Lifestyle
How To Increase The Curb Appeal of Your Home
Whether you’re doing seasonal upkeep or preparing your home for sale, creating curb appeal starts at the front yard. In many regions of the country, homeowners are looking for ways to add curb appeal and create a welcoming yard.
As a homeowner, you know that first impressions make a difference – especially for potential buyers. If you are seeking to sell your home, you’re probably weighing and balancing out the big questions of cost, landscaping effort, and expertise.
Here are key ideas to keep in mind for adding curb appeal.
Boost Mental Toughness
There are many issues when it comes to front yards. Some are very shady, while others have full-on sun. If you’re facing drought conditions and water shortages, your lawn may be looking sad and tired.
That’s why it’s important to have mental toughness, a concept popularized by former NFL player, Roy Hall. Hall is a motivational speaker devoted to helping others in his community to overcome life challenges. He encourages people to be strong in responding to challenges, saying: “Life is 10-percent what happens to you, and 90-percent of how you respond to it.”
Before you jump into landscaping, consider your attitude. Boosting your mental toughness is the most important place to start.
With a ‘can-do attitude, you’ll be charged up and ready for action.
Fill With Flowers
There’s nothing like perennials to add color, beauty, and a sense of home.
Depending on your climate and space, use perennials to fill in the big sections of your yard. They’ll add punches of color that will return year after year. Then, fill in smaller sections with annuals for immediate bursts of color.
Naturally, consider water usage. Pick plants that do well in drought-like conditions.
Add An Arbor
Are you looking for a way to highlight the entrance to your home? Add old-world charm with an arbor over the entry gate. This may help you create a dramatic entrance, while also adding some security for your home.
An arbor is a perfect place to support climbing plants such as roses, clematis, or vines.
Add a Flagstone Pathway
Do you have a charming cottage-like home? If so, you can highlight this look by adding a curving flagstone pathway. This walkway may add an element of anticipation and surprise to walking up to the front door.
Of course, along the walkway, you can plant interesting flowers, herbs, and ground cover. One of the fastest-growing ground covers is creeping thyme. Depending on your climate, this is a quick way to soften the edges and fill in the gaps between flagstones.
Choose Xeriscape
If you’ve had it with watering, you will find xeriscaping appealing. Drought-resistant plants and shrubs, such as ones that grow in a Mediterranean climate are a very attractive solution. Some communities are asking homeowners to cut down on water usage by opting for drought-tolerant plants.
As you may not be familiar with all the possibilities of plants, and setting up low-flow drip lines, get help from an expert. Just do a quick search to find a landscaper for “landscaping near me.” A local landscaper can help you pick the best water-wise plants that can thrive in your climate. You’ll have a beautiful, lush yard and a lower water bill.
Pick Ground Cover
If you have unsightly areas near the house, you can fill in these spots with fast-growing ground covers. These plants come in all varieties – some thrive in shade, while others are sun-loving.
Ground covers are especially useful near home because they don’t grow against the house. In the long run, this means less mildew, rot – and less maintenance.
Add Beautiful Features
A front yard is a great place for adding beautiful features that can be highlighted by staging but also come with the home once fancy furniture is removed from the patio. These may include a fountain, pool, or water feature. It may include a birdbath, bird feeders, or bird-friendly plants. Depending on your climate, you may be able to attract unique birds such as hummingbirds.
If you have the room and inclination, consider filling in odd corners or shady spots with a sculpture. Perhaps you have an artistic streak that’s waiting to be explored. Or you may know a local artisan who you could work with to design a piece specifically for the spot in your yard.
Also, consider the very simple solution of adding a bench, hammock, or sitting area. With a place to sit, you may just find yourself stepping outside for a cup of morning coffee or tea – in your garden.
Lifestyle
Veterans Care Coordination Outlines 10 Ways to Honor Senior Service Members
Honoring senior veterans is a meaningful way to acknowledge their service and sacrifices for the country.While there are many different ways to honor those who have served their country, Veterans Care Coordination (VCC) – a company that helps senior Veterans apply for home care services, has outlined 10 of the most effective ways to show appreciation and respect to older servicemembers in our communities.
1. Attend Veteran Ceremonies and Events: Participate in local veteran ceremonies, parades, and events, especially on days like Veterans Day and Memorial Day. Your presence demonstrates respect and recognition for their contributions.
2. Volunteer for Veteran Organizations: Many organizations that support veterans need volunteers. Offer your time to help with events, administrative tasks, or outreach programs that benefit senior veterans.
3. Visit Veteran Homes and Hospitals: Spend time with veterans in homes and hospitals. Many senior veterans, especially those in long-term care, appreciate visits and the opportunity to share their stories.
4. Educate Yourself and Others: Learn about the history, challenges, and contributions of veterans. Educate others by organizing or participating in community talks, school projects, or social media campaigns.
5. Support Veteran-Owned Businesses: Patronize businesses owned by veterans. This economic support helps veteran entrepreneurs and shows appreciation for their continued contributions to the community.
6. Create a Community Project: Initiate projects that specifically benefit senior veterans, such as building wheelchair ramps for disabled veterans or organizing social events that cater to their interests and needs.
7. Offer Your Skills and Services: If you have special skills or services, offer them to senior veterans. This could include legal advice, home repairs, medical care, or technological assistance.
8. Donate to Veteran Charities: Financial contributions to reputable organizations supporting veterans can make a significant impact. These donations often go toward programs that improve the quality of life for senior veterans.
9. Write Letters or Cards: Sending personalized letters, cards, or care packages to Senior veterans, particularly those without close family, can brighten their day and make them feel valued and remembered.
10. Advocate for Veteran Rights and Benefits: Be an advocate for veteran rights and benefits, ensuring they receive the support and recognition they deserve. This can involve supporting legislation, participating in advocacy groups, or simply spreading awareness of the issues facing senior veterans.
By implementing these actions, individuals and communities can honor senior veterans in meaningful ways, showing gratitude for their service and ensuring they are respected and remembered.
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