TIPS Archives

10 SURPRISING SOURCES OF PET ODORS

May 5, 2022

The only thing worse than a house that smells like cats or dogs is a house that smells like a room full of Glade air fresheners. Why? Because a homeowner is trying to mask a smell that cannot be contained. And the key to eliminating pet odors is to go after the source. Here are a few surprising sources of pet odors.

10 SURPRISING SOURCES OF PET ODORS

In full disclosure, I am not a fan of plugin room fresheners. They work but when I smell a plugin room freshener, that over the top cinnamon or floral smell, my first thought is what is the homeowner trying to hide. So the key is to tackle the source and work yourself to the front door where you usually get a whiff. I am also a licensed Realtor in Denver so I have smelled plenty of odors.

These same suggestions work for sellers who are preparing to list their home. #realtortip

1. FRESH AIR

Never underestimate the power of fresh air. An open window allows fresh air to circulate.

2. CEILING FANS

Have you looked at your ceiling fan when it is not running? I was stretching the other morning and I looked up, in the middle of a hamstring stretch, and there was a 1/2″ of dust on the top of each ceiling fan blade.

I run that ceiling fan every night. Guess who sleeps directly under the ceiling fan? This one:

10-easy-ideas-to-freshen-house-with-dogs

And, during the day she sleeps under one of my boy’s ceiling fans. I used this and a step stool to clean my ceiling fan blades.

3. VINEGAR

I love this multi-purpose cleaner. I made a video to share my list of favorite Made in USA cleaning. You can check it out on my Youtube channel here. Please follow (shameless plug trying to get to 100 followers).

Yes, it smells like vinegar, but it is effective at getting to the source of the smell; not masking the odor. And it is inexpensive.

4. BAKING SODA

A close second to vinegar is baking soda. I regularly dust (dump) baking soda into my carpets/rugs. And, depending on how much dog DNA is embedded in the carpet fibers- I repeat this step 2-3 times over a few days. It works.

I found this article with more details.

5. WASH ENTRY RUGS

Think about this; our dogs run in and out the doors dozens of times a day. Think about what those cute little paws track in after four minutes of squirrel tag.

And, those entry rugs are the first line of defense to stop those muddy paw prints. Eww.

6. LINT ROLLER

A lint roller is a great way to snag random dog and human hairs on the top of chairs, sofas and stairs. I buy these in bulk. . Just try it and see what clings to the adhesive sheet.

7. CLEAN UP THE BACKYARD

This one piggybacks on the entry rugs. If you can minimize the mess in the backyard you minimize the odors into the house.

When I skip a day (or four) and watch my dogs wrestling in the backyard I shudder at the thought of what they rolled in during recess. Ewww.

8. BRUSH DOGS REGULARLY

Elliott loves to be brushed. His older sister, Chloe, not so much. Chloe runs when she sees the hairbrush. But it makes a huge difference to brush our pets regularly. It reduces what travels into the house via tails and tummies.

9. WASH THE WALLS

This is a big issue at my house. Chloe and Elliott have their favorite spots to chill during the day.

And, when we repainted our walls to a lighter color I noticed the film of dirt on the walls. I bought these (made in USA) spray bottles, filled with vinegar, to stay on top of the grime.

10. FRESH GREENS OR FLOWERS

Fresh flowers, greenery or herbs are an organic way to freshen your home. I think that is why we don’t notice the stale air during the holidays. From October through December, we have an abundance of fresh garland, cinnamon, pumpkin spice, Christmas trees, cider, and baked goods to fill our homes.

And, then by January, we have cold temps, over-active thermostats and stale air.

Rosemary is a great option to freshen up a space. I tuck mine into my candles in January.

I thought about tucking a sprig of Rosemary into Chloe and Elliott’s collars! #wink

Video Recap

Thank you for stopping by! Please share your tips in the comments!

A PROGRESSIVE WORTHY TIP FOR TECH CHALLENGED PARENTS

April 5, 2022

This tip is for the technology-challenged adults in your life. Or for people like me.

If you have watched any cable television over the last two years you have likely watched (or heard) a Progressive Insurance commercial. If you have no ideas what I am talking about start here. I found myself over the holidays adding this phrase, “I know I sound like a Progressive commercial..”

But this tip from my brother-in-law is genius for non-technical geniuses like parents, sisters, brothers or grandparents.

TIP FOR TECH CHALLENGED PARENTS

I have shared this tip with so many friends and family because it is that good of an idea. A friend suggested I write a blog post. So please, please share with your extended family members or for tech-challenged parents, grandparents and older adults in your life.

My kids do this with their tech-challenged mom. I may know my way around SEO Quickbooks and WordPress, but if there is a setting off on my phone or car the whole family is in on a group chat.

My youngest son made a video when I got my car so I could set up my music.

TECH CHALLENGED PARENTS OR SISTERS

My father-in-law is a retired dermatologist and board-certified pathologist. He subscribes to a dozen medical journals and medical school alumni newsletters. He lives in his own house and will celebrate his 90th birthday this year.

I should sign him up for the Weekend Edit. ;0)

When he finds a great article he likes to print copies from his home office and mail them to his grandchildren and sons.

During the extended staycation in 2020, my brother-in-law’s phone number became the unofficial help desk for his dad (and my husband’s dad) because my BIL loves gadgets and is very tech-savvy.

Except, during Covid, his visits to help his dad with technical glitches became several hours in the day. Why? Because of the process of suiting up, gloves and masks, antibacterial checks, bleach on every surface and maintaining 9 feet of distance between them.

They were ready for a nuclear reactor meltdown for a 45-second repair.

Tip for tech challenged parents or family members

It was too much time for proper social distancing, but the concern of Covid was a reality and my father-in-law is close to 90 years old. And then my brother-in-law shared his genius tip for all the incoming phone calls and inevitable printer errors.

TIP FOR NON TECH SAVVY PARENTS OR SIBLINGS

This is genius.

He should be writing this tip and not me.

My brother-in-law bought the identical printer at Costco for himself and his dad. Now, when his dad calls with a red button error message, my BIL can problem-solve from his own home and save the risk of unnecessary exposure.

Tip for tech challenged parents or family member

If you are thinking about the costs. My BIL pointed out that the price of a printer was less than the dozen trips (time and risk) to drive ten miles to figure out his dad’s favorite pastime and form of communication with his family (sharing printed copies of newspaper and journal articles).

This tip works for out-of-state parents (or moms like me). I videotape my error messages in my car and send them to my youngest ( he had a summer job at a friend’s family-owned dealership so he knew his way around my European car, slightly older than the brand new models he was tasked to park.

The funny thing about this tip is my other son (the lefty) would argue he needs a duplicate of my phone. My son reminds me that when I get an error on any device, continuing to hit the enter button does not make the appliance or tech gadget correct itself.

Duh! Thanks for stopping by today. I have a ton of favorite tips and one-hour projects you can search at the top of my blog! Please pin or share for others!

TIPS FOR HOME BUYERS

March 24, 2022

Are you freaking out about the current residential market? Lately, I wake up wondering if my adulting kids will move back home to save money to purchase their first home or an RV. Or maybe we will be a short-term landlord between selling and buying. Either way, I decided to calm my own mind to create a shortlist of strategies and tips for first-time home buyers. These tips apply to all home buyers.

TIPS

I have three children and I have visions of my kids moving back home to save money to purchase their first homes.

tips for home buyers, tips for first time home buyers

Sidenote: This was our daughter’s first home. Her dad was the builder. Clearly, she was not happy with the walkthrough. I think she had a punch list for him. I wonder if she found a roof leak?

Over the course of sleepless nights, crazy low inventory, and an uptick in mortgage rates I created a list of strategies for first-time and third-time home buyers.
These tips are great for homeowners who have not bought a house in ten years.

STRATEGIES FOR FIRST TIME HOME BUYERS

REMAIN CALM Take a breath. Use this time for more properties to come on the market. It will happen. The market always adjusts. Enjoy the luxury of no home ownership headaches as you get your ducks in a row.

2. INTEREST RATES I am not a lender. The key is to meet with a reputable lender and get your loan application documents in order.

Provide a conservative number for what you are prepared to spend in a monthly mortgage payment. I never want my buyers to keep inching up in price. If the home you want is not available in June it will be available as inventory picks up. Talk to your lender about fees and ways to lower your interest rate.

Avoid the temptation to look at homes on the high end of your budget.

Hopefully, as inventory picks, buyers will not feel the pressure to submit crazy over asking price offers, appraisal gap coverages, and offers to pay the sellers’ children’s first year of college tuition. The stories are crazy! And many are true.

3. REVIEW TERMS AND THE PURCHASE CONTRACT

I like to review a contract with my first-time home buyers and explain dates and deadlines and the section under additional provisions.

Make sure buyers understand what a post-occupancy agreement is and who typically pays this “rent back” after closing.

4. START DRIVING

Narrow down the radius and/or the zipcodes of a search
Pay attention to the parks, shopping, lighting, sidewalks, light rail, weekend and weekday activity and traffic patterns.
Make the drive to and from the neighborhood to the office office during commute times.
As you narrow your search drive the neighborhoods on the weekends
Are there pumpkins outside in the middle of March? Are there Christmas tree lights on the trees in April?
What is the parking situation? Is there restrictive parking on certain days/months?
Pay attention to HOA fees and taxes in the listing description.
What does the HOA include?
How far is the commute to the airport (Uber + parking adds up).

5. EXPENSES

Do your homework! Your lender will assist you with these anticipated and unanticipated expenses. It never fails-something breaks, leaks or smells the day after the closing (despite the inspection).

HOA DUES

PARKING

APPLIANCES

HOME OWNERS INSURANCE

TAXES (listed in the MLS)

UTILITIES +WATER

WIFI

PRIVATE MORTGAGE INSURANCE

GENERAL MAINTENANCE

MOVING HOME (TEMPORARY)

Oh, moving back home with the ‘rents is usually met with dread for buyers. Believe it or not parents don’t always love sharing the couch after dinner.

Juggling leases, closing dates, seller rent backs make a move home a viable option.

And no you can not ask the sellers if you can stash your stuff in the garage. No!

Here is the advantage to moving home for a wee little bit.

Your kids, relatives, niece can save money!

This photo was on her daughter’s first day at a big 4 accounting firm. She saved most of her salary the year she lived at home. She used the time to study for her CPA too knowing her mom was making her amazing meals every night. ;0)

If you think this post would be helpful please share or pin the image below for reference. If you have questions I am happy to answer to the best of my ability. I am a licensed and practicing Realtor in the state of Colorado. You can read how this Realtor became a home decor blogger on the side in this interview.

I get to use both sides of my brain most days.

To sign up for tips, one-hour projects and seasonal decor you can sign up here.

HOW TO STAIN SMALL OBJECTS IN MINUTES

March 10, 2022

I love a good hack! My family would say I hack most recipes. It’s true; following a recipe is so conventional. I created this hack on the fly when I had to stain multiple wood embroidery hoops for these orbs. I had a paintbrush, deadline and I needed to find a way how to stain small objects.

There was more stain on my hands than on the embroidery hoops. It was more labor-intensive than I anticipated; technically there are four sides to each hoop and the area around the hardware.

It was a messy process and each hoop required additional coats and touchups.

Staining each embroidery hoop one by one was slower than waiting for a load of towels to dry… while standing in front of the dryer. It was a brain drain technique.

This hack shows how to stain lots of objects in minutes.

I loved this hack when I painted dozens of cabinet pulls without incident, meaning they did not wobble and smudge the freshly spray painted cabinet pulls.

STEPS TO STAIN SMALL OBJECTS

I used an oversized aluminum tray
Disasembled a shipping box to place under aluminum tray
Poured just enough stain into the shallow aluminum tray
Then dunk the embroidery hoops into the tray- like dunking an Oreo cookie into a glass of milk.

This technique is perfect for small or odd-shaped objects. The stain adhered to the sides and edges of the hoop. The stain reached the nooks and crannies around the hoop’s hardware where the paintbrush could not reach.

This stain hack was a great way to stain small objects.

How to Stain Small Objects

If you love other time-saving hacks please subscribe to the Weekend Edit where I share seasonal tips and thrifty ideas. You can sign up here.

DO THIS BEFORE YOU ORDER ENGINEER PRINTS

February 28, 2022

I may decorate my entire house with engineer prints. This is the nickname for the popular, oversized city planning-like city maps. It is a great space filler for blank walls.

The hardest part was finding where to print engineer prints. If you are not familiar with the fancy name just look at the images below. But first, here is what you need to know before you order engineer prints.

But first, let’s talk about this fun and may I say rewarding project that solves

the problem of finding affordable wall art.

WHY I LOVE ENGINEER PRINTS

what to know before you order engineer prints

After recently updating my boys’ bedrooms, my goal was to add inexpensive artwork.

Engineer prints were a format that matched the industrial, urban theme I wanted to accomplish for their bedrooms/occasional guest rooms.

You know, like when they come home for Thanksgiving and sleep four of the five days they are home.

WHY I LOVE ENGINEER PRINTS

These oversized prints solve a few problems when decorating for spaces that are not in use everyday, but you still want your kids to have their room when they return home.

Fill valuable real estate on a wall
Add meaning to the room with the city or state reference
Conversation starters for space

where-to-find-print-engineer-prints-everyday-edits

WHERE TO PRINT ENGINEER PRINTS

I found several options for city and aerial maps at this Etsy shop. I choose two city maps to print- the city my middle child grew up in and the city where he attends college.

The Etsy images cost a few dollars and the seller-provided multiple sizes and formats in digital format. I ordered my black and white city maps from here to print the engineer prints.

how-to-print-engineer-prints-everyday-edits

STEPS TO PRINT

This is the point of the tutorial where I will save you ten minutes of aggravation.

To order engineer prints at Staples you have to create an account first.
Once an account is created upload your Etsy image on Staples website.
You can either pickup or pay to deliver. I paid to ship mine because I knew my prints would get trashed with dogs, kids and unidentified rolling objects.
Printing costs around $7.00-$10 depending on print size.
Staples print size options:
12″ x 18″, 18″ x 24″, 24″ x 36″ and 36″ x 48″.

While waiting for the prints to ship I purchased poster frames at Michael’s.

How-to-Decorate-with-Engineer-Prints-everyday-edits

SUGGESTIONS

I noticed there were big price jumps on poster frame sizes. And not all print sizes have corresponding frames at Michaels.

Knowing this in advance, you can decide if you need a 30″ width frame or if you can be just as happy with a 24″ size frame.

In hindsight, I wish I had upgraded my frames for my first two prints. For my boys, I bought the plastic frame and plastic front.

I upgraded the frame for our daughter’s room.

And, yes she has her own place in downtown Denver, but we still have a room of her own at home.

I love how these engineer prints turned out. The project was fun and added some much-needed character to the kids’ rooms. And, the best part the prints were inexpensive and the aerial maps were relevant to my kids and to us as a family.

Our hearts are now in three cities with our youngest now in college.

VIDEO ON HOW TO ADD CHILDHOOD KEEPSAKES TO THE DECOR

February 2, 2022

This is an updated post (and video) to this post. It’s all about creative ways to add childhood keepsakes where everyone can see them.

Hello! Have you checked on your childhood keepsakes? Do you have them in a storage tub or file box? Please stay a minute or two to find inspiration on how to add childhood or family keepsakes to the decor.

how to add childhood keepsakes and family heirlooms into decor

I shared an updated video on how to add childhood keepsakes to bookcases and corners. You can scroll to the bottom for the video at the end of the post or there is a link to my Youtube channel a few scrolls below. If you leave a comment or follow you can enter to win this Pottery Barn gift card.

The key is don’t overthink what you want to display. The memories and laughs are the goals of this rainy or snowy day Saturday afternoon project.

If they are like most of mine they are in storage boxes underneath the stairs in the basement. Until recently, the boxes were filled with art projects, Mother’s Day cards, Thanksgiving turkey recipes and holiday crafts.

Tucked in other boxes were my children’s first swimsuits (they were so tiny) and their baptismal outfits and blankies. Some of the keepsakes stayed tucked safely inside for another time.

HOW TO ADD CHILDHOOD KEEPSAKES

But others, too cute to not display, needed to be in the heart of the home.

My son’s cowboy boots are a favorite of mine. Now they have a new job title: bookends.

I smile every time I pass his little mud-caked boots I smile. They just make me smile.

If you are going to bail on this post watch the video. It’s a favorite of my new youtube channel.

My daughter’s pottery pieces are now tucked into the boxwood planters. Here glass marble stepping stone has seen better days (it had an unfortunate run-in with the edge of the lawnmower wheel), but it’s tucked between these pavers.

Adding childhood keepsakes into the decor (and they can be your own or spouses or parents’ keepsakes just make sense. Why not do it now?

And, with that realization, I sorted through a few favorites and worked them into the decor. And you know what happened? I smile every single time I pass these family keepsakes and works of art. Scroll below for the updated video. The first one was in the early days of my Youtube channel.

Below is the trifecta for one of my boy’s favorite, childhood keepsakes. The video shows my enthusiasm for this project idea.

CHILDHOOD KEEPSAKE VIDEO

It is a reminder to pull those keepsakes out of storage and share the memories with your kids, family and friends. They will love the stories. Here is a 80-second video I made on how and more importantly why I add child and family keepsakes to the decor.

I shared a little love with the future owners of our home when I dropped a few school crafts into this time capsule during our kitchen renovation.

DO THIS BEFORE THANKSGIVING

September 16, 2021

Sharing simple tips to prep the salt and pepper shakers simple before Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving will be here before you finish the Halloween candy. It will be here because Hallmark and Starbucks tell us it’s fall (in August). So now is the time to do all the things you will wish you had done before Thanksgiving.

Pin this under tips!

PREP THE SALT & PEPPER SHAKERS BEFORE THANKSGIVING

STEPS TO PREP SALT +PEPPER SHAKERS

Gather all of your salt and pepper shakers and your salt and pepper.

Next, here is a tip I tried and it worked well. Place a damp paper towel on the counter and then set out your salt and pepper shakers. The damp paper towel holds the salt and pepper

HOW TO LOAD THE SALT AND PEPPER SHAKERS

Next, load those petite seasoning vessels with salt and pepper. Now the debate starts here. Yes even salt and pepper shakers are a hot topice. The question is do we still want to use the two hole shaker for the pepper or is it better to use the two hole shaker with salt?

I found my pour was better when I raised the pepper above the mouth of the shaker. I mean it’s still messy, but the paper towel gives you a fighting chance.

You will feel great knowing it’s done because no one wants to pause while prepping the Thanksgiving table and fill (spill) salt and pepper over every kitchen surface.

Sidenote: Who decided shakers require microscopic holes the size of a needle.

I know what some of you are thinking. There is plenty of time to do Thanksgiving and holiday prep details. Right?

But, right now between Hallmark’s Autumn Leaves and White Christmas go ahead and haul out the salt and pepper shakers and get ‘er done before Thanksgiving.

What are some other time-saving tips you like to do now before the calendar says it’s two more sleeps until Thanksgiving?

Please share in the comments!

Here’s another weekly hack (tip) to start your Mondays!

In the meantime, stock up on the salt and pepper. Who knew ground pepper was so pricey.

Please pin for later on your Thanksgiving or Tips or Hacks Pinterest boards!

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HOW TO ADD QUIET TO YOUR DAY

September 2, 2021

Sharing a few ways on how to add quiet to your day

I can’t believe this happened to me this year.

I kicked this habit and traded it for a new one. My new year goal was to read more and scroll less.

Except, most nights I am seven minutes into a book recommended by this lady

and just like a squirrel- I pivot.

I start to Google “insert any number of random thoughts running through my mind” on my Ipad. Like what’s on sale at Pottery Barn or this Netflix documentary. The bots are winning. I was doing everything that the documentary told me not to do online. So here are five simple habits to add quiet to the day.

Even the squirrels need a nap.

HOW TO ADD QUIET TO YOUR DAY

1. Turn off the notifications on your i-phone. As a blogger and Realtor, I had one too many pings.

Go to settings, scroll to notifications and turn off notifications.

2. Set up an auto-message on your phone when you are driving. If someone texts you the sender receives an auto-response that you are driving and I will check my phone when I am parked.

3. Adjust the ringer, alerts for your phone’s activity. Are you seeing a trend here? My husband has a tone for every text, ban charge, sports and news update. Go under settings and scroll down to “sounds and haptics.” It’s right under “notifications.”

4. Practice a hobby. There is nothing that gets me outside of squirrel mode other than grabbing my camera and practice taking still photos of a pillow. It completely removes me from my thoughts. Whatever your hobby find 15 minutes to practice.

5. Coloring or Puzzles. During Covid College our youngest son unwinded after Zoom classes at the kitchen counter with a box of Crayola ( Made in the USA Youtube series) and a Paw Patrol coloring book.

Before I knew it I was coloring alongside him and doing my best not to chat about the name of every Crayola crayon I grabbed.

What do you do to add quiet toy your day? I would love to hear what works for you and maybe include it in a future blog post.

In the meantime, these Sunday hacks help make Monday a little easier.

Looking for a once-a-week newsletter on Saturday mornings. It’s quiet and deo

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HOW TO MAKE INDOOR PLANTS LOOK BIGGER

August 12, 2021

Sharing a simple tip on how to make indoor plants look bigger.

I haven’t tried to make anything look bigger since middle school. #wink

How many of you have ordered a fake plant online and were disappointed when it arrived in a box that was less than 24″ long? That’s what happened to me when I ordered a cute little olive tree from one of my go-to cheap decor sites.

It wasn’t the height of the plant it was the base. And the base made the tree look so tiny (and cheap). So I gave it a proper base.

Just like Meghan Trainor’s pop favorite – It’s all about the base.

Are you thinking what I thought? How did I not know this? I mean I help sellers stage their houses before they list. And I never thought to supersize the planter to make the top half of the plant look bigger.

I discovered this when I reviewed this photo of this plant. He’s been around forever. He was in a bucket. Just chilling in the family room. Until we refinished our floors.

And then while moving everything from the main level to the lower level I haphazardly stacked this plant into the basket.

And something magical happened. My little “I don’t know what type of plant this is” just grew.

HOW TO MAKE INDOOR PLANTS LOOK BIGGER

And there it was a simple tip on how to make indoor plants look bigger. It works just as well on both faux and real plants.

I used everyday buckets and baskets around the house. It turns out I have a Homegoods-worthy stock room of baskets.

I even used it with some stems in a vase. I beefed up the container and my floral stems just looked so much more substantial.

To a wider, shorter bucket. I bent the stems to adjust for the shorter bucket.

I never loved the container for my Fiddle Leaf Fig tree (the container came with the Homegoods tree).

But then when I switched it out for something with more texture it changed the look of the tree. And, then I added a larger pot with texture and ta-da.

Here is one more example with my fern. I had him in a tall urn for years.

and then after our family room remodel I moved him into an olive basket. The larger bucket made the fern look larger too!

What do you think? Take a look at your indoor plants. If they need a little boost look for a basket. Would love if you pinned this tip!

And would you sign up for the Weekend Edit where I share my projects from the previous week in one email?
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5 TIPS TO LOSE THE LOVE HANDLES

August 6, 2021

Sharing 5 tips to lose the love handles without missing your favorite foods

Chloe, our Bernese Mountain dog, lost ten pounds this spring. Our veterinarian is thrilled.

Dr. Vicker likes his patients’ lean and he says the same tricks work for their human family members.

It turns out the way to lose those love handles was what our veterinarian suggested for Chloe.

Eat less.

It sounds so simple when you read those seven letters.

I noticed after the holidays my jeans were snug and my waistline had an extra inch (or two) on both sides. Oh wait, were those love handles?

I worked out regularly but started a few bad habits during our extended staycation.

It was time to end a few bad habits like when I quit this one.

5 TIPS TO LOSE THE LOVE HANDLES

And you know what I rediscovered? A feeling I had not experienced in years. Years!

Hunger pains.

Over the past year, I got into a terrible habit of snacking whenever my tummy grumbled. And my 45 Goldfish for 140 calories turned into a half bag of Goldfish …. every afternoon.

Here’s how I lost a few pounds and tackled that love handles. And I mean a few. I hate to diet and do not do well with restrictions.

Here’s how I did it.

1. Start every morning with 20 sips (gulps) of water.

Think about it what is the first thing you drink in the morning? If you say coffee this tip will work well with your early morning routine.

While my coffee percolates I drink 20 sips (gulps) of water. I like my water in a glass and so I don’t love a Nalgene bottle. My daughter uses something like this to get her water in for the day.

2. Stop eating 3 hours before bedtime.

This habit snuck up on me. Last year, I would snack my way through an entire Costco-size bag of popcorn while watching Netflix.

Now, I go to bed hungry which was a feeling I had not felt in years. I make exceptions when we have dinner out with friends or family, but I think this tip is the one that jumpstarted my metabolism

3. One glass of wine.

Glass, not a bottle.

Nothing goods happen when I pour a 2nd. Again there are exceptions, but one glass of wine forces me to slow down and drink water.

4. Make less look like more

I have the same breakfast most mornings- one egg + one egg white and 2 strips of turkey bacon. When I purchase my turkey bacon the first thing I do is take my kitchen scissors and cut the strips down the center (of the entire package).

Visually I have 2 strips of turkey bacon. And after a few days, you don’t miss that 2nd, 70 calorie strip of bacon.

I did the same thing with my turkey sandwich. I went from a whole sandwich to a half. And, then I did this to it. I added apples and spinach to my sandwich. It’s so good-even my younger son does it with his sandwiches.

5. Add greens to everything

Now if you are a real foodie this may be unconventional, but I add spinach leaves to many meals. I add spinach to my sandwiches, I layer my plate or bowl with spinach when we have pasta or nibble on spinach leaves as I prep for dinner.

6. Serving Size Chocolate

In my kitchen, I have a drawer dedicate for my sweet tooth. The second I cut out chocolate (or give it up at Lent) I will binge my way through a bag of M&M’s (full size). . And over the course of the year, I grabbed larger handfuls. Now I pay attention to the serving size and deduct a few M&M’s or my favorite cocoa dusted almonds from that serving size.

I am not a fan of scales. I get weighed at my annual exam and I weigh myself in January.

But there is a little accountability so I do weigh myself on Tuesdays until my habits stuck like a Simone Biles landing.

Now I can’t even imagine not starting my day without 16 oz of water.

DOG WATER BOWL HACK

July 6, 2021

Sharing a dog water bowl hack you can find at the grocery store.

Do you know when you are rushing out the door and you scan the dog’s water bowl and it is nearly empty?

And for a split second you think oh there’s plenty. But what do you do? You always put down your bag(s) and grab the water bowl.

And then after filling the water bowl you walk back across the kitchen floor or patio, like walking a tightrope, not wanting to wobble over like a Weeble. (80’s reference).

Here is a dog water bowl hack for your furry friends on those busy days.

Oh, and the dog days of summer when dogs are outside more enjoying the sunsets.

If you are a follower of Everyday Edits you know I love a good hack. Like this one.

And if your dogs need a new dog bowl here is a cute elevated dog dish.

DOG WATER BOWL HACK

I stumbled into this hack when I bought a plastic beverage dispenser at Kroger for under $8.000. I planned on using it for brewed tea.

Until I got it home and the dispenser was too big for the refrigerator.

And I thought this oversized, too big for the fridge beverage dispenser is perfect for Chloe and Elliott and the dog days of summer.

I added ice and water.

Now it’s just a little water bar for the dogs.

And the best part was the beverage dispenser with spigot fit on top of their dog dish tray.

Looking for a yummy dog treat to pair with the beverage bar? Try these homemade dog treats.

This Made in USA dog bone cookie cutter will set you back a few dollars and will make your dog treats too cute!

Shop for the dog days of summer. It’s never too early to shop for Halloween costumes for your dogs. ;0)

HOW TO KEEP PATIO CUSHIONS DRY + VIDEO

June 28, 2021

Sharing how to keep outdoor patio cushions dry.

But first, do you remember the scene in Steele Magnolias when M’lynn screams when she realizes Shelby’s brothers have decorated her honeymoon car with …um? Well, that’s the same reaction I have when we are minutes from hosting a backyard BBQ and I attempt to plump the outdoor patio cushions only to realize the cushions are soggy from yesterday’s rain.

SPRING SHOWERS AND CUSHIONS

After a rainstorm, our backyard looks like a drip-dry station for patio cushions. The rain and snow have to go somewhere. And, the cushion just soaks it up.

And, then on some random day, while taking a kitchen trash bag for the 14th time I came up with an effortless way to keep patio cushion inserts dry.

HOW TO KEEP PATIO CUSHIONS DRY

Sometimes the best ideas are based on the premise; do not overthink the solution to a problem. The solution is simple and most of us have to look no further than under our kitchen sinks.

How to Keep Patio Cushions Dry

Last summer, with a forecast of more than two days of rain, I worried about how to keep my outdoor patio cushions from getting soaking wet. It wasn’t practical to bring them inside for every afternoon thunderstorm.

But, who wants to sit in a soggy patio cushion when the weekend comes around? I needed a solution that did not tie me to the weather app every afternoon.

And, then inspiration struck when I grabbed a handful of plastic kitchen bags.

It turns out plastic trash bags are a great resource to keep the foam cushions dry.

STEPS TO KEEP PATIO CUSHIONS DRY

Use kitchen size plastic bags with ties
Unzip the pillow cover and remove the foam cushions
Stuff the foam cushion into the kitchen plastic bag.
Tie the bag shut and place the wrapped foam cushion back into the pillow covers.

You can watch the video tutorial on my Youtube Channel.

That’s it! And, it works. The reality is when the rain penetrates the pillow cover the cover dries after an hour of sunshine. Sadly, it’s the foam cushion that traps the water.

Those wet patio cushions lead to fun stuff like mold spores. Not to mention it breaks down the material inside the cushion.

Who wants to sit on a cushion full of icky stuff? And more importantly who wants to have a backside that has an imprint of our well.. backside? Do you know what I mean?

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Thanks for stopping by! Now go slip those cushion inserts into a plastic bag.

Want to join the Everyday Edits community for tips and one hour projects? Click here.

HOW TO FIX SAGGING COUCH CUSHIONS WITHOUT BATTING + VIDEO

June 24, 2021

Sharing a hack to fix sagging couch cushions- it’s like Botox for cushions. I added a video to answer previous questions. Scroll for video.

I have a couch cushion hack today that does not involve batting. If the thought of measuring or wrestling with heavy batting sends you into a sweat this tip is for you!

HOW TO FIX SAGGING COUCH CUSHIONS

For most homes, the couch anchors the room. So you can see where sagging couch cushions easily make the space look tired and disheveled.

And, no amount of strategically placed throws or throw pillows can hide the sag.

And, then there’s the elephant in the room- who wants to sit in the middle of the couch where you sink. It’s like sitting at the kid’s table at Thanksgiving.

It’s awkward and no one wants to sit in the center of the couch.

After awhile sagging couch cushions need a little life. It’s kind of like Botox-there’s only so much sag the toxin can lift. And, then you need to move to a filler- something to plump up the slump.

My hack does not use batting, but rather something you likely have in your linen closet.

THE HACK

Pillows! Pillows are the easiest to solution to a sagging couch cushion.

contained
come in different levels of firminicity
budget friendly
new sewing required
rectangtular in shape

I ordered these Made in the USA pillows this spring when I shared how to clean down pillows.

Well, I had an idea and I tested it out on my couches.

My couch has foam cushions inserted into the couch. Essentially, this is an oversized pillow for a couch.

I thought it was going to be a sweat session to add pillows to the insert. I used a clean low density pillow.

The sofa covers are designed to fit snug so keep that in mind. Less (fluff) is best.

I was surprised at how little wrangling I had to do to get this pillow into the back of the couch pillow cover.

It immediately plumped up the back cushion. The best part no lumps or bumps. The pillow straightened the slouch.

This is an easy peasy hack with no batting or lumps. The best part is no one noticed. Which in our house is the best compliment. The minute my husband starts fidgeting with the pillows (or anything) I know he is on to me and one of my hacks or projects.

So that really is my litmus test for any project. Subtle but solves a problem.

HOW TO FIX SAGGING COUCH CUSHIONS VIDEO

I posted this on Hometalk and readers had a ton of great questions so I made a video to show you how it works. You can find it here on my Youtube Channel. I would love it if you subscribed too! The earlier videos are worth the free signup. :0)

Here is another popular tutorial on how to clean down pillows.

Here’s a recent pillow hack if you are staging a bedroom before listing a home. It’s literally a pillow flip.

As a Realtor, I often do last minute staging while the photographer sets up the room. I may bring a few new pillows for those tired couches that should have stayed in the dorm room and need a little lift.

Before you go I would love for you to sign up the Weekend Edit- an easy, breezy four minute read of tips and decor ideas delivered straight to your inbox on Saturday morning. It’s free (someone asked me).

HOW TO UPDATE BEDROOM DECOR FOR LESS MONEY

June 1, 2021

sharing simple ideas on how to update bedroom decor without breaking the budget

After my second vaccine, I got a little achy and feverish. Not nearly as bad as I anticipated, but enough that I retired to our bedroom to “work.” It was a chance to test out some small decor updates.

For less than $100. And, I have a few tricks on how to stay under budget.

HOW TO UPDATE BEDROOM DECOR

This sign says it all about our lifestyle. My decor decisions are based largely on our Bernese Mountain dogs.

Berners are known for their side-eye ;0)

I bought a beautiful coverlet at Pottery Barn and it was not on the bed ten minutes before one of our Berners jumped on the bed … with a dog bone.

Ever since I read this article about what NOT to buy at Homegoods I now buy these sheets and buy coverlets and pillow shams at Homegoods.

I cannot spend money on bedding when this is a regular occurrence at our house.

3.To mix it up for the seasons this year I bought these fluffy pillow covers. Switching out pillow covers is an easy and budget-friendly way to update a space.

They are a little out of my wheelhouse, but the pop of coral is fun for a space that is heavy on furniture and our planked wall behind our bed.

I snagged this sign here and it is a favorite. It makes me smile whenever I enter the room.

I try really hard not to be matchy-matchy on opposite sides of the bed so I added a faux plant to the side next to the window.

I do love to pair navy and green in my decor.

PIN FOR LATER

Before you go .. you might like these empty nest empty bedroom updates.

HOW TO MAKE A RENTAL FEEL LIKE HOME

May 13, 2021

Showing renters (or parents of renters) how to make a rental feel like home.

Hi there! If you don’t know my story I am a Realtor® by day and a home blogger at night. In this year’s crazy (Denver-everywhere) market many young professionals and families are reluctantly renewing their leases until the market settles.

I am here to cheer all of you renters (or parents or renters) and show you how to make a rental feel like home.

5 THINGS TO MAKE A RENTAL FEEL LIKE HOME

1.Extension Cords

Extension cords are the workhorse for rentals where outlets might be in awkward spaces. Some of you might have seen this tip on my youtube channel.

I have a box dedicated to these guys. I found mine for like $7.00 from Target. Extension cords are so useful around the house. Especially helpful when you have them handy before moving that huge heirloom piece from your grandmother.

2. Oversized Frames

Stick with me on this one because you might be thinking, “I can’t nail prints into the walls, Laura”

I got you. If you buy oversized frames you can tilt those frames on an entry table or dresser. Oversized frames add height, color and personality to a space.

Never underestimate the power of a tilt. Just tilt it and forget it.

This print below is tilted and you may recognize the pattern from this hack.

3. THROWS + PILLOWS

Did you ever think why hotels always feel like a hotel and yet an Airbnb or a VRBO feels more like home?

Throws and pillows.

Yep, a throw and pillows are what every renter needs in their home. It’s a commitment that you are staying awhile.

4. BASKETS

Want to score double points on how to make your rental feel like home?

Add a basket.

Baskets add a healthy balance between clutter and containment-especially in a small rental.

5. NOISE BUSTERS

When I work with first-time buyers they always share what they don’t like about living in a 10 story apartment rental. The noise. Not all rentals have adequate noise abatement measures.

Open a window just a smidge (depending on what floor you are on in your building). Add a strand of bells, petite wind chimes or dream catchers. Just something that reminds you of the fresh air and the stillness in early mornings.

Fans work too! A fan generates a bit of a breeze in a stale room and adds some white noise to your surroundings. I have this one and it has several settings.

And, speaking of windows – window ledges offer a bit of additional space. Think of a window ledge as a console table.

Thank you for stopping by today.

Here are a few wall decor options that don’t require nails.

These work well if you are allowed to use these.

How to Decorate a BEDROOM ON A BUDGET

7 IDEAS TO DECORATE YOUR FIRST PLACE

Here is a fun gift for young adults living on their own for the first time.

WEEKLY IDEAS STRAIGHT TO YOUR INBOX

MONEY SAVING TIP FOR ONLINE SHOPPING

April 12, 2021

my favorite money-saving tip for online shopping enthusiasts

Does anyone shop at Overstock with the jumbo wheel of price savings when you land on their page? I always “win” 15% off, but I have yet to figure out how to redeem the savings at checkout. Today I have a money-saving tip for online shopping. And, the best part is you never have to remember the sale code at the top of the site that always disappears at checkout.

MONEY SAVING TIP FOR ONLINE SHOPPING

Here’s a money-saving tip for online shopping purchases that is like spinning the discount wheel at checkout.

I am talking about the Capital One extension on your browser. You don’t have to have a Capital One account or card.

STEPS

1. Google the Capital One Extension in Chrome (or your browser).

It’s super easy and takes a few seconds and works with the major browsers.

My screen shows a “remove from Chrome” because I have the extension installed.

When enabled successfully you will see an italicized grey “S” at the top of your screen.

Here is the direct link to add the extension to your browser.

2. Next time you shop online and you get to the checkout page something magical happens at checkout. The shopping extension searches quietly in the background for any potential coupon codes tied to that retailer.

The next screen will show something like this:

At the same time that you get to apply coupon codes to your purchase, you also accumulate credits (money) for future purchases on popular sites. I used mine to buy a Homegoods electronic gift card. And turned around and applied that credit to these chairs.

The best part is you never have to remember the codes at checkout. I am always surprised when the familiar pop-up window appears at checkout. I ordered popcorn tins for my kids for Valentine’s Day and I got $10 off the order.

Now, sometimes the retailer may not have any coupons and then this message pops up:

You have the option to ad your credit card for future purchases but I just skip that step as I don’t like to store my credit cards with retailers.

That’s it! Here is just one of the items I purchased at Pottery Barn last winter when both our boys returned home in mid-March. I got the discount and then I got a reminder to “cash out” for an electronic gift card. I chose Homegoods for my gift card.

Sometimes you feel like you hit the lottery when you get more than one discount.

Here is the direct link to add the extension to your browser. It will add a grey “S” at the top of your screen that let’s you know it was enabled successfully.

WEEKLY IDEAS STRAIGHT TO YOUR INBOX

10 SURPRISING SOURCES OF PET ODORS

1. FRESH AIR

2. CEILING FANS

3. VINEGAR

4. BAKING SODA

5. WASH ENTRY RUGS

6. LINT ROLLER

7. CLEAN UP THE BACKYARD

8. BRUSH DOGS REGULARLY

9. WASH THE WALLS

10. FRESH GREENS OR FLOWERS

TIP FOR TECH CHALLENGED PARENTS

TECH CHALLENGED PARENTS OR SISTERS

TIP FOR NON TECH SAVVY PARENTS OR SIBLINGS

TIPS

STRATEGIES FOR FIRST TIME HOME BUYERS

STEPS TO STAIN SMALL OBJECTS

How to Stain Small Objects

WHY I LOVE ENGINEER PRINTS

WHERE TO PRINT ENGINEER PRINTS

STEPS TO PRINT

SUGGESTIONS

HOW TO ADD CHILDHOOD KEEPSAKES

CHILDHOOD KEEPSAKE VIDEO

STEPS TO PREP SALT +PEPPER SHAKERS

HOW TO LOAD THE SALT AND PEPPER SHAKERS

HOW TO ADD QUIET TO YOUR DAY

HOW TO MAKE INDOOR PLANTS LOOK BIGGER

5 TIPS TO LOSE THE LOVE HANDLES

1. Start every morning with 20 sips (gulps) of water.

2. Stop eating 3 hours before bedtime.

3. One glass of wine.

4. Make less look like more

5. Add greens to everything

DOG WATER BOWL HACK

SPRING SHOWERS AND CUSHIONS

HOW TO KEEP PATIO CUSHIONS DRY

How to Keep Patio Cushions Dry

STEPS TO KEEP PATIO CUSHIONS DRY

Join the Everyday Edits Community

HOW TO FIX SAGGING COUCH CUSHIONS

THE HACK

HOW TO FIX SAGGING COUCH CUSHIONS VIDEO

HOW TO UPDATE BEDROOM DECOR

PIN FOR LATER

5 THINGS TO MAKE A RENTAL FEEL LIKE HOME

1.Extension Cords

2. Oversized Frames

3. THROWS + PILLOWS

4. BASKETS

5. NOISE BUSTERS

MONEY SAVING TIP FOR ONLINE SHOPPING

STEPS