creatures into your garden to help the natural growth of plants. Blueberry bushes, lavender, lilac, pansy, sage and zinnia are a few common plants that attract pollinators. Clean up around Your NeighborhoodWhat better way to connect with the earth than to keep it clean? Take a walk through the neighborhood with a trash bag or two and clean up any plastic or debris that you see. Ask a few neighbors to join you as well. Plant a TreeTrees capture carbon, cool overheated areas, support pollinators and boost local economies. See if there is a public area that you’re able to plant a large tree that would help the environment or plant one in your own yard. RecycleIf you don’t have a recycling system in your home, Earth Day is a good time to start one. Set aside a garbage can solely for aluminum and one for plastic. Find a local recycling center that you can transport these items to and reduce the piles of garbage both on land and in the water. A few small steps can make a huge difference. Spend Earth Day this year being more mindful of your personal impact on the environment and take care of the beautiful home we have.
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Administrative Professional’s Day
July 30, 2021
Most offices with employees in the administrative field celebrate Administrative Professionals Day. This year, it will be on April 21. It became an official celebration in 1952 but was originally known as Secretary’s Day, promoted by the National Secretaries Association. It has been known as Administrative Professionals Day since 2000. In the1950s following World War II, the number of post-war businesses increased and led to a high demand for secretarial help. More women entered the workforce and secretary positions in the ‘50s and ‘60s were almost completely filled by women. With this, women demanded that secretaries be respected in their workplace. In our modern day, the International Association of Administrative Professionals serves as a nonprofit enabling members to network and learn from each other. They advocate for administrative professionals who desire to become leaders within their companies. So what exactly does an administrative professional do on a daily basis? Their work varies depending on the employer. Other titles they carry may be office coordinator, executive assistant, or office manager. Some of their tasks may include calendar management, project management, report processing, billing and travel planning. If there are administrative professionals in your office, be sure to recognize them on April 21 or during the entire week. Show your appreciation during team meetings, send company emails pointing out their specific contributions to the company, and celebrate work anniversaries. You can also provide catered lunches or treats as well as gift cards. Have a beautiful floral arrangement delivered to their desk. Another great way to recognize administrative professionals is to encourage their growth and continuing education. Invest in courses that they may be interested in to build upon their work or add to their opportunities to grow within the company. Administrative professionals contribute a great deal to those they work for and their efforts should never go unrecognized. It would be ideal to make them feel appreciated year-round, but be sure to especially point them out on Administrative Professionals Day.
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Simple Ways to Make Your Home Smell Great for Spring
July 30, 2021
Springtime brings a sense of refreshment to the air (after the pollen has cleared out, of course). The florals in bloom, fresh fruits sprouting and sunny days inspire spring cleaning. Is your home still carrying warm winter smells? Swap them out for the crisp scents of spring. Here are a few easy ideas to transform the atmosphere of your house: Herbs and flowers with strong smells such as lavender or citrus tend to work best when freshening up the home. These could come in the form of essential oils, candles, sprays or the plants themselves. Hang eucalyptus from your showerhead to freshen up the bathroom and keep your sinuses clear with all of the impending pollen. Add a few drops of citrus essential oil to a spray bottle for a natural room spray that will leave a pleasing scent. Smudge sticks are a centuries-old air purifier that transform the scent of any room. They are simple to make and can be modified with dried flowers, herbs and twine. Weave together some sweet sachets to sit in any room. They are made with porous swatches that release scents naturally and can be filled with spoonfuls of dried herbs. Tuck them into drawers with linens and clothes to freshen up the fabric with spring smells. Lavender candles not only smell great, but they also reduce stress. All you need to make one yourself is a small glass jar, soy-wax chips melted in the microwave, and a wick placed in the center. Add drops of lavender essential oil and let the candle set several hours until firm. Place in your bathroom or on the kitchen counter for an easy, relaxing smell! The easiest and most classic way to freshen up your home is with a beautiful floral arrangement. Most local flower shops can customize an arrangement to match your decor and preferences. It’s also a great way to support small business. Be sure to keep them fresh and fragrant by changing the water frequently and trimming the stems. Try one of these simple projects to freshen up your home and enjoy all of the beauty and sunshine that comes with the spring season!
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Gardening Chores to Complete before Spring Ends
July 30, 2021
There is a short amount of time left before the summer heat rolls in and kids are out of school. Between more time at home, family vacations and other activities, the garden may be a little neglected. Consider these tasks to complete before the end of the season to be sure your garden thrives throughout the summer. Walk around the garden and take note of beds that need to be cleaned out and look for evidence of nuisance wildlife such as rabbits that could cause damage to a garden. Experienced gardeners understand the importance of recording the activities of your garden each season, so keep a detailed list of what needs to be taken care of. Clean, sharpen and oil your garden tools. If you use electrical equipment such as a lawnmower or trimmer, be sure to service them after they have likely been used in excess during the spring season. Prune away your shrubs. This will help them with new growth and keep the shape maintained. Be sure to wait until they have finished blooming all the way so that the buds won’t be killed prematurely. Clean the garden beds and remove all debris, including fallen branches from those spring showers. Keep the garden clean to repel pests and diseases. Keep weeds at bay too so that they don’t overgrown and kill your plants during the summer. Prepare the soil for summer growth. Loosen it by tilling and add any compost or amendments necessary. Rake and water it to be ready for planting. Another easy way to keep weeds out of a garden is by putting mulch over the soil. It can be in the form of dead leaves, wood chips, burlap bags or biodegradable mats. Mulch will keep the soil cool, keep weeds from intruding and stop water from evaporating out. A well-kept garden beautifies your space and is a great way to help the environment while enjoying a hobby at the same time. Take the proper steps to care for your garden and watch the colorful blooms thrive all summer.
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Finish the Homeschool Year Strong
July 30, 2021
Since the pandemic has stayed around for more than a year, some parents made the decision not to send their children back to school last fall. States and counties have expanded the option and resources for homeschooling, and employers have been flexible to let some parents work from home and help with their childrens’ education. While it has been a wonderful option, it may not come easy for everyone. Being at home can breed procrastination and lower motivation. To beat the distractions and finish the year with a bang, check out these helpful tips. Organize the remaining lessons.If lessons aren’t organized, they tend to not be completed. A mess can leave both the student and teacher frustrated. Take a few minutes to lay out the lessons for each day so that there is a structured system to follow for the rest of the year. Be flexible. You can’t completely throw out flexibility when it comes to homeschooling, no matter how structured your plan may be. Spring is a good time to be outside and exploring nature, so try to tie that in to lessons for a hands-on experience instead of sitting in front of a screen all day! Set a goal date. A “last day of school” should be on the calendar to have something to look forward to. This means keeping a balance between rigid organization and flexibility. Keep this date set in stone and plan a fun trip or activity to celebrate after. Schedule tests spaced out. Cramming multiple tests or final exams in one week can be too much for a homeschooler. Performance may be poor when there is extensive pressure to cram multiple subjects at one time, even if the student has done well all year. Plan an end-of-year evaluation. Let your student evaluate you as a teacher/facilitator and evaluate your student in productivity throughout the year. Take an honest look at the curriculum, routine and day-to-day dynamics. If there are any struggles or frustrations, work together to see what you can do to change them for everyone’s benefit. Make a list of things to research and improve over the summer for a strong start next year. Homeschooling is no easy feat. Many of you have taken on this task with enthusiasm and you should give yourself some credit! Do what you can to succeed at the end of the year and celebrate once it’s all finished.
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Warm Weather Sprinkler Tips
July 30, 2021
Sprinklers play an important part in keeping yards looking their best. Before you start running the sprinkler regularly throughout the season, check out these maintenance tips to be fully prepared for the warmer weather. Check the soil. The soil under your landscape is always the last to soften up. Be sure not to start your sprinkler system until the soil is soft, otherwise it could cause damage to the pipes. To check, take a shovel and dig roughly 12 inches deep to ensure there is no hardness in the soil. Run a program check. Make sure the date and time are set correctly on your timer. Then, check other settings to make sure they are adequate for your yard’s watering needs. If there is a backup battery in the timer, replace it every 6 months to ensure smooth operation. Remove debris.Check for rocks, dirt and other types of debris that could block the water flow from sprinkler heads. If they are not clear, you could end up with wasted water and an uneven landscape. Check the spray heads as well to make sure they are clear. Do a thorough check of all sprinkler parts. Sprinkler heads and nozzles are typically designed to withstand normal wear and tear, but lawnmowers or dogs may do some damage. If there are any chipped or cracked pieces, replace them before starting your system. A broken sprinkler could not only damage your yard, but could lead to a higher water bill. Avoid a water hammer. When a sprinkler valve is first opened, there could be a high-pressure watered surge that can burst pipes and damage the system. This is called a water hammer. To avoid this, open the main water valve slowly and gradually. If you find any other issues in your sprinkler system, have an expert come out to perform a checkup. Properly functioning sprinklers are a necessity during warmer months and will keep your yard looking lush and hydrated.
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Pool Safety
July 30, 2021
May will be the beginning of prime pool season as well as National Water Safety Month. To prepare ahead of time before neighborhood pools open or before you take the cover off of the pool in your backyard, check out these safety tips to keep everyone’s swimming experience stress-free. Set Up BarriersPhysical barriers such as walls or fences are a great preventative measure to take for personal pools. This is especially necessary for families with little ones that may stray into the backyard from time to time. Fences around pools should be at least 4 feet high. Secure Doors and GatesAnother way to keep little ones from getting into the pool unsupervised is to add child-proof doorknob covers to doors that lead outside. There are also gate alarms that can be installed to alert you when a child breaks through. Never Swim AloneUse the buddy system when swimming. Meet up with a friend at the neighborhood pool or arrange a playdate and lunch. This way, you can look out for one another and have more fun at the same time. You can rely on someone to be there should anything go wrong. Enter the Water with Feet FirstDiving or jumping head first into water, especially shallow water, could result in severe injuries. Most neighborhood pools have a rule against diving anyway, but stay on the safe side and understand the proper ways to enter and exit a pool. Stay Away from DrainsSwimming or playing near a pool drain can cause hair or swimsuits to get stuck and even injuries. If a drain is missing a cover or appears broken, report it immediately to the appropriate parties. Walk, Don’t RunYou’ll typically see signs with this at public pools, but always remember to walk around a pool area. Running can cause serious injuries if a fall occurs. Teach this to little ones as well. Clean UpWhen you get to the pool or if you are the last one to leave and notice toys left in the water, pick them up and place them in a nearby basket or “lost and found” area. Toys floating in the water could tempt a child to jump in after them. Don’t swim in fear this summer, but rather have measures in place to ensure you, your family and friends are able to enjoy a refreshing swim with no worries.
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