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Los Angeles isn't just a destination; it's a lifestyle. From the iconic Hollywood sign to the beautiful beaches of Santa Monica, life here is about enjoying the outdoors, exploring diverse cuisines, and possibly bumping into a celebrity at your local café. From one bedroom apartments in Downtown Los Angeles to luxury family homes, there's something for everyone here, so let's explore more about the LA lifestyle.
The Weather: Sunny Days Ahead Enjoy the Sunshine One of the top perks of living in LA is undoubtedly the weather. With over 300 days of sunshine a year, Los Angeles offers a mild, generally warm climate that is perfect for outdoor activities year-round.
Cultural Melting Pot: Embracing Diversity A Rich Tapestry of Cultures Los Angeles is a mosaic of cultures, making it one of the most diverse cities in the world. This diversity is celebrated through numerous cultural events, art shows, and an incredible variety of global cuisines.
Everyday Living: Mobility and Convenience Easy Navigation Despite its reputation for traffic, LA offers a variety of ways to get around, including a developing public transit system and numerous bike lanes. Many residents find living close to work or using alternate transit options makes commuting easier.
Lifestyle and Leisure: Living the Dream Housing and Neighborhoods Los Angeles boasts some of the most varied living options in the country, from beachfront properties to urban lofts. Each neighborhood offers a unique flavor and lifestyle, providing something for everyone.
Cost of Living While living in LA can be pricey, many find the quality of life justifies the cost. Plus, the city offers a range of options to suit various budgets, especially in emerging neighborhoods. Health and Wellness: A Priority A Hub for Healthy Living LA is at the forefront of health and wellness trends. The city's focus on wellbeing is evident in its numerous parks, fitness studios, and health-focused eateries.
The Social Scene: Always Something to Do Endless Entertainment Whether you’re into clubbing, theatre, or dining out, LA’s social life is bustling. With a variety of entertainment options, there’s always something happening.
FAQs About Living in Los Angeles How do I get around in Los Angeles? While LA is known for its car culture, there are multiple ways to navigate the city. The Los Angeles Metro Rail and bus systems provide substantial coverage and are continuously expanding. Additionally, biking and walking are viable in more densely populated areas. Ride-sharing apps are also widely used. What is the job market like in Los Angeles? Los Angeles has a dynamic job market, known for its ties to the entertainment industry, technology, fashion, and culinary arts. The city is also a hub for startups and innovation, making it attractive for professionals in various fields. What are the best things to do in Los Angeles? Los Angeles offers a plethora of activities to suit all interests. From visiting cultural landmarks like the Griffith Observatory and Hollywood Walk of Fame to exploring the outdoors at beaches and parks, or enjoying the vibrant arts scene, there's never a dull moment. Conclusion: Why LA? Living in Los Angeles means embracing a lifestyle full of possibilities. Whether you're soaking up the sun, enjoying a jog on the beach, or tasting another delicious meal, life here is about the experience. It’s a city where creativity meets diversity, where the lifestyle is as dynamic as its people. Los Angeles doesn't just offer a place to live; it offers a way to live brightly. If you're seeking a place where every day feels like an adventure, Los Angeles might just be the place for you.
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A lot happens in a baby’s first year. Knowing what to expect as a parent can help you to prepare for each stage. Tracking milestones can also be important for ensuring that your baby is developing at a healthy rate. Below are just some of the developmental milestones you can expect each month. It’s worth noting that every baby develops at a different rate and this is only an average guide as to what to expect - some babies will hit these milestones a few months earlier or later than others, and this is usually not a concern unless the milestones are way off. 1 month At one month old, your baby is still considered a newborn. They’re still getting used to the world, but they’ll most likely recognise certain faces by now and start reacting. At this stage, your little one may also be starting to move their head from side to side. Their hands are still likely to be clenched into fists, although they may move them a bit more than when they were first born. 2 months By two months, you may notice your little one starting to make noises beyond crying. This could include cooing ‘ooh’ and ‘aah’ sounds. This is also when you may start to see some of your baby’s first genuine smiles. Anything before this can be dismissed as wind, but by 2 months babies are starting to smile as a way of expressing happiness. 3 months Your baby may start following objects and sounds with head by three months. You’ll notice that they’re a lot more curious. Some babies start rolling over at this age. This is when you need to start being very careful of where you leave your little one. 4 months By 4 months, you may start to hear the beautiful sound of your baby’s laugh. Your baby is learning how to truly express their emotions now. Your baby should also be able to hold their head up without any support by this age. You’ll usually be able to tell that they no longer need support because they’ll be actively trying to lift their head. 5 months A lot of babies no longer need to be burped at 5 months. If they still look uncomfortable during feeding, it’s worth still burping them. But if you’re starting to have trouble getting anything out of them or they’re burping themselves, it may be time to stop. Some babies are also able to hold objects and shake them at this age. You should start to notice your little one getting much more interested in toys. Give them new toys and see how they react. 6 months 6 months is the point in which many babies can start moving onto solid food. You’ll want to try small portions at first, while still sticking mainly to milk to provide sustenance. This six month old feeding schedule explains more. Some babies are also able to regularly sleep through the night at this stage. If your baby is still getting up lots of times in the night, here are a few tricks that may help your baby to sleep through the night. 7 months By 7 months, most babies can sit up without support. If they’re not, you can encourage them to sit up by getting them used to sitting in a high chair. Many babies also learn to clap around this time. Try clapping in front of your baby and see if they mimic you. 8 months This is when most babies are starting to become really mobile. Time to babyproof your home! If they’re not already getting into everything, they will be soon. At 8 months, many babies also start attempting to copy sounds. This is the beginning stage of talking - but don’t expect any recognisable words yet. 9 months Most babies can crawl by 9 months. If your baby is still not crawling, try to practise regular tummy time and help them to move their arms and legs. Most babies will soon get the hang of it. Babies often perfect the pincer grip at this stage. Most will be able to hold their bottle by this age and many will be able to pick up food with their fingers and eat it. They’ll also be able to grab other things around them and put them in their mouth, so make sure nothing valuable (or dangerous) is in reach. 10 months Many infants at 10 months understand simple words like ‘yes’, ‘no’, ‘hello’ and ‘bye bye’. Some may have learnt to wave or may even play peekaboo back at you by placing their hands on their face. Your baby should have their first few teeth by now and is likely eating a lot more food. If you haven’t started brushing their teeth, now could be a good time to start. Make sure to use a baby toothbrush and baby toothpaste. 11 months At 11 months, most babies can stand on their own. Most babies learn to stand by pulling themselves up using furniture. They may quickly then learn to stand on their own (which can quickly lead to walking). A lot of babies at this age also dance to music. This could be sitting down or even standing up. Your baby is learning how to party - and it’s no wonder why considering their first birthday is around the corner! 12 months 25% of babies are able to walk by 12 months. If your little one is already able to crawl well and stand, you should keep an eye out for their first steps. While many parents are eager for their little one to walk, you’ll quickly wish they were still crawling once they do find their feet. Get prepared by raising valuables and hazardous items further out of reach. 12 months is also the age when some babies start to utter their first words. That’s right - you could soon have a walking, talking baby on your hands. Help babies to learn words by slowly repeating them with actions.
Contributed post. Incorporating paintings into your home decor is a timeless way to elevate your living space with sophistication and style. Whether you prefer abstract art, antique hand mirrors, or framed wall art sets, the careful selection and display of paintings can transform your home into a gallery of personal expression and cultural significance. Delve into the world of wall art and explore the endless possibilities of using paintings to create a home that is both visually captivating and emotionally enriching. The Historical Significance of Art in Home Decor Art has always played a significant role in home decor, dating back to ancient civilizations where paintings adorned the walls of palaces and temples. The use of paintings as a form of decoration has evolved over the centuries, reflecting the cultural and historical significance of art in interior design. The evolution of art in interior design has been influenced by various art movements, from the Renaissance period to modern and contemporary art. Each movement has brought its own unique style and theme, contributing to the diversity of options available for incorporating paintings into home decor. How to Choose the Right Painting for Your Space Choosing the right painting for your space is both an art and a science, involving aesthetic appeal, emotional resonance, and practical considerations. Here's a concise guide to making that choice: Reflect on the Room's Function The painting should match the atmosphere you want to create. For instance, bedrooms benefit from calming imagery, while living spaces can handle more vibrant or thought-provoking pieces. For a truly personalized touch, consider incorporating a painted picture of loved ones, adding a sentimental element to your home decor. You may also commission a custom piece from Memorialize Art to ensure a unique and meaningful tribute to your cherished memories. Consider Size and Placement The scale of the artwork should be in harmony with its surroundings. A large, bold piece can serve as a focal point, while smaller works might complement an existing decor scheme. Placement at eye level generally ensures optimal viewing. Harmonize with Your Decor The painting should not only stand out but also integrate well with the room's color palette and style. Artworks that echo the hues and motifs of the space can unify the interior design. Selecting a painting that resonates with you personally and fits these criteria can significantly enhance the character and enjoyment of your space. How to Incorporate Paintings into Your Living Space Consider the impact of lighting on the display of paintings. Proper lighting can enhance the visual appeal of the artwork, drawing attention to its details and colors. Whether it's natural light streaming through a window or strategically placed artificial lighting, the right illumination can elevate the impact of the painting in your living space. Creating a cohesive and harmonious look with your existing decor is essential when incorporating paintings into your living space. The colors and style of the painting should complement the furniture, accessories, and overall design scheme of the room, creating a seamless integration of art and decor. Tips on How to Care for Your Art Collection Here are some tips to help you properly care for your art collection: Hanging and Positioning Proper handling and maintenance of paintings are essential to preserve their beauty and integrity. This includes ensuring that the paintings are hung securely, away from direct sunlight and environmental factors that could cause damage over time. Environmental Control Environmental factors such as humidity and temperature can have a significant impact on the condition of paintings. It's important to display and store paintings in a controlled environment to prevent deterioration and preserve their longevity. Regular Maintenance and Care In addition to environmental factors, regular cleaning and maintenance are necessary to care for your art collection. Dusting the frames, inspecting for any signs of damage, and addressing any conservation needs are essential aspects of art collection care. What is the Emotional and Psychological Impact of Art in Home Decor? Art in home decor transcends aesthetic appeal, offering emotional resonance and a deep connection to the artwork's narrative, evoking nostalgia and inspiration. It enhances well-being and creativity, with visual stimulation from paintings creating a dynamic, personality-rich environment. Moreover, art as decor is a personal style expression, a nod to history and culture, and a sophisticated style elevation, making the home not just visually appealing but emotionally enriching. Conclusion Incorporating paintings into home decor is more than an aesthetic choice; it's a journey into the realm of timeless elegance, where each artwork adds depth and character to your living space. By thoughtfully selecting and positioning pieces, homeowners can create environments that reflect their personal narratives and aesthetic preferences. The art of using paintings in home decor not only enhances the visual appeal of a space but also connects us to the broader tapestry of human expression and history. How will you let the art of painting transform your home into a story of elegance and personal discovery?
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If you want a vacation that’s filled with both adventure and luxury, a yacht charter will certainly tick all of your boxes. With incredible freedom and unique opportunities, it’s an experience like no other.
Whether it’s your first time setting sail or you’re a seasoned enthusiast, a little preparation can enhance your trip. The more organized you are, the easier it will be to relax and have fun. Not sure where to get started? Then keep on reading! In this article, we are going to discuss eight tips that will help you prepare for your next yacht vacation. Research your destination. Each yachting destination offers a unique experience. From the Mediterranean coastline to the tropical Caribbean – be sure to spend time understanding the local culture, maritime regulations, and best cruising locations. Additionally, it’s important to look into not just where you want to go but the best time to visit. Weather plays a significant role and you don’t want to be caught in the wrong season. Choose the right yacht. The vessel you select can also make or break your vacation. Yachts come in various sizes and styles, each suited to different types of travel. You’ll need to do some digging to find something that works for your specific needs. Consider the number of people in your party and the amenities you require. These boat rentals at 12 knots are a great place to get started if you haven’t already made a booking. Confirm your certification and skills. If you plan to charter a yacht without a crew, it’s vital to possess the necessary certifications and skills. Each country has its own regulations concerning who can operate a yacht, and the last thing you want is to be in trouble with the local authorities. If you’re not comfortable, it’s best to charter with a crew or at least brush up on your skills with additional sailing lessons prior to your trip. It’s a lot of responsibility, and you need to know that you can keep yourself and your passengers safe. Pack the essentials. Packing for a charter is different from a typical resort vacation. Space is often tight, so pack light and bring only what’s necessary. Your essentials should include appropriate clothing, non-skid deck shoes, sunscreen, a good hat, and waterproof electronics. Don’t forget travel insurance, emergency contact information, and your prescription medication either. You should have everything you require for those days when you are exploring open waters. Understand yachting etiquette. Yachting has its own customs and procedures that you should be aware of. For example, it's normal to remove shoes when on board to maintain cleanliness and avoid deck damage. It’s also important that you communicate openly with the crew and respect their safety advice. This will ensure a safe and harmonious sailing trip for everyone. You don’t want to be stuck on board with people you don’t get along with. Plan the itinerary. One of the benefits of yacht charter vacations is that they are a lot more flexible than other trips. However, this doesn’t mean you shouldn’t have an itinerary mapped out in advance. Work with your charter company to plan a route that includes your preferred destinations, water activities, and excursions. There should be a balance between cruising days and relaxing days where you are anchored. Shop for food and water. When you’re out on the water you don’t have access to stores and markets. This means you’re going to need to plan to have enough food and drinks for the duration of your trip. As we mentioned previously, storage can be limited, so focus on non-perishables that can be easily prepared. If you don’t want to cook, hiring a chef can also add additional luxury and convenience. Be flexible. Finally, it’s essential to know that sometimes things don’t always go to plan during your trip abroad. Weather can change and sometimes a destination might not turn out to be what you expected. Use these instances as opportunities to discover new favorite spots or go with the flow and enjoy an unexpected detour. Often the best memories are made when you embrace flexibility. Final Words And that’s it! By following these tips and keeping in touch with your crew, you can prepare for your next yacht vacation. Remember, it may be different than what you expect, but there are so many unique things that make it the perfect way to spend time with friends and family. Good luck and have fun!
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As a real estate investor, you can choose to invest in any type of property you like. Many investors focus on a specific type of real estate, such as condominiums, apartments, or large family homes. The former is a great choice if you want to rent your properties out and become a landlord. Condos are hugely popular amongst renters and allow for an easy and reliable investment. You can ensure a great return on your initial investment when you rent condos, and you’ll be able to grow and thrive as a successful landlord. Working with one of the reputable condo property management companies in Scarborough or another area of Ontario will ensure your success and growth in the real estate world. Such companies can help you find the best tenants for your rental properties, manage tenant queries and complaints, and aid your financial management as a landlord. Below, we’ve covered why investing in condos is a good idea if you want to thrive as a landlord in Canada. Condos Are Affordable and Accessible Condos are often much more affordable than larger properties, making them attractive investment options for newer real estate investors. After the initial purchase of a condo, the maintenance fees are often much lower than those associated with the upkeep of large family homes. Due to the lower initial costs and ongoing expenses associated with purchasing condos, they are a budget-friendly choice that enables you to get your foot in a metaphorical real estate investment door without accumulating large amounts of debt. Condos Have Fewer Maintenance Requirements Compared with larger properties, condos are easy and cheaper to maintain, which is ideal if you’re a busy landlord with limited time to perform maintenance checks and repairs. Working with a condo property management company will streamline the process even further, as the team of experts will handle maintenance, repairs, and issues relating to property damage or other landlord-related challenges. Often, external companies oversee the maintenance and landscaping of the condo block, meaning you don’t need to worry too much about the exterior components of the building. Instead, you can focus your efforts and finances on maintaining and improving the interior of your rental condos. Condos Attract a Diverse Range of Tenants Condos are ideal for single people or couples who don’t require a large amount of space and want somewhere affordable to rent. When investing in condos within Ontario, you can enjoy a diverse pool of tenants. People move to the Ontario from all over the world for a number of reasons. Many business owners choose to open offices in this area due to its thriving economy, attracting thousands of international employees and jobseekers every year, many of whom will be searching for a condo to rent when planning a trip abroad. There are also thousands of ex-pats who move to Canada to seek a better life. These individuals may seek a modern condo to rent instead of purchasing a property themselves. Choosing to rent a condo offers enhanced benefits over other types of properties by providing renters with easy access to local amenities and offering a taste of the urban lifestyle without a hefty price tag.
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The van life often looks like a dream come true on social media. Pictures of vans parked in breathtaking spots, with views of sunsets or mountains, paint a picture of endless freedom and beauty. However, the reality of living in a van isn't always as easy as it seems. That's why making sure your camper is as comfortable as possible needs to be a priority. When your living space is well-organized, cozy, and efficient, you can truly enjoy the freedom and adventure that drew you to van life in the first place. In this article, we will go over some of the essentials when it comes to living comfortably in a van or camper. 1 - Keep things clean and dry One of the biggest issues in a small, enclosed space is managing moisture, which can lead to mold growth. To prevent mold and mildew you need to make sure there is air flow in the camper or van. Fan-Tastic vents can help in keeping the inside of your camper dry and fresh. These vents help circulate air, removing dampness and condensation that can accumulate from everyday activities like cooking and breathing. Keeping it dry inside also involves being mindful of how you store items and manage space. Wet items like towels or clothes should be hung outside to dry whenever possible, rather than inside where they can increase humidity levels. For day-to-day cleanliness, you should have tools that get the job done but take up little space. A compact, rechargeable vacuum cleaner can work wonders for picking up dirt, dust, and crumbs from floors and cushions. 2 - Heating and cooling To properly stay comfortable, you’ll need to have a plan to manage the heating and cooling during extreme temperatures. Proper insulation is the foundation for maintaining a comfortable temperature. Insulating your van not only helps keep the heat in during winter but also keeps the interior cool when it's hot outside. For heating, portable heaters are a popular choice among van lifers. When choosing a heater, it's important to consider safety features, such as automatic shut-off in case it tips over. A/C is not usually practical in a van or camper, but some evaporative coolers to circulate chilled air are great. Parking in the shade during the hottest parts of the day can also reduce interior temperatures quite a bit. 3 - Good bedding To sleep well, you need a comfy place to rest. Start with picking a good mattress that fits in your van and feels nice to lie on. Whether you like a soft or firm mattress, make sure it's right for you and fits your van. Memory foam is a popular choice for bedding in vans because it offers excellent support and comfort. Memory foam mattresses come in various thicknesses, so you can choose one that fits your space and comfort needs. Inflatable mattresses can be good for very tight spaces or if you need to convert your sleeping area for other uses during the day.
As soon as babies start pulling up and toddling around, our space becomes their space. Throw pillows and couch cushions can be found strewn across the room. As they grow older, they're not just pulling things down, they're building them up! Forts for make believe and stacks for jumping on! It's amazing... and also a wee bit frustrating for parents. We have a massive Ikea Kivik sofa with 13 couch cushions (plus 6 throw pillows). There was a time when more than half of these would go missing on a daily basis LOL!!
But, there is a solution! Kids play sofas!! And there is a new one in town that blows the others out of the water, with the game changer being included WATERPROOF LINERS!!! I'm so excited to be working with Acorn Couch on this sponsored review (and GIVEAWAY - enter to win in the Rafflecopter app at the bottom), so let's get to it!!
Founded and run by NJ mom of 3, Brittany Amoscat, who was frustrated by the other options on the market that were too expensive and also not waterproof, Acorn Couch is the newest kids sofa on the block and we are absolutely loving ours!! Here are some of the standout features we know you'll love, too:
When folded in half, they fit perfectly under our kids' beds! So they stow away quickly and easily, and can be pulled out in an instant to play or host a sleepover!
Many think kids' sofas are just for toddlers, but these will really grow with your kiddos!! Here are some of the ways my kids (and us parents, too) use ours:
We just love these and know you will, too!! Click here to learn more about Acorn Couch and shop, and enter to win in the Rafflecopter app below!
GIVEAWAY! ENTER TO WIN HERE!!
You just need to leave a comment and register in the app to let it know you did so, any extra actions taken such as sharing on social will be extra points earned to increase your chance at winning! US Residents ages 18+ only, giveaway ends April 9 at 11:59PM ET, winner will be randomly chosen and emailed after that!
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Planning a vacation overseas can sometimes feel like conducting a large-scale symphony with all the anticipation, excitement, and, let's be honest, stress. It's all too easy to forget important things that could make or break your trip in the rush of organizing your itinerary, finding places to stay, and booking your flights.
If you want to have a smooth and easy trip, here are some of the (genuinely important) things you’ve probably forgotten to account for and need to plan ASAP. Travel Insurance To start off with a reality check, let's face it: accidents happen, flights are cancelled, luggage disappears, and people can get sick or injured. Even though we always hope for the best, it's important to have comprehensive travel insurance to be prepared for the worst. But how much is travel insurance? This will depend on the type of cover you go for, and what you deem necessary. The more comprehensive your cover, the more you’ll be paying, but the less worries you’ll have. Regardless of what it costs, though, consider it your safety net, covering any unforeseen expenses on your trip that you certainly won’t want to be dealing with while you’re trying to enjoy a holiday. Health Precautions Your health is your wealth, and you need to pay extra close attention to it while visiting foreign places where you could be exposed to new diseases, climates, and foodborne illnesses. Speak with your doctor or a travel medicine specialist before heading off to a new destination to find out whether there are any vaccinations or preventive treatments you can or should be taking. Some common vaccinations can include typhoid fever, yellow fever, influenza, and hepatitis A and B, depending on the area you're visiting and your general health. You should also travel with a well-stocked first-aid kit containing all your usual medication as well as some extras for unforeseen emergencies. Currency Exchange Dealing with foreign currencies can be quite confusing if you haven’t done your research (and sometimes even if you have). Spend some time getting acquainted with the local currency and current exchange rates of the place you are visiting before you travel there. Although it could be tempting to exchange your money at the hotel or airport kiosk because of how easy this would be, keep in mind that these kiosks often provide bad exchange rates along with loads of additional fees. For the best deal, rather think about taking out cash from ATMs or exchanging money at local banks once you arrive. It’s also a good idea to keep a backup credit card on hand in case of any issues. Connectivity Thanks to the tech of our modern and hyper-connected world, staying in touch with your loved ones wherever you go is ridiculously easy. However, you still need to think about it and have a plan in place. Before you leave, check out what your options will be for staying connected – you could look into portable Wi-Fi devices or hotspots, buying a local SIM card when you arrive, or using international roaming plans. You’ll want to have a plan in place to get connected as soon as you can – you need to be online to access GPS and find your way around and, of course, to let your family know that you’ve arrived safely at your destination. Safety Precautions When traveling overseas, the phrase "safety first" is more important than ever. Foreign countries are always full of exciting adventures and new things to experience, but they also harbour unfamiliar dangers, especially for those who might be caught off guard. From political unrest and natural disasters to petty crime and theft, there’s a lot to be on the lookout for. Research the safety and security conditions in your destination country, including any travel advisories or warnings issued by the government, and keep yourself updated on local laws and emergency protocols. Personal safety equipment should also be kept on hand, and stay safe by avoiding unknown areas at night – especially when you’re alone. Backup of Travel Documents Every frequent traveller has had that unsettling nightmare of losing their passport or some other vital documentation on a trip and getting thrown in a foreign prison. Luckily, it’s unlikely to be that serious, but you should still be on the ball about keeping your travel docs on hand, and having backups as well – just in case. Digital copies are always going to be your friend, so keep all your files saved on a platform like Dropbox. But that being said, hard copies are usually preferred when it comes to travel documents, especially when flying, so try to keep your passport, ID, visa documents, and other important information in a travel wallet that you keep on hand at all times. Contributed post; contains affiliate links - as an Amazon Associate, I receive commission from purchases made after clicking on these. When it comes to cleaning, there’s this weird relationship with it. The act of cleaning itself is so boring; sometimes, it can even be physically demanding (especially in those hard-to-reach places). But at the same time, when you’re done with cleaning, you feel like a champion; you feel like you’re on top of the world. Plus, usually, when something is outrageously filthy, it makes someone feel grossed out or uncomfortable anyway. Whether you enjoy the act of cleaning or not, for the average person, the feeling is mutual when it comes to dirty and clean places. But with that said, sometimes, a deep cleaning is needed. This deep cleaning is more than just removing residue from the dishwasher; it’s getting into those nooks and crannies, moving furniture, and, of course, decluttering. Actually, spring is just around the corner, so it's the perfect time to do some spring cleaning! But you can’t expect to do all the spring cleaning yourself; you definitely need some help with it! So, with that said, your help needs to be your family, but how can you hype them up for the semi-busy schedule of cleaning up the house and their rooms? Well, here’s how to do it! Get Professionals to Do the Challenging Stuff It’s a good idea to remove some of the stress for both you and your family by getting some professionals to take care of certain things. For example, you don’t need to hire a maid or housekeeper for deep cleaning. You can if you want, but there are some areas that might be cleaned and might need help, such as opting for experienced window cleaners or even hiring someone to pressure wash your house and driveway. If these more challenging jobs have another party doing them, everyone will feel more at ease. You can also outsource some tasks, such as vacuuming and mopping, to an amazing robot - my absolute favorite is the Narwal Freo (commission earning Amazon affiliate link). Make Sure the Tasks are Age-Appropriate While it’s sometimes nice to see what your kids are capable of, you don’t want to throw too much at them too quickly. So, just like with regular chores, make sure they’re getting assigned things that they are capable of doing and can do safely. For example, younger children (such as those below the age of 10) can help with simple tasks like dusting, sorting toys, or wiping down surfaces, while older children and teenagers can take on more challenging tasks such as vacuuming, mopping, or organizing closets. Make It Into a Game This is something more for younger children because teens might not be too interested in this. It’s up to you how to do this really, but there are some ways to get younger children interested in spring cleaning. For example, you can create a scavenger hunt where family members search for misplaced items and return them to their proper places. Another thing you could try is to set a timer and challenge each other to see who can clean a room the fastest. Offering little rewards might help, too. But making this into a game is really one of the easiest ways to get younger children interested, thus making it fun and cute for the parents.
As a family of 5 we are always hunting for ways to save on flights and travel more. The dirt cheap tickets available through no frills airlines such as Spirit, Frontier, and JetBlue are definitely attractive, but once you start paying for a checked bag and carry on luggage, those fees really start to add up! Learning how to pack your personal item like a pro is key, and you start that off by finding the right small but mighty travel backpack for women, men, and kids! So let's get right to it - I'm going to show you how to pick the best travel backpack and how to pack your personal item to save money on flights!!
Disclaimer - this post was sponsored by Responsival and contains some affiliate links noted with ** after them. As an Amazon associate, I receive commission from qualified purchases made after clicking affiliate these links.
PERSONAL ITEM DIMENSIONS:
Every airline has its own maximum dimensions for the complimentary personal item every ticket holder in entitled to. If you're hoping to save on flights by not paying for a carry on or checked bag (or as few as possible), you'll want to know the dimensions of what bags and amenities are included in that ticket, and calculate the total cost including any bags you would need to purchase. For example, a no frills airline may have a cheaper ticket but if you MUST bring a full size carry on, check a bag, select your seat, and purchase a meal, a regular ticket with a bigger airline may be a similar or even better deal. Most airlines have set their max dimensions of the complimentary "personal item" at or above 17" x 13" x 8" (at least at the time of writing this post, which I confirmed for Allegiant Airlines, American Airlines, Breeze Airways, Frontier Airlines, JetBlue Airlines, Play Airlines, Spirit Airlines) which is a small backpack, purse, or laptop bag. The reasoning is that it needs to go under the seat in front of you, and not take up their valuable money-making overhead space. Some budget airlines are notorious for making you gently plop your bag in the measurement device at the gate, without allowing you to push or adjust the bag, if even a handle is sticking out, they'll force you to pay a last minute carry on or checked bag fee, which can be a whopping $60 or so. Suddenly, your Frontier Airlines deals are no longer deals... So let's avoid that by making sure your bag is well within the limits - get one that is small enough and do not over pack it. THE BEST PERSONAL ITEM FOR FLYING: Have no fear, I have found THE BEST weekender bag, laptop backpack for women and men, whatever you want to call it. I was sent this set and paid for my review but these are honestly amazing!! At just 17" x 12" x 5" the Day Owl Backpack has a minimalist look AND size (i.e. within the dimensions for every regular and budget airline I mentioned above), yet holds a whopping 21 liters and has a ton of pockets and compartments, including a padded compartment that will hold a 16" laptop, as well as a water resistant insulated side pocket that will hold that 750mL bottle of wine you splurge on at duty free (or huge water bottle, of course). Plus, each backpack is made from 26 recycled plastic water bottles!!! The Pouch is a great add-on, a cord organizer (or little clutch to hold your wallet / phone / passport etc). Watch my Day Owl Backpack & Cord Pouch review video below for a closer look! PACKING HACKS:
WHAT TO PACK IN YOUR PERSONAL ITEM:
This list will differ if you're traveling with a carry on or checked bag (this is my FAVORITE 3 piece nesting luggage set** in case you're in need of gorgeous new suitcases!), or if you're only flying with your personal item.
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About ME:I'm a NYC metro area mom blogger living in NJ with my Japanese husband & our 3 kids (twins plus 1), focusing on fun and honest product and travel reviews, saving moms time finding the best for their families! Find what you need in the menu bar or search section above! Categories
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March 2024
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