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Apache is functioning normally

Living rooms that have a subtle, yet luxurious appearance are usually decorated with simple decor. There’s nothing flashy or gaudy about it, which is why the look is actually easy to achieve. With the unofficial start of summer, it’s time for a clean slate with the help of neutral decor—and these stylish Amazon finds will get you there. 


Neutral home decor is all about incorporating high-end pieces in classic base hues and materials. Think cream and white fabrics, marble accents, and gold-framed furniture. To get the look, you just need to know where to shop, which is where Amazon’s new Neutral Luxe storefront comes in. The section is filled with elegant-looking options that are all at an affordable price. Oh, and most of these picks are even on sale—up to 62 percent off. 



Best Neutral Luxe Home Decor

  • La Jolie Muse Wood Wick Sandalwood Candle, $31 with coupon (was $47)
  • Goodpick Round Wicker Storage Basket, $27 (was $36)
  • Walker Edison Round Accent Faux Marble Coffee Table, $97 (was $209)
  • Stone & Beam Bradbury Chesterfield Leather Sofa, $1,271 (was $1,760)
  • Kate and Laurel Hutton Round Wood Wall Mirror, $200 (was $282)
  • Emme Muslin Throw Blanket, $30
  • Soohow Low Scandinavian Cognac Leather Chair, $159 (was $179)
  • Creative Co-Op Decorative Marble Figurine Chain Link, $49
  • VerRon Mid-Century Modern Globe Floor Lamp, $48 (was $50)




Marble coffee tables just ooze elegance, but you don’t have to pay full-price for the look. This stylish option from Walker Edison is a shopper favorite, earning more than 3,500 five-star ratings on Amazon thus far. The on-sale pick has the appearance of a marble surface, but is actually made with laminate finish complete with little streaks for a realistic effect. It has a gold, minimalistic base with a criss-crossed leg design for a unique twist. 


Amazon



To buy: $97 (was $209); amazon.com.


Want to bring in the simple look without revamping your whole living room? Go with a decorative piece, like this stoneware vase set. Each piece has a different shape that looks beautiful together or spaced out on their own. The vases have a small mouth ideal to accommodate dried flowers and a dotted exterior design that breaks up the beige color. 


Amazon



To buy: $39; amazon.com. 


While the neutral aesthetic is filled with calm hues, incorporating wooden pieces is also very much part of the look. Not only will the wood deliver a relaxed vibe, but it also brings in some warmth. One prime example is this Scandinavian-style chair that happens to be on sale. The lounger has a beachwood-looking base and a woven leather back and seat that molds to your curves when sitting. You’ll also love the reclined design and wide bottom that invites you to relax for a while.


Amazon



To buy: $159 (was $179); amazon.com.  


If you want to include some actual color without throwing off the neutral feel, go with a set of throw cushions. These throw pillow covers let you dress up the ones you already have with a cool exterior in this camel color. The set of two has a near invisible zipper on the side to slip over your pillow, and it comes in seven colors and sizes. 


Amazon



To buy: $26; amazon.com.


There are tons of other options hiding on Amazon, but this list exposes them all. Scroll through these popular picks below before browsing the Amazon Neutral Luxe section for yourself. 


Amazon



To buy: $31 with coupon (was $47); amazon.com.


Amazon



To buy: $27 (was $36); amazon.com.


Amazon



To buy: $1,271 (was $1,760); amazon.com.


Amazon



To buy: $200 (was $282); amazon.com.


Amazon



To buy: $30; amazon.com.


Amazon



To buy: $49; amazon.com.


Amazon



To buy: $48 (was $50); amazon.com.


Amazon



To buy: $161 (was $420); amazon.com.


Amazon



To buy: $204 (was $409); amazon.com.


Amazon



To buy: $220; amazon.com.

Source: realsimple.com

Apache is functioning normally

As the world grapples with reducing the effects of climate change, people are looking to their homes for solutions. Investing in renewable energy by using solar panels or wind turbines is one option. Another is lowering the total amount of energy you use by switching to efficient appliances and using less water. Yet another method is by starting a home garden and using a living roof. But what if you could accomplish all of this with one house? You can with an Earthship home.

Earthship homes redefine sustainable living by bringing it to your home. With an Earthship, your entire house is lowering your carbon footprint and helping pave the way toward a sustainable future. This home style uses renewable energy, indoor gardening, on-site water treatment, and passive heating and cooling to be as climate-neutral as possible. 

So whether you’re in the market for a new house in Wilmington, NC, or are looking to build a new home in Charleston, SC, this Redfin article has everything you need to know about Earthship homes. Are they right for you? Read on to learn more. 

What is an Earthship home?

An Earthship home, or Earthship, is a type of sustainable home that is entirely self-sufficient and designed to have a minimal to no environmental impact. These unique homes are typically built using natural and recycled materials, and are designed to use the natural resources of their environment to provide all human needs. These include: food, shelter, energy, clean water, garbage management, and sewage treatment. Earthship homes are intended to allow people to live completely free from municipal utilities, sometimes called “off the grid.” The most common type of Earthship is the Global Model Earthship.

Earthship homes can function in most places around the world. However, because of their design and environmental requirements, Earthship homes aren’t right for all climates; they work best in seasonal, subarctic regions of the world. Tropical and bitterly cold areas are often not a good fit due to excess cost or overwhelming maintenance demands.

History of Earthships

Earthship homes were created by architect Michael Reynolds in the 1970s, around the time of the environmental movement and first Earth Day. Reynolds was concerned about the amount of trash in the environment and the lack of affordable housing, and wanted to create a solution. 

Earthship homes promote personal autonomy, environmental responsibility, and affordability, aiming to provide sustainable housing for all. The first Earthship homes were built in New Mexico, and have undergone many design changes up to the present day. 

Principles of Earthship homes

The Earthship concept has six design principles that are focused on eliminating the home’s environmental impact and promoting sustainable living. 

1. Natural and recycled materials

Earthships are constructed using a variety of natural and recycled products. One of the most common materials is used car tires, which are packed with earth and then stacked to form strong, insulating walls. Other common materials include recycled cans, bottles, and reclaimed wood. This not only reduces the home’s environmental impact, but also gives them a unique and recognizable appearance.

2. Passive heating and cooling 

Earthships are designed to take advantage of natural climates to provide a comfortable indoor environment without traditional heating or cooling systems. Earthships have thick walls typically made from natural and recycled materials, providing thermal mass which naturally regulates the indoor temperature. The buildings are also often partially covered with soil or even built into the side of a hill, which further helps stabilize the home’s temperature. 

Additionally, Earthship houses are often oriented specifically to allow the sun to heat the interior during the winter, while using overhangs and other shading techniques to prevent overheating during the summer. 

3. Solar and wind energy

Most Earthships are usually equipped with solar panels or wind turbines to generate electricity, making them independent of the conventional power grid. The electricity is stored in a bank of batteries and then used as needed for lighting, appliances and other electrical requirements. Inside, most homes have efficient appliances and LED lighting to help to reduce electricity use.

4. Water harvesting

Earthships capture and store rainwater and snowmelt from their roofs, making them ideal for fairly wet climates. The water is filtered and used for drinking, cooking, and bathing. After being used once, the water becomes greywater and is reused for irrigation. The remaining water is then treated and used for flushing toilets. After this, it becomes blackwater, which is then treated and used for landscape irrigation.

5. On-site sewage treatment

Instead of being connected to a municipal sewage system, Earthship homes treat their own waste water. Most homes accomplish this through a mix of greywater and blackwater systems. Greywater (water from sinks, showers, etc.) is typically filtered through indoor gardens and used to grow food. Blackwater (sewage) is usually treated in an anaerobic digester or a constructed wetland, with the goal of reusing it for landscaping.

6. Food production

A key part of Earthship architecture is self-sustaining food production. Earthship homes include internal greenhouses, which are used to grow a variety of plants, including fruits and vegetables. Greenhouses also aid in heating and greywater treatment. The combination of direct sunlight, greywater irrigation, and a controlled climate makes it possible to grow healthy food year-round. Some designs also incorporate outdoor garden spaces and even aquaponic systems.

Pros and cons of Earthship homes

In theory, Earthship homes offer reduced environmental impact without sacrificing many modern amenities. However, there are important pros and cons to consider before building a new Earthship house.

Pros

  • Sustainability: Earthships are built largely from recycled and natural materials, which reduces their environmental footprint. They also incorporate renewable energy systems, water harvesting, and on-site waste treatment, which further enhances their sustainability.
  • Self-sufficiency: Earthships are designed to be largely self-sufficient. They can generate their own electricity, collect and purify their water, manage their sewage, and even produce food. This reduces their reliance on public utilities and can provide security in case of a utility outage.
  • Energy efficiency: The design of Earthships allows for natural temperature regulation, reducing the need for artificial heating and cooling. The use of solar and wind energy for power contributes to energy efficiency and further reduces the carbon footprint of the home.

Cons

  • Regulations and permits: Because Earthships deviate from traditional construction methods, they can face challenges with local building codes and regulations. Obtaining the necessary permits can be a difficult and time-consuming process.
  • Initial investment: While Earthships often save money in the long run through reduced utility costs, the initial investment can be high, especially when considering the cost of land, materials, and labor. However, construction costs are dramatically lower than a traditional house, and usually an entire community helps out. 
  • Labor-intensive: Earthship construction and maintenance can be labor-intensive, especially if using traditional Earthship building techniques, such as pounding dirt into used tires. This can add to the time and cost of building.
  • Not suitable for all climates: Earthship homes are a financially viable and environmentally sustainable home style in most parts of the world, including dry, humid, and subarctic climates. However, they are impractical in warm and wet climates.
  • Challenging to sell: Because of their unique designs, challenging upkeep, and typically remote locations, Earthship houses can be hard to sell. However, recently, they’ve been gaining value and are becoming a more popular option. 

Earthship homes vs. earth homes

Earthship homes and earth homes (sometimes called earthen homes) are two home styles that are designed to reduce your carbon footprint. While they have similar names, they are often entirely different from each other. Let’s break this down.

Earthship homes are a style of home use entirely renewable, recyclable, and natural materials. They must adhere to a strict set of principles such as passive heating and cooling, renewable energy, and water harvesting. Some people use a significant amount of earthen materials during construction, but it’s not necessary.

Earth homes, or earthen homes, are homes that are built using a significant amount of earthen materials, often built into the earth, such as the side of a hill or buried underground. Importantly, earth homes don’t have to adhere to certain design principles and may not be as environmentally friendly as other home styles. However, many earthen structures are environmentally friendly. 

Final thoughts

Earthship homes offer a unique and reliable way to reduce your carbon footprint, and are proof of the possibilities of sustainable architecture. While building and maintaining an Earthship can pose challenges, the rewards can be very rewarding. Exploring the potentials of Earthships invites people to reimagine their homes and see the part they play in slowing the effects of climate change.

All images are credited to Earthship Biotecture, founded by Michael Reynolds.

Source: redfin.com

Apache is functioning normally

Infidelity is always devastating. But if your spouse or partner has been cheating on you by hiding pricey vices or illicit spending sprees, the consequences can be far worse than an affair, for the simple reason that money — often large sums of money — are involved.

As one reader wrote to us, after a similar article ran on on DailyWorth:

My ex took out a credit card in my name and ran up $40,000 debt without my knowledge. Now I’m paying it off. I asked the credit card company to investigate the matter as fraud, but they didn’t. It doesn’t seem like I have many rights. As I found out, there were many secrets behind the numbers. Right now, I’m waiting for the divorce to come through.

Although incidents of identity theft and fraud are well-documented — and can be prosecuted — spouses who are the victims of their lying, cheating partners often have little recourse. As another woman wrote:

I just checked my credit report, and found out that my husband ran up $18,000 on one of our cards — when I thought we only owed $400. I confronted him, and he admitted it, but now what? He doesn’t have the money to pay it back.

To recover from financial infidelity, you need a two-pronged strategy. You need to shore up the non-financial side of your relationship and, at the same time, tackle the actual money mess.

The Mess

The first step is to find out where the money went and how much is owed, says credit expert Erica Sandberg, a columnist for Creditcards.com. Your credit report contains a list of all open accounts; ask your mate to show you all statements. In addition, your mate may have accounts opened in his or her name. These would show up only on their credit report, so ask them to come clean.

As you examine the statements, what you discover may be shocking. Your spouse wasn’t just deceiving you about debt; it’s likely that he or she was hiding habits (perhaps even vices) that cost a pretty penny.

To clean up the mess, you’ve got two main tasks:

  1. Your mate’s secret spending has to stop (and the habit itself addressed).
  2. The debt has to be repaid.

So, the second step is to make a debt repayment plan. While you may not feel that the debt is your problem, until it’s cleared up (or you split up, if that’s the case) it will affect you. First, have your mate sell any purchases they bought when they were cheating, and put that money toward the debt. Insist that they get a part-time job or work overtime.

Next, depending on the extent of what’s owed, credit counseling may be in order. (Two reliable sources for credit counseling are the National Foundation for Credit Counseling and the Association of Independent Consumer Credit Counseling Agencies.) At worst, you may need to consider bankruptcy.

Otherwise, create a budget, reduce spending, apply all excess funds to the debt, and stop charging until the balance is at zero!

The Marriage

As you address the financial problems, talk. Your partner’s financial infidelity is a red flag that you two are out of sync — and not just about money. Make time for regular discussions about the life you have and the life you want. As the great Russian writer and philosopher Leo Tolstoy once wrote, “What counts in making a happy marriage is not so much how compatible you are, but how you deal with incompatibility.”

Piggymojo is a new saving site, where couples can set a goal (in this case to save enough to pay down your debt), and find new ways to talk about money.

You may also want to seek professional help. Few relationships can survive this kind of strain without counseling. If you’re both invested in staying together, then it’s worth spending some money on a therapist who can help you, especially if gambling or other addiction issues are involved.

Lastly, if your spouse has committed financial infidelity, you may need to take a long hard look at your own money habits and head-in-the-sand behavior. As one reader described her sister’s loss of nearly $120,000 thanks to her husband’s secret gambling problem:

The moral is, you can’t afford to become a passenger in your own finances. Looking back, my sister said there were so many warning signs. But because her husband said he was taking care of the bills and expenses — and she believed him — she didn’t know what was really going on until it was too late.

Source: getrichslowly.org

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When 43% of Americans haven’t had a vacation in a year or more and a half are only using nine days off on average to travel, people are finding a way to bring pieces of their getaways into their everyday lives with their home decor.

Between the cost of travel, worrying about falling behind on work, hurting their chances for a promotion, or risking losing their job, Americans aren’t using all their vacation days. So across the country, people decorate their homes to remind them of their favorite vacation destinations when they can’t get away.

In a survey conducted by OnePoll on behalf of Puffy, Americans reported that interior design decisions weren’t about function or creating spaces that better served their needs. They were about craving a luxe space that felt more like a sanctuary.

“There is actual science for why we choose to decorate our homes with memories tied to a specific place — it’s called Topophilia, the love of a place,” explains Lars Gesing, a fine arts nature photographer. “It’s an effort of our society, which now spends up to 80% indoors, to reconnect with nature.”

“As an interior designer, I find that travel can be one of the most inspiring sources of creativity. Exploring new cities, immersing myself in different cultures, and admiring the natural beauty of a destination all provide endless inspiration for my work,” reveals Carmelo of Axel Property Management.

“When I return from a trip, I often find myself incorporating elements of what I’ve seen and experienced into my design projects.”

According to an analysis by Storyboards.io, New York, California, Texas, Pennsylvania, Illinois, Ohio, Florida, Georgia, Massachusetts, and Missouri are the U.S. states with the most design inspiration. These rankings considered the number of landmarks, museums, and design-related hashtags when sharing images on social media.

New York is where decor dreams of made of. The state has 276 landmarks, 786 museums, and many attractions over its 11 regions. From Niagara Falls to New York City, Catskills to Cooperstown, and Hudson Valley to Hudson Yards, there’s a diversity of landscapes and landmarks to incorporate into living spaces.

“My biggest decor inspirations are the clean lines of New York City,” says Diana Kellogg, architect. “The Mercer Hotel comes to mind in terms of style inspirations as Christian Liaigre’s clean, comfortable, and timeless look represents the ideal of the modern styling I base my decor on.”

Home to many iconic cities and landscapes, California trails closely behind New York for driving people’s decor decisions. With mountains, beaches, desert, national parks, stunning historic and modern hotels, plus the creator’s spirit of Hollywood, it is also a creative well for home decoration.

One of those inspired vacationers is Raf. After traveling to 45 countries and 46 U.S. states, he designed his home office after one California destination known for its mix of mid-century modern design and playful use of colors.

“My office color palette is inspired by Palm Springs with a blush-colored sofa, teal-accented throw pillows, and a vibrant rug to set the tone. The wall color, Benjamin Moore’s Palladian Blue, provides a serene setting, and the tropical plants thrive in the natural light that comes through the window,” shares Raf, Interior designer, Founder of Meble Furniture.

Other travelers have gone as far as recreating their favorite hotel room in their own homes.

“My husband and I love the Ojai Valley Inn. They decided to remodel all the guest rooms about seven years ago, so I bought their outgoing Spanish-tile-inspired fabric, drapes, pillow shams, furniture, artwork, and accent pieces. I completely redid my living room and bedroom,” admits Elizabeth Borsting, account manager.

“Whenever I get ready for bed, I ask my husband to ‘Ojai Valley Inn’ the room, which means closing the drapes. It really transports me back to the inn, one of my happy places.”

During the pandemic shut-in, people re-did the outdoor spaces of their homes to increase their living areas. Add in pandemic-era travel to wide open spaces and nature destinations, and people’s outdoor living spaces also transformed into a reflection of beloved vacations.

“One of my favorite places to visit and vacation is Hawaii. I love the tropical environment — from the beaches to the animals to the colorful plants. One of the Hawaiian flowers that I really love is Birds of Paradise,” says Jeremy Yamaguchi, CEO of Lawn Love.

“So, a few years ago, after a trip to Hawaii, I researched the plant and figured out it’s suitable as an indoor plant. I got a few, and they sit in my sunroom.”

“I fell in love with the Florida Keys. The tropical flowering plants, orchids, and the many variations of palms, both big and small. The bright colors, the blues, yellows, light greens, pinks, and the turquoise blue water,” adds Marc Renson.

“So I came home to New York and created a Key Largo front porch. I walk out the front door, yell to my husband, ‘I’m going to Key Largo,’ and sit on my front porch.”

According to AAA booking data, international travel is up more than 200% in 2023. These cross-border travelers have also inspired people to bring those memories made abroad during their paid time off into their everyday lives.

“The Dunmore Hotel in Harbour Island, Bahamas, inspired me to design our home with an island feel. It’s a whimsical blend of organic greenery, carefully curated vintage pieces, casual and unpretentious elegance with a combination of natural textures and pops of color,” shares Violette de Ayala.

“There is a sense of elegance and rustic homage to island life that I fell in love with and was able to transport into our home in Miami.”

“The mix and blend of vintage rattan, old art, pops of turquoise, and an array of natural fibers, including fresh-cut greenery from the outdoors, was so captivating, and these components were easily adaptable at our home. I love the black and white striped awnings and added these to the exterior of our home,” Ayala continues.

“You can’t travel to the Mediterranean region without coming back inspired to redo your decor at home. With the rich textures and colors you find in traditional homes throughout Spain, Italy, and the Greek Isles, you’ll want to bring a little piece of that back with you in your own home,” explains Todd Saunders, CEO of Flooring Stones.

“A tile backsplash with a Mediterranean design was our choice after our travels to Greece. It’s a great reminder of our awesome trip and is a focal point of the kitchen,” he adds.

This article was produced by Planner at Heart and syndicated by Wealth of Geeks.

Source: myjournalcourier.com

Apache is functioning normally

For some of us, stepping outside of our interior decor comfort zones can be as nerve-wracking as chopping off your hair. So different! So defining! So permanent! Eeeek cue cold feet setting in! There’s no doubt that selecting furniture is a draining task as it is, so when it comes to trying something a little more adventurous, it’s often easy to chicken out and stick with what you know. If you are a furniture commitment-phobe like us, here’s a way to incorporate some boldness into your decor without going over the top: accent chairs!

Chairs are like the jewelry for your room. They allow you to play with trends, color, texture or avantgarde styling without going all in. Going bold with your chair selection will give an otherwise classic space the interest and originality you’re craving without being overpowering!  We love the funky, lip-like look of a Bertoia Diamond chair nestled in a bright corner HALLO!. Or the clean lines of a Scandinavian inspired design – beautiful enough to make a statement yet calm enough to sit in a room full of neutrals. And since every room deserves a sweet-looking seat, here are some statement chairs that we’re dying to sit our booties in!!

Get Your Shop On:

> 1 Black Tufted Leather ‘Major’ Chair
> 2 Rod + Weave Copper and Leather Chair
> 3 Brass + Fur Ansel Chair 
> 4 Pollock Arm Chair
> 5 Light Grey Velvet Accent Chair
> 6 Saxe Oak + Leather Chair
> 7 Hans Leather Chair
> 8 The Circle Chair

They’re all so good, we couldn’t possibly choose a favorite. Which one would you love to put in your home? And if you’re looking for even more side chair inspo, click HERE.

image 1 via Apartment 34 // 2 via Nordic Design // 3 via Blueberry Modern // 4 via J. Ingerstedt // 5 via Vogue Paris // 6 via Joseph Dirand  // 7 via Lonny // 8 via Muuto //  9 via Design Files

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Source: apartment34.com

Apache is functioning normally

California newspaper The Daily Breeze recently published an article about a man who was issued a $35 ticket for failing to come to a complete stop, which became a $234 ticket after added penalties. (State legislators have been adding new penalties, such as a “state conviction fee,” since 2009, thanks to a $10 billion budget deficit. The base fine for running a red light is $100 in Los Angeles County, for example, but after added penalties the ticket will cost a grand total of $480.)

Even if you live in a state without these hefty additional penalties, the cost of a traffic violation doesn’t end with the cost of the ticket. If you want to keep the infraction off your driving record, there’s the added cost of a traffic school fee and the cost of the traffic school course. If you choose to pay the ticket and not attend driver’s ed, your ticket might get even more expensive — you’ll incur the long-term costs of higher auto insurance.

Violations can Raise Premiums by 50 Percent

According to an Insurance.com analysis of more than 32,000 insurance policies, drivers who purchased a one-car, single-driver policy in 2010 and had one violation on their record paid about 18% more on average than drivers without any violation. Drivers with two paid 34% more for their policy, while drivers with three violations paid a staggering 53% more for auto insurance than those with zero violations.

The following are the average annual premiums paid, according to the analysis:

  • No violations: $1,119
  • One violation: $1,318
  • Two violations: $1,497
  • Three violations: $1,713

Violations aren’t equal in the eyes of the insurance company, of course. A speeding ticket might not bump up your premium much, but two in quick succession could and might even get you dropped by some insurers. More serious offenses, such as driving while intoxicated, will send your rates up even more. The Insurance.com analysis lists the following as violations that can raise your insurance rates:

  • Speeding
  • Driving under the influence
  • Reckless driving
  • Running red lights
  • Failure to yield or stop
  • Fleeing from police
  • Driving the wrong way
  • Improper passing
  • Illegal u-turn
  • Failure to use proper child restraint

The cost of each type of violation will vary by state, insurance company, and driving record. Also, not all traffic violations will affect your insurance rate. More than likely, tickets for offenses like talking on your cell phone while driving (a violation in some states) and parking citations won’t raise your premium.

What to Do if Your Insurer Raises Your Rates

If your rates go up after a traffic violation, take steps to see if you can lower your premium, such as the following:

  • Shop around to compare several car insurance quotes. It’s easy enough to compare quotes from different companies to find the lowest rate. First, figure out how much auto insurance you need. Compare it to your current coverage and rate, then start making calls for quotes.
  • Don’t discount your current insurer too quickly. Shopping around is always a good idea, but if the savings turns out to be negligible, there are good reasons to stay put. First, some violations will affect you more if you’re shopping for a new insurance policy than if you stay with your insurer. Why? A prospective insurer will pull your driving record, but your current company won’t necessarily check to see if you’ve had recent violations because it’s simply too costly to check up on every customer every year. Second, some insurance companies offer accident forgiveness policies and will waive accident surcharges for their long-time customers. If you find much lower rates with another company, however, you’re probably better off switching.
  • Complete a defensive driving class. In some states you can expunge marks on your record, called ticket masking, if you take a driver’s safety course. If you live in one of these states, your insurance company might be required to lower your rate after you’ve successfully completed the course. Note that you can only take defensive driving to expunge points once in a set time period (usually 18 months). If you get another ticket within that time period, your rates will probably increase.
  • Increase your deductible. If you’re willing to take on more risk, you can lower your annual premium by raising your deductible. This means you’ll need enough money in savings to pay the deductible, so consider your financial situation carefully before deciding if it’s the right move.
  • Maintain (or improve) your credit rating. The majority of auto insurers consider a low or bad credit rating a sign of greater risk when it comes to auto insurance, and hike rates accordingly. While there doesn’t seem to be solid evidence of the link between the two, the bottom line is that bad credit likely means a more expensive car insurance premium. Maintaining or improving your credit score can save you money on auto insurance.

Even if you have a few points on your record, you should be able to find a policy, though it’ll be a more expensive policy than if you had a clean driving record. There also are additional tips in this past GRS article on lowering car insurance rates, such as removing extras like towing and car rental from your policy.

I think a combination of luck and being a decently cautious driver have spared me from many a ticket. To date, I’ve had one speeding ticket, and I took an online defensive driving course to keep my driving record clean. (Despite being online, it was still a time-consuming experience that I don’t want to repeat!)

Do any of you have experience with lowering your premium after a traffic violation? Leave your tips in the comments!

Source: getrichslowly.org

Apache is functioning normally

J.D. and I love going out to eat, but we also like to cook. And, fortunately for us, so do most of our friends. This allows us to partake in the art of the potluck.

Potlucks are a frugal way to entertain and bring people together to share good food. Even with quality ingredients, making food at home lets us eat well for less. The hosts provide the space, the organization, a dish or two, and perhaps a theme to spice it up a bit. The guests each bring something for the feast, and the focus is on enjoying everyone’s contribution.

This distributes the cost and effort (enabling more people to host), and makes gatherings more group-oriented. If everyone is on a tighter budget, a potluck still feels like a treat — but with a lower bill. The food choices are usually more varied, too!

Despite the name, to make a potluck successful, you need more than mere luck. No one’s happy with a meal composed only of chips and dips. Without planning, you may end up with six meat dishes and no salads (actually, J.D. would be all for that), or five desserts and a bag of rolls.

As the host, you can either assign items based on the cooking talents (or time constraints, or food allergies) of the guests, or arrange some kind of sign-up so guests can pick their own contribution but avoid too much duplication. Online invitation systems are helpful for these events if the group is large. I find that some groups take well to a themed potluck, such as “Fiesta Night”. This sparks the imagination and can help ensure that the food goes well together.

If your group includes families with young (or picky) children or people with specific food requirements, make sure they bring something that they themselves will eat. Another solution is to devise a “build-a-potluck”: The hosts, for example, might provide the chili, or baked potatoes, or cheese pizzas, or taco meat, and the guests bring all the fixings and toppings. For dessert, a brownie sundae bar can serve the same purpose.

For a streamlined potluck, guests should arrive with their food ready to serve. Unless you know the host can accommodate you, avoid being the person who brings a bag of groceries and expects to use the entire kitchen to prepare your bok choy sautéed in sesame oil. If you’re the host, the responsibility falls to you, then, to provide those items that need to be served hot out of the oven or right off the grill.

Guests should always know the size of the group they’re feeding, so that they can estimate how much to bring. And as a guest, it’s helpful if you bring your own serving dishes and utensils so the host doesn’t have to scrounge up 12 serving spoons. If you bring a pot of soup, make sure the host has enough bowls, or provide them yourself. Just be sure to mark your items or otherwise make sure they get home with you.

Tip: My sister keeps on hand a few cheap but plain salad bowls and serving platters for those times when you know you’ll have to leave early; it avoids the hassles of either trying to transfer your food mid-party or having to retrieve your plate later on. Thrift stores are an excellent source for these.

If you have an especially large group — for a family reunion, say — you might even make assignments based on an alphabetical organization scheme, or how far people are traveling, or some other method.

Some of J.D.’s extended family are Mennonites; they have the art of the potluck down to a science — and the food can’t be beat. Last summer, we went to a cousin’s home for roasted home-raised pig and home-grown corn on the cob. The rest of us chipped in with salads, breads, desserts, and pop. We picked the pork bones clean and made a pile of empty cobs!

In our group of friends, potlucks are especially popular for brunch, but they can work for any meal. You can do a potluck picnic in the park, dress up a potluck into something fancy or keep it strictly casual. Among gardeners, potlucks are a wonderful opportunity to share your bounty during the harvest. And BBQ potlucks are always a hit in our grilling season.

What about those who don’t cook? No problem. A cheese platter or fruit salad is often welcome, but these won’t qualify as frugal if they’re purchased pre-made, so if thrift is one of the goals, even the non-cooks may need to get out the cutting board or use the microwave.

If you invite a few guests who are truly kitchen-phobic, they can bring the beer (or beverage of choice), or maybe even the chips and dip. Those of us who don’t often purchase prepared foods may enjoy the occasional guilty pleasure of Ruffles and French Onion dip! And use common sense: don’t have the perpetually-late-guy bring the appetizers. If someone’s driving a long distance to come, don’t assign them something requiring refrigeration.

With a bit of planning to go along with the “potluck”, these gatherings can be fun, frugal and family-friendly. Entertaining doesn’t have to be a huge expense or burden to the hosts. Add some friends to spread the load and share the good times, and you can focus on the people you wanted to see instead of stressing over providing the entire menu.

Thanks to Kris for filling in for me at the last second. I’m confident I’ll finish my manuscript today, which means that I should finally be able to give you a preview of the book tomorrow. Second photo by Roland.

Source: getrichslowly.org

Apache is functioning normally

Some ways to create a chic and elevated space

By Reenu Mohiindrra

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Published: Thu 15 Jun 2023, 9:48 PM

Incorporating sumptuous materials, textures and rich hues in your living room trends is a great place to start, while art and sculptural features will add colour, pattern and grandeur.

To give your space an injection of luxury, it is all about confidence. This doesn’t mean overcrowding the space with lots of items, as a cluttered home can look unsophisticated.

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Here are some tips to follow:

1) Enhance your feature wall with high-end materials

Living room feature walls are here to stay: they add interest to a room and could be especially helpful in a space lacking any natural or architectural features. Another very important job they do is provide a focal point and a sense of direction to the living room.

But if you don’t want to pick up a paintbrush, or want to take your feature wall to the next level, try using a different material, like marble decorating ideas, for an upscale aesthetic.

As green is a trend that’s also here to stay, the marble feature wall above is particularly on-point. ‘The great thing about natural surfaces is that each one is unique and gives people the opportunity to do something different and ultimately have fun..

‘Coordinating colours with the furnishings and accessories will ensure the walls integrate seamlessly into the space but bring that final touch of luxury to a space.’

2) Show some class

Wall panelling ideas can dramatically enhance a living space. Popular in interiors for many years, design lovers are adding this decorative element into their homes to add grandeur to their spaces.

Therefore, it is no surprise to see that they are enjoying a resurgence in many modern properties, to elevate them into more spectacular and grandeur. Panelling also serves as an excellent way to decorate doors, frames, cupboards and shelves.’

3) Bring some play with high-styled printed wallpaper

Wallpaper shows a continued liking for all things nature-related, and printed wallpaper, in tropical, botanical or garden structure finishes, is a stylish way to add interest and drama to a room.

Metallic wallpaper brings your walls to life and is a great choice for rooms with low lighting. Popular wallpaper is reimagined in a larger scale in the living room above, and the dramatic black and gold colourway creates a close, moody elegance that allows the jewel-toned velvet sofas to shine.

4) Bright, energetic colours are making a return

White, clean walls and minimalist tones are still on trend, but there has been an emergence of bright, refreshing splashes of colour to bring some pop back into the home. The interior design palette now includes rich, warm tones that feel earthy, such as warm reds, dusky yellows and even emerald greens.

5) Incorporate a well-placed area rug

An expansive area rug gives a living room a sense of space and drama while also working to ‘zone’ your sofas and coffee table in a stylish manner.

An area rug is a particularly effective living room flooring idea when placed beneath your sofas and side tables to create a bundle-up, luxurious feel under foot. It also offers an easy way to inject colour and pattern into the space.

‘One way of creating a luxurious interior is by implementing statement pieces like sculptural lighting, a bold patterned area rug or a memorable piece of artwork within a quieter, more pared-back scheme.’

6) Dramatic statement textures

Dramatic, colourful marble and stone, and woods with deep veins and contrasting colours top the leaderboard for organic materials in 2023. Acreage properties provide the perfect backdrop for bold, eye-catching designs and textures. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different colours and patterns in your home’s design. You can also make a statement with architectural styling, glamourous feature walls, vibrant wallpaper and colourful splashback tiles.

7) Oversize art living room

Since bare white walls can veer toward ‘sterile’ territory, liven up your room’s ambience with some oversize art. The large piece over the low-slung sectional brings a lived-in, layered effect to the living room. However, the abstract shapes featured offer a hint of modernity.

8) Say hello to era elements

One of the latest interior trend is the use of antique, retro, and repurposed pieces in your home to give your place an era look. Key elements to this theme are the use of strong colours and traditional-style furniture with just a pop of colour. Contrast works well, too.

9) Deep and comfy colours

Even though it is sunny all year round in Dubai, comfy colours can work well in these conditions as well. We expect to see a lot of burnt oranges, deep blues, deep emerald greens coupled with more muted tones like charcoal grey and navy, which can create a lot of depth and cosiness in your space.

10) Significant collections

It’s the objects we fill our homes with that hold the most power to ease our anxieties and reaffirm whatever it is that brings your truest self to your living space.

11) Invest in a day bed

While should not always be trend-driven as a rule, an element I continue to embrace in living rooms is incorporating a daybed into the space. It’s versatile and helps define a seating area without adding heaviness.

12) Cocooning curves

As we continue to find new ways to make our homes even more comfortable, cozy and relaxing, many designers are moving away from harsh and strict straight lines and incorporating more curvaceous, free-flowing forms, across furniture and lighting trend accessories. ‘Curved furniture, especially sofas and armchairs, bringing a welcome softness to living spaces. These will be adorned in light colours and textured fabrics like shades of white and cream, with bouclé remaining a favourite.

Source: khaleejtimes.com

Apache is functioning normally

Pets are like your children, and just as you would ensure your little one’s oral health, you can’t ignore your pet’s dental health either.

Admittedly, dental issues can be costly for pets as they are for humans. That’s one crucial reason for getting a pet insurance plan covering every dental illness or accident.

So, if you’re planning to get the best pet insurance for dogs and cats, welcome to the perfect guide for all pet owners. Below we mention all you must know about pet dental insurance when buying a pet insurance policy.

Though, before we delve deeper, let’s first discuss the vital million-dollar question: whether your pet insurance coverage can include dental care or not.

What’s Ahead:

Can pet insurance plans cover dental care?

Typically, pet insurance companies don’t consider coverage for dental illnesses or a dental disease as a standard clause. Therefore, if you want accident and illness coverage, you have to buy the special pet insurance explicitly designed for dental coverage.

Or, you can do your research and contact a pet insurance company offering dental coverage as a preliminary to all pet owners. Pet insurance providers like Healthy Paws understand the significance of dental cleanings and how painful gum disease can be if not prevented- or treated- at the right time.

Whatever insurance plan you opt for, you need to check the kind of dental coverage. For instance, some pet dental insurance plans may include dental injuries, while some like Health Paws can cover extensive treatments like tooth extractions.

In addition, one pet insurance plan may cover the dental issues of pets under three years of age. In contrast, other pet insurance plans might cover dental treatment only if your pet received its annual dental exam within the previous 13 months. Therefore, you must check all these clauses before getting an insurance plan covering your pet’s dental hygiene.

We’re not exaggerating when we claim that it’s always safer and more rewarding to look for your pet’s dental insurance coverage. If you need more convincing, let’s head on to understand the benefits of buying coverage for pet dental care.

Why get dental insurance for your pet?

One of the top benefits of having pet health insurance with dental coverage is safety. You can have a peaceful state of mind because you can stay ready for dental issues in dogs like gingivitis and periodontal disease. Additionally, you never know when your pet might require a tooth extraction or treatment for periodontal disease.

Furthermore, cats’ dental accident and illness coverage include preventive dental care for deciduous teeth and routine teeth cleanings. These covered expenses ensure your adorable pet cat ages healthily.

Thus, having insurance to cover gum disease and your pet’s overall oral health is blissfully assuring and pocket-friendly. That’s vital, considering even preventive care and tooth cleaning can put quite a dent in your bank accounts otherwise.

What does pet dental coverage include?

Dental insurance coverage can vary, primarily depending on what American pet insurance company you get the insurance policy from. Usually, there are two categories for a pet’s dental health insurance: dental accidents and illnesses.

While some insurance firms may offer protection against accidents, others may cover dental illness only. And if you contact to get an insurance policy including both dental services, you can expect reimbursements for dental treatments for:

  • Gum disease
  • Root canals
  • Crowns
  • Damaged teeth
  • Gingivitis
  • Stomatitis
  • Tooth extractions

Dental procedures your pet insurance may not cover

While pet insurance for dental health can be quite comprehensive, insurance providers like Lemonade and other credible firms often don’t cover every dental disease or problem. Some general exclusions include:

  • Pre-existing conditions occurring before your pet insurance plan even started
  • Orthodontic, cosmetic, or endodontic dental treatments like fillings and implants
  • Regular treatments like routine teeth cleanings and routine dental care

Here’s a disclaimer:

Pet owners often consider getting pet oral care insurance to get reimbursements for tasks like routine dental cleanings. Some individuals even aim to get compensated for their pet’s dental illness with pre-existing conditions.

However, you must understand that pet insurance cover primarily includes injury and illness coverage to save you from expensive treatments. But routine dental cleaning is your responsibility as a pet owner.

While periodontal disease is unexpected and can happen for several reasons, cosmetic surgeries are a luxury, and pet teeth cleaning is your job. Ignoring teeth cleaning shows a lack of responsibility.

Poor dental health can lead to painful dental illnesses like gum diseases and eventually any periodontal disease, damaging your pet’s tissues and bones.

Because now, it’s not a matter of regular dental cleaning but gum issues, some pet owners think they can get reimbursed for this dental disease. But it’s not always the case. Insurance providers like Lemonade assess your pet’s dental claims and evaluate past treatments and health conditions before accepting and compensating for your claims.

Tips for managing your pet’s dental problems like a pro

Although having pet dental care insurance means reimbursement for costly dental disease, saving you from piling healthcare debts.

It’s still preferable to keep the costs low by incorporating effective medical care for your pets.

The tips below will help you manage your pet’s dental problems like a pro and keep their smile healthy and shining.

1. Feed them a dental diet

There are specially formulated foods that can help reduce tartar and plaque buildup on your pet’s teeth. These diets usually have ingredients that are abrasive enough to scrub away at the build-up while also containing ingredients that fight bacteria and support overall dental health.

2. Schedule regular checkups and cleanings

Regular checkups with your vet are necessary to keep an eye on your pet’s dental health. Your vet will be able to spot any developing problems, such as tartar buildup or gum inflammation, early on so that they can be treated promptly before they become more severe.

3. Brush their teeth at home

Brushing your pet’s teeth is one of the most effective ways to keep their smile healthy and clean. You can purchase toothpaste specifically formulated for pets, or you can use a small amount of human toothpaste on your finger to gently rub their teeth and gums.

4. Give them dental treats

There are a variety of dental treats available that can help reduce tartar buildup and promote overall dental health. These treats usually have ingredients that fight bacteria and support healthy gums.

5. Use water additives

Water additives are designed to help reduce plaque and tartar buildup on your pet’s teeth. Simply add the recommended amount to their water bowl and let them drink as usual.

Proceeding with your pet’s dental claims against accidents and illnesses

Buying your pet’s oral insurance policy isn’t a smooth sail. Problems arise when you don’t skim through the insurance coverage and face hassles at the time of claim settlement. Therefore, as you sign up for the insurance, be sure to ask the firm about three essential questions:

  • if your policy covers both dental injury and illness or any one of them
  • if you will have to pay more when making a claim
  • if there are additional limits apart from the veterinary fees

That helps you assess when and if applying for a claim is beneficial and when you’re more likely to get reimbursed.

Usually, there aren’t special instructions for filing an oral health insurance claim. But some policies may ask your pet to fulfill minimum age or dental examination requirements. Therefore, it’s better to clarify these potential limitations beforehand.

Pet insurance claims are almost like human health insurance claims. You can pay for the vet bills and submit the claim form with the attached relevant documents. And then receive the reimbursed amount for covered expenses by your insurance provider.

Or, you can check if your insurance provider pays to vets directly once your claim is approved. But for that, you’ll first need to check if the vets accept this form of payment or not.

Summary

Managing your pet’s oral routine is as important as ensuring its physical health. Of course, brushing your pet’s teeth every day doesn’t mean complete protection from dental illnesses or untimely accidents. And if you fear the high vet bills for such treatments, having pet insurance with dental coverage is even more vital for you.

Hopefully, the information mentioned above managed to clarify your concerns regarding pet insurance and dental coverage. What are you waiting for now? Research the dental policies of pet insurance companies and choose the one that offers coverage for both- oral health illnesses and accidents.

Source: moneyunder30.com