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Category: General

The Top Ways To Keep Your Patio Areas & Driveways Clean

Keeping the outside of your property clean is just as important as keeping the inside clean and so this is why many homeowners spend a lot of money every single year making sure that their patio areas are looking brand-new and their driveways are looking good as well. We all want to make the right first impression every single time and it doesn’t matter if it is family that is coming to visit or just people that are driving through the local neighborhood because we want to make our homes look inviting and well taken care of.

Here in the Northeast, the outside of our properties take a beating throughout the year and if it isn’t the rain or snow then it is the direct sunlight trying to damage the surfaces of our patio areas and driveways. We are all so busy and thus have very little time to keep these areas clean all by ourselves and so this is a time when you can turn to professionals likethe incredibly popular Prestige Surfaces to do all of the hard work for you. These guys can offer their sealing services as well as their cleaning services as well. For the rest of the year, however, the following are just some of the top ways that will help you to keep your patio areas and driveways clean.

  1. Invest in a good brush – Believe it or not but a good brush is hard to come back and this is the tool that you will use to keep both your patio area and your driveway clean throughout the year. If you have trees around your property then it’s likely that the ground will be covered with leaves and you need to remove these as often as possible because once they begin to rot and decay, they can damage the surface of any patio or driveway. Take the time every week to brush away any dirt and debris which is one step when renovating your backyard and this will stop the weeds from popping up.
  2. Soapy water is your friend – While you are waiting for your professional surface cleaner to come to your property, you can do your little bit to keep the area clean; it may seem like common sense but using some warm water and cleaning detergent is a great way to keep surfaces looking good. If you find that any areas of your patio are stained then maybe consider adding a little bit of bleach to the area to clean it all up. If you spill any oil, make sure that you clean this up straight away and use lots of soap and elbow grease to remove it from your driveway.

You could also invest in a household pressure washer which is incredibly affordable nowadays and it will help to keep all of your surfaces clean until the real professionals come along and provide you with a patio surface and a driveway that looks brand-new again.

Organic Dumpling Pop-Up This Weekend!!!

My dear friend Andy Yu is bringing his organic dumpling pop-up Dumplings for Yu to Westchester this weekend. I have to tell you these are the BEST dumplings I have tried EVER!!!!!!! Last year we had the most amazing dumpling dinner. Guests were agreeing one by one that these were indeed the best dumplings they have ever tasted. The menu is just for one day and quantities are limited, so to place your order for pick up on Saturday, EMAIL to johnfarmerubaldo@gmail.com

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A guaranteed good night’s sleep with a warm quilt.

Well, that was a pleasant surprise, being called into the office and being given a promotion and salary increase. It might just allow you to take that first step onto the property ladder, but in the meantime, you decide that you’ll spend some of the cash on some improvements to your current apartment after speaking to a friend who offered you a great tip.

As the cold spell approaches, you want to ensure that you are comfortable each evening and that you are in peak condition to continue your career progress. You decide to order a couple of warm winter quilts to help you in your quest.

There’s no nicer feeling in the world than getting into bed at the end of a long day and feeling warm and comfortable. Forget those days when your bed sheets became untucked which caused you to become restless sleep far too often when a quilt made of natural alpaca fibres will keep you snug and enable you to relax, to have hours of quality time in bed. 

Buying from a company with over 75 years as a mill that has supported charities throughout its existence and supports the Australian farming industry is another good reason to feel good about your selection. It even offers the opportunity of visiting the mill so that you can see the quality products being made with your own eyes before purchasing from the store. That must be better than just selecting something from a huge store that doesn’t know the specifics of what they’re selling. At the same time, you also decide to read up about how to achieve peak cosiness in your home.

There is no danger of the filling bunching or moving about like some quilts when choosing the top-of-the-range Regal Dual Quilt from among the selection on offer, as its fibres are stitched internally. Consistent warmth is provided wherever the quilt is on the body, with more air being trapped than in other products as a luxurious sleeping experience is guaranteed. 

Cleaning the quilt is carried out through a dry clean, keeping it in pristine condition, while allowing regular sunlight to shine on it will help its maintenance and longevity. Handily, the product is available in 5 different sizes from one suitable for a single bed, to double, Queen and King sizes and finally a Super King Size, which at 270cm x 240cm will cover even the largest of beds. They are the perfect quilts to climb under after enjoying a top after-work walk in the city.

Other warm winter quilts are available to suit all budgets, meaning they provide great value for money, especially when considering the associated health benefits that are provided by a regular and good night’s sleep each day.

Choosing an Australian-made warm winter quilt made from the fibres of alpaca wool ensures a comfortable sleep every time with its high quality ensuring a regular temperature to keep out those winter chills.

Book Club Monday

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This week’s book is an Amazon best-selling new release, Hello Beautiful by Ann Napolitano.

William Waters grew up in a house silenced by tragedy, where his parents could hardly bear to look at him, much less love him—so when he meets the spirited and ambitious Julia Padavano in his freshman year of college, it’s as if the world has lit up around him. With Julia comes her family, as she and her three sisters are inseparable: Sylvie, the family’s dreamer, is happiest with her nose in a book; Cecelia is a free-spirited artist; and Emeline patiently takes care of them all. With the Padavanos, William experiences a newfound contentment; every moment in their house is filled with loving chaos.



But then darkness from William’s past surfaces, jeopardizing not only Julia’s carefully orchestrated plans for their future but the sisters’ unshakeable devotion to one another. The result is a catastrophic family rift that changes their lives for generations. Will the loyalty that once rooted them be strong enough to draw them back together when it matters most?



An exquisite homage to Louisa May Alcott’s timeless classic, Little WomenHello Beautiful is a profoundly moving portrait of what is possible when we choose to love someone not in spite of who they are, but because of it.

For more information or to purchase this book, click HERE.

9 Tips For A Healthy Lifestyle For Construction Workers

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Construction work is a vital component of our society’s growth and development. It provides essential infrastructure, buildings, and homes for us to live and thrive in. However, with the long hours, physically demanding tasks, and exposure to hazardous materials, construction work can be dangerous and affect a worker’s health. In fact, according to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), the construction industry has one of the highest rates of injuries and fatalities in the workplace. That’s why construction workers must prioritize their health and safety. 

This blog will discuss some tips for a healthy lifestyle for construction workers so that they can take charge of their wellbeing.

  1. Attend Regular Health Check-Ups

It is important to undergo health checkups regularly. During a health check-up, a doctor may conduct a physical exam, order blood tests or imaging tests, and ask about any symptoms or concerns the construction worker may have. The doctor may also ask about the worker’s work environment and exposure to hazardous materials such as asbestos. If the doctor suspects the worker may have been exposed to asbestos, they may refer them to a specialist for further testing and evaluation.

If a construction worker is diagnosed with mesothelioma, they may be able to file a mesothelioma lawsuit against the companies responsible for their asbestos exposure. A reputable law firm specializing in mesothelioma lawsuits can help workers obtain compensation for their medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages caused by their illness.

  1. Stay Hydrated

Construction work is often physically demanding and can cause workers to sweat and lose fluids, leading to dehydration if not replenished. Dehydration can cause fatigue, dizziness, headaches, and other health problems that can impair a worker’s ability to perform their job effectively. Therefore, construction workers need to drink loads of water while avoiding caffeinated and sugary drinks that can contribute to dehydration. Adequate hydration can help construction workers maintain energy levels and improve cognitive function.

  1. Eat a Balanced Diet

A balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help construction workers get the nutrients they need to maintain their energy levels and stay healthy. It means avoiding fast and junk food, which can be high in calories, sodium, and unhealthy fats. Construction workers should aim to consume various foods from each food group, including complex carbohydrates, lean protein, healthy fats, and vitamins and minerals. Additionally, they should avoid skipping meals, especially breakfast, as this can lead to low energy levels and poor concentration on the job.

  1. Get Enough Rest

The physical demands of their job can take a toll on their bodies, and getting sufficient sleep is essential for their bodies to rest and recover. Sleep deprivation can lead to fatigue, decreased productivity, and an increased risk of accidents and injuries on the job. Construction workers should aim to get at least 7-8 hours of sleep each night and prioritize establishing a regular sleep schedule.

  1. Stretch Before and After Work

When working in construction, the body is often subjected to repetitive motions and lifting heavy objects, which can cause muscle tightness and strain. By stretching before work, construction workers can prepare their bodies for the job’s physical demands, increasing their flexibility and reducing the risk of injury. Stretching also helps improve circulation and increases blood flow to the muscles, which can help relieve soreness and fatigue.

After work, stretching can help the body cool down, allowing muscles to relax and preventing tightness from developing. It can also help reduce the risk of injury during future work shifts. Incorporating stretching into a daily routine can improve overall flexibility and range of motion, which can help construction workers perform their job with greater ease and efficiency.

  1. Wear Protective Gear

Protective gear can take many forms, depending on the nature of the job. For example, hard hats are essential for protecting workers’ heads from falling objects, while safety glasses can protect their eyes from dust, debris, and other hazards. Similarly, work gloves can protect workers’ hands from cuts, abrasions, and punctures, while steel-toed boots can protect their feet from falling objects and other hazards.

By wearing protective gear, construction workers can significantly reduce their risk of injury. In addition to preventing accidents, protective equipment can help prevent long-term health problems, such as hearing loss, respiratory problems, and skin conditions.

It is important to note that protective gear must be worn correctly to be effective. Construction workers should be trained to wear and use the gear provided to them appropriately. They should also inspect their gear regularly to ensure that it is in good condition and replace it if necessary.

  1. Maintain General Hygiene

Due to the nature of their work, construction workers are often exposed to dirt, dust, and other contaminants that can lead to health problems. They should wash their hands frequently and thoroughly with soap and water, especially before eating or drinking. It’s also important to shower and change into clean clothes after work to remove any dirt or dust that may have accumulated on their skin or clothing. Additionally, construction workers should ensure that their work environment is clean and debris-free to prevent the spread of germs and bacteria.

  1. Manage Stress

Stress can negatively affect physical and mental health, leading to fatigue, anxiety, depression, and other health problems. Therefore, construction workers should practice stress management techniques like meditation, deep breathing, or yoga. These activities can help reduce stress, improve mental clarity, and promote relaxation. Construction workers should also find ways to disconnect from work-related stress by engaging in hobbies or spending time with family and friends. They can also seek support from colleagues or professional counselors if they need assistance managing stress.

  1. Take Breaks

Taking breaks can help prevent injuries caused by overexertion, such as strains and sprains, and it can also reduce fatigue and boost productivity. In addition, it can help prevent accidents caused by lapses in attention or concentration. Construction workers must take breaks frequently throughout the day, primarily if they perform repetitive tasks or work in extreme temperatures.

Conclusion

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is crucial for construction workers to perform their job effectively and stay fit. Construction workers can improve their health and well-being by following the tips mentioned above. By prioritizing their health, construction workers can avoid injuries and perform their job safely and efficiently, ensuring they can continue contributing to the construction industry efficiently for years to come. Ultimately, a healthy lifestyle is a personal choice, and it’s up to each construction worker to make the necessary changes to maintain their health and safety.

Spring Retail Refresh

There is something about Easter weekend that jolts people into a spring refresh. Refresh your clothes, refresh your table settings, refresh your entire life!!!!!! The days are longer and warmer days are around the corner. I also felt a little refresh pressure so I decided to do a recap of some things I had my eye on and share them with you. Click on the links below for more information or to purchase an item.

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From left to right:

First Row:

This is the perfect spring/summer wedding guest dress. I love the flowers and I have seen the exact same style/fit in magazines and on other fashion websites for much much more!!

I got so many compliments on the Le Vie Style House dress I purchased last year in Dallas. Anthropologie had this similar look for a fraction of the price. There are other colors. Grab it before it sells out!

I just love the look and color of this dress.

Second Row:

I also love the look of this dress. I have had it in my cart for a while.

These are finally back in stock, in GOLD!!!

I am always looking for a lace dress that can carry you through the summer.

Third Row:

I have read so many amazing reviews about this tanning water.

How cute is this sparkle bag? The look reminds me of the bestselling Prada one.

Love these Stony Clover dupes.

4th Row:

Love everything blue and white. This garden stool is perfection!

I would love a pair of these white bamboo lamps. Very Palm Beach!

I found a great set of bamboo flatware. Perfect for summer entertaining.