If you share your home with a pet or two (or five), you know their well-being is a top priority. Along with making a move less stressful for them, learning how to pet-proof your home should be high on the list for responsible pet owners. Read on to know what to look out for and how to make your home a comfortable and secure place for everyone.
Star your pet-proofing mission in the kitchen, as it has a lot of potentially dangerous and tempting items for your four-legged friends. Ensure cabinets are secure to prevent access to cleaning supplies, cutlery and any unauthorized treats – child-proof cabinet locks are an excellent option here. Some human foods can be life-threatening for dogs and cats, so promptly store items like chocolates, crackers and leftovers away or you could be making an unexpected trip to the emergency vet. Garbage bins should have lids or be kept inside cabinets, as pets can get into trash hunting for a bonus meal.
You probably spend a lot of quality time with your pets in your living room, which also deserves a careful going-over. Keep small objects, like breakable decorative pieces and children’s toys, out of reach. Electrical cords should be concealed or secured, as they present a chewing temptation for many animals. Certain houseplants can also be toxic for your fur babies, so you’ll want to eliminate any dangerous varieties.
In bedrooms, keep your clothes, shoes and personal items stowed away since anything can become a fun chew toy, especially for dogs. Secure medications, razors and other sharp objects away from curious paws and noses. And while a cat lying on the bathroom floor surrounded by a roll of unspooled toilet paper seems like it’d be great photo op, it’ll be a pain to clean up. Consider keeping doors closed when you’re not around.
If your pets spend considerable time outside, you’ll want to provide a shaded area and fresh water to prevent overheating in hot weather. Also, think about installing a pet door if you do have an enclosed outdoor space like a catio or dog run, making it easy for them to get outside safely. Plus, animals can be notorious escape artists, so securely latch all non-pet doors and windows to prevent any unexpected breakouts.
Pet-proofing is not only about forbidden areas and potential harm – it’s also about making cozy and pet-specific areas for your animals. Your pets deserve to love their home as much as you do, so give them their own spots, like napping nooks and comfortable hiding places. Dogs might appreciate a snuggly bed in a quiet corner, while many cats love hanging out in a felted cat cave. Designate an area for pet toys, like a stylish basket or bin. This will make picking up a breeze and your pets will know where to go when it’s time to play.
Creating a safe environment by knowing how to pet-proof your home is vital to being a good pet owner. And with a little effort, you can make your house a haven for the whole family.
Source: How to Pet-Proof Your Home for Furry Family Members by Michelle Abendschan
When it comes to living a healthier lifestyle, the little things can add up and make a considerable impact! It’s not just about hitting the gym or eating right – it’s also about creating a healthier home environment and adopting habits that promote overall well-being. To help you on your journey, here are some tips that will contribute to a more holistically fit lifestyle.
Minimizing indoor air pollution can affect how you feel, from reducing asthma triggers to creating a better sleeping environment. Because of this, ensuring good air quality in your home is something you should prioritize. One easy solution is to invest in an air purifier, which can help eliminate many common indoor pollutants. And if you live in a region that gets smoke-filled air from frequent forest fires, an air purifier is a must in the summer and fall months. Additionally, regularly changing your furnace filters can substantially improve your indoor air quality.
Plants don’t just make your home prettier – they also offer some serious health benefits! Certain types, like the snake plant, aloe vera and peace lily, are well-known to clean the indoor air, increase humidity and release oxygen. Plus, introducing plants is a great way to add a relaxing dose of nature to your living space, along with enhancing the air quality.
Keeping your shoes at the door is a simple practice that can keep your home cleaner and healthier. Shoes can track in germs, dirt and other outdoor pollutants, not to mention allergens like pollen. Adopting a shoes-off policy can significantly reduce this influx of unwanted substances into your home, improving the overall living environment and potentially contributing to a decreased risk of allergies and illnesses.
Carpet maintenance is not just about keeping up the aesthetic appeal – it’s fundamentally a health measure. Carpets can act like a filter, trapping various airborne particles, including pet dander, dust mites, pollen and other allergens. Although vacuuming helps, it often isn’t enough to remove all these contaminants deeply embedded in the carpet’s fibers. A regular deep clean is necessary to extract these allergens and pollutants fully. Experts recommend a professional cleaning every 12 to 18 months, depending on your carpet’s usage level.
Filters can remove contaminants from your water, providing safer and often better-tasting H2O. Clean, fresh water is vital in maintaining good health, so it’s well worth the investment. A reusable pitcher is also a greener and more economical choice than buying plastic bottled water. Plus, there are fantastic pitcher options, from the downright luxurious to the no-frills model.
Repurposing space in your home and creating dedicated areas for physical activity, relaxation and hobbies can significantly influence your health journey. Make a quiet corner ready for workouts, even if it’s just enough space for a yoga mat – it can motivate you to stick to a regular exercise routine. Exercise not only boosts your physical health but also acts as a natural stress reliever. In addition, having a place to unwind and disconnect can considerably improve your mental health. This could be a reading nook, a meditation corner or somewhere to engage in your favorite hobbies and crafts.
Consider a kitchen or dining room charging station to keep phones out of bedrooms at night. A tech-free bedroom can help improve sleep quality and promote a better sleep routine and a healthier home. Tempting as it may be, instead of using your phone’s alarm to wake up in the morning, pick out one of these top-rated and stylish alarm clocks.
Remember, living a fit, healthy lifestyle is more than the big gestures – it’s also about the little steps you can take daily. Pick a few from our list and start 2024 off on the right foot!
Source: 7 Tips for Creating a Healthier Home in the New Year by Michelle Abendschan
Hosting a New Year’s Eve celebration from the comfort of your living room can be filled with fun, food and guests – an unforgettable experience to ring in the new year. To make the most of the evening, you can create a festive atmosphere with themed decorations, incorporate new or favorite dishes, dress to impress and count down in style. Consider adding these touches while planning your unique New Year’s Eve at home.
Adorn your space with lights and candles to set the stage for celebration. Then, add some specific holiday touches with a photo booth or instant-print camera to capture the memories and a large countdown clock to know when midnight is about to strike. Round out the space by strategically placing hats, noisemakers, beads and other fun items to get guests excited and engaged.
Diverse food dishes can also elevate your gathering. Dips, mini-sized treats and seafood or veggie platters are all great options and encourage mingling while satisfying the taste buds. You could also get creative with a cheese or chocolate fondue fountain to bring an elegant touch.
Inspiring style and vibrant energy, you could encourage specific attire for your get-together. Unify your guests with a captivating theme, like black-and-gold, retro glam, masquerade ball or glitter and sequins, and add a layer of creative fun and conversation.
Electrify your night with epic music mixes, classic karaoke songs, toasts and, if local laws allow, fireworks.
You could curate a playlist of upbeat songs to keep guests dancing all night or singing their hearts out with timeless beats. And as the clock approaches midnight, toast with champagne, sparkling cider or a festive non-alcoholic drink. Additionally, you could ring in the new year with a bang if you can organize a small fireworks display in your backyard.
Hosting a New Year’s Eve celebration at home doesn’t have to be bland – it can be an incredibly entertaining experience. Cheers to a fantastic New Year’s Eve and a promising year ahead!
Source: Tips for Creating a Memorable New Year’s Eve Party at Home by Michelle Abendschan
With 2024 on the horizon, many homeowners are seeking ways to enhance their property and increase its value. Whether you plan to sell your home in the new year or simply want to update its style and livability for yourself, strategic home improvement projects can make a significant impact.
First impressions matter – a well-maintained exterior can greatly enhance curb appeal. Start by giving your home a fresh coat of paint, if needed, to refresh its appearance. Also, consider updating or repairing your siding, replacing old windows and adding attractive landscaping to create eye-catching charm in the neighborhood.
The kitchen is often thought of as the heart of the home, and it can have a significant impact on your house’s worth and your comfort. Think about upgrading key features such as countertops, cabinetry and flooring. If your budget allows, replacing old appliances with energy-efficient models can also be a major selling point and save you money in the long run. Additionally, new wall paint, updated light fixtures and a stylish backsplash will create a space where you can enjoy preparing meals and entertaining friends.
Bathrooms are another crucial area for home improvements that can influence value. Start by updating fixtures, like faucets, showerheads and towel racks, to create a sleek and cohesive look throughout the space. Consider replacing worn-out tiles or regrouting existing ones to refresh walls and floors. Several DIY cosmetic updates can also produce a big splash and make your bathroom shine.
Today, many homeowners are valuing outdoor spaces more than ever, and that probably won’t change. Creating a functional and appealing outdoor area can significantly enhance your home’s charm. You might want to build a deck or patio to entertain and host outdoor meals and get-togethers. But why stop there? Add in comfortable seating, install outdoor lighting and consider investing in professional landscaping for an extra living space in the summer months or year-round, depending on your climate.
In our eco-conscious society, energy-efficient homes are highly sought after – so consider making earth-friendly upgrades to your property. Replace old windows with double or triple-pane glass windows, add insulation to prevent heat loss and install green appliances. Solar panels can also be a fantastic investment. These improvements decrease energy consumption and appeal to homeowners who want to reduce their environmental impact.
The upcoming new year presents an excellent opportunity to invest in home improvement projects that can boost your property’s value and make your home more comfortable and cost-efficient for years to come.
Source: 5 Home Improvement Projects That Will Pay Off in 2024 by Michelle Abendschan
The holiday season is a time for joy, celebration, and creating cherished memories with loved ones. As you dive into the festivities, it’s crucial to prioritize safety to ensure that your holiday remains merry and bright. In this guide, we’ll explore practical tips for a safe and festive home environment during this magical time of the year.
By incorporating these safety measures into your holiday preparations, you can create a festive atmosphere that not only dazzles with holiday spirit but also ensures the well-being of everyone in your home. May your holidays be filled with joy, warmth, and safety!
Give your future self a gift by properly storing all those beautiful holiday decorations away this year! Correctly organizing and packing your holiday ornaments, lights and other decor can save you time, money and frustration when it’s time to take them out again. Here are five practical storage tips to keep your holiday decorations safe and in good condition.
Before you even start, take the time to coordinate them. Group similar items together, such as ornaments, lights and garlands, to make it easier to find and unpack specific pieces next year. Label your storage bins or boxes for each category of decorations. Clear plastic containers are ideal, allowing you to quickly see the contents without even opening them.
Glass and other breakable ornaments require special care to prevent damage. Use individual compartments, such as egg cartons or a specialty ornament storage container, to keep pieces separate and protected. Wrap fragile ornaments in tissue paper or bubble wrap before placing them in their designated spots. Also, think about placing extra fragile ones in their own sturdy box or container within your larger storage bin to further protect them. This added layer will help prevent any accidental breaks.
Tangled lights can be one of the most frustrating parts of holiday decorating. So, before putting them away, untangle your lights and inspect them for any damaged or broken bulbs. Replace any non-functioning bulbs to ensure everything is ready to use next year. You might want to use a spool or cord reel to tame any tangles. Alternatively, you can wrap lights around cardboard or even a hanger, securing the ends with zip or twist ties.
To keep faux foliage in good condition, store pieces in a cool, dry place to prevent mold or mildew growth. Think about investing in a specially designed wreath storage container or use wall hooks to hang them in a closet or storage area. For garlands, wrap them securely in tissue paper or plastic wrap to prevent them from tangling or getting damaged during storage.
Make the most of your holiday storage area with space-saving solutions. Vacuum-seal bags compress soft decorations, such as fabric tablecloths or seasonal pillows. Place these compacted items in airtight containers to guard against moisture and pests. Additionally, take advantage of vertical space by hanging hooks or shelves inside your storage area to keep bins and boxes off the ground. This not only creates more room but also helps prevent damage from potential leaks or floods.
Storing your holiday decor the right way keeps it safe and makes decorating your home the following year a breeze! Following these holiday storage tips ensures that your items remain in excellent condition for many more joyful seasons.
Source: Simple Holiday Storage Tips to Make Your Life Easier by Michelle Abendschan
If you’re considering downsizing, you’re not alone. Many homeowners are embracing the advantages of living in smaller spaces. Living more compactly can offer a range of benefits, from cost savings to a better quality of life. Explore the advantages of living smaller and learn why it’s becoming an increasingly popular option.
One of the main advantages of downsizing is the positive impact it can have on your wallet and finances. By moving to a smaller home, you can enjoy lower mortgage payments, reduced property taxes and decreased utility bills. These savings can free up a significant amount of money, giving you the opportunity to pay off debts, travel, invest or save for the future – tiny houses are fashionable for a reason!
Even if you don’t go all the way down to tiny, another great perk of a reduced space is the simplified lifestyle it offers. With fewer rooms to clean, maintain and organize, you can spend less time on household chores and decluttering, and have more time to do the things you love with friends and family. Imagine how a more manageable home could help you find balance and fulfillment in your daily life. There are also great tips available for decorating a scaled-down home so you can still make a more minimal space stylish and inviting.
Downsizing can also provide you with more agility and mobility, which is ideal for avid travelers and explorers. A week or even a month away doesn’t seem as daunting with a smaller property. Since it requires less upkeep, it can allow you to spend extended periods away without worry. Additionally, it can create a more adaptable living environment for retirees or empty nesters, making it easier to adjust to changing circumstances throughout your life.
Going smaller not only benefits you personally but also has positive environmental impacts. A more minimal living space conserves resources like energy and water, reducing your carbon footprint. With fewer rooms to heat and cool, you’ll see lower energy emissions and monthly bills. Plus, downsizing encourages a more intentional and mindful approach to consumption, promoting a greener and eco-friendly lifestyle if that’s your thing.
The benefits go beyond simply living in a reduced space. Downsizing allows you to create a home that aligns with your values, offering greater freedom and contentment. So, if you’ve been considering downsizing or rightsizing in the future, take the leap and embrace the many advantages that await. Say goodbye to excess and hello to a simpler, more fulfilling lifestyle.
Source: The Big Benefits of Downsizing Your Home by Michelle Abendschan
Tis the season for warm, tasty dishes! Just in time for Thanksgiving, we have a delicious appetizer, side dish and dessert to accompany your Thanksgiving meal!Â
IngredientsÂ

Delish: Ethan Calabrese
DirectionsÂ
Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°. In a large nonstick skillet over medium heat, cook bacon until crispy, 8 minutes. Drain on a paper towel-lined plate, then chop. Â
Step 2: In a large bowl, stir together cream cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, garlic powder, and paprika and season with salt and pepper. Fold in chopped spinach, bacon, Parmesan, and 3/4 cup of mozzarella.Â
Step 3: Transfer dip to a baking dish and sprinkle with remaining 1/4 cup mozzarella. Bake until golden and bubbly, 25 to 30 minutes.Â
Step 4: Serve with crostini.Â
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IngredientsÂ

Country Living: Marian Cooper Cairns & Mary Allen Perry
DirectionsÂ
Step 1: Heat oven to 350°F. SautĂ© sausage and onion in a large skillet over medium heat for 6 minutes or until sausage is no longer pink. Add apples and next 2 ingredients; sautĂ© 5 more minutes or until apples are tender. Stir in walnuts and the next 5 ingredients. Transfer to a large bowl and let cool for 10 minutes.Â
Step 2: Fold in bread and broth until well blended. Spoon into a well-greased 3-quart or 13- x 9-inch baking pan. Brush top generously with butter. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes or until the top is crusty and brown. Garnish, if desired.Â
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Cream Cheese Swirled Pumpkin Bread with Salted Maple ButterÂ
IngredientsÂ
Salted Maple ButterÂ

Half-Baked Harvest: Teighan Gerard
DirectionsÂ
Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease 2 (9Ă—5 inch) bread pans.Â
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, stir together the mashed bananas, pumpkin, coconut oil, maple syrup, eggs, and vanilla until combined. Add the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, and salt, mix until just combined. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared bread pans. Â
Step 3: Place the cream cheese in a gallon size zip-top bag. Snip a small opening off of the corner of the bag. Squeeze out teaspoon size amounts directly into the pumpkin batter, using 4 ounces of cream cheese per bread pan. Gently swirl the cream cheese. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar over top of the batter.Â
Step 4: Transfer to the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until center is just set. Â
Step 5: Meanwhile, make the maple butter. In a small bowl, combine the butter and maple syrup.Â
Step 6: Remove the bread and let cool for at least 30 minutes before cutting…or just eat it warm with a smear of maple butter (you should do this!). Enjoy! Â
NotesÂ
To Replace the Banana: use an additional 3/4 cup pumpkin or unsweetened applesauce. But again, I like the bread best with bananas. You do not taste them.Â
To replace the Coconut Oil: use an equal amount of melted butter.Â
To Freeze: Bake as directed, cool each loaf completely, then tightly wrap in plastic wrap. Freeze in a freezer bag or freezer safe container for up to 4 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, or on the counter for a few hours. Â
To Make Gluten Free: Use an equal amount of your favorite gluten free flour blend in place of the all-purpose flour. I recommend Cup4Cup gluten free flour. Â
Storing: this bread keeps well for 3-4 days at room temperature.Â
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Which one of these delicious recipes will you add to your Thanksgiving meal?
Source: COOKING UP GRATITUDE: THANKSGIVING FAVOURITES by Bailey DeRudder
While spring and summer are traditionally considered prime real estate seasons, the advantages of selling a home in the fall are often underestimated. Here are five compelling reasons why autumn might be the best time to list your property and make a big change.
Reduced Market Competition
Unlike the bustling real estate seasons, the fall landscape typically experiences less competition. With fewer properties vying for attention, your house could stand out more prominently, attracting serious buyers actively looking to make a purchase. This reduced competition can lead to a quicker sales process and even multiple offers. Active buyers in the fall can also be more motivated – their sense of urgency could work to your advantage.
Accelerated Transactions
With this cyclical lull, you’ll find a unique advantage in expediting your closing process. Mortgage lenders, attorneys, home inspectors and appraisers with reduced workloads can focus on ensuring your transaction glides along seamlessly. These factors often mean a swift and efficient closure, alleviating stress and providing a harmonious experience for all parties involved.
Favorable Timing
Aside from striking a balance between summer’s energetic buzz and winter’s slower pace, this period also offers a sweet spot for buyers who want to settle into their new homes before the holiday festivities kick in. Potential buyers can be eager to start the new year in a new home. By listing your house in the fall, you align with the natural rhythm of many people’s schedules, increasing the likelihood of attracting committed buyers.
Optimized for Comfort
In the cooler months, you can lean into your home’s cozy and inviting aspects in a way that might not work as well in summer. In addition to all-season staging tips, fall is a great time to make a fireplace the focal point of a room and style your interior to emphasize warmth and coziness. And no matter when you decide to sell your home, a fresh coat of paint is always a good idea, but in the coming months, consider a rich chestnut glow on an accent wall or a neutral cream with warm undertones.
Enhanced Curb Appeal
After the heat of summer, cooler weather can also provide a vibrant backdrop for showcasing your home’s curb appeal. Along with thoughtful staging inside, optimize the exterior for maximum interest. Seasonal landscaping and tasteful decor in moderation, such as pumpkins or an autumn-inspired wreath, can further accentuate your home’s charm and help potential buyers envision themselves living there. It’s also beneficial to run through a fall maintenance checklist for any updates needed before your house hits the market.
Yes, it’s true – the fall season presents many home selling advantages! From seasonal curb appeal to motivated buyers, this time of year offers unique opportunities for a highly successful transaction as you prepare for your new adventure.
Source: 5 Advantages of Selling Your Home in the Fall by Jennifer McGuireÂ
As temperatures drop, the kitchen spotlight turns to a humble and versatile ingredient – the pumpkin. Delve into the delicious world of pumpkin-infused dishes that celebrate both flavor and creativity with comforting classics and innovative creations. Most of these pumpkin recipes call for canned pumpkin, but if you feel like making your own puree, look for sugar or pie pumpkins at the store – leave the large jack-o’-lantern types for carving.
One Bowl Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Muffins
Pumpkin and chocolate are a perfect match, as demonstrated in this take on muffins from The Kitchn blog. Warm pumpkin pie spices combine with semi-sweet chocolate chips for the perfect afternoon snack or brunch side. Take care not to overmix the batter before pouring it into the muffin cups – this, along with the pumpkin puree, helps keep the muffins moist. Plus, the scent as these beauties bake will make your home smell better than a pumpkin spice latte.
Pumpkin Lasagna with Ricotta and Swiss Chard
When you crave something baked and cheesy, look no further than Food & Wine magazine’s unique take on a classic comfort dish. Instead of the traditional tomato sauce, a pumpkin cream sauce ties everything together and complements the tender swiss chard and creamy ricotta cheese layers. Want to plan ahead? This lasagna can also be made ahead of time and stored overnight in the refrigerator. It’s meat-free, too, making it a great company dish for vegetarian friends and family.
Pumpkin Pancakes
Start your morning with a taste of autumn’s finest – a fluffy stack of flavorful pancakes. This breakfast favorite from King Arthur Baking Company combines the seasonal flavors of cinnamon and nutmeg and the ease of canned pumpkin puree. They are fantastic with maple syrup or whipped cream, or why not both? Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely weekend brunch or seeking a quick weekday treat, these pancakes are a delicious invitation to savor the comforts of the season.
Pumpkin Soup with Bacon and Thyme
This savory soup, also from Food & Wine, calls for roasting and pureeing a fresh three-pound pumpkin, but you could also substitute the same amount of butternut or acorn squash to mix things up a bit. While prepping your pumpkin or squash, save the seeds, and roast them for a delightfully crunchy topping. The garlic, thyme, cinnamon, nutmeg and cayenne pepper add just the right touch of herb, heat and pumpkin spice warmth to this earthy and smoky pumpkin soup.
Best, Easy Pumpkin Pie Recipe
What fall pumpkin recipe list would be complete without a pumpkin pie? This classic recipe from Country Living magazine promises big rewards from a manageable culinary effort. Use either store-bought or homemade pie dough and canned pumpkin. While fresh pumpkin is fantastic in some recipes, it can sometimes be stringy after roasted, which is not ideal when your goal is a velvety pumpkin pie filling. So, for this recipe, it’s recommended to stick to the canned puree. The burnt sugar brulée topping is a true showstopper and well worth the investment in a small kitchen torch. But even if you leave that detail off, this is still a pumpkin pie you’ll make year after year for your holiday table.
Whether you’re already a pumpkin fan or merely pumpkin-curious, these recipes give you a solid start to filling your home with fall’s comforting spices and flavors.
Source: Irresistible Pumpkin Recipes for a Flavorful Fall by Jennifer McGuire