Strategies For Success With Your Next Home Improvement Project

Home improvement projects are amazing endeavors because they ensure that your residential property looks incredible. If you’re currently preparing to launch a new project designed to get your private living space in excellent condition, know that preparation is the key to success. With that thought in mind, try implementing the following strategies to make your next home improvement project a smashing success:

1. Replace Your Cushions.

When your cushions grow old, the color is dull and they become too soft or dilapidated to sit on. To restore the aesthetic appeal and functionality of your cushions, it’s a good idea to find a high quality cushion replacement. Companies like The Foam Factory sell a wide range of these products, and you can shop online from the privacy of your home by visiting their website at www.thefoamfactory.com.

2. Update With Brighter Colors.

One great strategy you can implement for your next home improvement project is the use of brighter colors. This technique is effective in cultivating a light and breezy atmosphere that promotes a positive mood. It’s also important to note that brighter colors help create the illusion of more space, which is very helpful for individuals who feel that their rooms look too tiny or confining.

3. Use Natural Lighting.

In addition to updating your living space with brighter colors, make a point to use natural lighting in your home. Doing so is advantageous because it is linked to mood elevation. Also note that using natural light can have powerful health benefits. For example, opening your windows and letting light from the sun pour in can help you get life-enhancing nutrients from the sun.

A Recap And Final Suggestions

If you’re ready to take your residential property to a new level of visual appeal and functionality, having a game plan is important. And if you’re searching for implementable strategies that will yield substantive results, you should know that replacing your cushions, updating with brighter colors, and using natural lighting can help you accomplish your home optimization objectives. There are also several other techniques you can employ to get your home in great condition, such as hiring a professional interior decorator. These individuals will typically be able to offer you the customized, cutting edge services that give your home an incredibly compelling, contemporary look. Good luck!

Crowdfunding Private Flying: It Can Actually Reduce Travel Costs

The following is a guest post.
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Flying can be a travel necessity for some people, but it can also be a costly thing to do. The price of flying continues to go up, making it harder for people to find the funds to travel.

For those people and those businesses that do a lot of flying, sometimes investing in your own private jet is the best option. Eventually, the cost of owning a plane will pay for itself, and you’ll have access to your own private plane whenever you need it.

Even if you opt to buy a plane, though, it will still cost you a significant amount of money. The price will vary significantly based on the type of plane, the age of the plane, and a variety of other factors. If you’re interested in owning a plane, then you’ll need to do your research to not only see what you can afford, but to also see what you need.

There are three main ways that you can buy your own private jet.

Cash

Obviously, if you have the capital to spend on buying a plane outright, then this is a great option. You’ll end up spending exactly what you want to spend, as you won’t have to pay interest on a loan. Plus, many sellers will often give you a nice discount if they’ll receive cash for the sale. This is something you’ll need to take some time to consider, as it will be a nice chunk of money. Talk with your accountant or other financial advisor to see if it’s a good idea for you to make.

Aircraft Loan

Most people take out a loan when they buy a house or buy a car, and the same goes for buying an airplane too. No matter if you want a private plane for leisure or to fly across the globe for business, an aircraft loan can help you achieve your goal. There are a variety of different aircraft brokers available to help you secure the right loan for the plane of your dreams, so be sure to talk with a professional about your options. Just be sure that you can afford to make the monthly payments before signing the contract.

Crowdfunding

When it comes to buying a private plane, most people don’t even consider crowdfunding as an option, but it is. When you crowdfund, you are asking other people to make an investment in your project, company, idea, etc., which is usually done via the internet. If you are in need of a private plane, you should consider crowdfunding as an option. If you’re looking for a plane for your business, reach out to potential investors and see if they’d be willing to give you some money to buy your plane. Be sure to tell them how the plane will benefit your company, such as by allowing you to ship products more quickly or tend to global business events.

If you’re looking to buy a private jet for your own pleasure, then remind the “crowd” why the plane is beneficial. You can get a group of people together and crowdfund the plane as a group, allowing each “funder” to have access to the plane at their leisure. By doing so, you’ll be able to make a smaller investment in order to access your own private plane. This will significantly reduce the cost of flying, especially if you fly more often. Plus, you won’t have to deal with those large, annoying crowds or experience the hassle of the TSA.

So if you’re truly interested in buying your own plane, consider the three options you have available and make the choice that’s right for you. Remember, cash and aircraft loans will cost more than crowdfunding, so be sure to check your budget before making your final decision.

Liquid Oxygen For Your Skincare Routine

Disclosure- I received the below in order to facilitate this post.  All opinions are my own and honest.

Many people suffer from acne, from teenagers and continuing. I still get acne on a regular basis, both with my “special” time and when my skin is irritated.  Fun things!  As an adult, I assumed I wouldn’t get acne anymore, but I was quite wrong.  When I was pregnant, it was crazy, too.  For other people who suffer with it, let me tell you about the all-natural skincare line  Liquid Oxygen.

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Liquid Oxygen, an oxygenated skincare line, was designed to be gentle while also combating acne. It is the ideal solution for those seeking clearer skin. Liquid Oxygen starts working from the first application, so it is great for special occasions or anytime you want your skin to look and feel flawless.

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It also has no harsh smells or orders, and feels nice on your skin. It has three steps- first you use the cleanser, then the astringent, then the moisturizer.  Your skin will feel smooth all day long, and the products did not irritate my skin at all.   I’ve been using the product for a few days now, and can say that the skin on my face has improved.  I get many “tiny bumps” (for lack of better explanation) all over my hairline, and those have diminished quite a bit, which I am thrilled by. I also get larger ones on and around my nose often, and they are almost gone as well.  I am very happy with this product so far.

I also like that it is all natural- that is hard to find.  It’s so much better for your skin and the environment then all those harsh chemicals some other brands use.

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According to Liquid Oxygen, here is why they are different and better for you-

“Bacteria and viruses associated with acne find it difficult to grow in an oxygen rich environment. 

Liquid Oxygen acne products contain Oxygen, Salicylic Acid, Vitamins A C D & E, and essential ingredients to deliver clinically proven results.

In a double blind independent Clinical Study, Liquid Oxygen was proved effective by reducing acne in 100% of the people in the study from Day 1 through 3 – when you want it and need it most – And then each and every day for the 30 day test.

NO OTHER ACNE PRODUCTS ON THE MARKET CONTAIN OUR SCIENCE OF OXYGEN.

If you want to try these products for yourself, head to http://www.liquidoxygen.com/ . They have free shipping going on for orders over $40 right now, which is always nice. You can also get $50 credit if you submit before and after photos- that’s something to take advantage of.  Head over and start your journey to better skin now!

 

Lake Tahoe’s Granlibakken

Lake Tahoe’s natural beauty will draw you in and make you never want to leave. With entertainment and year-round activities, there is always something to be done and to discover. Granlibakken, nestled in the trees above Lake Tahoe and steps from Tahoe City, is your ideal spot for your next getaway.

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A little back story is always fun about a place and the origin. Granlibakken is a Norwegian name and it means “hill sheltered by trees”. It’s the perfect name for this getaway spot. The Granlibakken Resort is family-owned and is on 74 wooded acres in a mountain valley. Lake Tahoe is just a few minutes away and the elevation is at a breathtaking 6,350 feet. If you’re lucky, you can even spot some wildlife saying hello during your stay.

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There are both townhome and suite accommodations that you can choose from that offer you all the privacy and quiet that you may be looking for. The hustle and bustle of your life may be weighing you down, but spending time getting back to nature will recharge you.  This quiet oasis is the perfect place to do so.

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Each room features the following amenities:

  • Cable television with DVD
  • Direct dial phone with voicemail and wired/wireless internet access
  • Complimentary hot breakfast buffet
  • In-room coffee maker
  • In-room fan

Different Lodging Types

Use the offer code SUM15 to get 20% off accommodations on select dates between June 15th and November 25th. This rate includes a delicious breakfast and there are miles of peaceful hiking trails, tennis courts, and an outdoor heated pool and hot tub.
Treetop Adventure Park, Day Spa and bike rentals are also on site for additional fees.

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Summer Activities At Granlibakken Conference Center & Lodge

There’s no shortage of activities and fun when the weather heats up in Lake Tahoe.

On-Site

  • Walking to Tahoe City or the Truckee River along our forest path (1.4 miles)
  • Playing a game of tennis on one of the resort’s five courts
  • Taking in the surrounding beauty on our private nature trail
  • Enjoying the sun beside our luxurious pool and hot tub area
  • Relaxing in our rejuvenating sauna
  • Building up a sweat on our outdoor par course
  • Hiking Tahoe’s Rim Trail, which borders the resort
  • Treetop ropes course and tours in our Adventure Park
  • Mountain bike rentals available on property, provided by West Shore Sports

Nearby

  • Pedaling the miles of mountain and road bike trails
  • Fishing either Lake Tahoe or the Truckee River
  • Hitting the links at any of the 43 golf courses within an hour’s drive (Tahoe City Golf Course is only 1 mile away)
  • Cooling off by taking a raft trip down the nearby Truckee River
  • Canoeing or kayaking along the pristine shores of Lake Tahoe
  • Enjoying the majesty of the Sierra Nevada on horseback
  • Motorboating or sailing Lake Tahoe’s clear blue waters
  • Exploring Tahoe’s history through its renowned historic mansions
  • Cruising along on the Tahoe Gal from Tahoe City

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When there is this much to do in such a tranquil environment, how can you go wrong? You can get the relaxation and stimulation you need and enjoy great scenery all in one place. So bring the family to enjoy all that Lake Tahoe and its surroundings have to offer. Every season gives you quite a different view and other relaxing activities, so you will have a great time no matter when you stay.

Miraclesuit – Lose 10 Pounds When You Put It On

Who loves shopping for swimsuits? No one I know, that’s for sure.   I have recently gained some weight- huzzah, right?- and I am in the market for a new, fun bathing suit. As such, I am not one to turn down a minor miracle when it comes to looking fabulous. Miraclesuit is awesome for most bodies.  The miracle being that it makes you appear 10 pounds thinner when you put it on. Hmmm, maybe I should start wearing it to work….hahaha.

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Ok, I may not be a covergirl, but whatevs, I think it’s doing it’s job quite well. I wish it had bigger breast cups, but that is a problem I have with at least 80% of swimsuits. Never enough coverage for bigger chested gals! But my Miraclesuit does better then some others have, and at least they are lifted, so I give it that. I love the color, as well.
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Nintendo Celebrates July’s Anti-Boredom Month with Boredom-Busting Tips

As you know, school is out for summer, and kids across the country are screaming “We’re free!” With little to do, boredom can quickly creep in on their joyous celebration of leisure. And with July being Anti-Boredom Month, what perfect time for your friends at the house of Mario to create some fun Nintendo-themed boredom-busing tips to cure any kid’s boredom blues and help them stay entertained this summer.
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Tip 1: Backyard Gamping
What do you get when you combine gaming and camping? Well, gamping of course! Plan a Nintendo-themed camp out in your backyard for your kids and their friends. Pitch a tent and ask your kids to invite a few friends over for a video game sleepover. With a portable handheld that you can play indoors and outdoors, kids will have endless fun sitting around the “campfire” challenging friends with games like The Legend of Zelda: Majora’s Mask 3DPuzzle & Dragons Z + Puzzle & Dragons Super Mario Bros. Edition and Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS.
Tip 2: Pool and Beach-Time Fun with Your New Nintendo 3DS XL System
Keep your kids occupied at the pool or beach this summer with New Nintendo 3DS XL, Nintendo’s latest portable hand-held device. With more power, built-in amiibo support, an improved camera, face-tracking 3D and better browsing for watching videos or surfing the Web, kids will quickly find themselves enjoying downtime waterside.
Tip 3: Join Camp Miiverse for Some Fun Summertime Challenges!
Sign your kids up for Camp Miiverse! Keeping your kids entertained via a service that lets them communicate with other players around the world through their New Nintendo 3DS XL and Wii U systems, Mii camp instructor NintendoTom will set weekly challenges for players in the Miiverse universe. The first Camp Miiverse challenge for the month of July is an online Splatoon battle! With so many fun online challenges, your kids will never be bored.
Tip 4: Create Some Fun Captain Toad Adventures
For hours of fun and the perfect summer activity to get your kid’s mind active, Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker will have your kids happily solving brain-busting puzzle games. For some added fun, head over to the Captain Toad website where you can download an adventure kit and trivia questions that your kids can play together. Just like in Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker, use the adventure kit to plan fun outdoors exploration for your kid. Ask them to solve Captain Toad trivia to find a secret location where you buried a gold star.
Tip 5: Join the Every Body Walk! Collaborative and StreetPass Outside
Join the  Every Body Walk! Collaborative with your kids! While walking and having fun in the sun, don’t forget to StreetPass with your New Nintendo 3DS XL system! Also, make sure to set your New Nintendo 3DS XL system to Sleep Mode to exchange certain game data like Mii characters, high scores and special items with other users you pass on the street. You can even earn up to 10 Play Coins a day by taking steps with the system in Sleep Mode. Coins can be redeemed in games that support the feature.
For some additional fun ideas, visit the Play Nintendo website at http://play.nintendo.com/themes/special/summer/.

Xenoblade Chronicles for the new Nintendo 3DSXL

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Xenoblade is a relatively unknown game series but not among those who are fans of RPG’s on Nintendo systems.  The game was originally going to be passed over for localization to the United States on the Wii, but instead was one of the shining gems for the Nintendo Wii.  The story follows Shulk and his friends as they battle Mechon killer robots with the help of the Monado sword.  The game play style is real time RPG which means there are heavy RPG elements but the action is there as well, so keep on your toes.  Xenoblade Chronicles is a huge open world game which emphasizes exploration.   The story is big and fun, with lots of drama, action and excitement.  I love it when a big RPG get a more accessible portable version making it easier to play on the go or at a few off minutes here and there instead of trying to carve up hours of time to enjoy with a TV screen.  The game also takes full advantage of the new 3DSXL.  In doing so it can ONLY be played on that system.  It uses the new ZL, ZR and C-stick for various controls as well as the added processor power to really move.  What I find most fun is the face following 3D effects.  Instead of setting and resetting the 3D view the system now follows the user’s face so immersion into the game is way easier.
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Clean First for the Best Finish with Puracyn® Plus

For more clean start tips for the best finish, visit Puracyn Plus on the web at www.puracynplus.com and LIKE the brand on Facebook. This is a product-provided, sponsored conversation that contains affiliate links. All opinions, text and experiences are my own.

When it comes to most projects around the house (or in general) there is a step which must be taken before your project even begins.  I’m talking about the prep time and the cleanup of the area or what you will be working on. An example of this is when trying to fix a sink you clean out under the sink first before you even start working on the sink component. Yes, we’ve just done a project like this, ha.
This summer, we had quite a few projects, but the one that sticks out in my mind the most was the dog bowl stand. My son wanted to make something out of wood that would be useful not, and I quote, ‘a dumb bird house’.  I guess I’m the worst mom ever, making a bird house with him.  You know- the one he asked me to make with him?  Yeah.  So stupid of me.

This will be a daddy project.  They want to make something useful, and dad didn’t want me buying our dog a bowl stand (he’s getting older and is beginning to have arthritis) so they decided on a dog dish holder for our pooch.

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After measuring and figuring out, (and measuring) then buying all the parts (and measuring one more time), it was time to get to work and build something. But first we had to clean up the table outside and make sure all our tools were in good shape. In this same manner of properly cleaning up before doing something, new Puracyn Plus Duo-Care Wound & Skin Cleanser is the next generation first step in first aid for cleansing, debriding and hydrating wounds, and is formulated with a pH balanced, hypochlorous solution, designed to improve the most essential part of the wound treatment process – preparation of the wound bed – a clean start for the best finish. Clean wounds first with Puracyn Plus Duo-Care Wound & Skin Cleanser and set the stage for optimal healing.

9110a832-1e7e-11e5-91b5-22000af93a2dThe easy, hands-free spray application of Puracyn Plus thoroughly cleans minor wounds, eliminating the need for running water in the critical first step of cleaning a wound. We really like how Puracyn Plus is a convenient alternative to the otherwise messy job of cleansing the wound area that can be applied on the spot and on-the-go, and is more effective than soap and water and won’t cause cell damage the way hydrogen peroxide can. Puracyn® Plus is available in a 4oz. plastic, spray bottle at Rite Aid and Walgreens for $14.99.To learn more about the brand visit www.puracynplus.com and follow the brand on Facebook (www.Facebook.com/Puracyn). Also available is Puracyn® Plus Foot Wash & Skin Cleanser which is a safe, effective, FIRST step in first aid for foot sores and irritations, blisters, dry and cracked feet, and rashes.

Puracyn® Plus Duo-Care Wound and Skin Cleanser…so she can get back into the game! Watch the new Puracyn Plus 2015 National TV Commercial here.

Save $3 on your next purchase of Puracyn® Plus Duo-Care Wound & Skin Cleanser and Puracyn® Plus Foot Wash & Skin Cleanser! Available in the first aid section at your local Rite Aid and Walgreens.

Starting on July 17, enter the Puracyn Plus Clean Start Giveaway on the Puracyn® Plus Facebook page (www.facebook.com/puracyn) for the chance to be one of four randomly selected winners to receive a $250 retailer gift card (choice of Home Depot, California Closets, Pier 1 Imports, or Staples) and Puracyn® Plus product, so you can get a clean start on a project for the best finish.