May 2024 - PLAYWORKEATREPEAT

Friday Favourites

Hi friends! Happy Friday! This week has flown by and totally run away from me. I thought that I would have so much time this week because I’ve been off from work looking after Steve. But no! Instead I have been on the go nonstop and totally out of my usual routine. So I’m just popping in to say hi and share one big favourite! My family are always my number one favourites! I think they are the best! They are always there for me, and this week, as usual, they have been so supportive and helpful in so many ways after Steve underwent surgery last Friday. Half of our cousin connect group visited him last Saturday night, we left the hospital quite late and stopped off for dinner at an Italian restaurant. We had pizza and pasta, and I didn’t realize how hungry I was until the food came out. My appetite is the first thing to go when I’m a bit stressed! Sunday we were back at the hospital to pick him up. It sure was a quick stay after such a big operation! We were planning on catching an Uber as my car is too small and Sam’s car is too low. There was no way Steve would have been able to manage getting in and out of either of our cars with an operated knee and crutches. My cousin offered to come and get him and I didn’t even have to ask. She has a seven-seater SUV so my family and her family all fitted in the car very comfortably. Haha, we all went as one big group to pick Steve up from the hospital. Afterwards, I asked them to stay for dinner, and we had turkey burgers and finished off with ice cream cones for dessert. It was a fun way to welcome Steve home! My friends have also been incredibly supportive, sending texts, checking in on us, and offering so much love and support. Kind friends and loving family are huge favourites, and I just wanted to share how grateful I am for them. It’s a super short and sweet Friday Favourites today! Thank you so much for stopping by, and I hope you have a wonderful weekend. Hope to see you back here on Monday!

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How to Find More Free Time in Your Life

1 Comment / Health and Well Being, Home

No matter how packed your schedule may seem or how compelled you feel to be constantly busy, there’s always a way to carve out some free time for yourself. And you know what? You absolutely deserve it – time to unwind, recharge, and enjoy yourself. So, here are some tips on how to find that crucial free time in your life: How To Find More Free Time In Your Life Unlocking Efficiency: Your Digital Assistant To start, let technology work for you rather than against you. While it’s easy to get lost in endless scrolling on social media, the right apps can actually help you reclaim some of that lost time. Utilise apps to streamline everyday tasks such as bill payments, grocery orders, or even scheduling social media posts. For businesses, consider employing online hospitality training or virtual assistant services to delegate tasks that would otherwise consume your time. It’s akin to having a personal assistant who won’t spread rumours about you at the water cooler! The Art of Saying “No” Mastering the art of saying “no” is like discovering a hidden treasure within yourself. When faced with yet another request, harness your inner strength and graciously decline. You don’t have to be everything to everyone. Remember, each time you say “yes” to something you’re not passionate about, you’re essentially saying “no” to the opportunity to find free time in your life. So, prioritise wisely and make room for those moments of relaxation and joy that truly matter to you. Embrace Marie Kondo’s Method Get ready to declutter like a pro with Marie Kondo’s timeless wisdom! If it hasn’t been used, worn, or even crossed your mind in the past year, chances are, it’s not sparking joy. Decluttering isn’t just about tidying up your space; it’s about clearing your mind too. With fewer items to sift through, you’ll spend less time hunting down what you actually need. And the best part? Less stuff means less cleaning—talk about a double win! The Power of Batching Discover the power of batching! It’s like creating your own productivity assembly line. By bundling similar tasks together and tackling them in focused bursts, you’ll streamline your life with efficiency. Allocate dedicated slots for activities like email checking, errand running, or phone calls. This way, you’ll avoid the constant back-and-forth, saving both mental energy and precious time to find more free time in your life for what truly matters. Smart Outsourcing Outsourcing isn’t just for big businesses—it’s a game-changer for anyone ready to find and reclaim more free time in life with a smile! Instead of juggling chores like cleaning or meal prep, why not hand them over to the pros? With more free time in your life, you can dive into the things that truly light you up, whether it’s a playful game of hide-and-seek with your kids or a laughter-filled wine night with friends. It’s a smart move that leaves you with more moments of joy and less stress. Embrace “Good Enough” Let’s face it: perfectionism is the ultimate time thief. Sometimes, settling for ‘good enough’ is more than okay—it’s liberating! Not every meal needs to rival a five-star restaurant, and not every email needs to read like a literary masterpiece. So, why not give yourself permission to lower the bar every now and then? Your schedule will thank you, and you’ll discover newfound moments of free time in life to savour and enjoy. Find Your Quiet Hours Uncover your power hours and make them sacred! Whether it’s the tranquil dawn before the hustle begins or the serene night when the world settles, these moments are pure gold. Dive into tasks that demand your full attention and watch your productivity soar. Utilise them for tasks demanding your utmost focus, and witness how swiftly you can conquer your to-do list. Conclusion: Reclaim Your Time and Enjoy Life Reclaiming your time is within your grasp, no matter how hectic life may seem. You deserve those moments to unwind, recharge, and enjoy life. So, armed with the tips, embark on a journey to find more free time in your life. Whether it’s harnessing technology, mastering the art of saying “no,” or embracing simplicity, each step brings you closer to a life filled with joy and relaxation. So go ahead, seize the day, your well-being is worth it!

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Increase Your Home Security This Season

1 Comment / Home, Home Improvement Ideas

Ready to take your home to the next level? Imagine a place where you never have to worry about your family or belongings. This season, you can achieve that by choosing to increase your home security. Create a safe haven and enjoy lasting peace of mind, knowing your loved ones and valuables are protected. Let’s explore how you can transform your home into a fortress of security and comfort! Increase Your Home Security This Season Repair Your Roof First things first—make sure you’re fixing the roof of your property! Any issues with the roof can become significant entry points into your home. Plus, a well-maintained roof shows that your property is well cared for, reducing the chances of a thief breaking in. So, let’s get that roof fixed and keep your home secure and inviting. Repair Windows and Doors Next up, let’s talk about your windows and doors. Ensuring they’re in top condition is crucial. If your windows don’t lock properly or your door locks get stuck, it’s time to fix them. Secure windows and doors are key to keeping intruders out. You can tackle these repairs yourself or hire a professional to get the job done right. Plus, making these improvements not only boosts your security but also increases your home’s value. It’s a win-win situation! Add Spotlights to the Garden Want to increase your home security in a simple yet effective way? Add spotlights to your garden! This is especially crucial if your home backs onto an open area like fields. Spotlights can act as a powerful deterrent, making criminals think twice before approaching your property. Opt for motion-sensor spotlights that activate when someone gets too close. You can even adjust the settings to avoid false alarms from animals like cats. Enhance your home’s security and enjoy peace of mind with this smart upgrade. Smart Locks Looking to boost your home security effortlessly? Consider adding smart locks to your outer doors! These high-tech locks let you know exactly who’s coming and going, perfect for keeping tabs on your kids arriving home from school while you’re still at work. Smart locks come in a variety of price ranges, so you can enjoy this cutting-edge feature without breaking the bank. Upgrade your home’s security with smart locks and enjoy peace of mind like never before. Extra Protection There are plenty of extra options to explore to protect your property. Consider adding more fencing around your property or reinforcing existing fencing. This is a great way to set up your home as a potential deterrent against criminals who might be exploring the area. Don’t forget, that thieves often scout out neighbourhoods and target homes that provide the easiest option. Making your home more secure reduces the likelihood of a break-in. That said, it’s essential to ensure that features like this meet the right standards. One effective way to do this is by using professional solutions such as colorbond gates. Not only does this increase your home security, but it’s also a great way to boost the value of your property. Enhance Your Home Security with CCTV Systems Thinking about installing CCTV systems might seem like a big step, but it’s a smart choice for several reasons. Firstly, it acts as an effective deterrent against intruders. Secondly, it allows you to keep an eye on your property, even when you’re not there. With cloud-based systems, you’ll receive 24/7 updates on your property, giving you peace of mind, especially if you live alone or are away at work. Don’t wait any longer to increase your home security—install a CCTV system today and protect what matters most. Boost Your Home Security with Alarms Now it’s time to set up alarms around your home! With a variety of setups and solutions available, you can easily find the perfect fit for your needs. Consider placing alarms at key entry points or opt for a comprehensive system that covers your entire property. Don’t wait any longer—take action today to safeguard your home and enjoy peace of mind knowing you’re protected. Elevate Your Home’s Security with Reinforced Windows Don’t let the idea of reinforced windows intimidate you—it’s actually a smart move! Strengthening your windows makes it tougher for intruders to break in, especially if you don’t have an alarm system. Plus, it’s a game-changer if you have energetic kids prone to wild ball games—they’ll withstand the action without a scratch! Invest in reinforced windows today for a safer and more secure home, ensuring peace of mind for years to come. Enhance Your Home Security with Small Deterrents As you wrap up your security upgrades, don’t overlook the power of small deterrents. These little tricks can make a big difference in deterring potential intruders. Consider investing in timer plugs for your lights, allowing you to create the illusion of activity even when you’re away. It’s perfect for extended vacations or nights out. Another smart tactic is to ask your neighbours to park in your driveway while you’re away—it creates the impression that someone is always home, keeping burglars at bay. Increase your home security with these small yet effective measures and enjoy greater peace of mind. Conclusion By implementing these key steps, you’ll effectively increase your home security, transforming it into your ultimate sanctuary. Remember, enhancing security standards not only protects your loved ones and belongings but also adds significant value to your property. This investment will be invaluable, especially when it’s time to sell. Take charge of your home’s security today and enjoy peace of mind tomorrow!

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May-What’s Up Wednesday

9 Comments / Home, What's Up Wednesday

Hi friends and welcome to this month’s edition of What’s Up Wednesday! It’s great to be here today linking up with Shay and Sheaffer to share a little of what we have been up to in May. WHAT WE’RE EATING THIS WEEK Monday night we had what I call Mexican chicken. I didn’t follow a recipe but I threw in a few ingredients with Mexican flavours. I started with some juicy chicken that I marinated in zesty lime, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt and pepper. Then I added colourful capsicums, tomato wedges and red onion. Threw in a handful of chopped coriander and served it with rice. Bingo! Dinner was ready! Tuesday night I made my mum’s version of a Spanish tortilla. I was so proud of myself for flipping it over in one piece! Go me!! I’ve been home from looking after Steve as he recovers from surgery so I have been also making lunches as well. Usually, everyone fends for themselves and will have leftovers, or sandwiches. Steve often makes himself an omelette before he starts work in the late afternoon. Scrambled eggs with avocado Pumpkin soup Cesar salad with poached chicken Tonight for dinner we’re having Teriyaki Salmon, Asian salad and rice. Thursday- Chilli con carne Friday- Chicken schnitzel, baked vegetables and lots of gravy Saturday- It’s Cousin Connect and this time we are going out for dinner. WHAT I’M REMINISCING ABOUT To be honest, I haven’t had a chance to reminisce about anything. I have been so laser-focused on getting through this month with assessment tasks for my course and Steve’s surgery. But now that all that is behind us, I’ll be reminiscing all the good stuff for sure! WHAT I’M LOVING I have all of this week off from work, and being the homebody that I am, I have loved being at home! Even if I have been working hard taking care of Steve. Haha! There is so much to do when you’re caring for someone. Between making sure he’s comfortable, helping him do his recovery exercises, assisting him when he walks and making sure he’s safe — although, God knows what I would do if he fell on me! He’s a bug guy!! As well as preparing meals, and keeping up with the household chores, my days have been pretty full. Thankfully, he’s a good patient. As I said to my friend the other day when she texted me to see how I was doing. I haven’t felt the need to swipe his leg…..yet! WHAT WE’VE BEEN UP TO It rained so much at the beginning of this month but we still went along to the Farmer’s market the first weekend of May. I love going to the market and I’m glad they run it all year round and even in the rain. We celebrated May the 4th with my Star Wars-loving cousins and saw The Empire Strikes Back and Return Of the Jedi all on the same day. We had a break in between movies and had lunch at a dumping place. It was another dreary and rainy day so this dumpling soup sure hit the spot! We went to see my cousin perform at the Winter Gala. Sam came home from Japan after spending a week there with two friends. He had a wonderful time and brought home a pile of snacks to share with the family. We’ve munched our way through a few packets and there are some very interesting flavours! Steve and I had a lovely time in the city. We had some drinks at a pub and watched some talented people dancing to a live swing band. We had dinner at a cute and cozy Japanese restaurant. I explored a little bit of Kings Cross as I waited for Steve to get out of surgery last Friday. It’s such an interesting place! WHAT I’M DREADING I’m not dreading anything and I couldn’t be happier. Everything that I was dreading has already happened. Yay! WHAT I’M EXCITED ABOUT I think I’m just excited about not dreading anything! WHAT I’M WATCHING I am still watching the Swedish comedy/drama series Bonus Family. I love it and if you watched it, I’m sure you’d love it too! We finished the latest season of Survivor and I was happy with who won. But I won’t say who in case you’re watching. I accidentally found out who the winner was before I saw the last episode, thanks to my Google Home feed Grrrr! I’m also watching the latest season of Masterchef Australia, it’s such a good show! WHAT I’M LISTENING TO I’m listening to Radiohead because Sam is listening to Radiohead and that’s all I hear lately. WHAT I’M WEARING I love my Lululemon bag! I’ve pulled out the coats! WHAT I’M DOING THIS WEEKEND It’s Cousin Connect this Saturday and this time we are going to eat burgers at a food truck! Then we are all coming back to our place for dessert. I’m not sure what to do for dessert yet, but I’m considering maybe putting together a small dessert bar. WHAT I’M LOOKING FORWARD TO NEXT MONTH I have some fun dinner plans on two consecutive Friday nights and I’m very excited. The places we are going to have DJs so you know where I will be after dinner! And that wraps up May. It sure went by in a flash and I can hardly believe that we are now halfway through the year! I’m happy to say goodbye and thank you to May, it was a challenging month but we made it through and now I can breathe a sigh of relief! Thanks so much for being here today and I hope you have an amazing day. I look forward to being back here on Friday to share some favourites! See ya!

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Exploring Kings Cross

5 Comments / Discovering NSW Australia, Hello Monday, Home

Hi friends and welcome to Hello Monday on a Tuesday. I hope you all had a wonderful weekend! I shared on Friday that my husband had a knee replacement and so far I’m happy to report that all is going well. Yay! He had the surgery at East Sydney Private Hospital which is about a ten-minute walk from Kings Cross. Kings Cross is a lively area in Potts Point, just east of the Sydney business district. So while I waited (hours) for Steve to come out of surgery. I spent some of the morning exploring a little and I thought I would share some of the interesting things I saw. Exploring Kings Cross Kings Cross in Sydney has a very rich and colourful history. It started as a fancy area in the 19th century but changed a lot during World War II when it became popular with American soldiers. After the war, it turned into a hotspot for artists and free spirits. Then in the 60s and 70s, it was incredibly famous for its nightlife and red-light district. Recently, it has been revitalised and what makes Kings Cross so interesting and unique is the combination of its racy past with current trendy shops and eateries. I only spent a short while wandering around but I want to go back during the next school holidays with my fun friend and explore some more. The Iconic Coca-Cola Sign The first thing you see right at the beginning as you first enter Kings Cross is this massive Coca-Cola sign. It’s such an iconic landmark in Sydney and you can’t miss it. I’ve seen it lit up at night and it looks amazing! The Interesting Shops What really stood out for me about Kings Cross is the diversity of people as well as the variety of shops and businesses. I saw some shops like this one called Penny’s Cheese Shop that was (you guessed it) full of cheese as well as other delicious gourmet delights. The aroma of cheese inside the store made my mouth water and I want to go back and have the cheese toasties. A lovely home decor shop that smelled amazing with so many varieties of candles and reed diffusers! Then amongst all the trendy homeware, fashion and gourmet food shops, there were so many adult shops as well. Such a contrast! El Alamein Memorial Fountain I kept wandering along until I stumbled across the famous El Alamein Memorial Fountain. It looks like a massive dandelion– so pretty, especially on such a sunny day with beautiful blue skies. Cafes and Restaurants There were so many places to eat and whole laneways lined with cafes and restaurants. I snapped a not-very-good pic of a photo shoot featuring two glamorous models. Kings Cross or “The Cross” as it’s often called, is a fascinating mix of contrasts. You’ve got the ultra-rich mingling in cafes and then nearby there are pockets where you see the sad reality of people clearly struggling with addiction. It’s like being in two worlds at the same time which I found hard to wrap my head around. The Interesting Buildings In Kings Cross, the contrasts aren’t just in the people; they’re in the architecture too. You’ve got modern buildings rubbing shoulders with historic, art deco gems. It feels like you’re walking through a time warp! I think that it’s this blend of old and new that makes Kings Cross such a charming, interesting and very unique place to visit. I really only caught a glimpse last Friday morning. So I’m looking forward to exploring it again soon and taking lots more photos, especially of the buildings. Thanks so much for stopping by today and I look forward to being back on Wednesday. Have a wonderful day or night wherever you may be! Linking up with Holly and Sarah.

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Friday Favourites

7 Comments / Friday Favorites, Home

Hey there, friends! It’s great to be here sharing some Friday favourites on this sunny autumn day. I’m hanging out at Kings Cross Library, catching up on blogs as well as blogging while I wait for my husband to go into surgery. The library has these comfy nooks where you can work from and here I am! Well, Steve was supposed to go in for surgery an hour ago, but there’s been a delay. Not to worry, I’m sure it won’t be long now. But I sure am glad that I brought my laptop with me so I have something to do while I wait. I have two big favourites to share, and I’m happy to say that they are both related to one of my favourite topics–kindness! Assessment Done and Dusted! First up I’m ecstatic to say that I have finished the first part of what feels like a neverending study journey. It’s only been three months so maybe I’m exaggerating. It feels neverending though! As part of my course, I had to have a workplace assessment. And the assessor came to visit me at preschool on Tuesday and she couldn’t have been nicer. So that is a huge favourite! When she first arrived she assured me that everything was going to be fine and I shouldn’t be nervous. She was so kind and almost made me feel relaxed (almost, haha). Anyway, she was lovely and sat in the classroom watching how I went about the morning. The kids must have sensed she was friendly because they kept coming to her and saying hi asking ‘Why are you here?’. I loved her response ‘to play!” She said, how sweet! Afterwards, we headed to the staffroom where she had a stack of questions waiting for me. I had already completed numerous assessment tasks, and now I had to provide verbal responses while she took notes. What a process! After about two hours, we finally finished. Phew, and hooray! Once I said goodbye and escorted her out of the building, I returned to the staffroom and happily collapsed over a chair like a ragdoll. My coworker saw me and laughed. Now I have to wait a few weeks for results (the kind assessor assured me I had nothing to worry about) and then I can get on to starting the next part of my study journey. Surgery Day Today is surgery day for Steve and I mentioned earlier that I was waiting for him to go in. He just sent me a text a few minutes ago – he’s prepped and ready. Today he will get a new knee and then begin a three-month recovery. He’s having the operation at East Sydney Private Hospital. And this morning we caught the train and got off at King Cross station, the nearest station to the hospital. Sam offered to drive us in but it was easier to catch the train. Google Maps said it was a 10-minute walk to the hospital but when we got out of the station we were both unsure which way to go. So I stopped a lady to ask her for directions and she was also unsure. She pulled out her phone and started searching for the hospital. She found where it was and then offered to drive us there! I was speechless, Steve and I both were! She was so friendly and on the way she shared that her name was Hannah and she was from the U.K. but had lived in the area for 20 years. We drove for at most five minutes. When we got out of the car, she wished us well and said she’d pray that Steve’s surgery would go well. It was such a pleasure meeting kind Hannah from the U.K. She was beautiful on the outside and the inside! Meeting kind people like her encourages me to remember to keep spreading kindness. When we got to the hospital and met with the nurse who took Steve’s details etc. He asked us how we got to the hospital and we shared that a kind stranger had given us a lift. He too was amazed and said ‘There’s hope for humanity’. Haha, I agree! I guess this week has been all about kindness and I can’t think of a better favourite than that! The assessor was kind and reassuring, and my work colleagues have also been very kind, showering me with encouragement and confidence that I was going to nail assessment day. Then there was kindness from a stranger this morning and of course so much kindness from you guys in the comments last week. Thank you so much, everybody! You all made this week so much better than I ever could have hoped for. I hope you have a wonderful weekend! Update- It’s 7 pm Sydney time and the nurse finally called me to say that Steve is in recovery. I’m waiting to see him but it will be another 45 minutes until he’s moved to his room. He went into surgery at around 1 pm so it’s been a long day! Linking up with Andrea and Erika

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Household Leak Prevention Tips

1 Comment / Home, Home Improvement Ideas

Drip by drip, leaks can wreak havoc on your home if left unchecked. Whether you’ve faced the nightmare of water damage before or you’re keen to keep your home dry, understanding the ins and outs of household leaks is essential. Let’s explore the common culprits, how to spot them, and what actions to take to ensure effective household leak prevention. Household Leak Prevention Tips Starting from the top: The Roof Think of your roof as your home’s steadfast guardian against the elements. But even the mightiest protector can falter. Cracks, missing tiles, or simply the wear and tear of time can compromise its integrity, allowing water to seep in. Don’t wait for a deluge to realise your roof needs attention. Regular inspections, at least once a year, can catch potential issues early and save you from a rainy day surprise. Maintain your roof and prioritise household leak prevention to ensure it remains watertight. Leaky Faucets: The Stealthy Culprits Ever heard the rhythmic drip-drop of a leaky faucet? It’s not just annoying; it’s wasteful. Those tiny, persistent drips can add up to significant water loss and inflate your utility bills. Often, the culprit lies within worn-out washers or seals. Swift action to replace these parts or the entire faucet can stem the flow and prevent damage to your sink area. Stay proactive in household leak prevention by promptly addressing leaky faucets. Pipe Leaks: The Hidden Threat Unlike leaky faucets that announce their presence with sound, pipe leaks prefer to lurk in the shadows. Behind walls, under floors—wherever they can stay out of sight. Signs might be subtle: damp spots, musty odours, or a sudden uptick in water bills. Ignoring these signs could mean paying dearly for repairs down the line. Trust professionals who offer Entire Plumbing Solutions to locate and fix the leak before it wreaks havoc. Vigilance in household leak prevention is key to avoiding extensive water damage. Your Windows and Doors: Gateway for Unwanted Guests Windows and doors are not just portals to the outside world; they can also invite water in if not properly sealed. Gaps, cracks, deteriorated caulking—each offers an invitation to water intrusion, especially during storms. Keep an eye out for pooling water, peeling paint, or warped wood as signs of trouble. Regular maintenance and prompt repairs can keep your home watertight. Don’t overlook the importance of household leak prevention when it comes to maintaining your windows and doors. Your Basement and Foundation: Holding Up the Fort Water can accumulate beneath your home for various reasons, but the consequences are always troublesome. Poor drainage systems can lead to persistent water buildup, making a sump pump a valuable investment to keep things dry. Additionally, shifts in the soil or invasive tree roots can cause foundation cracks. That’s where expert teams like Resinject come in, offering crucial foundation repairs. Without timely intervention, you risk facing dampness, mould growth, and even severe structural damage to your home. Your Attic: The Overlooked Space While often relegated to storage, your attic plays a crucial role in protecting your home from leaks. Improper ventilation or damaged insulation can lead to moisture buildup, which can eventually find its way into your living spaces. Regularly inspect your attic for signs of water intrusion, such as stained insulation or mold growth. Addressing any issues promptly can contribute to comprehensive household leak prevention and preserve the integrity of your home’s structure. Appliances: The Silent Culprits Modern conveniences like dishwashers, washing machines, and refrigerators make life easier, but they can also harbour hidden leaks. Over time, hoses, seals, and connections can deteriorate, leading to water seepage. Check behind and beneath your appliances regularly for any signs of moisture or mould. Additionally, consider installing water leak detection devices near appliances to alert you to potential leaks before they cause significant damage. Taking proactive measures with your appliances is another essential aspect of comprehensive household leak prevention. Conclusion By staying vigilant and addressing leaks as soon as they rear their drippy heads, you can protect your home from costly water damage. From the roof to the foundation, every part of your home plays a crucial role in household leak prevention. So, keep your eyes peeled, your faucets tight, and your home dry. With regular maintenance and swift action, you can ensure that your home remains a fortress against water intrusion.

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Lawn Care Tips for a Stunning Outdoor Space

Leave a Comment / Home, Home Improvement Ideas

Having a yard is like having your own slice of paradise. It’s a space where you can bask in the sunshine, breathe in the fresh air, and admire the beauty of your landscape. While maintaining a lush, vibrant lawn requires effort, the reward is a breathtaking outdoor space that you can enjoy all year round. Let’s explore some essential lawn care tips to keep your lawn looking its best. Lawn Care Tips 1. Regular Mowing: The Foundation of a Gorgeous Lawn Your lawn is the first thing you notice when you step outside, so keeping it well-groomed is key. Therefore, regular mowing ensures your grass stays healthy, manageable, and aesthetically pleasing. Here’s how to make the most of your mowing routine with these lawn care tips: Stick to a Schedule: Mowing your lawn consistently prevents it from growing too long and becoming unruly. Aim to mow once a week during the growing season. Maintain Your Mower: A reliable lawnmower with sharp blades is essential. Dull blades can tear the grass, leading to a ragged look and increased susceptibility to disease. Regularly check your mower and replace any worn-out parts to keep it in top shape. Investing in high-quality lawnmower spare parts can extend the life of your mower, saving you money and ensuring your lawn stays in pristine condition. 2. Weed Control: Keeping Your Lawn Lush and Green Weeds can be a gardener’s nightmare, but they don’t have to be yours. Here’s how to tackle them effectively with these lawn care tips: Natural Methods: While chemical weed killers are effective, they can harm beneficial insects like bees. Opt for natural solutions such as vinegar sprays or manual removal to keep your lawn eco-friendly and safe for wildlife. Preventive Measures: Mulching and regular lawn maintenance can prevent weeds from taking root. A healthy, dense lawn is your best defense against invasive plants. Whether you love the rustic charm of wildflowers or prefer a perfectly manicured lawn, managing weeds is crucial to maintaining the look you desire. 3. Pet-Friendly Zones: Training Your Dog to Help Maintain Your Lawn Dogs bring joy to our lives, but their bathroom habits can leave unsightly yellow spots on your grass. Here’s how to create a designated elimination area for your furry friends: Training Tips: With patience and positive reinforcement, you can teach your dog to use a specific spot in your yard. Reward them with treats and praise whenever they go in the designated area. Consistency is Key: Consistent training and a little bit of effort will ensure your dog understands where to go, keeping the rest of your lawn looking immaculate. With a sprinkle of effort and a heap of “good dog” praise, you’re on track to achieve your goal! Check out this video to discover how to train your furry friend to use a designated spot in the yard for their bathroom breaks. 4. Seasonal Care: Adapting to the Changing Weather Different seasons bring different challenges for lawn care. Here are some seasonal lawn care tips to keep your lawn thriving year-round: Spring: Aerate and fertilize your lawn to encourage new growth. Address any bare spots by reseeding. Summer: Water deeply but infrequently to promote strong roots. Mow at a higher setting to protect your grass from heat stress. Fall: Keep mowing until the first frost and apply a fall fertilizer to prepare your lawn for winter. Winter: Keep your lawn clear of debris and avoid excessive foot traffic on dormant grass. 5. Enhancing Your Landscape: Beyond the Lawn To elevate your outdoor area, consider these additional tips: Flower Beds and Borders: To enhance your outdoor area, start by adding color and variety with well-maintained flower beds and borders. Additionally, choose plants that complement your lawn and thrive in your local climate. Pathways and Lighting: Create inviting pathways with stepping stones or gravel, and add solar-powered lights for an evening ambience. Outdoor Furniture: Invest in comfortable outdoor furniture to create a cozy space where you can relax and enjoy your beautiful yard. Transform your yard into a lush paradise with these lawn care tips! Firstly, maintain your lawnmower annually and swap out parts as needed to keep it running smoothly and efficiently. Then stick to a regular mowing schedule to keep your grass healthy and neat. Next, tackle those pesky weeds with your preferred method to keep your grass looking pristine. Create a designated spot for your furry friend’s bathroom breaks to avoid unsightly yellow patches. Furthermore, don’t forget about seasonal care—adjust your lawn care routine to match the changing weather, and enhance your landscape with colourful flower beds, inviting pathways, and cozy outdoor furniture. With a bit of effort and these helpful strategies, you’ll soon have a lawn and outdoor area you’ll be proud to show off and enjoy!

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Hello Monday!

8 Comments / Hello Monday, Home

Hi friends, and welcome to the Hello Monday link-up with Holly and Sarah. Thanks so much for reading along as I share a bit about what I got up to over the weekend. Saturday It’s so good to start Saturday morning with a cup of coffee. I used the grinder I bought on Amazon to grind some coffee beans my lovely friends bought me a little while ago. I only grind coffee on the weekends because it takes time and it also gives me a good arm workout. It’s a nice treat too! It was a wet, windy, and miserable Saturday morning. Steve and I, being a couple of nosey Parkers, went to a house auction. The house was in a suburb a 10-minute drive from our place. We don’t have any plans to move, but the house up for auction was in Steve’s dream location (near the water). He drives past it every day on his way to work, so he was curious to see how much it would sell for. We bundled up and watched the bidding war between two very keen buyers. Just before the auctioneer called “sold,” another buyer swooped in with a bigger offer and bought the house. It sold for an eye-watering four and a half million dollars! I couldn’t believe it, especially considering the condition the house was in. I took a photo of one of the rooms, but I wish I had taken more so you could see how it was a total mess, with mould in all the rooms. I’m sure it will be knocked down and rebuilt, but I just wanted to show you what property prices are like in some suburbs of Sydney! And Steve’s dream location will remain just that—a dream! Later in the afternoon, my groceries arrived. Can you spy some of my favourite weekend treats (hello salt and vinegar chips!) My big boy Luke came over, and we had nachos, corn salad, rice, and guacamole for dinner. Then we watched “Everything Everywhere All At Once.” I didn’t love it, as it was very all over the place and I was baffled throughout most of the movie. But later on, Luke explained that the main character has undiagnosed ADHD and that the film’s director, Daniel Kwan, was diagnosed with ADHD while writing the script. Interestingly, all his research led him to his diagnosis. I wish I had known this before watching the movie because, thinking back on it now, it makes more sense. I have a very close family member with a recent diagnosis, and it’s quite a journey. Saturday night, it was freezing, so we warmed up with some hot chocolate and Christmas cookies that were still in date. Haha! Sunday Sunday afternoon Steve and I went into the city. It felt like it had been ages since we had been anywhere and we had such a lovely evening! We had a drink in an old-style pub and watched some people having fun dancing to a live band. On the way to dinner, we stopped and listened to a guy play some well-known songs on his saxophone. I could have listened for hours, he was so talented! We had dinner in a little Japanese restaurant. Then we jumped on the train and went home for dessert and an episode of ‘Vera’. It was a lovely weekend, and I enjoyed spending time with my family. However, I have to admit that the whole time, I couldn’t shake a nervous, uneasy feeling in my stomach. I couldn’t stop thinking about the upcoming week. This week is not my favourite because I have an assessor coming to observe me at work for four hours tomorrow. It’s part of my course; she will watch how I interact with the children and families etc. Ugh! I can’t wait for tomorrow to be over, and I just hope I can act normal. I really do not like being ‘observed’! And I wish I could say that I will be relieved once tomorrow is over, but no, there’s more. Steve is having a knee replacement on Friday. Hopefully, on Saturday, I can finally breathe a sigh of relief. Please send prayers and good vibes my way. I would really appreciate them! Take care, and I hope to be back on Friday to share some favourites. There have to be some favourites about this week, right? Thanks for being here!

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Fun Favourites

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Hello friends and hello Friday! Thanks so much for joining me today as I share a few fun favourites for this week. Sam’s Home! My first fun favourite is, of course, having my boy back home after his trip to Japan! Yay!! We were very excited to go and pick him up last Saturday morning. I love going to the arrivals area at the airport and seeing the joyful reunions, tears and great big hugs. I get all emotional and choked up, just like I do every time I see the final scene of ‘Love Actually’. The plane landed at 8.10 am and we waited about an hour for Sam and his friends to get through customs etc. They were so tired and sick with colds. One of the guys had gotten sick in the first few days of the trip, and then the other two fell like dominoes. Sam said they had an amazing time and he loved Japan, but he was really glad to be home. I loved hearing this because I expected that he may have had the post-holiday blues. And I wouldn’t have blamed him at all because I remember always feeling the post-camp blues when I returned home after having had so much fun with my friends at church camp. Souvenirs From Japan Sam brought back a whole pile of snacks for us and the cousins. Some of Sam’s stories about his trip have had me in stitches, while others not so much. For instance, I’m glad I was blissfully oblivious to the fact that they spent most of the trip riding electric scooters in traffic minus helmets. According to Sam, the traffic isn’t as bad in Japan as it is here in Sydney and helmets are recommended but not compulsory for adults. Interesting! Ha! This miniature soba noodle set he brought back for me is just the cutest! He also got me a Curious George fold-up bag from a monkey park in Kyoto. A Samurai sword letter opener for his dad. A Pokémon plush for his big brother haha! As well as some Attack On Titan books and Magic cards. None of us expected any souvenirs and I thought Sam did amazing with his choices for us. Winter Gala 2024 Another fun favourite was seeing my cousin perform at the Winter Gala. She dances the Bachata with a dance studio and she delivered a fantastic performance with her partner and the rest of the group. I’m always amazed at how effortless partner dancing looks when other people do it. I’m terrible at it and always end up leading, which is a real mess because I don’t know how to partner dance at all! Mother’s Day Mother’s Days are tough and I guess they always will be. I felt sad for most of the morning, but then I gradually cheered up after receiving some beautiful Mother’s Day wishes from my family as well as some super kind and thoughtful texts from friends. My beautiful friend sent me this photo of her gorgeous kids (I love these two!) and a rainbow. I love that she always sends me rainbow pics whenever she sees one. For us, it’s a symbol that our mums are reaching out to us, and sure enough, on a rainy and miserable Mother’s Day, they did just that. Hi Mum! In the end Mothers Day turned out to be a perfectly low key day, which is exactly what I needed. Sam was still recovering from an ear infection, so we stayed home, ordered take away and watched the Barbie movie. I had already seen it but Sam and Steve hadn’t, and since it was Mothers Day, they were happy to watch it with me. Sam enjoyed it and Steve said it was the best movie he had ever seen – after he woke up. Mid-week Dinner With Friends Another fun favourite was having a mid-week event to look forward to. Our friends invited us over for dinner on Wednesday night, and we had such a lovely night. These friends are more like family than friends, and we have known them forever. We’ve shared all the highs and lows that life has thrown our way. Friends like this are priceless! For dessert, we had some chocolates and nougat–my favourite! Yum, I hadn’t had any nougat since Christmas and I more than made up for it. Blue Skies A big favourite this week was finally seeing some blue sky after so many rainy days. I snapped this pic while I was walking home after finishing work on Thursday. Blue skies make me happy! Self-Care At Work Our director at work put a self-care sign with cute illustrations on the staff room fridge and I think it’s full of great tips. I’m happy that I work with some uplifting colleagues and I’m also lucky enough to be able to call two of them my besties! And that’s a wrap for a few of this week’s fun favourites! Thank you so much for being here and I hope you have an amazing weekend. I look forward to being back here on Monday. See ya! Linking up with Andrea and Erika.

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