ALL THE THINGS…that’s what our lives are about! We have so many THINGS to do every day depending on our time of life. It might be working at a job you love (or hate), going to school to progress your career, being a parent and running like a mashed cat to get your kids to every event and still keep up with cooking healthy meals, grocery shopping, exercising and paying bills. Or, maybe you are just trying to make life a little more organized and easier to handle. It is my hope to share the information I have acquired over the years to help you achieve whatever your dream may be.
It may not always apply to you but you can tweak it to make it work for you. It does not happen overnight, but it is never too late to start working on a plan and taking baby steps to achieve it! Small consistent steps lead to BIG changes! Trust me!
Do you love the industrial rustic look as much as I do? It’s so trendy right now and lends itself to many different decorating styles. I call my style “Farmhouse Industrial Chic” because I cannot choose just one! This cheap and easy pipe curtain rod is truly so easy to make and does not cost a bunch of your hard-earned dollars!
I went to my local plumbing and big box stores and found the galvanized pipes to be too expensive so I ordered mine online. They are not the same heavy-duty steel your plumber would use. They are lighter and a whole lot cheaper which works for me! And, no one can tell the difference!
This is my first finished project. I used some PVC pipe that I had laying around from another project. I sprayed the ends with hammered metal spray paint and you can’t even tell it’s PVC!
The image above happens to be centered.
- (2) 3/4″ x 2″ Pipe Fittings
- (2) 3/4″ Floor Flange(2)
- (2) 3/4″ Pipe Elbows 90°
- (6) Black Sheetrock Screws (local hardware store)
- 3/4″ PVC Pipe width of window + 2″ (local hardware store)
- Rust-oleum Hammered Metal Spray Paint
- Tape Measure
- Level
- Marker
- Screwdriver or cordless drill with screwdriver bit
Gather all your supplies and get ready to have some fun! You may need a small hacksaw if you need to cut your PVC pipe. I used a vice to secure the pipe when I cut it and it made it super easy.
If your curtain rod will be visible you will need to spray the entire length with your choice of color. Spray light coats and let dry at least 15 minutes in between.
Assemble the entire rod and then held it up above my window to determine where it looks even. Mark the holes on the left side and then removed the flange, 2″ spacer, and elbow on that side.
Attach the left flange to the wall. Reattach the spacer and elbow to the flange.
Screw or insert the PVC pipe to the left side.
Slide your curtain onto the rod.
Have someone help you with this part. Use the level to make sure the rod is level and mark the flange holes on the right side.
Install screws and you are DONE!
That’s all there is to it! You can make this industrial curtain rod to fit just about any window. If you purchase the pipe fittings in bulk you will have plenty for more windows and they are very inexpensive this way. Go get building!
Creativity
Easy Adorable Hello Spring Metal Wreath
Well, Hello Spring! This cute and easy hello spring metal wreath is a quick way to dress up your front door or an area of your home or office. I love galvanized metal paired with pretty flowers and this inspiration came from something I saw at Hobby Lobby. Here are the directions and list of everything you will need!
Being creative takes your mind off the craziness our world is in right now and the results have an everlasting feeling of accomplishment and happiness! Plus, most things you probably already have at home or can order online. Happy crafting and be sure to share your creation with the rest of us!
- Wire Cutters
- Tape Measure
- Craft Jute – 2 ply/20#, 36″
- Double-Sided Foam Tape
- Scissors
- X-Acto Knife
- Wire – 22 guage, Green or Silver
- Galvanized Metal Wreath
- Galvanized Metal Hello or Other Greeting
Directions
- Get all your supplies and tools together.
- Decide how long you want the jute hanger to be and cut a piece 3 times that length (12” x 3 = 36”). Fold in half and make a slip knot around one side of the wreath. On the other side make a knot making sure it is on the back side.
- Front side facing up, position your word on the wreath. Look for a spot on each side where you can hide the double-stick foam tape. Cut a small piece of tape, about ½” x ½”. Peel of one side and place it on the wreath where it will be hidden by the word. Do this for both sides and place your word on the tape firmly attaching it. I like the foam tape because it gives the wreath a little dimension.
- Now gather your flowers and make a small bouquet laying the stems across each other until you like the way it looks. Take a 16” piece of wire and working from the back, work it through the center of the bouquet and wrap it around two times tightly. On the back side twist the two ends together several times and then wrap around the bottom of the wreath. Secure the wire on the back of the wreath by twisting several times. You may need to use another piece of wire to secure one side of the bouquet to another spot on the wreath just so it does not move around. Trim the ends of the wire short and push to the side.
- Flip the wreath over and trim the long stems of the flowers so they are short enough to not be seen.
- OPTIONAL: You could add a bow/ribbon at this point if you liked.
- Now go hang it up somewhere for you and everyone to ENJOY!
I would love to see your version of this project! Send me pictures to post showing your creativity!
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Homemade disinfecting spray Everyone is talking about and wanting to know how to protect their family from Coronavirus. There does not appear to be any one thing, however, good hygiene habits and household practices definitely can not hurt! Making your own homemade sanitizer and disinfecting spray from items you probably already have is one alternative.
You can make your own homemade sanitizing/disinfecting spray at home with ingredients you may already have! With the rise of Coronavirus cases, it has become almost impossible to find sanitizers and disinfectants of any kind. Good news, though, things like rubbing alcohol, vodka, hydrogen peroxide, vinegar, and essential oils can be used to make a sanitizer/disinfectant that is safe to use nearly everywhere. Below is the recipe I use to make my sanitizing/disinfecting spray for work and home. You can download and print a chart of essential oils and their disinfecting properties by clicking below!
* Homemade Disinfecting Spray Recipe *
- 16 oz. glass spray bottle (always use glass when using essential oils)
- 2 cups Vodka 140+ proof, Everclear grain alcohol OR Isopropyl (Rubbing) Alcohol 70%+
- Be sure the Vodka or Everclear is at least 140 proof which equals 70% alcohol
- 1/2 tsp. Hydrogen Peroxide
- 60-70 drops of essential oil with antimicrobial/antibacterial/antiviral properties (your choice).
- Add a cute label
Pour the alcohol in the bottle, add hydrogen peroxide and essential oils. Shake to mix before spraying on surfaces. Be sure to spot check to be sure there is no discoloration before applying everywhere. Also, be sure to clean your surface of dirt and other residue to be sure the spray will have full effect.
Want more homemade recipes? Let me know what you are interested in and I will get it to you!
*All the ingredients above are known to have antimicrobial, disinfecting and sanitizing properties but are not guaranteed by me to eliminate all germ/bacteria/virus threats. I’m not a doctor or disease specialist. Please consult your doctor and the CDC website to do your own research about the best ways to protect your family.
We are all talking about the Coronavirus, Covid-19, and trying to do our very best to protect ourselves and family during this unprecedented time. With so much information floating around, theories and chaos out there what is the best thing for YOU to do? Store shelves are empty and people are panicking. Yes, it is scary to think about this disease but there are things you can do to remain in control of things around you.
While no one knows what the days ahead will bring us, I can share with you my perspective and what my family I are doing to stay healthy and safe.
- Stay CALM!
- Sanitize & Disinfect EVERYTHING!
- WASH your hands regularly!
- Keep your BUBBLE up around you!
- Stay HYDRATED!
- Eat HEALTHILY!
- Get lots of REST!
- Enjoy your FAMILY time!
- Do not PANIC!
STAY CALM
After visiting several of our local stores it appears people are truly freaking out! That does no one any good and blocks our logical thinking. I agree it is hard to stay calm when the store shelves are empty so regroup and find another way to get what you may really need. Only buy what you need, or will be sharing with someone, so others can do the same. Do not be a hoarder!
DISINFECT & SANITIZE
Disinfecting and sanitizing are at the top of my list. Right now it is impossible to find hand sanitizer, disinfecting wipes and any cleaner that has germ-killing properties. I do not like to use hand sanitizer on a regular basis, I feel washing my hands properly is better, but when going to a store or other public place, I use it! You can make your own sanitizing spray and hand sanitizer at home with things around the house. And, maybe a quick trip to the liquor store! Yes, you can use vodka to make your own sanitizer. Here are my favorite recipes for a household disinfectant and a hand sanitizer.
WASH YOUR HANDS
Hand washing is a must! Wash regularly and for at least 20 seconds scrubbing in between fingers and up the back of your hand to your wrists. Using an antibacterial soap is great but the length of time is crucial.
KEEP YOUR DISTANCE
Keep your BUBBLE up around you! Sorry, no hugs, handshaking, high 5’s and other forms of affection to others. Try to keep at least a 6′ distance from others, especially when you are at work or out in other public places.
DRINK YOUR WATER
Stay HYDRATED! Staying hydrated is one of the things doctors and the CDC have said helps prevent the Coronavirus. Water is your best choice but other clear liquids and fruit juices would also be acceptable. Stay away from sodas and other sugary drinks as sugar has been known to reduce your immune system.
EAT HEALTHILY
Eat HEALTHILY! Eat the best organic fruits and vegetables your budget will allow. When shopping look for the “every color of the rainbow” produce to be sure you are getting a variety of nutrients. Stay away from processed foods and sugars.
GET SOME REST
Get lots of REST and SLEEP! Allow your body to repair itself by getting extra rest when you can. It is one of the best ways to fight off diseases of any type. It is okay to take a nap because you will be more productive afterward.
EVERYTHING WILL WORK OUT
Don’t PANIC! Keep a logical mind and do not be overwhelmed about all the information being thrown at you. Everyone has an opinion which you can listen politely to, but then make your own informed decisions based on your research. When we panic we tend to react irrationally which can actually cause additional bad consequences. Ask for input from someone you respect if you are having a hard time rationalizing this unprecedented time we are going through.
CORONA VIRUS UPDATE: With coronavirus on the rise, this post is particularly helpful from a pediatrician. She specifically addresses coronavirus. I have found this pediatrician’s site to be particularly helpful in protecting my whole family.
I am starting the year by making simple changes to my way of thinking! I recently read an article on The Best Brain Possible that outlined the above list. It resonated with me and I thought I would share it with you and how I plan to practice these ideas in 2020.
My “day job” is an office manager at a middle school. Crazy as it sounds, I really love my job, my co-workers, and the kids. Yes, the kids. This is a very tough age with all the new hormones running rampant (I’m talking about the kids), learning to be responsible and independent, yet still needing adult support and direction. The energy that is created at this level is not like most jobs and requires a lot of patience and energy in return. But that’s OK…the rewards are worth it!
Stop trying to please everyone!
Being the OM does not mean that I have to accept everything being thrown my way to resolve. You would think working with children and adults would be totally different. In reality, not so much. Both want to be heard, have their thought or request validated and fulfilled. To most, this might seem like you are trying to please everyone. However, by implementing a different thought process it will not seem like you are “pleasing” anyone.
I have always wanted to do things for others thinking it would make me feel better but the more I did the more they asked for. I soon became frustrated with these people and no longer liked helping them. This feeling then made me feel even worse because that was not the person I wanted to be. I wanted everyone to feel like they could come to me whenever they needed to.
So, my new strategy is to focus on what I am giving back to the ones I am helping, looking deeper into what may be missing in their lives and why they are coming to me for help.
So many children do not receive the attention/love they need at home. Parents are busy working, children may live with a grandparent or other person, there may be drug or mental health issues, all of which affect how a child behaves at school. Recognizing this has allowed me to realize the student may need more than just solving their problem…they need someone to listen and care about their request. Looking at it this way I know I am being more than just a problem solver.
As for the adults, this becomes a bit more complicated. Some come to me and dole out orders; others submit requests. I am a true problem solver. I enjoy a good challenge so bring it on! I really try to interact on a more personal level. I like to include emojis in my emails, I send a daily bulletin out with memes or inspirational quotes…I try to a real person that they are communicating with.
By changing the level of interaction I feel like we are working together as a team. Being part of a team means we are working toward a common goal. Ours is to educate children and give them a safe environment to do it in. Practicing this method makes me feel good about their request, that we are working together, and not that I am trying to please them.
Find Your WHY & Change Your LIFE
Why You Need A WHY?
I was totally caught off-guard when my health coach asked me about my WHY. All I wanted to do was lose a few pounds…why did I need a why? Turns out having a solid reason, Why, for wanting to achieve a dream, goal or lifestyle takes some soul-searching to get started.
Beginning your journey by writing down your dream may seem like the most important part. After all, you know what you want. This is actually the easy part! The hard part is finding out WHY you want to pursue this dream. Is it to be healthier? Have more money? Fit into those super cute jeans? It could actually be a combination of many things. But, you need to determine your WHY so you have a focus and reminder along the way. This helps you stay on track because you have a reason and not just a want.
How to Find Your Why
Finding your WHY really is not that hard. There are many videos, books, and online checklists to help you with this step. I have found the video, 7 Levels Deep, by Dean Graziosi, very helpful in explaining the process. It is short and gives insight into the process. He also has another called Finding Out Your Why which is equally insightful.
You can download this worksheet which will walk you through 7 questions that will help you dig deep into finding your why. From there don’t go it alone. Find a friend whom you can confide in, who will support your journey, and help remind you of where you are heading. Put up pictures, quotes, and other visual items around your home, on your bathroom mirror, workspace, and car to keep you motivated and moving forward. If your why is a long-term process, make short-term milestones to reward your hard work. You can do anything you set your mind to…change your mindset and change your LIFE!
STEPS TO EASY HYDRATION
The easiest habit for me to add was getting more and better HYDRATION. This means DRINK MORE WATER! We’ve all heard we need to drink eight glasses of water a day but water always seemed boring. However, now that I have been drinking over 100 ounces of water a day my taste has changed. I like it and my body expects it. Yeah, running to the bathroom frequently can be a pain but that goes away quickly. And, the benefits of good hydration are well worth it!
NOTE: If you are on medications you should always talk with your doctor before making changes to your health routine.
The Importance of Drinking More Water
Over and over again we hear we need to drink more water…but why you ask? Well, water makes up 55%-60% of our weight. Water is used in our cells, organs, and tissues to help our body regulate its temperature and maintain bodily functions. Because we lose water through breathing, sweating, and digestion, it needs to be replenished regularly to keep our body running efficiently. You need to replenish it with the right liquid.
There are so many benefits to hydrating our bodies as nearly every function in our body takes place in water. ..
- Removes toxins & fat
- Moves nutrients & oxygen to cells
- Cleans kidneys
- Cushions & lubricates joints
- Helps convert food to energy
- Weight loss & boosts metabolism
- Brain function
- Prevents dehydration
- Healthy skin & anti-aging effects
- Helps with regularity
- Helps prevent certain medical condition (kidney stones, UTI, hypertension)
- It can even improve your mood!
I could go on and on with this list. Let’s just say, our bodies rely on water to function properly. Drinking enough water enough day can be a challenge. I have some easy steps you can take to improve your daily dose of water!
Best Ways To Get Your Water In
Now that you know why water and hydration are so important here are some easy ways to get it in every day. Start by drinking just one more glass a day than you already do.
Don’t wait until you get thirsty to get a drink because by then it’s too late. Your body is already experiencing the effects of dehydration. These can include being moody, sleepy, hungry, headachey, brain fog, and more.
Try out these easy ideas today…
- Drink a glass when you get up in the morning
- Have a glass before every meal
- Set a timer to drink a glass every hour
- Set out 8 bottles of water to drink every day
- Add lemon, lime or cucumber slices
- Get a pretty cup to drink from
- Drink a glass after every bathroom break
- Get a water tracking app for your phone
Now that you know how to get in all your water, here is what is best to drink. Clear liquids are the best which are included in the healthy hydration list below. Keep in mind that you should not be adding sugar, creamers or other things to them.
Coffee was once thought of as a diuretic but recent studies have shown it isn’t and has other health benefits.
Unhealthy hydration doesn’t necessarily mean its unhealthy to drink. Fruit juices and almond milk are good for you. But, because they are not clear, are not as easily absorbed into your body.
Alcohol, sodas (including diet), energy and sports drinks can dehydrate your body. And, because of the sugar effect on your insulin response, are not recommended.
Healthy Hydration
- Purified water
- Bottled water
- Reverse osmosis water
- Tea – preferably green
- Coffee – plain, no sweeteners or cream
- Calorie-free infused water
- Sparkling water
Unhealthy Hydration
- Fruit juice
- Soda
- Almond, coconut or soy milk
- Diet soda
- Energy drinks
- Sports drinks
- Alcohol
Remember to keep your hydration simple. Always carry a bottle of water with you and you’ll be ready for ANYTHING!!!
We all hear about living a “Healthy Lifestyle”, but what is that really? It seems like an overwhelming chore if you look at the big picture…exercise, eating right, sleep, removing stress from your life, mind, spirit, relationships and more.
But, if you break it down into smaller pieces, microhabits, you will see how easy it really is to achieve. Don’t panic, you don’t have to do everything at once…take small steps at your own pace. You are more likely to continue small, consistent changes instead of jumping in and trying to do everything at once.
Each of these “microhabits” will help lead you down the path to a healthier, happier, more inspired person. Trust me, you will be able to do things you never thought you could and will feel amazing! I will be posting more in-depth information on each one that will hopefully, inspire you on your journey!
If you have any questions that you need to be answered please CONTACT ME!
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