Yesterday I shared a review of kitchen design trends. Today I’d like us to consider ways to make our kitchens more environmentally friendly. Even the smallest of choices we each make can create a massive impact on the environment when combined with others. If you’re looking for ways to be eco-friendly, you can easily start right in your own kitchen. Designing a kitchen that incorporates sustainable materials like stone, granite and wood, is far better for the planet and will give a natural, organic aesthetic. Natural stone and wooden cabinets are not only sustainable, but long-lasting, durable and offer timeless style.
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Heather’s Winter Photos
Photos courtesy of my nephew’s wife, Heather, up in Michigan.
Today’s collection of photos are shared by Heather. We usually see her photos in her garden in the spring and summer. Sometimes she shares a few at Christmas. These images were shared one at time mostly from the end of December to the end of January. She enjoys taking photos of her of dogs and cats – all rescues.
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Small Budget, Big Home Improvements
We all have a wish list for our homes. From the moment I walked through the house on a tour before I bought, I was making a checklist of what I liked and what I wanted to change. Some home improvement means big bucks; other changes can be made on a small budget. The smart home owners learn what is doable, plan, and make changes as they are able. For large ticket items, plan ahead and save for the upgrade. I made a 10 year plan and budgeted for a roof replacement, flooring change, new sliding patio doors, and a new central a/c. That was achieved over the last decade. Now I’m planning new washer/dryer, a new front door, and some small improvements in the next 4 to 6 years. Let’s talk about common home improvements.
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Planning For Future Hurricanes
There has been a lot of discussion here in Florida about what should be done in the future to prepare for the increasing frequency of killer hurricanes. As the ocean gets warmer, more storms develop with stronger winds. Several weeks ago Hurricane Ian left swollen lakes and rivers in Florida that continue to have communities underwater. St. Johns River, the largest river in Florida, is not expected to recede until Thanksgiving. Further south areas like Fort Myers have been devastated by Ian’s winds and rains. Some displaced residents say they are leaving Florida for good.
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6 Reasons to Replace Your Windows
Windows are often referred to as the eyes of the home. They look out into the outside world and often allow others to look in. The windows can also be a big contributor to the energy efficiency of the home, especially as they get older. When was the last time you assessed the condition of your windows and doors? With winter right around the corner, it’s time to make sure your home is properly insulated.
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5 Challenges of Working Remotely
Since COVID-19 hit the world in 2020, the way many people work has changed. Remote working was a common solution to risk of disease, and it is here to stay. Research even shows that 70% of people work remotely at least once a week. While remote working has many benefits, it also comes with challenges. Many workers often find themselves inadequately prepared for the challenges that may arise from working from home. Have you recently started working from home? Here are some common challenges you may experience and some practical ways to deal with them to boost your productivity.
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Smart Ways to Create More Space
Whether you are a single person in an apartment, a couple just starting a family, or a family with 4 kids with all of their possessions, most of us feel we need more space in our homes. Today let’s discuss planning your space to provide more storage for your family’s needs. Here are six ways to create more space for your family to make your home more comfortable.
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3 Tips to Protect Your Home Before Winter
Most of us have had a strange summer with unusual weather. What will happen this winter is anyone’s guess. For the last few years, here in central Florida, the summers are much hotter and the winters are colder. This month fall begins, and in the next few months temperatures will lower in most areas. Before winter snow and ice hits your home, you have time to quickly evaluate your home’s protection against the elements. Our homes are probably the most significant investments most of us make in our lives. Many of us have monthly mortgage payments. If you’re like me, you also know your house is your biggest debt as well as asset. Take time this month to inspect your home’s exterior for potential problems this winter. Snow storms are not the time to make repairs.
Here are 3 tips to protect your home before deep freezes hit.
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