Summer is just around the corner and while we may be wishing that it couldn’t get here qucik enough, we also want to make sure that we’re prepared for it. Sprucing up your home to get it ready for this new season is easier than you think. There are some quick and fast fixes you can do such as checking the ceiling fans to getting your backyard ready for all the BBQ gatherings. Chck out below a few of these tips that will instantly update your home for all your outdoor needs.

BBQ Deep Clean- One of the first things I always think of when summer approaches is all the outdoor BBQ that we’ll be doing. However,the grill really does need to get a good clean before you begin to use it regularly. Depending on what type of grill grate you have, there are various tips that you need to know. The more expensive the grate, the longer will last over time and you might actually find the clean up to be easier. Follow the manufacturer's recommendation when it comes to including. Gas grills are usually offered in a porcelain coated stainless steel so you’ll want to clean it with a soft cloth or stainless steel cleaner. You’ll also want to let the grate cool completely than wash and scrub it in warm, soapy water to thoroughly remove the grease, grime and any stuck on food.

Trim Up The Long Branches: One way to help improve your yard is by looking at the long brahces that over grew during the cold months. Summer is a prime time for pruning and keeping the shrubs and trees looking attractive and healthy is key. If you don’t feel comfortable trimming the tree branches yourself, hire someone to do it before you. Don’t forget to not only check the trees around your house but also around your roof as well so branches aren’t causing debris or issues with your rooftop.

Image: Peter’s Roofing

Check The Roof: The Spring rain and winter snow can be especially hard on your roof. Be sure to have it inspected more than just every few years. Peter’s Roofing is a popular company that is there to assist you in keeping your family protected. They offer services such as roof repair in Newark, chimney, siding and more! Be sure to give them a call if you are looking into any sort of professional help or even asking questions on how you can keep your roof looking it’s best year after year.

Invest In Outdoor Play: Now is the time to grab all the fun things to play outside with your kids, neighbors and friends. There are so many exciting activities to grab such as an blow up pool with an umbrella so your children can enjoy the coolness of the water while also protecting them from the sun, squirt guns for backyard entertainment, water balloons, various chalk colors to use on sidewalks or fences as well as many other items you can think of. We try and grab them in the early spring months so things don’t sell out during the peak of summer. This also gets your home ready for summer by creating little organization bings to keep things easy to grab and go and avoid meltdowns or tantrums.

Wipe Down Indoor and Outdoor Light: Leaving the windows and door opens to let fresh air can be so relaxing but can also let in dirt, dust and even bugs that collect over time. Give your light fixtures a quick clean by wiping down the inside and outside of the shade. If you have any outdoor lights, do the same thing a few times a month because the light attracts them at night.

If you need roof repairs for your home then do check out Peter's Roofing. They even offer services roof repair in Newark, chimney, siding and more! Be sure to give them a call if you are looking into any sort of professional help or even asking questions on how you can keep your roof looking it’s best year after year. Do check them out the links are below

https://peterroofrepairnj.com/ 

https://peterroofrepairnj.com/roof-repair-newark-nj-07101/

What are some of your easy tips to get your home ready for the summer months?

There are so many home improvements to make this spring! If you don’t know where to start, here are some of my favorite improvements to consider:

Replace or clean out your gutters

One of the first things you’ll want to do after winter is to inspect your gutters. If gutters are blocked, damaged or out of place, they won’t drain properly. Gutters need to be able to carry water from April showers and summer storms away from your home to prevent water damage. If there is any sign that your gutters are not in working order, make sure to fix the problem right away. Otherwise, water can pool around the foundation and leak into the basement or pour down the sides of your home, potentially damaging windows, doors and siding. During the winter, snow and ice build in gutters, putting extra weight on them and possibly causing them to pull away from the house. You might also find leaves, twigs or other debris clogging gutters once the snow and ice have completely melted. You might only need to give your gutters a good spring cleaning, but sometimes they need to be replaced. Make sure the downspout is also in good condition and free of cracks or leaks to prevent water from pooling where it shouldn’t. The downspout is supposed to direct and carry water away from the house. Also, the downspout should be firmly connected to the gutter and free of clogs so that water doesn’t build up in the gutter. 

Install a new mailbox

Looking for an easy upgrade? A new mailbox - or an old mailbox with a new look - can add some delightful character to your front yard. Consider giving your mailbox a new color, or planting some flowers around the base. Or perhaps you’d like a smart mailbox that'll protect your deliveries. Whatever your reason, a new or refreshed mailbox can amp up your curb appeal, where first impressions really count!

Add in a retaining wall

“Retaining Walls help separate divisions within your property as well as support for your Hardscaping Pavers. They are a statement, and one of the first things people subconsciously see on your property,” says Sabba’s Landscaping. I think that retaining walls really spruce up a yard, make it more inviting, and they also make some yards more easier to work or play in. If you need any services like hardscaping in Monmouth County done for you, call Sabba’s Landscaping up. They can help you with needs such as: landscaping, snow plowing, adding in retaining walls, patio designs, paver designs, enhanced outdoor living spaces, and so much more. Sabba’s will be able to listen to your wants, desires, and dreams, and then they will work to develop concepts and designs that bring your wants to life, no matter your budget. Sabba’s serves their clients by offering amazing service, affordable pricing, and by also staying up-to-date with the newest equipment, designs, and technology. They are always working to improve and learn more so that you receive the best care. If you don’t believe me, check out their 64+ amazing reviews on Google. You will find great reviews like this one:

 “I don't even know where to begin there is so much to say. My home was ravaged by a flash flood in August of 2018. This flood collapsed my yard literally in half and I was left with a very unstable situation. I interviewed 9 contractors before I found Sabba's. The minute I met Danny I knew I found the best of the best! Professional, Caring and Attention to detail like nobody’s business! Danny and his crew treated my home and property like it was there own. Every call was answered or returned promptly. On time every single day! And I cannot leave out Toni, Danny’s mom. She handles the day to day operations and after you speak to her you will know why Danny is so wonderful. It was mind boggling the progress that was made in 5 days. Danny is very meticulous and takes great pride in his work. I would recommend Sabba's to anyone and everyone. Stay tuned for the finished product. And for those of you looking for excellence in your landscaping needs please call Danny Sabba, I promise you will be so glad you did.”

As you can see, Sabba’s goes out of their way to meet their clients wants and needs, while treating the property as if it was their own. If you need any hardscaping or landscaping work done for your home or commercial property, call Sabba’s Landscaping!

Fix windows

Everyone living in NJ knows that it can get cold in the winter, but it can also get pretty hot in the summer. Spring is the time of year to fix or replace windows due to winter damage and prepare for summer heat and bugs. Over the summer months, it’s not uncommon for us to experience temperatures in the high 80s and 90s. One way to stay cool is to keep heat out and keep cool in. If windows aren’t sealed properly, it’ll be hard to make the most out of an air conditioning system. You may only need to replace the window’s caulking to seal up gaps and help protect your home from wind, rain and everything that gets blown in with summer storms. However, if you need to replace a window, energy-efficient windows are a good choice because they are thicker and help lower energy bills, keep out bugs and protect against weather. You also want to make sure your windows open and close with ease so you can enjoy fresh spring air and eventually, cool summer nights.

Millions of us worldwide have been confined to our homes as a means of slowing the spread of COVID19.  While it isn’t the way most of us imagined spending the past several months, it doesn’t have to be a total waste of time either.  By doing your part staying home, you might have the feeling of being a bit claustrophobic because of all the items you’ve accumulated over the years and are now surrounded by it day in and day out.  To help clear the clutter and get things in order, I’ve compiled a list of things you can do to get started in organizing your home and keep it that way long after everything resolves. 

A lot of people are moving after the whirlwind of 2020 and I think that is such a fun and exciting new start! Moving to another house, apartment, city, or even to another state is always a mixture of emotions. You can be happy to finally leave that old house you grew up in, or you can be in a race with the movers making sure nothing gets damaged. Here's five tips to make moving easy and stress-free:

It’s extremely satisfying when you are a homeowner because it is a dream of so many people, and when that time comes for you to be apart of that dream, it’s filled with many mixed emotions. On one hand, you are excited to be a homeowner however there now is much responsibility that is resting on your shoulders. Remember, if you aren’t sure about what to do, it’s important to do thorough research on the project you want to have done, as there are many to do and could use professional opinion and help with. One of the biggest things that new homeowners face throughout the first year or so is making sure that you have a quality roof above your head. There are a few helpful tips that can help below. 

1. Have Your Roof Professionally Inspected - Before you purchase your home, it is critical that you have an inspection to know what type of things need work or repair on. Many times the house inspector does not climb onto the roof and even if they do, they don’t really take the proper time to look at what needs work. As a result, you’ll want to hire a roofing professional to look at your roof because this is such a vital part of your home and really will determine if you will be happy or regret purchasing your home. If you live in the New Jersey area, be sure to call a trusted company such as Peter’s Roofing. The team will offer advice on upgrades or repairs that need to be made for your roof and even suggest aesthetic updates to give your home a new transformation. If you’re looking for any help or roofing repair in the Millburn, New Jersey area be sure to give them a call. 

2. Learn About Leaks: As a homeowner, you should know all you can about securing leaks that might arise around your home. This includes your skylights, gutters, and chimney areas that are the main trouble spots to look at. Clear any of your gutters of debris during the warmer months. This helps to avoid any water pools on the gutter that is harmful to your roof. It also can prevent moss, mold, or algae to form causing an even bigger problem ( and more expensive should you not look into doing this every 6 months ). Knowing about these leaks can help your anxiety and your bank account if you stay on top of it. 

3. Look Into Roofing Options: What you see is what you get as a homeowner but actually, you can ignore the fact that there is really only one roof option available. In fact, there are many styles that are available on the market for you to choose from, and depending on where you live, can really help ensure your home in the long run. For instance, energy-efficient roofing options are there to help your home stay cooler in the colder months and warmer in the winter months. Also, be on the lookout for what material would best serve you and where you live including state laws, weather, durability, and design. You might also ask any neighbors what types of roof materials they have and the pros and cons of having it. Lastly, look at cost. You want a roof that works within your budget. It goes more than just the initial cost to include maintenance as well. 

Keeping your roof on your mind is important for being a homeowner but it does not need to be an all-consuming task that lingers on you. Put it on your calendar as a weekend project to do and keep these tips handy as you go through your own inspection. If your roof does need some major upkeep, then you have the decision to either do it yourself or call in a professional. If you decide to do it yourself, take safety precautions so you don’t hurt yourself. 

The winter months might have you stuck inside for now but I’m dreaming about all of the backyard ideas I can’t wait to tackle once the weather turns warmer. Whether you are looking to expand your patio, add interest to your garden, or increase your storage space, upgrading your backyard is a lot easier and can be done quicker than you think. There are a few budget-friendly backyard projects that are even able to be completed in a weekend! Below are some of these inspirational ideas you can already start to get ready now! 

1. Edge Your Garden: If you garden edge, this helps to define a border between your lawn or your flower bed that is near by. It also helps to prevent any soil erosion that might have been in your garden bed. There are many edging materials to try including bricks, stones or even concrete, and can be installed within an afternoon. If you are thinking of looking for a more eco-friendly take on edging, try a wine pottle project. The colorful glass will reflect sunshine and create a unique look for a garden that is sure to stand out amongst the rest. 

Image: Onorato Landscaping

2. Hire A Professional If You Need Assistance: If some of the projects you would like done require more work than you are willing to take on, hiring a professional to do the heavy work for you is key. Finding a quality business to do the job right is key. If you live in the New Jersey area, be sure to call Onorato Landscaping. This highly recommended Bergen County landscaping service is second to none. They are skilled at helping homeowners visualize and crystalize their landscape and hardscape dreams. The company then brings those dreams to life on a budget, on time, and in a way that will make the property be the talk of their town and neighborhood. They are a full-service landscaping, hardscaping, and lawn service company that truly delivers superior value to both their commercial and residential customers. Marc Onorato, the founder, has over 10 years of working for premium garden center to develop this service that delivers unsurpassed value and continues to be one of the top landscaping businesses in the area. 

3. Create Shade With Curtains: If your backyard gets a lot of sun, one of the quickest ways to help bring shade is by adding curtains. This is a budget-friendly solution that also can be doubled as a privacy screen if you have friends, neighbors, or family over. For a festive touch, you can hang patio lights on the post to illuminate the night. Be sure to anchor the posts firmly into the ground before you hang everything to make sure it’s secure. If you want to go bold, pick a fun or loud print to use or use a natural print and add a fun color ribbon to tie your curtains back. 

4. Decorate With Plants:  When it’s time to select new plants for your garden, you have several options but they can also be out of your budget. Save your money for the plants by recycling old tires into a whimsical planter instead of buying store-bought containers. You can use chicken wire and landscaping fabric to cover the hole at the base, then paint or stack your new planters and arrange them in your yard for a playful display. 

5. Deck Railing: It might be essential to have a deck railing depending on how high your deck is but there are other options to consider before just putting in a railing itself. A popular feature right now is to add a tinted glass in a deck railing because it is strong, safe, and also adds flair to your outdoor space. To build one yourself, there are many articles to help you feel confident to try it! 

To update your backyard in a weekend is possible, depending on how much time you have. There are several more small projects you can tackle to help bring a vision of a dreamy backyard to life. Of course, if you have any questions or concerns, call a professional to walk you through the proper way to do something or even hire them to get it done the right way if you are unsure. Do your best, try and see some great results that your hard work

Hey everyone, so today I am going to be unboxing the IPSY Glam Bag & Glam Bag Plus for the month of January 2021

If you guys are new to my blog or unfamiliar with either of these bags, they both are a monthly makeup and skincare subscription from IPSY. The regular Glam Bag is $12 a month and comes with five sample size products and then the Glam Bag Plus is $25 a month and comes with five full size beauty products. Now these are my PR packages so, I didn't pay for either of them. They were sent to me free for review. But I do actually pay fee the Glam Bag Plus subscription, so later this month I will do a version on my IPSY Glam Plus box reveal once I receive it. 

I am absolutely in love with this month's IPSY Glam Bag. As you can see a little sneak peak of the products in there and it says DREAM all over it in white, then also like a blue DREAM in the middle. The pull tag on the bag is the a cute light blue clear ring, and also it has a baby blue zipper with the products of theme DREAM IT! 

So you do get to choose one of the products in your IPSY Glam Bag. Since this is a PR version I didn't get to choose one , but I did for the one I paid for.

IPSY GLAM BAG (These are all sample size products)

1. KINSHIP : This is a Naked Papaya Gentle Enzyme Face Cleanser.
2. Youth To The People :This is a Kombucha with 11% AHA Exfoliation Power Toner.
3. LARUCE : This is a Kabuki LR222 concealer or eyeshadow brush.
4. STILLA : This is a Stay All Day Liquid Lipstick in the shade Patina. 
5. BYROE : This is a rich cream with Peptides and Salmon Caviar.

IPSY Glam BAG PLUS (There are all Full size Products)

1. IGK : This is a Mistress Hydrating Hair Balm.
2. COVER | FX : This is a Shimmer Veil.
3. Purlisse : This is a Blue Lotus Balancing Moisturizer.
4. Florence By Mills : This is Mind Glowing Peel Off Mask.
5. ANASTASIA : This is a Lash Brag Volumizing Mascara.