How to Create a Happy Home

Posted on November 19, 2012 by jgrimes

Want to feel a sense of accomplishment and make your whole house smell like happiness? Bake something with almond, lemon or peppermint oil.

As the days become shorter and nights grow longer, you may yearn for more sunshine in your apartment. Though you can’t control the weather, you can add happiness and warmth to your space by channeling all things feel-good and smile-inducing. Ward off Seasonal Affective Disorder before it begins by adding a few of the cheery objects or actions below into your home.

Plants
Add a couple of indoor plants, such as philodendrons, gardenias, laurel plants, ferns, bay leaves, gerbera daisies, bromeliads or peace lilies, to help ward off colds, increase your feeling of wellbeing, reduce carbon dioxide and filter the air. Plus, seeing something grow during the winter will make you feel happy, especially if it’s a useful herb such as rosemary.

Feel-good smells
Citrusy candles and air fresheners span all seasons and provide an instant lift for your spirits. Invite the spring into your home with lemon- and fresh linen-scented candles and air fresheners with orange oil in them. You’ll feel invigorated in no time.

Utilize art
Not only does art enhance the visual appeal of your space, it communicates your style and even your values to visitors of your home. Art defines specific areas of your home, so the bedroom becomes calming, the living room becomes inviting and the kitchen becomes lively, and a happy home is one where each space has a unique, special purpose. Add handmade art, mementoes and photos to the refrigerator, and you’ll feel fulfilled each time you walk by.

Bake something
When you bake something, particularly if it contains lemon, peppermint or almond oil or extract, you’re releasing scents used in aromatherapy that aim to soothe, invigorate and refresh. If you can’t bake or don’t have the space, harness the same feeling by purchasing candles in cozy scents of apple cinnamon, cinnamon roll, vanilla cake or pumpkin spice.

Hug more
Studies show that if you are hugged by your close friends and family two to four times a day, you’ll reduce your heart rate, lower blood pressure and improve your mood, which generally means you’ll be happier and more relaxed. Start your day off with hugging someone, and hug someone again when you get home from work. You may be surprised at how protected you’ll feel throughout the day.

Eat healthy food
You’ve always heard you are what you eat, so if you want to sleep better and regulate your mood, aim to eat a variety of fruits and vegetables per day, three to five servings of whole grains, two to three servings of lean protein and a tablespoon or two of good-for-your-heart fat per day.

Celebrate your space
Once you’ve decorated your space, make sure to enjoy each room for what it is. Find reasons to use your fine china and crystal, or to sip lemonade on the porch. Make your bed each morning so you’ll feel proud of your bedroom, and cook as many meals at home as possible. When you celebrate your space, you’ll love it, and you’ll feel happy in it.

Photo Credit: iStockphoto/YinYang

Learn to Petwork: Find Pet Groups in San Diego

Posted on September 24, 2012 by ag-admin

If you’re looking for pet groups in San Diego, check out our guide.

If you are a pet lover who has recently moved to San Diego, it can be tough finding like-minded folks to share your passion for pets with. That’s why we have put together this handy dandy guide for San Diego pet lovers.

For all you San Diego dog lovers, check out Meetup.com, where several dog groups have already formed.

San Diego Off-Leash Meetup (www.meetup.com/San-Diego-Off-Leash-Meetup/)

This group is for those who enjoy getting together with other pet owners for off-leash dog recreation in the San Diego area. Gather to discuss this growing trend with other dog owners and bring your dogs!

Dog Play Groups (http://dog-play-groups.meetup.com/cities/us/ca/san_diego/)

This Meetup listing contains several different types of meetings for dog lovers, including groups for poodles and small breeds, as well as a group for twenty- and thirty-something dog owners. Whatever your dog’s breed, you’re sure to find a group just for you. There’s even a group devoted to owners of deaf dogs!

And if your love of pets extends to the kind with scales rather than fur, there are also several groups devoted to reptiles, turtles and snakes.

San Diego Herpetological Society (www.sdherpsociety.org).

This group co-sponsors a Reptile, Amphibian and Bug Club for owners of these types of pets and researchers. There are dues for this organization. Check the website for details.

San Diego Turtle and Tortoise Society (http://sdturtle.org/) is devoted to helping turtles, tortoises and their owners. The group hosts monthly meetings that are open to the public, and offers care tips, turtle adoptions and rescue information. Memberships start at $25 per year.

Still can’t find the right club for you? Then start your own. Join Meetup.com, check out Facebook or other social media sites or just put an ad in the paper. You never know who or what you’ll find! The right group for you and your pet could be just a click or phone call away!

Photo credit: iStockphoto/Fenne

Moving In Together: A Checklist

Posted on September 19, 2012 by ag-admin

Purchasing and arranging furniture together as a couple can help strengthen your bond and ease the process of moving in together.

When a couple decides to share a living space, it can be a fun, exciting time. It also means big changes for both of you. But don’t worry. This helpful checklist will guide you through the process of moving in together without making each other crazy.

Lay some ground rules. Does the starting sheet on the toilet paper roll go on the top or on the bottom? Does the toilet seat stay up or down? Who does the dishes and who takes out the trash? Deciding who will do which chores now will save you a lot of hurt feelings and nights on the couch later.

Money, money, money. If you’re going to combine your bank accounts, you’ll need to settle who will pay the bills. If you’re keeping everything separate, you’ll still need to decide who will pay the cable, who will pay the electricity, etc. Do this now so there aren’t any misunderstandings or cancellation notices in your future.

Redecorate together. Guys, that inflatable chair and milk crate ensemble might have been great for the dorm room, but you’re a grown-up now. Let it go. Ladies, no pink, flower prints or stuffed animals on the bed. If you have the means, buy your living room suite and other furniture together, picking out things you both like that will go well with your new abode.

If you have the space, designate one room of the house or apartment as a place where your girl or guy can do whatever they wish, and you don’t have to see their collection of unicorns, neon beer signs or Pez dispensers.

Living together takes commitment and a lot of work. But if you follow these guidelines, you’ll have a less stressful transition and can enjoy this time in your lives

Photo credit: iStockphoto/TrentVino

Dividing Up Chores With Your Roommates

Posted on April 24, 2012 by ag-admin

Don't let dirty dishes pile up. Discuss and divide chores with your roommates.

Living with roommates can be both fun and stressful. Movie nights, parties and inside jokes are just a few of the reasons living with roommates is fun. However, when it comes to chores, it might not be so pleasant. A simple way to avoid confrontation and passive aggressive behavior is by discussing chores with your roommates before getting completely settled into your new apartment. Here are a few ideas on how to split up household duties and avoid any drama.

Discuss the Chores
Call a roommate meeting one night to talk about the chores. It may seem lame, but this little step will go a long way. Decide what chores need to be taken care of, how you will purchase cleaning supplies and how often things will get done around your apartment. To make it easier, create a list of chores. Here’s an example:

Clean the kitchen
Sweep/vacuum the floors
Dust
Scrub the toilets, showers, bathtubs and sinks
Running the dishwasher/emptying the dishwasher
Clean the fridge
Take out trash
Wash the windows
Pay bills

Divide the Chores
You probably have chores that you absolutely hate doing, which means your roommates probably have chores they hate to do as well. Create a list of chores you enjoy, don’t mind and hate. If you hate vacuuming but your roommate loves it, then let your roommate do that. If more than one roommate enjoys vacuuming, then take turns doing it. The same goes for certain chores that you hate. Scrubbing the toilet isn’t the best chore, so alternate turns to do this. For the other chores, you can divide them up by drawing chores out of a hat, or just take turns volunteering to do them. If you divide the chores up randomly, there will be fewer hard feelings.

Make a Chart or Calendar
Use a wall calendar to write everyone’s duties down, or create a chart that lists all of the roommates’ names and their responsibilities next to it. This way, there is no confusion as to who is responsible for what. If it works better, rotate the chores every month. This way, you won’t get stuck with scrubbing the bathtub for the entire length of your lease. To keep everyone accountable for their responsibilities, initial next to your chore when you have completed it.

Buying Supplies
Divide the cost of supplies evenly among your roommates. Supplies can include trash bags, all-purpose cleaners and dishwasher detergent. Discuss how much each roommate is willing to spend on cleaning supplies to make sure everyone can afford it.

Different Preferences
Remember that just because you like perfect lines when vacuuming doesn’t mean your roommate feels that straight visible lines are necessary. You can have those vacuum lines when it’s your turn to tackle that chore. Also, keep in mind that everyone has a different schedule; don’t set a time when chores should be done. If a few days have passed and your roommate has not completed his or her task, nicely remind him or her. If you know your roommate is busy, offer to switch chores if that will work out better.

Photo Credit: iStockphoto/CamiloTorres

Eight Ways to Treat Your Employees

Posted on March 23, 2012 by ag-admin

Treat your employees to breakfast or lunch as a way to thank them for their hard work.

Since 1995, the first Friday in March has been Employee Appreciation Day, the day to celebrate the good work your employees do year-round. Even if you missed the official holiday, you can still show your employees you care by doing one of a few simple gestures, which are outlined below. No matter when you do them, they’ll appreciate it.

Bring in coffee

Office coffee is notoriously terrible, so grab your employees’ favorite specialty lattes on your way to work, or bring in a carton of hot coffee from a good local place. Don’t forget the cream, sugar and sugar substitute.

Be sweet

Unless your employees are on a diet, they’ll love your bringing in a sweet treat from the area, such as doughnuts, cupcakes or macarons. You could also make something indulgent yourself, such as brownies, cookies or pie.

Treat them to breakfast

Mornings can be so harried and hurried that all some employees have time to grab on their way out the door are their keys, wallet and maybe coffee. Start their day off right by bringing in biscuits or muffins to the office in an assortment of choices, or take them to breakfast at a nearby café. You can discuss work-related stuff over pastries at a restaurant if you feel guilty about being out of the office.

Take them to lunch

Either one-on-one or in a group, take them to a spot in the area you’ve heard them rave about. One-on-one lunches can be more intimidating than fun, so try to keep it light by taking them all together.

Gift a certificate

Let them shop where they want by purchasing Visa or American Express gift cards in all the same denomination, or buy a gift certificate to a coffee shop, grocery store or gas station.

Give relaxation

Treat them to a 30-minute foot massage at a nearby spa, or bring in a professional masseuse to provide 10-minute shoulder massages for all of your employees. You never know – your company’s human resources department may pick up on the idea and bring in the massage therapists once a week or once a month to keep employees happy and relaxed.

Get happy

Offer to take your employees to happy hour, but put a two-drink limit on the evening – or at least on your part. Or, order a couple of bottles of wine or pitchers of beer for the table and some appetizers to help everyone unwind after a long week. Check with your company’s human resources department to make sure this is okay.

Let them leave early

Enough said.

Photo Credit: iStockphoto/skynesher

Problem Solve to Avoid Drama with Your Roommate

Posted on February 29, 2012 by ag-admin

Having a roommate should be more fun than fuss, so air out your differences early and effectively to avoid unnecessary roommate drama.

Attention drama queens and drama kings! Life with your roommate doesn’t have to feel like a never-ending soap opera. With a bit of patience and strategy, you can use smart problem-solving skills to avoid the drama and maintain a peaceful existence in your apartment.

Address it early
The thing about problems is that they only become problems when you let them get out of hand. Problem solve in advance to keep common roommate issues from blowing out of proportion. If you don’t discuss potential problems while they are just small annoyances, “could you please fold your laundry so I can use the dryer?” can quickly turn into “you never help out around here.”

Remember to offer solutions instead of simply stating what is bothering you. Being specific will help your roommate understand why the issue bothers you and could help him or her know how to fix the problem. Try a statement like this: “Sometimes your laundry is still in the dryer when I’m ready to use it. I hate to bother you and ask you to fold it right at that moment, but it would be great if you could clear the dryer in a timely way. Or could I place your laundry in a basket and set it aside?”

Ask the right way
When you’re offering solutions and asking for your roommate to change behavior, it’s important to ask in a respectful way. If you interrupt them during their favorite TV show or if you seem confrontational, they might get annoyed or defensive. Statements like “we need to talk” are vague and alert them that there’s a challenge ahead. Instead propose that you find 15 minutes for a household meeting to discuss what’s working and not working. In fact, it’s wise to have weekly roommate meetings so you can talk about everything from grocery lists to house rules. When you are used to having frequent discussions, it won’t be so difficult to problem solve when an issue comes up.

You can also improve your chances for a productive conversation if you remain calm. People tend to match each other’s energy level when talking. If you stay relaxed and speak in a calm manner, your roommate will likely follow your behavior.

Enlist a third party
If you are nervous about approaching your roommate to talk about a problem, invite a neutral party to mediate. Don’t just spring this on your roommate as a surprise. Instead, when you are having trouble agreeing on an issue, you might suggest that a level-headed friend listen to both sides and offer their solutions for compromise. It’s like having a therapist for your roommate drama.

Agree to disagree — agreeably
Another smart strategy for problem solving is to find a win-win situation. This way all parties get a little bit of what they want and no one has to feel like they’ve lost the battle. Enter your discussions with the goal of clearing the air, instead of looking for an argument. Use negotiation skills instead of fighting tactics. You can even take your negotiation to the next level by creating a roommate contract that outlines the behavior and responsibilities that each person agrees to. Creating a roommate agreement might make issues so clear that you never have to discuss them again!

Having a roommate should be more fun than fuss, so air out your differences early and effectively to avoid unnecessary roommate drama.

Photo Credit: Shutterstock / Hasloo Group Production Studio

Ways to Break the Ice with New Neighbors

Posted on February 2, 2012 by ag-admin

Have a get-together to get to know your new neighbors better.

Building and having a strong relationship with your neighbors positively affects your living situation. Good neighbors make our lives more pleasant, and it gives us a sense of community. This goes beyond knowing the neighbor on either side of your apartment; this includes getting to know the other residents in the building. Whether you’ve been there for years or you’re new to the apartment community, meeting your neighbors may be awkward at first, but here are a few ideas to get you started.

Remember to smile. This is a simple thing that can often be overlooked. This will make it easier to approach you, and it allows your neighbors to feel comfortable with you.

Start with small talk. If you’re in the parking lot or riding up the elevator with a new neighbor, introduce yourself and ask the neighbor how he/she is doing, and ask about their day. Make it a habit to say hello to your neighbors.

Bake cookies, brownies or a casserole for your new neighbors. Drop the goodies off while introducing yourself and let the new neighbors know where you live. Give them tips, like where they can get the best local brew or the best slice of pizza.

Start walking or jogging around your neighborhood. Stop and chat with your neighbors along the way to make yourself more recognizable. Also by doing this, you will familiarize yourself with the faces of the people who live in the area. This will create a safer environment for everyone, as you’ll be able to spot a stranger in your neighborhood quicker, and your neighbors will be more aware of what’s going on with your apartment.

If you have a dog, walk around your apartment building and explore your new neighborhood. In addition to giving your pet some exercise, you’ll get to meet other pet lovers. Ask questions about the neighborhood. For example, ask about pet parks, cafes and other pet friendly spots in town.

Throw a party. It doesn’t necessarily have to be an all-night bender; it can be an informal barbecue, pool party or a get-together to watch a game. Invite your new neighbors by hand-delivering invitations, which will give you a better idea of what your neighbors are like. The get-together should be relaxed and the environment should be welcoming.

Get involved with the neighborhood. If your apartment community has an association, go to the meetings. These meetings are important to help you learn more about your community, as well as your new neighbors. Also, familiarize yourself with local clubs and organizations. Use websites like www.meetup.com to help find organizations based on your interests.

Shop local. Hit up the local farmers market and talk with the employees and other shoppers. Chances are, if the other shoppers love to shop local, they can give you insight on other great local shops and markets.

Photo Credit: iStockphoto/kali9

How to Negotiate with a Roommate

Posted on December 16, 2011 by ag-admin

When you work to communicate openly with your roommate, you can help prevent unpleasant surprises and keep both of you happy at home!

Living with a new roommate can be fraught. Even if you have experience sharing space with strangers, the two (or more) of you might have habits and quirks that occasionally irritate each other. Establishing some compromises early on can make life easier, however.

Read on for some helpful tips for negotiating with a roommate.

Don’t be too needy. You and your roommate might be or end up as good friends, but it’s more important that you just get along. If you place too many expectations on a friendship with your roommate, you run the risk of interpreting actions that have nothing to do with you as personal rejection. Try to keep your interactions light and friendly.
Decide what’s most important to you. Do you need quiet after a certain hour? Are you an eager cook who wants plenty of space in the kitchen? When you recognize the details that matter most, you’ll know where best to communicate and compromise.
The more potentially damaging an issue, the more it needs to be discussed. One example would be the sharing of rent payments or other bills. If one of you were to forget to pay the electric bill, for instance, it could lead to your power getting cut off! Make sure to prioritize and discuss how you will both handle important home issues (like financial agreements) early on in your roommate relationship.
Get context. Your roommate is likely neither stupid nor out to get you. Getting to know him or her will allow you to place habits — even the ones that really annoy you — in context.
Don’t try to negotiate in the heat of the moment. About to blow your top? Try taking a walk or otherwise distracting yourself. You’ll be less likely to make your roommate feel defensive if you can approach a discussion calmly.
Don’t wait until you’re furious. If something’s really irritating you, it’s better to address it quickly than to let it fester for a long period of time.
Don’t attack. A better approach would be to use “I” statements and take responsibility for your feelings. “When you play your music loudly at 11 pm, I have trouble getting to sleep and I’m cranky the next day” goes over better than “thanks a lot for keeping me up last night.”
Be willing to make concessions. Even if you feel that you’re completely in the right, it may be in your best interest to offer a concession to your roommate.
Communicate directly. Your roommate will not be happy to hear from mutual friends — or via Facebook or Twitter, for that matter — that you have a problem with him or her. It is a healthy idea to communicate directly with your roommate about home living issues.
Consider a roommate agreement. A written agreement between you could be created to cover only the most basic potential issues, such as paying rent, or the agreement could be made more explicit and extensive. It can be helpful to set everything down in writing and to have a document to refer back to later to help settle any conflicts that come up.

Living with a roommate can be a lot of fun, not to mention helpful in covering living expenses. When you work to communicate openly with your roommate, you can help prevent unpleasant surprises and keep both of you happy at home!

Photo Credit: Shutterstock / Cindy Hughes

How to Find Your Roommate Soulmate

Posted on October 26, 2011 by mprice

Find your ideal roommate match by following the tips below.

Photo Credit: iStockphoto/izusek

There are a ton of reasons why wanting to live with a roommate can be a good thing. A roommate can be someone to go out and do activities with, and you’ll never have to worry about coming home to an empty apartment. If you’re planning a trip, a roommate can look after the apartment while you’re away. And let’s face it: times are tough, so having someone to split rent and other expenses with can be a great option. It may seem easy in theory, but it’s actually a lot more difficult to find a roommate you can actually live with. Everyone has had their share of roommate horror stories, so before you sign a lease and say “I do” to a roommate, read on to find tips and tricks on how to find your roommate “soulmate.”

Know thyself
First things first: before you go out on your search for what you want in a roommate, you need to figure out what you can and cannot live with. Do you prefer having a quiet night in with a book, or are you a night owl looking for the next party? Are you looking for a best friend, or do you want more privacy? Do you prefer a male or female roommate, smoker or nonsmoker, pets or no pets? How do you feel about visitors or overnight guests? Are you a neat freak or a pig? Once you determine what you’re looking for, it will be a lot easier to screen potential candidates.

Screen, screen, screen
It may seem a little intense, but the best way to find a great potential roommate is to treat the process like a job search. Run a credit check to rule out applicants who might not be able to pay rent consistently and on time. Ask for the contact information of former roommates and landlords. Investigate a potential roommate’s current employment situation and work history, as well as residential history. Avoid pursuing a roommate that has bounced around from job to job and place to place. Set up a few phone calls with candidates and, if you don’t get a good vibe, don’t waste your time with a face-to-face meeting.

Communication and awareness
Once you’ve found a suitable roommate, make sure everyone’s on the same page about the big stuff. What is everyone’s share of the rent? How will paying for utillities be handled? Which bedroom belongs to whom? Will there be a cleaning schedule? Will there be any shared responsibilities, such as shopping for food or cooking? Will there be a quiet hour when TVs and stereos should be turned off? Once the rules and regulations are established, it will become a lot easier for everyone to coexist peacefully.

5 Best Places for a Girls’ Getaway

Posted on September 15, 2011 by ag-admin

Kick back with your favorite girlfriends at one of the destinations below.

Photo Credit: iStockphoto/lisegagne

You and your girlfriends have done countless road trips to the beach, bar crawls and nights at the club in your hometown. When it’s time to shake things up, cash in your frequent flyer miles and head off to a destination that’s decidedly you and your best friends, whether you’re the type who likes to party, shop, explore, relax or just laugh and talk. Check out our suggestions below for the best girlfriend getaways.

Best Party Destination – Miami, Fla.
If you have a friend getting married, Miami is the place to take her and her girlfriends to party before the big day. During the day, shop in or lounge on South Beach, or browse the boutiques at Ball Harbour Village, CoCoWalk in Coconut Grove or the Great Streets of South Beach. Go all out at Michy’s (but make reservations first), the upscale French bistro run by frequent “Top Chef” guest judge Michelle Bernstein. The spas, such as the Biltmore Hotel Spa, Serenity Aveda Day Spa and Mandarin Oriental Spa, and nightclubs, such as the Mansion, Buck 15 and Purdy, are plentiful in Miami.

Best Place to Shop – Manhattan, New York City, N.Y.
For high-end shopping, you can’t beat Manhattan in New York, with the original Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s, as well as Fifth Avenue for high-end, hard-to-find items and luxury department stores Saks Fifth Avenue, Bergdorf Goodman and Barneys. Or shop SoHo, a neighborhood in Lower Manhattan that has boutiques featuring designs by local artists, as well as chain stores H&M, J. Crew and Prada. The famed Manhattan Mall, where the Gimbel’s flagship store was located, is on 34th Street, as are multiple chain stores. Stay and enjoy a Waldorf salad at the Waldorf-Astoria on Park Avenue to be in the hotel that’s been the filming location for countless movies, including “Serendipity,” “Maid in Manhattan” and “Scent of a Woman.”

Best Adventurous Getaway – Island of Kauai, Hawaii
When budget isn’t a factor, venture off to Kauai, the oldest of the Hawaiian islands. Take in the sparkling blue water at the 50 miles of beaches from Poipu Beach to Hanalei Bay, explore flourishing gardens and rainforests, snorkel amongst the reefs off Kee Beach and Haena Beach Park, hike the trails of Kokee State Park or zipline above Kauai’s emerald green valleys. You’ll also love wandering through the islands’ many charming small towns, such as the historic Old Koloa Town on the South Shore, Hanalei Town in North Shore or Kappa Town on the East Side (Coconut Coast). Stay at Ko’a Kea Hotel and Resort, a luxury hotel and spa on Poipu Beach on the South Shore, or indulge in a villa at the Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas with fully equipped kitchens, whirlpool tubs, DVD players and more.

Best Wellness Retreat – Sedona, Ariz.
Set against a gorgeous painted-desert backdrop in hues of purple, terra cotta, robin’s-egg blue, pink, orange and green, your soul may feel at ease just driving into the city limits of Sedona, Ariz. From there, you have your choice of spa resorts in the area, such as Canyon Ranch, a 70-acre wellness resort with yoga, dance, water aerobics and Pilates classes, massages, facials and health-minded food in controlled portions. Or, stay at Sedona Rouge Hotel and Spa, which has a Girlfriends Getaway package. If you’d like to see more views of Sedona’s stunning red rocks, hike through Coconino National Forest, where you’ll see them best.

Best Place to Unwind – Kennebunkport, Maine
The coastal New England town of Kennebunkport, Maine, is located just 20 miles south of Portland and 85 miles north of Boston, Mass. Historically a shipbuilding and fishing village, Kennebunkport is a myriad of laid-back shops, stately New England homes, art galleries, bed and breakfasts and seafood restaurants. You and your friends can book rooms in the Main House or waterfront cottages of the White Barn Inn and Spa, an award-winning, 150-year-old hotel, restaurant and spa. Dine in the AAA, Five Diamond White Barn Inn Restaurant for breakfast and dinner; groups of 10 to 15 can reserve the wine cellar for dining. The restaurant’s use of seasonal ingredients, elegant, understated charm and extensive wine list will have you saying “Ahh” in no time.

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