Alternatives to the Traditional Lawn

What makes a lawn beautiful? Although, most of us, at first thought, envision an expanse of emerald green grass, thick and lush, which we work hard to maintain, rarely do we let our minds move past this traditional concept for a lawn.  But since all things in nature are beautiful, with a little imagination and creativity, we can transform our traditional lawns into more interesting and romantic landscapes that we can enjoy.  I think I might put some of these ideas to work at my own home and lose my traditional lawn. 

The Case for Losing the Traditional Lawn

Architects, interior designers, and more ∨

Hire residential landscape architects to help with all aspects of landscape design, from selecting or designing outdoor furniture, to siting a detached garage or pergola.
As you revamp your house, browse photos for inspiration on everything from fireplace mantels to crown molding and wainscoting.

Home Remodels Can Strain a Relationship, Survey Finds

Remodeling a home can definitely strain a relationship.  I certainly can vouch for that!  It's gotten to the point where my husband will wait for me to go to work before starting his latest project on our home, no matter what it is.   And as far as I'm concerned, I'd rather be at work than be the object of his frustration when a home project doesn't go quite as planned.  I know my husband sure does get frustrated with me when I repeatedly ask for his opinions on colors or ideas...and then don't listen to them.    If this sounds like your relationship during a remodel project, and sometimes it feels like a hard hat would be in order - you're not alone.  In fact, 12% of couples in the middle of a  remodel consider divorce or separation, says a Houzz August 2013 survey.

 

Home Remodels Can Strain a Relationship, Survey Finds

The Biggest Credit Mistake You Can Make

                          

The biggest credit mistake you can make is probably something you'd never expect would have a negative consequence.  So, although it will feel great when you can finally pay off your balance and  tear up that card, there are many reasons to resist the temptation that would remove credit history that can benefit your credit.  Should you still feel you must, there are ways to do it that will minimize the damage in this MSN Money article.

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Getting a Mortgage After Foreclosure - MSN Real Estate

Getting a mortgage after you have gone through a short sale, bankruptcy or foreclosure will be challenging, but it's not impossible.

Getting a mortgage after foreclosure - MSN Real Estate

 

 

The Versatile Home Cleaner You Keep in Your Pantry

We're all aware that aside from its use as a baking ingredient, baking soda can also be used as a non-toxic natural cleanser. But I bet you'll be surprised to find out just how versatile a produce it really is.  After reading this article, it will be pretty clear that banking soda can out-shine many of the more expensive cleansers on the market today.  It's all natural, and it's probably in your pantry right now.

Baking Soda: The Amazing All-Natural Cleanser You Already Own

Kitchen ideas, bathroom ideas, and more ∨

Hire an decorator to find that just-right sofa couch and cocktail table for your living room.
Work with a home decorator when choosing area rugs or hanging new window blinds in your home.

 

I Can Help You Price Your Home Correctly

 

Kayaking the Shallotte River

      In January, my husband and I rented a house in the Florida Keys right on the Gulf of Mexico for a week.  The home was a big splurge for us, but well deserved since I had not been on vacation for 2 years.  The home came with two kayaks for guests, and Hank and I very much enjoyed tooling around in the calm, beautiful waters outside the home. I think it was right then and there that my husband decided he had to have a kayak.  Hank is a man who likes to enjoy life...and he has the toys to prove it!        
     Once back home in Shallotte, NC, everyday Hank was on the computer, researching the different types, specifications and prices.  Let's say, when he wants something, he just doesn't stop until he gets it and for three months there was not a day that went by that Hank did not mention the word kayak!  That's what he does, he wears me down.  Sound familiar???
  "Kayaking would be something we could do together", he said - that's always important.   It would also be a form of exercise that we would actually enjoy doing because we'd be doing it on the water - something we love.  Another big plus, as far as I was concerned, was that kayaks don't have motors so they can't break down, they do not require a registration or insurance, or gas for that matter -  all good things,  I agreed to the purchase!  
     As mentioned, Hank had spent the last 3 months researching the subject (he's retired and has too much time on his hands) and was ready to go as soon as I said the word. We made the purchase which was a bit hefty for my taste, but I must say, I am loving it.  We got the kayaks in May and have gone for rides in the Intracoastal Waterway a couple of times.  While that was a lot of fun, dealing with the tide and currents, and the wakes from boats and jet skis speeding by, was a little challenging but I didn't mind that too much - it was a good workout.

Hank on the Shallotte River

      What I really enjoy, though, is kayaking the Shallotte River.  There is something about being able to navigate the small river streams where only fish can go that is so exciting, yet so relaxing.  We fished the river and although we had no luck, we had a spectacular time.  In the kayak, everything is at your fingertips - it has to be.  So when I wanted to fish in a spot for awhile, I just reached for my little anchor and dropped it in; cast my fishing pole and hoped for a bite.  I saw fish jumping around me, egrets and herons in the marsh grass and I know I want to go back and really try to get proficient at it...and maybe even catch some fish!