Fall is right around the corner and September has me dreaming of cooler weather and pumpkin carving. Whether you're a pumpkin spice or an apple cider, and whether you rent or own, there are things you can do around your home to increase safety, lower heating bills and ensure the coming cold weather doesn't create issues down the road. Check for cracks in your driveway, sidewalks, porch and patio. Any cracks or lifting you see now will only get worse with freezing and thawing over the winter. Repair them before they become a trip hazard. Renters, don't think this doesn't apply to you. Your landlord may not see your home every day, so you take a look and report your findings in order to get things repaired. This one may not apply to renters, but every homeowner knows the struggle to get your lawn looking green and lush in the Spring. Get a leg up by fertilizing now, and giving your grass a chance to grow strong roots before the freezing weather hits. Smoke detector and ca...

Yesterday we enjoyed a 63 degree, sunshiny day.  Tomorrow, the high  is supposed to be 34 degrees with a wintery mix.  Mother Nature may have multiple personalities, but I love it here, and I wouldn't leave Indiana for all the consistent weather in the world! So how do I keep our home a comfortable temperature without breaking the bank during these crazy Indiana winters?  I've got several tips and tricks to be more energy efficient.  Because going green should save you green! Install a programmable thermostat.    There's just about no way you'll keep up with the changing temperatures on your own, but a programmable thermostat will help keep your home comfortable no matter what is going on outside.  Bonus, you can set it to let the temperature drop when you're asleep or not home to save you even more. Clean or replace your furnace filter regularly.   Different filters have different lifespans so know your filter, but ...

Disclaimer: Originally posted December 27, 2019 on a site that has since become unusable for my purposes. It's the most wonderful time of the year!  We're basking in that post-holiday glow and life is good.  Christmas lights are still up, giving everything that beautiful warm glow but the chaos of holiday prep and millions of holiday parties is over.  We have taken off work the week between Christmas and New Year's and it's like the whole world has slowed down.  I, for one, love this time when I can hole up at home with my family, a pile of blankets and leftover Christmas cookies. But while we're spending some time on self care, let's not forget to show our homes a little love!  Taking a little time to prepare for the upcoming cold months can save you a lot of time, money and headaches.  Is your home ready for winter?  Here are a few tips! Disconnect your outside water hoses.  Leaving your garden hose attached is a freeze hazard and could ca...