In celebration of my favorite season I wanted to put together some tips to help everyone else decorate their home for Fall. I love this time of year. The air is crisp and cool while the sun is still warming you up.  The colors are beautiful and there are less bugs.  And it's super easy to decorate for Fall so without further ado - enjoy!

Don't Neglect the Front Door
No matter where you live, and what the size of your house is, you can ALWAYS decorate the front for Fall, especially since that's what everybody sees first.  A few potted mums in different colors and some pumpkins and a garden flag will do the trick.

Put Items in Bowls and Buckets
You can buy a bunch of real of faux mini pumpkins and pile them into a bowl, bucket, or vase for a nice fall centerpiece or shelf décor. I  have also seen people collect leaves in different colors to display in a vase with pinecones or in a bowl.

Use Natural Items or Faux Natural Items
So I could have made a gorgeous wreath out of dead leaves but I don't have the time, talent, or patience so I purchased one at the store with faux leaves.  If you're crafty then look no further than your own yard. You can easily glue sticks, pinecones, and leaves onto a foam wreath.

Pumpkins EVERYWHERE!
I have tons of faux pumpkins that I use inside and outside my house.  The faux ones are great because I can reuse them every year and they don't rot away.

Stack Hay Bales
You can get mini hay bales at the crafty store and stack them to give your decorations outside (and inside) different height and depth.  Plus it's super fun to look at it!

So how are you going to decorate your home for Fall this year?

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Top Things To Consider When Redoing Your Home’s Exterior

 

The exterior of your home is one of the first things that people see when they walk up to it. If you're looking for a way to increase curb appeal, then you may want to consider redoing the exterior. There are many different ways to do this, but it is essential to know what steps are necessary to avoid problems down the line before you get started.

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Choose the Right Outdoor Furniture

Pick out the right furniture for your home exterior when you are redoing it. You can choose from sofas, chairs, or even dining sets depending on what will fit in the space that you have available. Make sure to measure beforehand and consider how much weight each piece of furniture can hold before buying anything too big or heavy. Also, keep in mind how you will be using the furniture and choose a material that can stand up to any weather conditions.

If you’re in the market for outdoor furniture, read this teak outdoor furniture buying guide to get the best furniture for all seasons.
 

Consider Foot Traffic When Working on Your Pathways

One of the essential things you must consider when working on your pavements is foot traffic. If a section of sidewalk or driveway needs replacing, take care not to create an uneven surface people could trip over. One way to check for this is by laying out different paving stones and feeling them with your feet. You should fix the ones that are lower or higher than the rest before you start laying down your new paveway.
 

Choose a More Inviting Color for Painting

There are many different colors to choose from, but you must consider the exterior of your home. First, you must select a more attractive color. For example, if your home is a dark color such as black or navy, you may choose lighter colors like white. On the other hand, if your home’s exterior is brick, you will want to choose a lighter shade of red.

Consider the conditions of your exterior when choosing a color for painting. For example, if you live in an area with heavy humidity, choose a more weather-resistant paint that will not get chipped or peeled off easily from rain and other inclement weather. You also want to consider whether you need material coverage over certain areas such as decks and patios if there will be frequent exposure to water damage.

If you have lots of windows where sunlight is already present, consider darker tones such as blues and greens, which can help provide privacy while still allowing airflow through open windows during hot days. A darker exterior color can also help insulate your home and keep it cool during hot summer days.
 

Don’t Forget To Trim Your Hedges and Work on the Lawn

Accessorizing your backyard is not the only way to improve your outdoors; remember to care for your yard’s soil and plants. You should at least once a month mow, rake, and weed it. It's also essential to trim the hedges along with tree limbs that could fall onto your roof during a storm or high winds. Trimming your hedges is an inexpensive project that can go a long way and make your home look better from the outside.
 

Replace Old Windows and Roof

When it comes to the exterior of your home, there are a lot of things that you can replace. One common thing homeowners tend to overlook is their roofs and windows. Replacing these items will give your home a much better look and increase the value of your property.

Consider replacing them all at once instead of looking for a good deal on new windows whenever you need to replace one because they are broken or worn out. This way, you won't need to worry about them breaking in the future, and you will be able to get better-looking windows that save energy.

A roof replacement is a tad more complex than just simply replacing your windows, but it can give your home an entirely new look when done right. You don't want to take on this project alone, so it is best to hire a professional contractor. They will be able to assess your home and give you the best advice on how to replace your roof.
 

Conclusion

When it comes to redoing your home’s exterior, there are a lot of factors to consider. Before moving forward with any project, be sure you have thought through everything carefully and taken the time to plan accordingly. Your home will thank you later!

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5 Reasons To Take Better Care Of Your Back

 

Your back is one of the most important parts of your body but it is also one of the most neglected. If you want to look after your health, one of the first places you should focus on is your back. Once you have your back sorted with any ailments, the rest of your wellbeing regime will be a lot easier. Here are some reasons why you should take better care of your back and spine.

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It connects everything

All of your body is connected through your back and spine. There are muscles and connections that run from the back that connect all parts of the body. Without these connections and muscles, you would not be able to move. It is pretty shocking how far down your muscle connections stretch. If you have ever pulled a muscle in your back, you may have felt it run down your fingers or down your legs. If you feel tingling in your fingers or toes, it might be worth your while getting your back checked out in case there is an issue with the nerves.

Your spine houses your spinal cord

Within the hollow centre of your spine, the spinal cord can be found. We don’t have to tell you how important this is to your body and your functions. But, in case you need to be reminded, if there is any damage to your spine, it can affect your ability to walk and do everyday tasks. Even a small bit of damage can cause terrible pain. A lot of damage can make you need a wheelchair. As we mentioned in the previous point, pinched nerves can cause pain anywhere in the body, and it depends on which section of your back has been affected or injured.

If it gets damaged, it is hard to fix

Your back is not only one of the most neglected places, it is also one of the hardest places to fit. Seeing a Chiropractor can help to keep your back in good shape and prevent any issues from arising, especially if you work at a desk for long hours. If you do a lot of manual labour, you will be trained to move things and yourself in a certain way to prevent injury. However, sitting at a desk poses its own dangers that can damage your back without realising it. Keep an eye on your movements and be mindful about how you lift and carry things.

Backs degrade as we get older

The terrible thing about ageing is that our bodies can give up on us before we are ready. One of the first things that can go is your back. Keeping your spine healthy when you are young means that you won’t have as many issues when you are older. Take this time to get your back in good shape and keep it this way for years to come. It is much easier to fix issues now rather than trying to fix them when you are in your 70s or 80s.

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6 Fall Fashion Staples

 

Fall is my favorite time of year not just because of the weather but because the fashion is so fun!! As you prepare your wardrobe for Fall make sure you have these 6 Fall fashion staples in your closet!

Flannel
You can't go wrong with flannel. It looks great buttoned up with skinny jeans and boots or even worn open with a small belt over leggings or jeans with flats.  Flannels look adorable but they also make you feel comfy and cozy and they seem to look great in any picture you take outside.  The best part is, if it gets too warm for you, just tie it around your waist!

Slouchy Sweater Top
These always look nice with leggings and they can be super comfortable too. I love the slouchy look especially with Fall activities like lounging around a fire, cozying up at a football game, or touring an orchard. And of course boots and booties look great with these types of tops.

Light Jacket
Light jackets are great for layering but also practical because they can keep you warm as it gets chillier towards the evening.  You don't even have to button or zip them up. And another bonus is that you can easily find a cute one at your local thrift store like I always do.  They usually come in neutral colors which means they'll go with anything!


Mini Backpack
A mini backpack is very practical in that it frees up your hands and shoulders but it still carries all your stuff with you. It's especially important for Fall activities like sports games, hikes, outdoor parties, and even just running errands where you don't want to lug a heavy purse around.

Sweater Dress
A sweater dress is a must for Fall events. It can easily dress up or down.  I like to wear mine with leggings and tall boots and sometimes a belt.  If you want a more casual look you can wear it over skinny jeans and booties.  Sweater dresses definitely keep you warm at night.


Striped Cardigans
Striped cardigans are great for layering especially if you get lightweight ones.  They can be worn over a tight fitting top and under a light jacket (as mentioned above) and they look super cute belted! Stripes are a fun way to add some spice to the neutral and earthy tones of Fall fashion.


What items do you need to add to your wardrobe for Fall?

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Dog Owners Reveal Their Biggest Regrets

 

Have you ever wondered what dog owners regret most about living with their pets? If so, this post is for you. In it, we take a look at some of the things that pet parents wished they had done while they had the chance.

Not Taking Them On Vacation

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Many dog owners recoil at the idea of taking their dog on vacation. It means doing a lot more work, bringing extra equipment and filling out more forms if going overseas.

Taking a dog on vacation, however, is a wonderful experience and, in many cases, actually better for the dog. There is nothing worse than leaving your pooch at the kennels year after year with its sad face, staring at you mournfully. Most dogs dislike kennels intensely.

Dogs also love to explore new places and see new things, just like people. And they like doing it in groups. Vacations are great for dogs because they are always active and feel part of a happy family.

Not Focusing On Their Diet

Dogs, just like people, live longest when they have the right diet. But not many pet owners know that. Instead, they feed their pups as though they are going to be around forever.

Unfortunately, dogs get old fast. Thoroughbreds might only live eight years. Mixed dogs can live up to around fifteen years, give or take.

However, if you provide your dog with an active, healthy lifestyle, they will likely last much longer. Furthermore, they will have fewer health issues once they get into their second decade of life. Giving your dog a proper diet reduces the chance of arthritis.

Not Buying Dog Insurance

If you own a dog, dog insurance is essential. But many owners don’t realise this until it is too late. Their dog gets sick and then they have to meet all vet bills out of pocket. That’s not ideal.

Dog insurance covers you in many situations. You can claim money back if your dog has an injury, requires surgery, or needs medications. Some providers will also offer regular screening and vaccinations as well as part of their packages.

If you are a dog owner, what can you do?

Well, firstly, you’ll need to sign up for a plan. Make sure that it covers all aspects of veterinary care so that you can call on your policy more frequently.

You’ll also want to check how long it runs and what age your dog needs to be. It is better to get insurance from when your pooch is a puppy instead of waiting until they are much older.

Not Going To The Groomers

Grooming is a critical aspect of dogs' lives. Not only does it keep them looking and smelling their best, but it also makes them happy. Just like people, they appreciate a good scrub in the tub.

Going to the groomers, though, isn’t a part of every dog’s schedule, and that’s a problem. Failing to go for regular visits and checkups leaves them more prone to developing fleas and other skin conditions. Excessively long nails can make it hard for them to walk in some situations.

Grooming isn’t as expensive as you might think. And it is something that you can put on subscription. Just sign your dog up and then pay a quarterly fee for multiple grooming services.

Not Taking Them For Walkies

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Looking after a dog can sometimes feel like a full-time job. Small dog breeds need around an hour of exercise per day, while larger dogs need two hours or more.

If you don’t take dogs out of the house to burn off steam, they become boisterous and, eventually, destructive. It is vital, therefore, to do what you can to keep them physically active.

Many owners view their dogs in hindsight and know that they didn’t do enough to look after them. They wished that they had taken them on more walks. And if they did it again, they would certainly find the time.

Not Dressing Them For The Weather

Dogs might have a thick, furry coat, but just like us, they can suffer in bad weather.

Different dogs have different tolerances. They tend to vary in size tremendously, with small dogs prone to getting too cold, and larger breeds more susceptible to overheating. Ideally, you want to provide them with warm protection so that they don’t hurt their paws on icy ground. In very cold conditions, you may also need to give them a second dog coat (which you can buy from stores).

Not Getting Regular Checkups

Discovering health problems early is the key to effective treatment. Vets can often do a better job if they know what is wrong with your dog sooner rather than later.

When you visit the vet, make sure that they keep your dog’s health records up to date. You can cross reference them later if their health begins to fail.

Not Setting Boundaries

Just like children, dogs require strict boundaries to keep them safe. However, some owners don’t provide them, leading to all kinds of issues.

Dogs that don’t have proper boundaries will often run out of the front door and then off into the neighborhood. Many will get lost and won’t be able to find their way back.

Setting boundaries can take two forms: literal and behavioral. Ideally, you should apply both. If you keep a dog on your property, put a physical boundary, like a fence, around the perimeter. Make sure that it is tall enough to prevent them from jumping over.

You should also train them not to run off when they get excited. Dogs should obey your spoken command to sit or heel, even when they are excited about running around the neighborhood.

You’ll also want to set behavioral boundaries indoors too. Dogs should know that they are not allowed to help themselves to food on the kitchen table or sit on the sofa with human family members.

Many dog owners regret not setting boundaries. Their dog might slip out of the front door, never to be seen again.

Not Teaching Dogs Social Rules

Left to their own devices, dogs can sometimes get a little unruly. Asking them to live in a modern human society is a challenge for them. But with the right training, they can do relatively well. Most dogs eventually learn how to conduct themselves properly.

However, owners who don’t train their dogs can run into trouble. Their dogs are constantly pulling on their leashes, barking at people, and aggressively interacting with other dogs in the park.

The trick here is to begin training early - when your dog is still a puppy. If you can quell some of their natural impulses, you often find that you wind up with a far more manageable animal.

Not Getting Dogs In The Bath As Puppies

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If you want your dog to be happy in the bath, you have to train them from being puppies. If you leave it too long, they will rebel against you.

Washing dogs in the bath is important because it allows you to clean all those hard to reach places. If dogs go too long without a bath, they can develop uncomfortable parasites and tangles in their fur. These can then breed further infections.

You don’t need to bathe your dog religiously every day. But you do need to keep them in relatively good condition, perhaps giving them a bath every couple of weeks or so. You can also trim your dog’s nails at the same time if they are a breed that requires this.

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Budget Friendly Fall Activities

 

Fall is my favorite time of year because it's still sunny, the scenery is beautiful, and it's just cool enough for you to get cozy in a hammock as you read.  So how can you enjoy Fall without breaking the budget? Well here are some ideas. 


Take a Nature Walk or Hike
You can take in the beautiful colors and the smells of Fall without breaking the bank because most hiking spots are free.  Download the All Trails app to find the best places near you.  

Make a Leaf Collage
Collect colorful leaves from your yard and glue them to poster board or a canvas.  If you are already artsy, you can paint over them and add glitter. 

Pick Your Own Produce
Look up the local orchards in your area and harvest your own pumpkins, gourds, and apples.  It's actually a lot cheaper than buying them in the store, you get to actually pick the specific ones you want, and they're grown with a lot of love by local farmes in YOUR area! 

Paint Pumpkins
Carving can get super messy and time consuming.  But if you buy cheap paints at the dollar store and put some newspaper down, you can have a blast with the kids decorating pumpkins! 

Camp in Your Own Backyard
So if you already have a tent, you're in luck and can pitch it in your backyard and sleep under the stars, but if you don't have a tent, hopefully you have a screened in porch you can build a fort in so you and/or the kids can "camp".  It's cheaper than paying money to rent a campsite and a lot less effort.  


What do you do for fun that's budget friendly this time of year?

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