A Single Parent Needs Trustworthy Neighbors

Many people have lamented and written on the changing of American neighborhoods. It can be hard to find friendly neighbors and a feeling of community that many of us remember from our youth. As single parents, I think we really need to have neighbors we can trust and those we can turn to when we need a hand, or just need to feel safe and supported in our neighborhoods. Even if you manage to get just one trustworthy neighbor as part of your “support team” it can make a huge difference. A great neighbor can provide our kids with a … Continue reading

How to Save Money on Bathing Suits

The neighbors have already invited us to use their pool and with just a few weeks of school left, there is talk of making a trip to the beach. The only problem was the bathing suit situation. Here are my tips for saving money on bathing suits, or bathing costumes, as my more elegant friends call them. I am a big advocate for buying things used to save money, but I just can’t get over the ew factor when it comes to a used bathing suit. It is up there on my list with used underwear. I have a friend … Continue reading

Are You Taking Advantage of Your Neighborhood?

I was born and raised in New York City. Despite that fact, I didn’t visit the Empire State Building until I was well into adulthood. Some friends from out of town visited and wanted to see it. To this day, I still have not gone to the Statue of Liberty. My point here, is that while New York City may certainly be an extreme in terms of things to do and see, the fact is that living there, I never thought to visit some of the biggest things that attract visitors from all over the world. These places were in … Continue reading

New Rule Closes the Loophole with the “Do Not Call List”

Don’t you hate it when unwanted telemarketing messages invade your home? We get at least two or three a week. Funny, because I thought being on the official “Do Not Call” list would eliminate unwanted telemarketing calls. The calls are even more annoying when they come prerecorded. They are also known as “robocalls.” As anyone who has heard it knows, I have been cursed or blessed with a naturally very soft-spoken voice that doesn’t usually get picked up clearly by answering machines or voice recognition systems unless I remember to actively project it. (I have this same problem talking on … Continue reading

Do You Have a Room of Your Own?

In your home is there a place that is meant just for you? Do you have a room of your own? Having a room of your own is coming back into popularity. It can be a space to relax, to read, to craft or just to be. I first came across the concept of having a room of your own thanks to a coffee table book called, aptly, A Room of Her Own.. The book chronicled spaces carved out by famous female writers, artists and others as their own. These gorgeous spaces reflected the interests of the owners, and ranged … Continue reading

Getting Out Cat Pee (Urine)

When the cat is out of control and decides to leave you a little present of cat pee, what do you do? Your first response might to throw the item out or replace it. This would be completely understandable, since cat urine is one of those things that is usually impossible to get out. Even if you wash the item or clean it, the odor has a way of coming back, especially when it is hot or humid. Today, I got to experience the issue of cat pee in two forms: on a garment and on the floor. Here is … Continue reading

Home Week in Review: June 23 – 29

Another week has gone by and since many of us stay so busy during the summer, it’s easy to miss an article here or there. No worries. They’re right here for your convenience (see other weeks in review for past articles). The Well-Stocked Toolbox How well is your toolbox stocked? Check out Mary Ann’s tips on which tools are important for home improvement enthusiasts. After reading this blog, if you want to know what additional items should go into your toolbox, check back soon. Your Yard: Stuff to do Outside Just sitting outside enjoying a nice breeze can be a … Continue reading