Having a spacious yard presents many benefits, including your kids having a big area to play in and you having an opportunity for future expansion. However, erosion can affect this area by messing with your drainage and soil and potentially turning your place into a mini flood zone. Considering that many homeowners are investing in backyard additions to boost their property value, you want to take steps to prevent erosion in your yard. Below are four ways you can achieve that. 

1. Add some grass 

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If you have a gentle slope, making your yard a bit too bare for comfort, it’s time to bring in some grass. Planting some grass seed or laying down sod isn’t just about aesthetics but a terrific way to fight against soil erosion. Those grassroots hold the top layer of soil in a firm embrace. When storms roll in, the grass slows down the runoff, absorbing excess water. It’s best to go for the deep-rooted turf types tailored to your climate for maximum erosion-fighting power. As a pro tip, ensure you consult professionals for the right sod installation to ensure you have grass that stays strong all year long. 

2. Build a retaining wall 

How do you keep your soil in check if you have a slope or raised area in your yard? A retaining wall can be the solution for most homeowners facing erosion trouble, serving as a solid support system for the soil behind it. Now, you can go all in with concrete blocks, bricks, stones, or even wood. These walls not only add a cool tiered garden vibe but also serve as the backbone for that raised garden bed you’ve been dreaming of. A retaining wall is useful for leveling up and dealing with the slope. 

3. Riprap 

You’re probably familiar with the never-ending battle with erosions if you have a beautiful pond or lake in your home. Fortunately, a riprap can offer the solution you need to prevent erosion from cramping your waterfront style. A riprap is basically a protective layer of large, angular stones, creating a rock-solid defense against the relentless forces of erosion. No matter how harsh the weather conditions, a riprap stands strong, stabilizing streambanks and areas that aren’t usually conducive for vegetation. Think of riprap as a stylish protection for your waterfront, keeping soil erosion at bay. 

4. Grow a rain garden 

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Imagine a charming garden nestled in a small dip, catching stormwater runoff. Filled with native plants and stylish river rocks, it’s not just eye candy. Those rocks also slow down the runoff while the garden’s basin catches the water. The native plants boast deep roots that filter out pollutants, giving you a cleaner, greener space. By putting the brakes on rushing rainwater, your rain garden becomes both aesthetic and functional, absorbing the water before it makes a speedy escape into nearby waterways or streams. 

These simple tips can go a long way in helping you prevent erosion in your yard and ensure you get the most benefits from your outdoor space.

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Jewelry is a luxury. It is not cheap to buy, even if you are able to get a great deal, and so you need to make sure that you get it right, right from the off. That being the case, below you will find some quick and simple tips to help you buy the right jewelry at the right price when you next decide to splash out.

1. Set a Budget: Keep Your Wallet Happy

First things first: set a budget. Trust me, nothing kills the joy of a new piece of jewelry faster than realizing you might have to live on instant noodles for the next month to afford it. Decide what you’re willing to spend and stick to it like glitter on your favorite party dress.

2. Research the Heck Out of It

Before you dive headfirst into the sparkly world of jewelry, do your homework. This means understanding different metals, stones, and their care. It’s like prepping for a big exam, except this time, you actually want to study.

3. Check Reviews: The Good, the Bad, and the Sparkly

Now, let’s talk reviews. Checking reviews, like this detailed Blue Nile Jewelry review, for example, is like getting advice from a bunch of friends who are oddly passionate about jewelry. They can give you the real scoop on quality, customer service, and if that necklace looks as shiny in person as it does online.

4. Know Your Style (or Theirs)

Make sure the piece fits your style (or the style of the person you’re buying for). You want something that’ll be worn, not something that’ll just sit in a drawer gathering dust like your collection of old cell phones.

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5. Think About the Occasion

Is this a “just because” piece or something for a special occasion? The context can help guide your choice. You don’t want to buy something that screams “red carpet glam” for a casual “just because” gift. Balance, people.

6. Check the Return Policy

Always, always check the return policy. Sometimes things just don’t work out – like that blind date with the guy who had a pet tarantula. You want to be able to return the jewelry if it’s not quite right, without a hassle.

7. Ask About Certifications

If you’re buying diamonds or other precious stones, ask about certifications. It’s like checking the credentials of your doctor – it gives you peace of mind knowing you’re getting the real deal.

8. Inspect the Craftsmanship

Look closely at the craftsmanship. The last thing you want is for your new bling to lose a stone or break because it was poorly made. It should be as sturdy as your love for Friday nights in with Netflix.

9. Consider the Care

Some jewelry requires more upkeep than others. Make sure you know how to care for it properly, so it doesn’t end up looking like it went through a garbage disposal.

10. Trust Your Gut

Last but not least, trust your instincts. If something feels off, or too good to be true, it probably is. Listen to that little voice in your head – it’s usually right (except for when it tells you to have that third piece of cake).

Now, you have your jewelry-shopping smarts, all that remains is to sit back and enjoy your bling.

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Who doesn’t love their furbaby? Their little four-legged friend, their fuzzy companion, the cutest member of the family: your pet. Living with our furry companions brings immeasurable joy; there’s no doubt about that. They’re silly, they’re sweet, maybe even cuddly if you’re lucky. But it can also present challenges, with one of them being their stench, yes, the dreaded pet odor. Which type of pet you have doesn’t really matter too much, as they all seem to have some sort of a stench issue. Cats have their litter box, rodents have their cage, dogs have their fur and paws, and birds have their cage, too. 

The same goes for all animals, even fishes; there’s always just some odor. When it comes to owning a pet, especially when being frugal, it’s not just cutting down adoption costs, but it’s healthcare, their food, toys, you name it, but even pet odor needs to be something too since it’s so prevalent. So, here’s how to frugally keep away pet odors in your home!

Make Sure to Start with a Regular Cleaning Routine

The foundation of combating pet odors on a budget lies in maintaining a consistent cleaning routine. When it comes to any odors in your home, it’s usually a simple cleaning and disposal that usually fixes the issue. So, making sure to regularly vacuum carpets, cleaning floors, and washing pet bedding can go a long way in preventing odors from taking hold. But it’s also a good idea to just go ahead and do some sweeping, dusting, and wiping down surfaces to help eliminate pet dander and hair, reducing the potential for persistent smells (which pet dander is known to do).

Look into an Air Purifier 

You don’t need to constantly put down carpet freshener, spray air freshener, or burn a candle. These usually just get mixed in with the odor, so you’re going to have only a weird stench throughout your home instead. Plus, all of these add up in the long run and can be fairly pricey, too. So, what you’ll want to do is get an air purifier that solely focuses on pet odors. When it comes to air purifiers, there are also filters you can look into as well for cages, aquariums, and even cat litter boxes that soak up the stench. 

Embrace the Magic of Baking Soda

This is not an old wives’ tale; this is definitely the truth! Baking soda is a budget-friendly powerhouse when it comes to neutralizing odors. While a lot of people know to put them in the fridge, this isn’t the only odor-eliminating space to put them in. You can sprinkle baking soda on carpets, pet bedding, and upholstery, allowing it to sit for at least 15 minutes before vacuuming it up. 

Plus, you can even place an open box of baking soda in areas prone to odors, such as near the litter box or in a closet. In general, this is a cheap odor-killing method since baking soda absorbs and eliminates unwanted smells effectively. The brand you choose is up to you, but Arm and Hammer have always had a pretty good reputation. 

Open Up to Fresh Air and Sunshine

Yes, you read that right! You should harness the power of natural elements by allowing sunlight and fresh air into your home. It’s really as simple as just opening your windows regularly since this can promote air circulation and let the sunshine naturally disinfect and deodorize surfaces. Plus, sunlight also helps eliminate moisture, reducing the risk of mold-related odors.

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Thinking about putting your house on the market? Before you rush into selling, it’s important to take care of some preparations. 

Conducting an inspection of your home is crucial as certain key features can greatly impact its sale value. In the real estate market nowadays, it is essential to make sure your home shines and stands out for all the reasons. 

After all, everyone wants their home to be the star of the neighborhood, right?

1. Kitchen Renovation

First stop, the kitchen. Which is truly the heart of your home. Aside from being a place for cooking. It also plays a significant role in your house’s overall appeal. Consider updating your kitchen with countertops and modern cabinets. These upgrades catch the eye of anyone. These are also wise investments that can enhance the market value of your home.

2. Bathroom Enhancements

Now, to the place where people do their personal hygiene activities, the bathroom. A space that can greatly influence buyers’ decisions. Refreshing outdated fixtures or adding tiles can bring life to this area. Simple changes here can turn a bathroom into an amazing one, proving that even small refinements go a long way.

3. Energy-Efficient Windows

Think about installing energy windows. They offer more than an upgrade; they are economical and environmentally friendly. Buyers often look for these features. They might even help you qualify for energy conservation tax credits. Choosing energy windows is a decision that adds both appeal and efficiency to your home.

4. Fresh Interior Painting

Let’s not underestimate the power of a coat of paint. Opting for soothing colors can breathe life into your living spaces, giving them a mini makeover effect. This ensures that your home presents itself in the light.

5. Improving Your Landscape

First impressions are crucial. So, landscaping plays a role. If you’re around Phoenix, enhancing your yard with an award winning landscape design can greatly enhance the appeal of your property. In addition, it’s important to consider things such as sprinklers and lighting. Even making small improvements in these areas can have an impact.

6. Reviving the Beauty of Your Hardwood Floors

Looking for a gem? Those aging hardwood floors could be one in your home. By sanding and refinishing, you can bring out their allure and turn them into a captivating point that is bound to attract potential buyers.

7. Upgrading Your Lighting Fixtures

Never underestimate the power of lighting. Switching to modern fixtures has the ability to completely transform any space from dull to vibrant. Remember, outdoor lighting also plays a role. It’s the touch that enhances the overall appeal of your home.

8. Incorporating Smart Home Features

Integrating smart home amenities like an advanced thermostat or security system can greatly enhance your chances of selling. These features provide convenience. They also give your home a contemporary touch, appealing to buyers seeking that extra edge.

9. Adding a Deck or Patio

A stylish deck or patio is more than a feature; it’s an upgrade in lifestyle. It serves as a haven for relaxation and entertainment. This is an asset and desirable for potential buyers. This addition could be the standout feature that influences their decision.

10. Ensuring Reliable Roofing

Lastly, having a roof is absolutely essential. It’s one of the things informed buyers inspect when considering a property. A maintained roof that is free from leaks is crucial. Look after it to have a satisfactory home inspection report as this influences the decisions of the buyers.

In conclusion, this serves as your manual for improving the attractiveness of your home in the real estate market. These enhancements refresh your living space and increase its potential to captivate potential buyers. Keep in mind that the proper renovations can greatly enhance the value of your home and set the stage for a sale. Best wishes as you embark on this journey of transforming your home for its phase. Happy selling!

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If you are finding yourself spending hours every day in the kitchen chopping vegetables and washing up, you’re not alone. It’s one of the most time-consuming aspects of most people’s days. 

The good news is that there are plenty of ways you work more efficiently and perform fewer tasks but still get the same results. All it takes is a little know-how. With the right approach, you could literally half the amount of time you spend preparing food and cleaning up afterward, freeing you up for everything else life has to offer. 

Here’s what you can try: 

Simplify Your Recipes

Following a 30-step recipe might produce a wonderful-tasting omelet. But when you delve into many of these complex recipes, you soon discover you can skip or combine steps. Many are unnecessary or only change the taste of the final dish in some minor way. 

Try cutting down recipe steps to below 10. If you still find yourself following complicated recipes, look for recipes online that simplify the process but still give you the meal you want. 

Use More Kitchen Gadgets

It’s also a good idea to use more kitchen gadgets. These help you reduce the amount of time you spend performing repetitive tasks, letting you focus on the more fun aspects of cooking. 

For instance, instead of always chopping vegetables by hand, get your food processor to do it for you. Many have easy-to-use attachments you fit before chopping bucket loads of vegetables in record time. 

Delegate Tasks To Others

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If you live with other people, you might be able to cut down on work by simply delegating tasks. Getting one person to chop and another to wash up can help you establish a more efficient workflow that lets you finish cooking even more complicated dishes in record time. 

Rethink Your Kitchen Layout

You might also want to go to a kitchen design center and rethink your kitchen layout. You could be arranging items ineffectively, forcing you to spend longer walking to cabinets and hunting for the items you need. 

Changing your kitchen layout can prevent this by providing you with a state-of-the-art design. Moving cabinets around and changing the sink’s location can make a tremendous difference in how long you spend in the room. 

Cook In Batches

You can also reduce the amount of time you spend in the kitchen by cooking in batches. This approach helps you prepare multiple meals in one sitting and simply add them to your freezer, warming them up again when you are ready to eat them. Just make sure you have enough space for everything you cook. 

Clean As You Go

A final tactic experienced kitchen users use is cleaning as they go. Tidying up as they proceed reduces the amount of clearing up you need to do at the end. It also helps the kitchen stay tidier as you cook, which can increase your efficiency further, making it easier to chop, find ingredients, and work on sideboards. 

So, which of these methods will you use to halve the time you spend in the kitchen? 

Hey there, Shopping Warrior!

Guess what time it is? Yep, Christmas – the season of love, laughter, and… oh boy, the shopping madness. Imagine you’re in this never-ending queue, arms full of “this-could-work” gifts, jingles blasting, and everyone around you just as thrilled (read: not) as you. But hey, I’ve got your back! Let’s dive into some life-saving tips to beat the holiday rush with a grin and your wits about you.

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The Early Bird Gets the Worm (and the Gifts)

Why join the December rush when you can be a gift-giving ninja in July? Hit those stores or online sales early. Yeah, picking Christmas gifts while others are sunbathing might feel weird, but who’s laughing when you’re all cozy and chill come December?

Your Couch + Online Shopping = Match Made in Heaven

Dashing through the snow to get to a store? Nah, let’s keep it real – online shopping from your Couch is where it’s at. No crowds, no queues, just you, your PJs, and your trusty laptop. Pro tip: When buying clothes online, sizing can be tricky. Wondering how to find your size when shopping online? Check the store’s size guides, a peep at those customer reviews for sizing hints, and if you’re still unsure, grab a tape measure. Trust me, it’s a lifesaver.

Midnight Shopping? Yes, Please!

If you do decide to brave the actual stores, why not shop at weird hours? Lots of places extend their hours during the festive season. Imagine shopping with fewer people and more peace – kind of like a retail midnight adventure.

Lists Are Life

Winging it during Christmas shopping is a no-go. Make a list, and yes, check it twice (Santa’s onto something). Jot down who you’re buying for, what they’d love, and any specific requests. This is your shopping battle plan!

Gift Cards are Gold

Stumped on gift ideas? Gift cards to the rescue! They might seem a bit blah, but really, they’re super thoughtful. It’s like saying, “I get you to have your own awesome taste, so go wild!”

Don’t Forget to Pamper Yourself

Shopping is tough work, so don’t skimp on self-care. Grab that fancy coffee, or curl up with a good book. You deserve a break from being Santa’s helper.

The Thrill of Last-Minute Finds

Okay, let’s be real for a second – sometimes, the thrill of last-minute shopping is just unbeatable. It’s like a festive treasure hunt! If you find yourself caught in the eleventh-hour rush, embrace the chaos with a cheeky grin. Dash through the aisles, make impromptu decisions (hello, quirky socks for Uncle Bob), and soak up the electric holiday atmosphere. Sure, it’s a bit wild, but hey, sometimes the best stories (and gifts) come from those spontaneous shopping escapades.

So there you have it, my fellow Christmas crusader. Remember, the real magic of Christmas isn’t in the shopping frenzy but in those warm, fuzzy moments with your loved ones. Keep these tips in mind, and here’s to a holiday shopping experience that’s more cheerful and less chaotic.