Tips for Finding the Right Nursing Home

By the year 2060, the senior population will exceed 100 million individuals in the United States. Many of these older Americans will require the care and support provided by a senior living facility. When it is time for them to transition into this type of community, their family has an important decision – which care home is right for their loved one?

While this can be an emotional and difficult decision, there are some tips that can help. Keep reading to learn what to look for when searching for a nursing home. Also, keep in mind that in some cases, a viable option will be elderly home care Massachusetts, which is great for individuals who want to age in place.

• Consider the Location
  One of the first things to think about is the location of the facility. While many family members have the best intentions to visit their loved one in the new home regularly, if it is located far away or out of the normal, day-to-day travel route, the likelihood of regular visits is low. As a result, families should try to find a care home that is located near either their home or work. This will help ensure the individual receives regular visits from family and friends.
• The Amenities
  Modern nursing homes and assisted living facilities offer an array of activities and amenities for residents. It’s a good idea to learn what is offered to see if it is something that sounds appealing and fun.

Before making a decision, be sure to visit a few of the homes being considered. This is the best way to get a feel for what the place is really like and if it is going to be a good fit for the senior loved one in your life. If you don’t like it, there’s a good chance they won’t either, so make sure this is a factor in your decision-making process.

Free Coloring Pages

I really enjoy coloring. When the grandkids are here, I like to get down on the floor with some coloring books and crayons. And when it's just me, I do like pulling out my adult coloring books and colored pencils - and when I find the books at Dollar Tree, it's hard not to grab a bunch of them. So I have quite a few.

What I don't have is a bunch of time to color. I suppose if I got off Facebook in the evenings... (seriously, by the end of the day my brain isn't really doing anything, and I'm just mindlessly scrolling anyway)

I do find that coloring while I'm listening to an online presentation or sermon helps me listen better, so I ought to do it more often.

If you also enjoy coloring and have some extra time on your hands, you can download some free coloring pages right now. They come from the popular coloring books Whatever is Lovely and Everything Beautiful and each one has a lovely image and a scripture.

It sounds like a great way to relax, calm your mind, and focus on God in this uncertain time.

New Activities to Try This Summer

Judging by all the posts I'm seeing on social media, people are going to be overjoyed when summer rolls around and they can get out and try something new. Honestly, they just want to get back to normal life, but here are a few new activities to try out this summer. These all sound like a lot of fun.

• Equestrian - Equestrian combines the natural wonders of outdoor horseback riding with the thrill of competition. Learning to ride a horse is one thing, but then learning to navigate it around an obstacle course is another aspect of the fun challenge of equestrian. The one easy part of this activity? It's easy to find a place to learn it this summer, such as the equestrian center Chester County. The summer will provide the time you need to get this activity down and make some big strides in equestrian. And then, when the Summer Olympics finally roll around next summer 2021, you'll know a lot more about the equestrian events, too. (I am really bummed about the Olympics being postponed)
   
• Surfing - Live near the water? Why not try out surfing? This sport also requires lots of practice and skill, but the refreshing nature of being in the water on hot summer days is a bit of consolation to wiping out on your board before you get the hang of things. There is nothing as cool as mastering a wave and being in complete control of your board. If you have the time, learning to surf can be a memorable summer activity that you'll come back to for life.
   

• Camping - There are lots of activities to get you closer to the great outdoors, however, nothing will immerse you in them more fully than going camping. With the warm weather, the camping season is at its peak in the summer. To try something different this summer, find a favorite park or campsite and pick a place for your tent to enjoy a rustic night outdoors.

Equestrian, surfing and camping are three fun new activities to try out this summer. With the extra time on your hands the summer will provide, why not try something new?

Why Are Professional Plumbing Services Important?

When something goes wrong with your plumbing, it can be a real emergency. You might be tempted to fix things yourself, and if it's something simple there's no reason you shouldn't. However, if you don't have the proper training, knowledge, and tools to get a more complicated job done efficiently and safely, you could end up making the problem much worse. Hiring a plumber may not be your first choice, but that's often the best course of action.


Here are a couple of reasons you need plumbing repairs gastonia nc.

• Safety - Perhaps the most important benefit of hiring a professional plumber is ensuring safety. Many plumbing tasks involve objects that can transmit large volumes of electricity. These objects can cause serious injury to an inexperienced plumber. Plumbing tasks can be risky and take extensive knowledge to complete safely. Qualified and skilled professionals should be tasked with things like changing a water heater or dealing with a water line.
   
• Experience and Knowledge - If you or someone else who isn't right for the job tries to complete plumbing work, you could end up making a lot of mistakes that could make things worse instead of better. For example, you might choose the wrong tool to fix a leak or clear a drain. This could result in more damage to your pipes than there was from the start.
  
  You might also connect plumbing joints and fixtures incorrectly, which could cause leaks soon after installation. However, a professional plumber has extensive experience and knowledge of all plumbing parts and is less likely to make amateur mistakes.

Plumbing takes serious work - work that the average person can't adequately complete without the proper training. If you're worried about the extra cost of hiring a plumber, think about your safety.

Be Aware of What They're Selling

Recently I've been seeing these Cascade commercials encouraging people to 'do it every night' because running the dishwasher only takes 4 gallons of water while washing dishes by hand uses 4 gallons every 2 minutes. As I mentioned a while back, I never had a dishwasher until we moved into this house, and I still haven't figured out what's so great about having one. Occasionally we'll have a house full of people, and it does come in handy, but the rest of the time it really is easier just to wash the dishes and get them done.


Still, this commercial had me intrigued. My view is that it takes the same amount of water, power, and dishwasher detergent to run the dishwasher no matter how many dishes you put in it, but maybe it really is better to run it every night, or a little more often, whether it's full or not. Still, I can't imagine that washing my dishes in the sink every night really uses that much water. Am I really wasting water by washing my dishes by hand?

So, today I thought I'd measure the water it takes to fill my sink up - just to see. And what I found out is that the most I use is about 5 gallons of water - and that's when I have a lot of dishes. Believe me, I can stack a drainer. I'm not sure why loading a dishwasher seems so much harder for me, but it does...

When I'm washing a regular amount of dishes, my sink doesn't get even as full as that 5 gallons. I might actually use the 4 gallons my dishwasher is supposed to use, but that's for all of the dishes. I'm certainly not using any 4 gallons every 4 minutes. What in the world are they talking about? Who does that?

But then, they are trying to sell dishwasher detergent. You won't actually be saving water or energy, but the more often you run your dishwasher, the more dishwasher detergent you'll need to buy...

Finding a Trustworthy Plumber in Your Area

If your home is experiencing plumbing problems, you might be tempted to fix the issues on your own. Of course, there's nothing wrong with this, especially if the issue is simple to fix. For example, you might notice a leak from a pipe at the bottom of your sink. It likely just needs tightening up using a pair of pliers. That's precisely the issue we had not too long ago. My husband looked at it and fixed it in no time.

However, every problem won't be easy to solve just using the items you have in your home. Sometimes you need a reliable plumber to get the job done. The question is, how do you find a trustworthy plumber in Mississauga? (or anywhere) Here are some things to keep in mind:

• Ask Around - It's very likely that your friends, family or neighbors have needed the expertise of a plumber at one time or another. That's why using your network is a good way to find a reliable plumber. Ask a few people you have a close relationship with who they use for their plumbing needs in your area. If your neighbor or best friend has faith in a reputable plumber, then chances are, that plumber or company has worked hard to earn that trust.
  
  Even if you're new to an area, talking to your neighbors is a great way to introduce yourself and ask for recommendations. You can also utilize the internet to read about recommendations and frustrations customers have about local service providers.
   
• Check Licensing - Because most states require plumbers to obtain a license before they can start practicing, many government websites offer an online database of professional license holders. These websites might also include phone numbers to call in order to check the state of a plumber's license.
  
  For example, the National Contractor License Service compiles a list of each state's professional licensing agency where you can look up certain licensing plumbers are required to have in your state. You can view a list of state licensing agencies to determine if a plumber is licensed in your state.
   
• Don't Call the First Plumber You Find - If you're experiencing a dire plumbing emergency, you might be tempted to settle for the first plumber you get in contact with. However, this could be a mistake. That's because, with any big job that needs to be completed in your home, you want to make sure you can fully trust the professionals you hire to complete it.

When searching for the right plumber for your needs, be sure to ask people you trust and do your own research.

Benefits of a Vinyl Fence

Vinyl fencing is a practical and aesthetically pleasing addition to your property. A vinyl fence has many benefits and minimal upkeep. There are options for nearly any area and budget.

Here are a few of the major benefits:

• Protection - A vinyl fence offers great protection and an added level of security to your home. It keeps your yard safe by deterring anyone from entering your property. A fence will let you enclose your yard or specified area to allow any children or pets to be safely contained so they aren't harmed from nearby traffic and can't wander away into someone else's yard.
  
  A vinyl fence is also a good way to protect against weather. It can be an effective block for wind or heavy snows, keeping the worst of it away from your property and possessions. This could save you time and prevent the need to shell out money to replace damaged items.
   
• Privacy - A vinyl fence can be a great way to add privacy to your home.  The fence can protect your property from the prying eyes of any neighbors or passersby, allowing you to enjoy your activities in peace. You will be able to relax and spend time with your family or entertain friends without worrying about someone spying on you.
   
• Types - There are several types of fencing available. A full privacy fence or a semi-private fence offers great coverage. They're available in many different styles, varying in the amount of embellishment and decorative elements. You can choose a rail fence or a traditional picket fence if you are looking for the functional elements of the fencing and not concerned so much with the privacy aspect.
  
  Vinyl fencing is also available in several different colors to better match your home and to seamlessly incorporate with your existing landscaping and decor. You can also choose to include a gate or two for your fence for easier outside access.
   
• Cost - A vinyl fence is a cost-effective solution to several problems. Pricing fluctuates depending upon the options you choose. These fences are built with high-quality materials that are made to last. They are strong and fade-resistant, so they will stay looking like new for years. There is minimal upkeep and cost once the fence is installed. These fences are installed by professionals to make sure that they are even and level. 

Installing a vinyl fence can be a good investment for your home. Consider speaking with a knowledgeable professional to explore your options and get started.

Betty Reads Harry

How cool is this? Two things I love - Betty White and Harry the Dirty Dog. This video has been around for a while, but this is the first time I've seen it.


Of course, there's nothing quite as special as sitting down with your kids or grandkids and reading books together. Now you can just let Betty read one of them!

Be Sure to Try These Foods Next Time You're in Texas

Texans are a proud bunch and will tell you that everything is better in Texas. It is well-known that they are passionate about their food, most notably their barbecue. Modern Texan food culture, however, is comprised of so much more than just slow-cooked meat slathered in a tasty tangy sauce. Texans don’t do things halfway; they go full throttle and put the time, effort, and love into whatever they make until it is perfect. This especially applies to their food.

Here are a few examples of Texas cuisine you’re sure to fall in love with the next time you visit the Lone Star State.

• The Perfect Steak - Texas is cattle country so, of course, they are really into great steaks.  When you think of a Texas steakhouse, you may be thinking of some dusty old roadhouse, the kind of run-down place where you might find great barbecue. And while that definitely has its place, a nice family restaurant Grapevine TX is where you'll find that good ribeye, filet, or  massive porterhouse you're looking for. A great steakhouse meal is sure to be one of your trip highlights.
• The Perfect Burger - Once again, it’s Texas, and they do love their meat. In fact, they claim to have invented the burger and to have perfected it. It all starts with lean ground beef, a high-quality bun, either cheddar or American cheese and your choice of toppings. The official Texas-style burger has red onion, pickles, lettuce, and tomato, with mustard on one bun and mayo on the other. (Yes! All burgers need mustard!) Some would argue to include green chilis as well, but either way, you’ll be trying to make it at home. 
• The Perfect Chili - Texans are very particular about their chili, and fights have ensued over the inclusion of beans in the recipe. Purists insist that Texas chili excludes beans, also known as a “bowl of red,” and that chili with beans is a Tex-Mex bowl of horrors. Try each and decide for yourself, they are both delicious.

Whether it’s a steak, a burger, or a bowl of chili, you’ll have plenty of fantastic options to choose from on your next visit to Texas.

Websites for Some Free Learning Fun

With so many kids out of school due to the coronavirus, parents are scrambling to figure out how to keep them busy and learning. Some schools are holding e-learning days and I'm sure many teachers have sent home plenty of assignments and activities. And there are many learning websites out there to explore - many of them are even offering free access at this time.

I don't have any kids at home anymore, but I am seriously tempted to check some of these out myself. I always loved school.

I just downloaded this image from facebook with a list of 10 Free Learning Websites for Kids, so I thought I'd start with looking these up and linking to all of them here while I'm at it - it's easier to click than have to type the url in, right? Enjoy!

1. Switch Zoo Animal Games - all about animals, of course
2. Fun Brain - games for some math and reading practice
3. Nat Geo for Kids - geography (and animals)
4. PBS Kids - games and videos with your favorite characters (parents can sign up for daily activities and tips for keeping kids playing and learning at home)
5. Into the Book - games to practice reading strategies
6. Star Fall - language arts and mathematics
7. Seussville - all things Dr. Seuss
8. Storyline Online - some of your favorite stories read by celebrities
9. ABCya! - fun games that also practice math and reading skills
10. Highlights Kids - reading, games, and science experiments

Where will your kids start first?

What To Look at in a Child Care Facility

With all the schools canceled for the foreseeable future, parents everywhere are scrambling to figure out what to do for childcare. Of course, the ideal situation would be for the parents to be able to stay home with their children. But not everyone can work from home, and not everyone can take extended time off not knowing where the next paycheck is coming from and how the bills are going to be paid.

So, if you find yourself needing a place that can watch your child while you are at work, it may be even harder than usual to find what you are looking for. There are several around, and even in the best of times, it can be hard to know which one you should choose.

Here are three things to look at when picking a daycare for your child:

1. Staff - Knowing who your child is with is very important when choosing a place. You will want to make sure the staff is friendly and reputable. Meet those who are in charge and get a feel for how they are. Your child deserves the best care while there, and you should not expect any less from those who work there. Their mindset should be focused on keeping your child happy and entertained. Find places like Inglewood child care which assure their workers are trained and ready to be there for your child.
2. Center - The facility where the daycare is housed should be clean and child-friendly. Although it is not required, having decorated rooms and a bright atmosphere helps everyone be happy. The rooms should be large enough to hold several children without being overcrowded. You should be able to see plenty of toys and areas where children are allowed to play.
3. Schedule - Finding a center that has an outline of their day is one of the best things you could do. This allows you to see what your child should be doing throughout the day, as well as reassure you that they are not being stuck in a room without really being watched. See if they will be playing outside or what kinds of activities they might do. While everything may not happen exactly as the schedule says, you know that things have been planned for your child to do.

While it may be hard to leave your child somewhere for a few hours, knowing where he or she is can help make it easier. Remember to keep these things in mind when considering a place to put them.