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Advice Column Household Lifestyle

Embracing Peace: A Christmas Message

December 8, 2023

As the holiday season approaches, our hearts fill with anticipation for the festivities, gatherings and the spirit of togetherness that Christmas brings. However, amidst the joy and warmth of the season, it’s important to remember that maintaining our inner peace is a gift we should never allow anyone to take away, not even during Christmas.

In a world filled with hustle and bustle, it’s easy to get caught up in the chaos that can sometimes accompany the holiday season. Whether it’s the stress of holiday shopping, family dynamics, or the pressures of creating the perfect Christmas experience, we often find ourselves losing sight of what truly matters. The result is an erosion of our inner peace.

But this Christmas, let’s make a conscious decision to safeguard our peace. Here’s why it’s essential.

1. Peace is a precious gift. Your inner peace is a treasure that should be cherished and protected. It’s the calm in the storm, the sanctuary in the chaos, and the source of your strength.

2. It’s essential for well-being. Peace is not just a state of mind; it also has a significant impact on your physical and emotional well-being. Stress and turmoil can take a toll on your health, while peace promotes overall well-being.

3. Better connections: When you carry your inner peace, you can better connect with others, spreading the joy and harmony of the season. Your presence will be a gift to those around you.

4. Mindful celebration: A peaceful state of mind allows you to be more present and fully enjoy the beauty of Christmas. You can savor the little moments, the twinkling lights, and the warmth of loved ones.

So how can you ensure that no one takes away your peace this Christmas?

1. Set boundaries: Establish clear boundaries to protect your time and energy. Learn to say no when necessary, and prioritize self-care.

2. Practice mindfulness: Embrace the practice of mindfulness to stay grounded and focused on the present moment. Let go of worries about the past and future. (I know easier said that done.)

3. Choose your battles: Not every disagreement or conflict requires your involvement. Priortize peace over winning arguments.

4. Gratitude: Focus on the blessings in your life and the things that truly matter. Gratitude can help you maintain a positive perspective.

5. Self-compassion: Be kind to yourself. You don’t have to be perfect and its okay to take a step back and recharge when needed.

6. Find your sanctuary: Identify a quiet space or activity that brings you peace, whether it’s reading, mediation, or a walk in nature.

This Christmas, let’s make a commitment to ourselves to never let anyone take away your peace. In doing so, we can truly embrace the spirit of the season, share love and joy with others, and create cherished memories that will last a lifetime. Remember that your inner peace is a gift you can give to yourself, and it’s a gift that keeps on giving.

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Advice Column Household Lifestyle

Happy Thanksgiving 2023

November 7, 2023

Thanksgiving is a time when we gather with loved ones, share a hearty meal and express our gratitude for the blessings in our lives. It serves as a reminder to appreciate the abundance around us and to cultivate a thankful mindset. But gratitude is not limited to a single day or holiday. It is a powerful practice that can transform our lives and bring us lasting joy and fulfillment.

The Power of Gratitude

Gratitude is the practice of acknowledging and appreciating the good things in our lives. It shifts our focus from what is lacking to what is abundant. Practicing gratitude can have numerous physical, emotional and psychological benefits. It reduces stress, improves sleep, and enhances mental health.

When we express gratitude, we engage in positive thinking and train our minds to look for the good in every situation. It helps us develop resilience in the face of challenges and enables us to find the silver linings even in difficult times. Gratitude also fosters a sense of interconnectedness, reminding us of the kindness and generosity of others.

Cultivating a Thankful Mindset

1. Keep a Gratitude Journal

Take a few minutes each day to write down things you are grateful for. It could be a simple as a beautiful sunset, a kind word from a friend, or a cozy cup of tea. By recording these moments, you create a tangible reminder of the abundance in your life.

2. Practice Mindfulness

Developing a practice of mindfulness can help you become more aware of the present moment and appreciate the little joys in life. Take time to savor your meals, notice the beauty of nature and engage fully in your interactions with others.

3. Express Appreciation

Don’t keep your gratitude to yourself. Express it to others. Take time to thank the people in your life who have made a positive impact. Write a heartfelt note, make a phone call or simply say “thank you”. Your genuine appreciate will not only brighten their day but also strengthen your relationships.

4. Shift your Perspective

Instead of focusing on what you lack, focus on what you do have. Practice reframing negative thoughts into positive ones. When faced with challenges, ask yourself what you can learn from them and how they can ultimately benefit you.

Gratitude is a transformative practice that can bring immense joy and fulfillment into our lives. By cultivating a thankful mindset, we shift our focus to the abundance around us and develop resilience in the face of challenges. Whether through keeping a gratitude journal, or expressing appreciation of others, practicing gratitude allows us to live more fully and connect with the world around us. So this Thanksgiving and every day, let us remember the power of giving thanks and embrace the practice of gratitude.

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Advice Column Household Lifestyle

Back to School: Strategies for a Successful Academic Year

August 5, 2023

As the end of summer approaches, it’s time to shift gears and prepare for the upcoming academic year. Whether you’re a student, parent or educator, a successful school year requires careful planning, organization, and a positive mindset.

For Students:

  • Set clear goals. Start the school year with specific academic and personal goals. What grades you want to achieve? What extracurricular activities do you want to participate in?
  • Time Management: Develop good time management skills to balance your academic, activities and downtime. Use tools like planners, calendars or digital apps to schedule your tasks and stick to your routine.
  • Create a Study Space: Designate a quiet, comfortable and well-organized space for studying. Minimize distractions and ensure you have all the necessary supplies to stay focused on your work.

For Parents:

  • Open Communication: Maintain open and regular communication with your children about their school experiences. Encourage them to share their challenges and successes.
  • Establish Routines: Create a structured daily routine that include designated homework and study times. Consistency helps children develop good study habits.
  • Encourage independence: Help your child develop problem-solving and critical thinking skills. Encourage them to take responsibility for their own education.

For Educators:

  • Set Clear Expectations: Clearly communicate your expectations for students in terms of behavior, performance and classroom etiquette.
  • Foster a Positive Learning Environment: Create a welcoming and inclusive classroom where all students feel valued and supported. Encourage a growth mindset and a love for learning.
  • Collaboration with Parents: Establish open lines of communication with parents to keep them informed about their child’s progress and any areas that may need improvement.

A successful academic year requires cooperation between students, parents and educators. By setting clear goals, managing time effectively, maintaining open communication and fostering a positive learning environment, you can make the most of the school year ahead. With dedication and a supportive community, the upcoming academic year can be a productive and fulfilling experience for all.

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Health & Fitness Household Lifestyle

The Art of Gardening: Creating a Beautiful Outdoor Oasis

May 8, 2023

Gardening is often described as an art form that allows individuals to express their creativity while reconnecting with nature. The act of tending to plants, nurturing them and watching them flourish is a deeply satisfying and therapeutic experience. The rewards of gardening extend far beyond the visual appeal of a well-maintained garden. It’s about creating a tranquil outdoor oasis that provides numerous benefits to both the gardener and the environment. I just recently transformed my back patio into my oasis and I would like to share the joys and share some tips in creating a stunning oasis for the spring and summer months.

The Joys of Gardening

Gardening has been a beloved pastime for centuries and for many over the years. For me, I wasn’t interested in it until recently. I moved into my new home and the back yard was horrendous. My husband wanted to put tons of plants everywhere and all I could think about was I had one more thing to take care of and on top of everything else. Well, here’s the thing, it was growing on me. It slowly began to be inherently satisfying about getting my hands dirty and nurturing something.  Here are my joys of gardening:

Connection with Nature: Gardening allows you to connect with the natural world on a personal level. It provides an opportunity to observe the cycles of growth and seasons, fostering a deeper appreciation for the environment.

Stress Relief: The act of gardening is therapeutic and can reduce stress and anxiety. The repetitive task, such as weeding or watering, provide a sense of calm and accomplishment.

Physical Exercise: Digging, planting and weeding involve various muscle groups, making it a full-body workout that doesn’t feel like exercise.

Mental Wellbeing: Cultivating a garden can boost your mood and improve your mental health. Grounding is something that I do as much as I can and this is one way of doing it.

Creative Expression: Gardening is an art form that allows you to express your creativity. I have created some beautiful pots with any different plants of color and texture. The freedom to design and arrange my garden in a way that reflects my personality and style has been fun and heart-warming.

Tips for Creating a Stunning Garden

As the warmer months approach, it’s perfect time to start planning and nurturing your garden or potted plants to create that beautiful oasis.  I decided to use pavers for my backyard and added tons of pots and some hanging Pots to bring in the color and texture. Here are some tips for creating the perfect back patio or garden area:

Choose the Right Location: Pay attention to the sunlight, shade and soil conditions in those pots and your garden. Different plants have different requirements, so choose plants that are suitable for your specific microclimate. Sometimes, its trial and error so don’t beat yourself up to bad.

Select the Right Plants: Choose a mix or variety of plants. I also choose succulents. It has been a pleasure to learn and watch those grow. Best part, it’s the plant that keeps on giving. As you trim back, you can take parts of that plant and regenerate another one.

Watering/Maintenance/Pest Control: Be mindful of your plants watering needs. Trust me, they will tell you if something is wrong. Make sure you deadhead, prune and weed any plants to ensure that nothing is in the way of receiving the water or nutrients that you are providing. Also, use natural methods of pest control if you can, it’s safer for your pets and the environment.

Patience and Observation: Gardening is a long-term endeavor. So grab a cup of coffee, sit back and watch. There’s nothing like look, listening and learning from what they have to say. Again, you might have some failures but you will have successes too.

Creating a beautiful garden is a labor of love that requires time, effort and dedication but the rewards, both personal and environmental, are well worth the investment. Whether you’re an experienced gardener or a novice, like myself, the art of gardening offers endless opportunities for creativity and a deeper connection with the natural world. So, roll up your sleeves, put on your gardening gloves, and embark on the journey to create a stunning outdoor oasis that you can enjoy for years to come.

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Advice Column Household Lifestyle

Spring Cleaning Tips for a Clutter-Free Home

March 8, 2023

As the temperatures rise and the flowers begin to bloom, spring is the perfect time to refresh your living space.  While many of us associate spring cleaning with dusting and mopping, it’s also an excellent opportunity to declutter and organize your home. A clutter-free environment not only looks better but can also improve your mental well-being. So here is a little practical advice on how to declutter and organize your living space as spring approaches.

Set Clear Goals

Before you dive into your spring cleaning, take a moment to set clear goals. You should determine what you want to achieve in each room of your home.  Whether its creating a more organized workspace or making your living room more inviting, having a clear vision will help you stay motivated  and on track.

Declutter Room by Room

Start your spring cleaning journey by tackling one room at a time. Sorting through your belongings can be overwhelming, but breaking it down into smaller, manageable tasks will make the process more manageable. Begin with the room that needs the most attention or the one that will give you the most satisfaction when it’s decluttered.

The Three Box-Method

The three-box method is a tried-and-true technique for decluttering. As you go through your belongings, use three boxes: one to keep, one to donate or sell and one for items to discard. Be honest with yourself during this process. If you haven’t used or needed it within the last six months or even a year, it’s probably time to part with it.

Organized with Storage Solutions

Now, if you have storage bins available, please use what you have around the house. If you don’t, invest in storage solutions that help you keep your space organized. This can include storage bins, under-bed storage, and closet organizers. Use these tools to store items that you want to keep but don’t use regularly.

Take Advantage of Vertical Space

Maximize your storage options by utilizing vertical space. Install shelves or hooks on walls to store items like pots and pans in the kitchen, towels or toiletries in the bathroom. Vertical storage can be a game-changer in small spaces.

Tackle Paper Clutter

Paper clutter is a common issue in many households. Set up a designated space for incoming mail and documents and sort through them regularly. Shred or recycle unnecessary documents and file or digitize important ones. You might want to consider going paperless with bills and statements to reduce the influx of physical papers.

Donate or Sell Unwanted Items

Once you’ve gathered items to donate or sell, follow through with the process. Schedule a donation pick-up or drop off items at a local charity. Alternatively, you can sell items online through online platforms like Facebook or Ebay and if you want something simple, a garage sale will do.

Maintain Regular Cleaning Habits

Spring cleaning shouldn’t be a once-a-ear event. If you establish and maintain regular cleaning habits to keep your home clutter-free throughout the year, it will reduce anxiety and stress.

A clutter-free home can create a more peaceful and productive living environment. Spring cleaning is the perfect opportunity to declutter and organize your space and the tips outlined will help you get started on the right foot. Remember… set clear goals, declutter one room at a time and you will be well on your way to a more organized and clutter-free home.

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Household Lifestyle

New Home means New Traditions.

November 18, 2022

Congratulations on your new home! When purchasing a new home, you are probably filled to the brim with so many ideas on how you are going to decorate but more importantly, how you can create new traditions to make your new house fee like home.

Think about those special activities and rituals that you can do to make the space your own. You can plan Sunday morning breakfast or a monthly movie night. Better yet, with the additional space, you can invite guest over for an indoor dinner party.

Whatever you decide to do, make sure it’s something that you or your guest (too) can get excited about. Have fun create your own new traditions.

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Household Lifestyle

Moving Soon: Here’s the Simplest Way to Declutter.

March 1, 2022

I am a minimalist in my living style but what I have learned during the moving process is to prepare. Yes, preparation is key.

Create a Checklist

I created a room by room list with bullet points of things that would help me in this challenge.

Start Early

The moment that I knew that my husband and I were in the process of looking for a new home. It was game one. I slowly did one room at a time. I got rid of anything that wasn’t used in 6 months or more, broken or had way too many.

Prepare

The preparation needed is have boxes or a location to set up three (3) different piles: keep, toss and donate. For most, a possible fourth (4th) pile is necessary when it comes to not sure items. That’s ok. I had a moment now and again that I wasn’t quite sure if I would “need” it.

Getting Overwhelmed?

Don’t do that. If you do feel overwhelmed, invite a close friend or family member to help.  If that is too close to comfort, maybe seek out a professional organizer? These professionals are perfect options to help you work through that moment.

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Advice Column Household Lifestyle

House Hunting Tips

February 1, 2022

Even though the housing market has slowly blown our minds these last two years with rapid home prices, it hasn’t stopped people from purchasing new homes. Some homes are brand new constructions and others are fixer uppers.

My husband and I have been looking for a new home in a warmer climate for some time and learned quite a bit during this process.

Know your Numbers

The most important part of this process is to have a budget and stick to it. You don’t need to over extend yourself. If you can have 20% down, that is even better. If not, it is important to speak with a financial advisor and a mortgage broker to educate yourself with as much information on this process to ensure you can afford the home.

Know your Credit History and Score

Way before you start looking, be prepared. It is important to know your credit score anyways but especially before making a huge purchase like a new home. Review your credit history on all the major reporting agencies. Clean up any old items, update addresses, make sure employment and other pertinent information is correct.  

Location, Location and Location

It so important to get to know the neighborhoods you want to live in. Is it a rental area? Long term or short term rentals? Does it have a HOA? Do the property owners take care of their homes? How is the crime rate?  Is it close to all the amenities you desire? We drove around so many neighborhoods and visualized ourselves living in those areas.

Get Alerts from Real Estate Apps

We signed up for alerts for homes in the areas that we liked and within our budget. Yes, there were some alerts set that exceeded our budget just a smidge. People can ask for that home price but you never know when you could negotiate on a home that has been sitting on the market a bit. Unfortunately, there were months that every house that we looked at was being gobbled up with full or way over asking price.

Get Pre-Approved

I highly recommend you connecting with a mortgage broker. They are able to educate you on the available mortgages, rates and the process of buying a home. We worked with Brian Fenlon of All East Mortgage located in Boston, Massachusetts. It was the best experience from beginning to getting the keys.  P.s. I am not getting any kickbacks for this referral but here’s his contact information.

Brian Fenlon, Owner/Loan Originator

All East Mortgage

(508) 523-4301

brian@alleastmortgage.com

Interview Real Estate Agents

This is the most important. We tried to go that route of not having a representative and it was the most brutal and stressful moment that I don’t wish on anyone. It’s important to talk to a few of realtors and see how they can help you achieve your goals of purchasing your first, second or retirement home.

Don’t get discouraged

My husband and I submitted so many offers and got rejected or outbid. That’s ok because it wasn’t our door. Time is on your side.

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Household Lifestyle Walter's World

Walter’s Bath Time

October 21, 2021
Walter's Bath Time

My sweet Budgie, Walter loves his bath time. I don’t really trust him in my bathroom. Plus, I have dogs in my house and have to keep him safe from one of them, Piper Marie.

After googling how to make a fun, simple bath for a Budgie, I was so excited that I saw this Catit 2.0 Flower Fountain and converted it into a nice little spa for him. With a little help from the local hardware store, I got everything that I needed.

It was easy to convert this simply Catit 2.0 Flower Fountain
into something that a small feathered friend can enjoy!

What do you need?

  1. Catit 2.0 Flower Fountain
  2. 1 inch diameter clear irrigation tube around 3 inches in length
  3. 1/2 inch diameter clear or dark irrigation tube around 3 inches in length

Where did I purchase the Catit 2.0 Flower Fountain?

Right HERE ………https://amzn.to/3B3bIiZ

https://amzn.to/3B3bIiZ

How do I put it together?

Let me know how it works for you!

I would love to hear how your babies enjoyed their new water park and remember….

Life’s Little Details is a participant in the Amazon Affiliate Marketing Program . If you click on any links, we may receive a commission at no extra charge to you.

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Dog Training Household Lifestyle Rescue Spotlight

Campaigning for a little girl!

August 4, 2021

I saw a sweet little senior chihuhua girl named Pip on Petfinder. As soon as I read her bio, I was on a mission to bring her to my home.

Let the campaign begin!

Even Lance was in on the marketing video.

The wait is killing me!

Yes, I submitted application but wait… there’s more! I had to answer several questions and then silence. Well, the rescue is run by volunteers who truly care about their animals and want the best home for their girl. Still, smoked. Apparently, they do not know who I am. JK.

Reference check and answer some more questions!

Well, the reference check panned out. My best friend ever did alert me that they were getting close. I received a text and then an email. I answered all the questions from the heart and then silence!

Yeah, I know! It was killing me too.

Woohoo, the phone call that we have been all been waiting for in our household. We can do a meet and greet. What? “You have to bring your current dog for a meet and greet.” OMG! It makes sense but my mind whirls. See, Lance doesn’t like car rides and this one is over 2 hours away. Plus, my mind whirls into to what ifs. For example, Lane is going to die from a heart attack from the travel alone and possibly from picking up a new dog. Wonder if he doesn’t like her? What if I lose him while visit a new area because he’s freaking out? Yes, this is my brain. I love it and I hate it.

We made it to the Connecticut pick up location.

We made it! Yeah! Nothing that was whirling into my head came true. Best part, both of them were just fine with each other. To be honest, it was way better than expected.

See below.. Let the love fest begin.

One last thing… We changed her name. Welcome Home, Piper Marie!

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