Karissa Tunis

Unleash Your Inner Artist: 7 Pro Tips for Yarn Shopping Bliss

September 15, 2023

Are you ready to embark on your next knitting adventure, but feel overwhelmed by the vast sea of yarn options? Fear not, dear crafters! This guide is here to help you navigate the colorful aisles of your local craft stores and online shops alike. Follow these pro tips and soon you’ll be shopping for yarn like a seasoned artist, perfectly equipped for your next masterpiece.

For more on this topic, check out the full DIY Projects and Staying Home collections

Project Type

The type of project you’re undertaking significantly influences your yarn choice. To illustrate, if you’re making a delicate lace shawl, you’ll lean towards fine, lightweight yarns that can highlight intricate stitch work. On the other hand, for a sturdy, warm winter scarf, a bulkier ply which is also called fingering weight yarn is ideal. Choosing a yarn that’s too thick for a delicate project can result in an unwieldy final product, while a yarn that’s too thin may not provide the desired warmth or durability for larger pieces.

Additionally, some projects may require machine-washable yarns, especially when creating items for babies or home décor. Other considerations could include the drape and texture of the finished piece. By keeping your project type in mind, you ensure that your yarn choice contributes to the final piece, both in aesthetics and function. So, always start your yarn shopping with a clear idea of what you’re creating.

Yarn Weight

Taking the weight of the yarn into account is instrumental in finalizing your yarn selection. The ‘weight’ here refers to the thickness of the yarn strand, which varies widely, from whisper-thin lace weights to robust strands of super bulky yarns. The weight is directly related to how the final product turns out. Lighter weights are suited for delicate, airy pieces, like summer shawls or intricate lace patterns.

Conversely, heavier weights offer substantial warmth and structure, making them perfect for cozy winter wear or resilient home décor items. Selecting the right yarn weight ensures the right density and drape in your project. It can also impact the knitting or crocheting process itself, influencing your choice of needles or hook size and consequently, the speed of your work. So, paying attention to yarn weight can make your creative journey smoother and more satisfying.

Fiber Content

The contents of yarn fiber can be made out of various materials. These are the following:

wool
cotton
acrylic
alpaca
mohair
silk
bamboo
nylon
linen
blends

Considering the fiber content is an integral part of selecting the ideal yarn for your project. The fiber content determines the yarn’s texture, durability, elasticity, and warmth. For instance, wool yarns are warm, elastic, and resilient, making them perfect for winter wear. Cotton yarns, on the other hand, are cool, soft, and machine-washable, ideal for summer garments and baby items.

Acrylic provides a cost-effective and easy-care alternative, while luxury fibers like silk, alpaca, or mohair bring unique textures and drapes. Blends combine the best qualities of different fibers, offering balanced characteristics. Therefore, understanding fiber content can guide you to a yarn that feels comfortable to work with, suits your project’s requirements, and results in a finished item that meets your expectations.

Color And Dye Lot

Color and dye lot considerations are vital in ensuring consistency and accuracy in your yarn-based projects. When yarn is dyed, it’s done in batches known as dye lots. Each batch can vary slightly in shade due to the dyeing process, despite being labeled as the same color. Consequently, purchasing yarn from the same dye lot ensures color uniformity throughout your project, preventing subtle shade variances that can disrupt the overall look.

When starting a larger project, it’s wise to buy enough yarn from the same dye lot to avoid color mismatches. Remember, color plays a significant role in the aesthetics of your finished project, so thoughtful selection will contribute to a more visually pleasing result.

Texture And Feel

The tactile experience of knitting or crocheting is overwhelmingly influenced by the texture of the yarn, making it an essential point of consideration. Slick, silky yarns glide smoothly, suiting intricate stitch patterns, while rough, rustic yarns add a unique authenticity to simpler designs. The feel of the yarn influences the comfort of the finished item, especially with clothing.

Soft, plush yarns provide a cozy, comfortable feel, ideal for sweaters or scarves, while sturdier, rougher yarns are excellent for hard-wearing items like rugs or bags. The right texture and feel not only enhance the creation process but also elevate the final product’s comfort and appearance.

Yardage And Quantity

Understanding yardage and quantity is vital while selecting yarn for your project. Every yarn ball or skein comes with a label indicating its yardage, which tells you how much length you’re getting. This metric is crucial to ensure that you have enough yarn to complete your project without running short. Meanwhile, the quantity refers to how many balls or skeins of yarn you’ll need.

This depends on your project size, the yarn weight, and the stitch pattern you’re using. For big projects, always buy a little extra to account for mistakes or tension differences. So, considering yardage and quantity guarantees that you’ll have enough yarn for your project, preventing unexpected trips to the craft store or mismatches in the dye lot.

Budget

Taking your budget into account is a practical aspect of choosing the right yarn for your project. High-end fibers like silk or cashmere can elevate the look and feel of your work, but they come with a higher price tag. On the other hand, affordable options like acrylic or cotton can also yield beautiful results without straining your wallet.

Budget considerations help you balance the desire for premium materials with economic practicality. With careful planning and a keen eye for sales and discounts, you can often find quality yarns that don’t break the bank. Remember, the goal is to enjoy the process of creation and take pride in the finished product, regardless of the cost of the materials.

Conclusion to 7 Pro Tips for Yarn Shopping Bliss

In the end, finding the right yarn comes down to balancing your project needs, personal taste, and budget. Remember to consider yarn weight, fiber content, color, texture, yardage, and price. Your careful attention to these details will lead to a finished product you can truly be proud of. Most importantly, enjoy the journey of creation, for it is as rewarding as the final outcome. Happy yarn shopping!

For more on this topic, check out the full DIY Projects and Staying Home collections

Top Tips for Choosing the Ideal Family Car

Top Tips for Choosing the Ideal Family Car

A car is a big purchase with a lot of different things to consider! While many factors go into choosing the ideal family car, it is a personalized experience for you and your family. What do you need and want out of your family vehicle? Here are some tips on how to choose the right car for your family!

For more on this topic, check out the full Travel Tips collection

The Size of the Vehicle

One of the biggest factors to consider when purchasing a car for your family is the size. You need to make sure that the vehicle can comfortably fit all of your family members, as well as any luggage or gear you may need to transport. Lexus dealers in Portland recommend making sure that the car is big enough to accommodate any activities you may want to do with your family, such as taking road trips or going camping. It’s also important to think about how much gear you need to haul around with you on occasion.

A minivan would be very advantageous in this case because they can hold all kinds of bulky equipment or luggage while still having enough room for passengers. If you’re not sure which type of car is right for your family, talk to a dealer! They should be able to help you figure out what kind of car would fit your lifestyle best.

Safety Features

One of the most important things to consider when buying a car for your family is the safety features. Make sure that the car you choose has airbags, anti-lock brakes, and stability control. These features can help keep your family safe in the event of an accident.

Another thing to consider is the age of your children. If you have young children, you’ll want to look for a car with a good safety rating. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) gives each car model a safety rating based on how well it protects passengers in the event of a crash. You can find this information on the NHTSA website.

Unfortunately, even if your car has a good safety rating, you may still end up in an accident. This can be due to poor conditions or a mistake made by another driver. Sometimes there’s nothing you can do to stop an accident.

If you or a family member is injured in an accident, or if your livelihood is impacted in some way, it’s a good idea to get in touch with a car accident lawyer. If you know that you’ve bought a car with robust safety features, then you can rest assured that it will bode well for any cases that result from an accident.

It’s your responsibility to do everything you can to protect your family in the event of a car accident. This includes buying a family car with great safety features, as well as ensuring that your car is insured, you have a lawyer in your contact details, and that you drive your new vehicle safely.

Fuel Efficiency

It’s important to think about the fuel efficiency of your potential new car. Cars that get good gas mileage will save you money in the long run. This efficiency is important to consider if you have a large family, as you’ll be doing a lot of driving. Look for a car that has a good fuel economy rating from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Usually, the higher the rating, the better the car is for the environment.

Another great option for families who are looking for fuel efficiency is an electric or hybrid vehicle! Electric cars are becoming more and more popular, and they’re great for families because they’re environmentally friendly and cost-effective. These cars are also becoming more and more affordable, so don’t be afraid to consider them when shopping for a new car.

Family-Friendly Features

Certain cars come with special features that are designed to make them more family-friendly. Many cars have built-in car seats for young children, which is great if you need to bring along your little one for a long drive.

Think about the features that are important to you and your family. For example, some families may want a car with a sunroof or leather seats. Other families may prefer a car with a DVD player or satellite radio. Click here to compare, and do your research to choose the features that are most important to you and your family when you’re shopping for a new car.

The Cost of Maintenance

When you’re adding up all of the costs associated with owning a car, don’t forget to factor in the cost of maintenance. Some cars require more frequent oil changes and tune-ups than others. Be sure to ask the dealer about the cost of routine maintenance for the car you’re considering.

One way to reduce the cost of maintenance is to buy a used car. Used cars typically require less frequent repairs than new cars. However, it’s important to make sure that you have the car inspected by a mechanic before you buy it to make sure that there are no hidden problems.

On the other hand, purchasing a new car can be even more expensive than repairing an old one. Some new cars come with excellent warranties, so take advantage of this if you’re worried about paying for costly repairs down the road.

If you’re looking for a car that will be perfect for your family, it’s important to consider the different features of each model. Think about which safety features are most important to you, and what type of fuel efficiency would work best with your lifestyle. When choosing a new car, don’t forget about maintenance costs, either.

All these things should factor into your decision when shopping around for a new car, so ask plenty of questions from prospective dealerships before making an offer. Make sure that you have enough information to choose the right one!

For more on this topic, check out the full Travel Tips collection

10 Healthy Snacks Toddlers Can Make

Kids love to help in the kitchen, and when they are involved (even with simple tasks), they tend to have more interest in the foods they’ve helped to prepare. Take advantage of this and start training your little ones to be big helpers (and healthy eaters)! While preparing food with your little one underfoot may take a little extra time and attention now, you’ll reap many long-term benefits that will save you time and energy in years to come! Below are 10 easy to make healthy snacks that toddlers can even make by themselves, or with minimal assistance.

This article is written by Lindsey Cover
For more on this topic, check out the full All About Toddlers and Recipes collections

10 Healthy Snacks

1. Fresh Fruit

Serving fresh fruit is one of the easiest snacks, because even a toddler can help wash fruit in a colander in the sink! Berries and grapes can be eaten as-is, and (depending on your child’s age and ability) ripe pears, peaches, and plums do not require peeling or slicing. For fruit such as oranges, mangoes, or kiwi, let your little helper wash the fruit before you begin to cut it.

2. Tortilla Roll-ups

Roll-ups combine your child’s favorite fillings rolled up in a tortilla! Try PB&J, nut butter with sliced bananas, hummus with sliced bell peppers, sliced lunchmeat with cheese, or smashed black beans with mild salsa. Let your child add toppings and roll it up; but be aware, she may certainly eat it before it ever becomes a roll up!

3. Yogurt Parfaits

Gather a tub of yogurt and several toppings, such as fresh or dried fruit, nuts and seeds, granola, mini chocolate chips, honey or maple syrup, and ground cinnamon or cocoa powder. Scoop a small amount of yogurt into a dish (or to-go container) for your child, and allow him to choose his favorite toppings.

4. Crackers & Spread

Young children can use a dull knife (or small spatula or spreader) to smear their favorite spread onto whole grain crackers. Try nut butter, hummus, cream cheese, or a drizzle of honey.

5. Bugs on a Log

Sliced celery sticks transform when topped with peanut butter and raisins! Have your child spread the peanut butter and drop the raisins onto pre-chopped celery sticks.

6. Trail Mix

Little ones will love making homemade trail mix! Place chopped nuts, raisins or dried fruit, mini chocolate chips, sea salt popcorn, mini pretzels, etc. into individual small bowls. Give your child a small zip top bag or container with a lid, and let them combine their favorites to make their own trail mix.

7. Mini Kabobs

Using small skewers, slide grape tomatoes, cubes of cheese, olives, or small pieces of fruit (such as grapes) onto the skewer. Carefully help your child string her favorite bite-sized foods onto the skewer.

8. Guacamole

Scoop slices of avocado into a small bowl, and let your child use a fork to smash the avocado into guacamole. Add a pinch of salt, a squeeze of lime juice, and a spoonful of mild salsa. Your child can stir everything together and enjoy the dip with crackers, sliced vegetables, or tortilla chips.

9. Rice Cake

Mini rice cakes can easily be dressed up with flavors your child loves! Try peanut butter with mini chocolate chips or cream cheese with a sprinkle of cinnamon. Your little helper can spread favorite toppings on the rice cake.

10. No-Bake Granola Balls

Your little one can help measure and stir the ingredients for no-bake granola balls! Combine 1 cup oats, 1/2 cup peanut butter, 1/3 cup honey, 1/4 cup cocoa powder, 2 tablespoons ground flax seed, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract in a large bowl. Roll into 1-inch balls and store in the refrigerator in an airtight container.

Next time you head to the kitchen to prepare healthy snacks for your child’s backpack, or a mid- morning break, consider asking your child to help. Little ones enjoy learning new things, and are sure to like the food they made by themselves!

For more on this topic, check out the full All About Toddlers and Recipes collections

Featured Contributor: Lindsey Cover

Lindsey Cover is a work-at-home wife and mom of two young boys, Jadon and Owen. She blogs about affordable healthy living, money-saving methods, simple recipes, and more at SimpleSaverWife.com

- Facebook: @SimpleSaverWife
- Instagram: @SimpleSaverWife
- Pinterest: @SimpleSaverWife

Parenting with Mobility Challenges: Navigating the Journey on a Scooter

Parenthood is a transformative journey that comes with its own set of challenges and rewards. For parents who rely on mobility scooters due to disabilities, the journey takes on an added layer of complexity. From navigating crowded spaces to tending to the needs of little ones, parenting on a mobility scooter requires adaptability, resilience, and a supportive community. In this blog post, we will explore the unique experiences and tips for parents who are navigating the journey of raising children while using mobility scooters.

For more on this topic, check out the full Tough Times collection

Embracing Adaptability

Parenthood is all about adaptability, and this holds true for parents who rely on mobility scooters. These scooters are valuable tools for regaining independence and participating fully in family life. However, they do require some adjustments. First and foremost, it’s essential to choose a mobility scooter that suits your lifestyle and parenting needs. If your current scooter isn’t up to the task, it might be time to buy a new mobility scooter.

Inclusivity at Home

Creating an inclusive home environment is crucial for mobility scooter-dependent parents. This means making sure that your living space is accessible and safe for both you and your children. Consider installing ramps, widening doorways, and removing potential obstacles to ensure easy scooter movement. By doing so, you create an environment where your child can move freely, play, and explore.

Finding the Right Stroller

For parents using mobility scooters, selecting the right stroller is a pivotal decision. Look for strollers that are lightweight, easy to maneuver, and foldable. These features will make it easier to transport your child while on your scooter. Additionally, invest in strollers that have adjustable handles, allowing you to maintain proper posture and control while pushing the stroller alongside your scooter.

Playtime

Playing with your child is an essential part of bonding, and mobility scooter-dependent parents can engage in playtime with a little creativity. Consider activities like board games, puzzles, or arts and crafts that can be enjoyed from the comfort of your scooter. Encourage your child’s imagination and adapt activities to suit your unique situation. Remember, it’s not about the activity itself but the quality time spent together.

Supportive Community

Building a supportive community of fellow parents and disability advocates can be immensely helpful. Seek out local or online groups where you can connect with others who share similar experiences. These communities can provide valuable advice, emotional support, and opportunities for your child to socialize with peers.

Traveling with Kids

Traveling with children is a challenge for any parent, and it can be even more so for those relying on mobility scooters. However, with proper planning, it’s entirely feasible. Look for accessible transportation options, research family-friendly destinations, and ensure that accommodations meet your specific needs. Traveling is an opportunity for both you and your child to explore the world and create cherished memories.

Balancing Self-Care and Parenting

Parenting on a mobility scooter can be physically demanding. It’s crucial to prioritize self-care to ensure you have the energy and health to care for your child. Regular exercise, proper nutrition, and adequate rest are vital components of self-care. Don’t hesitate to ask for help from friends, family, or caregivers when needed, and remember that self-care is an essential part of being the best parent you can be.

For more on this topic, check out the full Tough Times collection

10 Reasons Why Kids Should Play Sports

We firmly believe that sports (when balanced with other activities) gives children the opportunity to grow into well-rounded, confident, hard-working adults. Below are 10 great reasons why kids should play sports……

3 Further Responsibilities You Have As A Parent

September 9, 2023

If there’s one thing parents are certainly not a stranger to, it’s the concept of responsibility. No matter who you are or how many children you have, to be a good parent involves first welcoming the responsibility of looking after a child, who will depend on you for everything they learn and need to thrive.

So, the last thing parents need is to hear about even more responsibility they have to keep up with. Outside of running the household, perhaps running a career, serving as a good example, dealing with your laundry, and, of course, raising a brand new human being, odds are your schedule is full enough already.

Consider these following tips as a friendly reminder for certain responsibilities even the best parents can forget from time to time. We think that with the permission to focus on these again, you can sustain yourself and feel even more satisfied and energized from day to day. With that in mind, please consider:

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Looking After Yourself

It’s not only optional but essential to look after yourself as a parent. It might seem self-serving or conceited to focus on you when you need to do so, but think about it, you are the best asset and most protective caregiver of a child’s life. If you’re in bad shape, you can’t help the most important people in your life as well as you’d like to. In these cases, using essential medical services, https://mydocurgentcare.com/jackson-heights/, having services like medical pharma delivery and keeping a good sleep and diet routine is essential.

Investing In A Healthy Home Culture

It’s not just the principles and values that you implement in the home that counts, it’s also the atmosphere you curate. Can people talk and openly communicate without worrying about treading on eggshells? How does the morning run look, are you supportive and encouraging as opposed to fighting a battle for your child to put on their shoes? That’s not to say disagreements or difficulties are harmful, they’re in every household, but if the general atmosphere of the home is tense, it’s hard for children to shake that as they get older. It can also prevent you from fully enjoying this wonderful (and temporary) opportunity to care for your little ones.

Bonds & Togetherness

One thing to remember in a family unit is that if a decision hasn’t been made and actively worked on, then usually, it won’t be done. So for example, it’s very easy for even a family living together to become fragmented, especially when the children grow and develop their own schedules. That’s why it’s so important for certain standards like a family mealtime to be a common event in your house, a movie night weekly, and activities you do together when you can. Making time for one another can sometimes feel like an added luxury given all the tasks you have to keep on top of, but it’s so essential to do this, and can inspire you even further as you move forward through life.

WIth this advice, you’re sure to implement all the essential responsibilities you have as a parent.

For more on this topic, check out our Parenting Advice collections

How to Avoid Common Household Disasters

September 8, 2023

Everyone loves their home. Your home is often a safe haven for both you and your family. And it is also the one place where you’ll create most of your memories. If you want to make sure that you do your bit to protect your home, or if you want to make sure that you do what you can to lower risk with household disasters, then this is the guide for you. Continue reading below to learn more about fires, flooding, and other household disasters.

For more helpful resources, check out the full Home Safety collection

Fires and Blazes

There is no doubt at all that one of the biggest and scariest household disasters is a fire. This is because fires can be deadly. And they also have the ability to destroy almost anything in your home.

You may find that many properties that do fall victim to fires often require a full renovation afterwards. And even though most insurance will cover this, you have to know that the repairs from any household fire can take months to complete.

Fire Prevention

However, the good news is that there are many ways that you can stop your home from falling victim to any kind of household fire. To begin with, you have to make sure that you have a solid fire alarm. This will not stop a fire from occurring, but it will help you to limit any damages if a fire does break out. It will also alert you and your family so that you can escape safely.

It is also a good idea for you to get any electronics checked by a qualified electrician. If you have a home that runs on gas, then it is essential that you get your boiler checked and to have it included in boiler costs every year. Leaking gas can also be a major household issue, and it is very flammable as well. This is the last thing that you need. So it is always a good idea for you to take various preventative measures to try and safeguard yourself against this. If you are worried about your insurance provider not paying out for any damages that have been caused by a fire in the past, then it is a very good idea for you to contact an insurance claim attorneys who can help walk you through the steps to take.

Flooding

Another major issue that you need to be aware of when you own a property is flooding. There are two main types of flooding. You have external flooding, and you have internal flooding. External flooding can be anything that is caused by an external source. An example would be that a river has overflowed its banks near your home. Internal flooding is usually caused by something inside the home. It may be that your water pipe has burst, or that you have a toilet that has a leak. External flooding, as you can probably guess, is way harder to stop when compared to internal flooding. After all, you cannot control the weather. To mitigate the risk of internal flooding, consider installing a reliable toilet system solution like the Sanibest Pro, which helps prevent leaks and water damage in your bathroom.

Flood Prevention

If you want to stop issues like this from costing you a small fortune, then you can invest in a flood defense system. Sandbags can be very useful as they can stop your home from being impacted by rising water levels from the outside. If you are concerned about your water pipes, then you can easily put an end to this household disaster by adding stoppers to your pipes. This will only allow water to flow one way, which is out. This means that any flood water that would normally be able to enter your home, now cannot.

With internal flooding, it is also a good idea to do regular water system checks. This will ensure that your home is in good working order. Having a plumber come round now and again to check your pipes is also wise. If you have had water damage in the past from a flood, then this is really important. After all, you want to do what you can to try and stop mold from spreading throughout your home. If you do not do this, then you may find that you end up with a major issue on your hands, and this is the last thing that you need.

Break-ins

Lastly, break-ins are another risk that your property will face. On average, 50% of homes will be broken into at one point. That means that one out of two families may experience an intruder of some sort. At the end of the day, home invasions can be scary. And sometimes you might never know what the burglar is after. Do they want to hurt you or even your family? Or are they looking for valuables?

If possible, you need to try and make sure that you do what you can to keep your family safe to stop issues like this from happening in the first place.

Break-In Prevention

Luckily, stopping break-ins is very easy to do. Having a home that is properly secured should always be your first line of defense. You will want to ensure that all of your doors, your windows, and other entrances are locked – and that they stay this way. If you can, put up some security lighting as well. By installing lights outside your doors and windows, you will make it much harder for people to sneak in.

If your CCTV is not functional right now, then that doesn’t mean that it is not working as a deterrent. Don’t take it down, instead, leave it up until you can get it fixed. You might also want to invest in a security alarm if you can. This will notify you, or it will sound a loud alarm, if someone tries to bang on your window or force their way through your door. If you can get something like this, then the criminal targeting your home should not be able to do too much damage before the police are able to arrive.

So, it is more than possible for you to try and stop a lot of home disasters from happening if you simply take the right precautions. If you want to get the best result out of your alarm system, then it is wise to have a professional come and give you advice regarding your break-in points.

For more helpful resources, check out the full Home Safety collection

Selling Your Home: How To Make it Look Bigger & Better

September 7, 2023

If you are in the process of looking for a new home, you’ll appreciate how much buyers love space. As a seller, then, it makes sense to capitalize on this knowledge. Finding ways to make the property appear bigger will subsequently make it more attractive. In turn, you’ll have a far better shot at securing a quick sale at the full asking price.

While increasing the physical dimensions is not possible, there are several ways to unlock the full potential of your home. Here are six of the best.

For more on this topic, check out the full Moving Tips collection

Declutter

When the property feels overcrowded, even large rooms will struggle to attract buyers. This is the best time to declutter and remove some unwanted products. Otherwise, you’d have to transport them to the new home too. For the best results, find the cheapest storage units near you to keep possessions in storage. Aside from making the property appear larger, it’ll be a handy asset during the big move.

Introduce More Light

One of the best ways to make a property look bigger is to turn up the light. While LED lights are a good option, increased natural light should be the main aim. Dressing the windows more appropriately is easily one of the most effective routes. Painting walls with a lighter tone to reflect the light can be useful too. Or if you are not planning to begin the sales process for a little while, a skylight could make a huge impact.

Alter The Layout

Temporarily changing the way a room looks could give it a whole new vibe. Pulling furniture away from the walls to create walking space can work very well. Bringing sofas forward and putting a used compact table is ideal. Furniture that leaves good visibility of the floorspace can aid the situation further. So, glass products or items with slimline legs are perhaps the best options.

Create Good Visibility Of Outside Spaces

Your property isn’t only defined by internal spaces. Front and backyards have a telling influence on the overall appearance. The most effective way to ensure that they will deliver the desired impact is to remove obstructions. Large hedges can be cut back while subtle changes to the layout can show off your land in style. In many cases, it will be enough to get a sale over the line.

Take Better Photos

Ensuring that the home looks its best in reality is one thing. However, most prospective buyers will first see your property online. As such, learning how to take better photos of your home is pivotal. Highlighting the availability of space should help viewers to imagine the possibilities for how they would use it. Getting prospective customers inside the home is truly a key step towards success.

Keep Storage Space Half Full

If you are in the active process of trying to prepare a property for sale, small sacrifices are worthwhile. Putting half of your kitchenware, for example, in storage can have an immensely positive impact. When people view the home, they will subsequently think that there is plenty of storage space. Combine this with ideas like having naked windows and your home will give off the desired atmosphere.

Conclusion to Selling Your Home

Selling your home can be an exciting yet stressful time. But hopefully by following these 6 tips, you will have a good place to start. Best of luck in getting your home sold quickly!

For more on this topic, check out the full Moving Tips collection

Low-Sugar New Year’s Drinks for Kids

Looking for non-alcoholic drinks to ring in the New Year as a family? These easy, holiday party, low sugar drinks are naturally sweetened with fruit juices and honey. And they are made bubbly and fizzy using natural sparkling water. Ring in the new year feeling refreshed and guilt free! Try these delicious low sugar drinks that are sure to please any kid or adult!

Recipes below..

This article is written by Lindsey Cover
For more on this topic, check out the full New Year New Goals collection

Low Sugar Drink Recipes

Cider Punch Recipe

Combine 1 cup apple cider, 1/2 cup orange juice, and 2 tablespoons pomegranate juice. Divide into two festive glasses and garnish with a cinnamon stick. Serves 2.

Grapefruit Fizz Recipe

Create a simple syrup by dissolving 1/2 cup honey (or sugar) into 1/2 cup hot water; stir well and set aside to cool. Combine the juice of one pink grapefruit, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Divide the mixture between two tall glasses filled with ice. Top each glass with sparkling water (such as all-natural La Croix), and add simple syrup to taste (start with 2 tablespoons per glass). Store leftover simple syrup in the refrigerator and use in tea, coffee, or any other beverages. Serves 2.

Peach Bellini Recipe

Combine 1/4 cup peach nectar and 1 cup lemon or lime-flavored sparkling water, such as all-natural La Croix or JUST’s sparkling lime water (or use lemon lime club soda). Divide between two glasses, chill, and serve. Serves 2.

For more on this topic, check out the full New Year New Goals collection

Featured Contributor: Lindsey Cover

Lindsey Cover is a work-at-home wife and mom of two young boys, Jadon and Owen. She blogs about affordable healthy living, money-saving methods, simple recipes, and more at SimpleSaverWife.com

Facebook: @SimpleSaverWife
Instagram: @SimpleSaverWife
Pinterest: @SimpleSaverWife

Harmonizing Choices: Family Perspectives On Senior Living Selection

September 4, 2023

Are you dealing with a family dilemma about senior living? Choosing the right senior living option is a crucial decision that can profoundly affect the lives of seniors and their families. This article explores the importance of family perspectives in the senior living selection process and guides navigating this intricate journey.

For more on this topic, check out the full Senior Care collection

Understanding the Senior Living Landscape

The first step in making an informed choice is understanding the various senior living options available. These options include independent living for active seniors seeking a maintenance-free lifestyle, assisted living for those needing assistance with daily activities while preserving independence, memory care for specialized care for seniors with dementia or Alzheimer’s, and nursing homes providing 24/7 medical care for seniors with complex health needs.

Factors influencing senior living choices encompass health needs, lifestyle preferences, financial considerations, and the proximity of the chosen community to family members. Acknowledging the emotional aspect of these decisions is essential, as they often bring about anxiety, guilt, and uncertainty.

If you need help finding the best senior living Tucson AZ, talk to a professional today. Professionals can assess seniors’ and their families’ specific needs and preferences to make personalized recommendations. This ensures that the chosen senior living arrangement aligns with the individual’s requirements and lifestyle.

The Family’s Role in Senior Living Selection

The decision-making process regarding senior living involves several critical steps. Key components include initiating the conversation about senior living, involving all relevant family members, and seeking professional guidance.

Additionally, addressing family dynamics, such as sibling disagreements or the primary caregiver’s role, requires open communication and empathy. Managing the emotions of guilt and uncertainty can be as crucial as the practical aspects of the decision.

Communication and Open Dialogue

Moving to a new place can be a significant life transition for seniors, accompanied by various concerns. These concerns include fears of losing independence, worries about care quality, potential loneliness and isolation, financial considerations, and the emotional difficulty of leaving a long-time home. There’s also the fear of the unknown, as seniors may not know what to expect in their new living situation, adding to the overall uncertainty.

Effective communication within the family is vital throughout the senior living selection process. Clear and honest discussions foster understanding and minimize misunderstandings. Regular family meetings provide a platform for sharing information and concerns while encouraging seniors to voice their preferences and empower them in decision-making. Seeking input from healthcare professionals and senior living experts ensures that decisions are well-informed.

Touring and Assessing Senior Living Communities

Visiting senior living communities is essential for gaining firsthand experience and assessing their suitability. During these visits, asking pertinent questions about staff qualifications, safety measures, and daily routines is crucial.

Observing the cleanliness, friendliness of staff, and overall atmosphere of the community helps form an accurate impression. Documenting these impressions and feedback facilitates informed decision-making.

Financial Planning and Budgeting

Understanding the cost of senior living and exploring funding options is integral to the selection process. Assessing the cost structure of each senior living option and investigating funding sources such as long-term care insurance, Medicaid, Medicare, personal savings, and assets is essential. Creating a realistic budget ensures that the chosen senior living option aligns with the family’s financial capabilities.

Narrowing Down the Choices

After gathering information and assessing options, families must review each choice. Prioritizing preferences and needs and considering long-term care plans are essential steps in this decision-making phase. It’s a time for thoughtful reflection on what will best serve the senior’s well-being.

Making the Final Decision

The final decision should involve the senior as much as possible, ensuring their comfort and understanding of their choice. Handling resistance or concerns with empathy and patience is vital to a smooth transition. Celebrating the choice and planning the transition process with care sets a positive tone for the journey ahead.

Preparing for the Transition

The transition to senior living requires careful planning. This includes developing a moving plan, assisting with packing and downsizing, and providing emotional support. Managing expectations during the adjustment period is crucial, understanding that it may come with initial discomfort but reassuring the senior that it will get easier over time.

Encourage seniors to take their time adjusting. Let them know it’s okay to start slowly and gradually participate in activities and interactions as they feel comfortable. Personalize their new living space with familiar belongings, such as photos, favorite books, or cherished items, to create a sense of comfort and familiarity. Moreover, ensure that seniors maintain contact with their existing support network, including family and friends. Frequent visits or communication can help ease feelings of loneliness.

Conclusion to Senior Living Selection

The process of selecting senior living can be complex. But it’s a decision that can greatly impact seniors’ lives and a journey that requires patience, empathy, and a deep commitment. So, take note of the important considerations and tips above and seek professional help as deemed necessary. Most importantly, always include your elderly family member in the final decision-making for a smoother senior living transition.

For more on this topic, check out the full Senior Care collection