Five Ways to Fight Stress and Improve Health

Posted on August 15, 2011 by mbrllc

1. Approach your life and work with a more positive outlook. Find a positive side in every aspect of your life. Research involving women age 50 and older found those with an optimistic view were much less likely to die of any cause during the years of the study.

2. Try yoga and Tai chi. The gentle mind-body practices combine aerobic, strength training, core stability, flexibility and balance. They reduce blood pressure and improve sleep.

Develop a sense of gratitude for life. Gratitude is sometimes called a combination of humility, grace, love and acceptance. Each day

1. identify at least one thing that enriches your life. Have gratitude be your last thought before you fall asleep at night and your first thought when you wake in the morning.

2. Try volunteering. A study reported in the Journal of Aging and Health found that volunteers had lower blood pressure than non-volunteers.

3. Improve your relationships. Forgive yourself and those closest to you. It doesn’t mean you condone a wrong done. Forgiveness is associated with improved mood and lower stress.

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Caring for the Caregiver

Posted on August 8, 2011 by mbrllc

As America ages, people find themselves caring for a spouse, family member, or close friend. Each caregiving experience is different and each caregiver has different needs.

Dealing with Stress

Family caregivers are at risk for depression, infections, premature aging, and chronic illness. Signs of caregiver stress as given by Ohio State University Medical Center:

  • Feeling overwhelmed, sad
  • Low energy level
  • Trouble sleeping
  • Feeling angry or uncaring
  • Not eating or eating too much
  • Loss of interest in activities
  • Skipping own doctor visits

Ways to Lighten the Load

Get the right stuff. From grab bars to a portable potty and everything in between, there are devices,

  • equipment, and technology that will make your job easier. Visit your local medical supply store to see what’s available. Or call us, your local CAPS (Certified Aging-in-Place) remodeler. We have special training in modifying homes to accommodate the special needs of the aging or disabled.
  • Bring others onto your care-giving team. Ask a family member or friend to carry in dinner or cook at your house so you can chat at the same time.
  • Hire someone to help with cleaning and laundry. If it’s someone you know, visiting can be enjoyable and create an interesting break for the patient.
  • Accept any help that is offered. If people ask how they can help, be ready with a specific suggestion like mowing, taking out the trash, cleaning, or running errands.
  • Investigate services that are available locally for caregivers and seek support and tips from other caregivers.
  • Make your own health a basic issue. Exercise is important to maintaining strength and a positive attitude. Meditation and yoga can help to reduce stress.
  • Recognize your successes and try to accept what you cannot change. Break a challenge into smaller parts and do one thing at a time.
  • If you know depression or exhaustion is upon you, don’t delay in seeking outside support or professional help. A counselor can help you cope with stress. A health professional may be able to suggest supplements or medications to help with symptoms.

Remember, the caregiver who finds ways to take care of themselves will ultimately be able to provide better care for their loved one in need.

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Enjoy Summer, But Plan Ahead!

Posted on August 1, 2011 by mbrllc

Ahhhh….summer has just begun and you’re looking forward to cook outs and family vacations! But, believe it or not, it’s not too early to start planning your late summer and fall projects! While you’re enjoying the back yard or staying inside in the cool you might want to consider your home’s maintenance needs or that remodeling project you’ve had in the back of your mind. Before you know it school, fall activities, and then the holidays will be crowding your schedule. Plan ahead and call us now for help with everything from kitchens baths replacement windows and doors  porches decks sun rooms basement upfits water and rot damage repair siding and railing drywall repair textured ceiling removal roof fans skylights solar tubes  painting and pressure washing (we now have our own painting crew!) handyman services …really almost any home repair, maintenance, or remodeling project. If we can’t help we will be glad to make a recommendation from our experience with trusted associates.

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Don’t Take the Heat!

Posted on July 25, 2011 by mbrllc

Summer is a great time to enjoy the outdoors, but the heat and humidity can add up to danger! Emergency rooms see an increase in cases of heat stroke and dehydration in July and August. The American College of Emergency Physicians gives this advice on how to stay safe in hot weather:

  • Avoid direct sunlight in the middle of the day. Schedule activities for the early morning or early evening hours.
  • Wear loose, light-colored clothes and hats. Dark colors absorb more heat.
  • Drink lots of water or sports drinks, about 8 ounces an hour when in the sun to help avoid dehydration.
  • Take frequent breaks in the shade or in air-conditioning to cool off.
  • Check the heat index before taking part in activities. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration:

At 90° and 50% humidity, it feels like 96°. At 70% humidity, it feels like 106°. Heat exhaustion is likely, so take it easy. Heat exhaustion can include cramps, heavy sweating, nausea, heart-rate changes and dizziness. Get the victim out of the sun, remove excess clothing and place cool towels on extremities. Fan and give small sips of water.

At 95° and 50% humidity, it feels like 107°. At 70% humidity, it feels like 124°. At that or any higher temperature or humidity, it is extremely dangerous to be outside, and heatstroke could occur. At 100° with humidity ranging from 35%-55% heat exhaustion can occur. 100° temperatures and humidity of 60% or higher put a person into heat stroke territory. Heatstroke is a medical emergency. Symptoms include confusion, an altered mental state, unconsciousness, and hot, dry skin. Call 911. Do not give fluids, which can cause seizures.

Yes, enjoy your summer, but keep these heat concerns in mind!

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2011 Kitchen & Bath Trends

Posted on July 8, 2011 by mbrllc

Home design, just like clothing design, evolves each year being affected by changes in lifestyles, the economy, the environment, even politics. What are the trends for 2011? A survey of kitchen and bath designers by the National Kitchen & Bath Association gives us some clues.

 KITCHENS

Cabinet Color and Style – Traditional style remains the number one pick for cabinets, with the transitional Shaker style overtaking contemporary for the second place spot. Although cherry wood is the most specified, maple may surpass it by year’s end. When it comes to finishes, dark finishes are now selected more often than medium natural, glazed and white painted finishes. Light natural and colored painted finishes remain steady with a definite drop in distressed finishes.

 Granite, quartz, and solid surface are the preferred choices for countertops, in that order.

 Gas is tops in cook tops, with electric second, and induction gaining as the third most popular choice.

 Interestingly chilled wine storage declined while un-chilled wine storage grew.

Some other trends…

On the rise or remaining strong…satin nickel finish, French-door refrigerators, and LED lighting.

Downward trends include brushed nickel finish, and incandescent lighting.

 BATHS

Countertop choices for the bath match the kitchen choices – granite, quartz, and solid surface. Cultured marble and onyx have shown an increase over a year ago.

As for color, green has shown a sharp 10% increase in use, although whites and off-whites, and beiges and browns are still the most popular bath colors. Other often seen schemes include blues, grays, bronzes, and terra cottas.

Under-mount sinks are the #1 choice with vessel sinks a definite #2. Also rising in preference are integrated sinks and pedestal sinks.

Trends in faucets for both kitchens and baths are similar with satin nickel increasing and brushed nickel decreasing in popularity. Bronze, oil-rubbed bronze, polished nickel, and polished chrome all remain popular choices.

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The Best Non-Stick Cookware? Grandma’s, Of Course!

Posted on July 1, 2011 by mbrllc

The concerns over non-stick surfaces in today’s cookware have been well publicized. But who wants to give up their convenience? Just pull out grandma’s old cast iron skillet and you’ll soon be a fan! Okay, we know it’s heavy, and it takes a little maintenance, but just try it! What make it better than the modern versions?

 It offers better heat distribution and retention.

  • It’s natural and non-toxic, even at high temperatures.
  • It’s versatile – use it in the oven, on electric or gas cook tops, on the grill, or on a camp fire.
  • It’s durable – If properly cared for it can last for generations.
  • It’s economical – Besides it’s reasonable price, its durability makes it an even better value. (Buy made in the USA)
  • It’s eco-friendly – 100% recyclable and no harm to the environment.

 Cast iron cookware must be “seasoned” (a coating of oil is baked into the surface) and can be purchased pre-seasoned. That seasoning must be maintained. Use only water to clean (no dish soap), or wipe clean with a paper towel. Then add a thin coating of oil. Once you begin enjoying your cast iron cookware these steps will become second nature. If you don’t have grandma’s, start looking for that cast-off cast iron at yard and estate sales now, use it and give it some TLC, and you’ll be passing it down to your children and grandchildren!

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Open Says Me!

Posted on June 28, 2011 by mbrllc

Is your exterior entry door letting in and out more than the neighbors – like cold drafts in during the winter and cool air out during the summer? If your doors are starting to show signs of wear – splitting, warping, drafty, worn hinges, loose door knob, patio doors that won’t slide – they are asking for your attention! Sometimes minor repairs and weatherizing can get you by for a while, but replacement might be the best solution. If you have an older wood or un-insulated metal or glass door with worn components, the new high-tech materials and energy efficient units available today can save energy costs and make your home more comfortable and secure.

 When choosing a new entry door one should consider the location, type and amount of use, and its exposure to the elements. New entry doors are available in wood, fiberglass, and steel, and can be selected with composite components that will resist rot-damage. You will have no problem finding a unit that will complement your home’s style, as options in texture, style, glass, and finish are numerous. New doors are much more energy efficient than older units, and a good quality door and frame will provide more security, too. Sill pans should be used on doors that are exposed to the weather.

 Your door is also there to protect your home and family. At minimum one would want a deadbolt lock. Security for your entry has become high-tech. Besides the standard keyed locks, keyless locks offer convenient security with the use of a keypad, remote, or finger print! Of course they are available in all the current finishes.

 Storm doors can offer additional weather protection, security, and ventilation. A fairly new ventilation option is the retractable screen door. Whether you choose to weatherize or replace an existing door, we’d be glad to discuss the many options available with you!

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All Decked Out!

Posted on June 28, 2011 by mbrllc

Adding or upgrading an outdoor deck is one of the most popular home improvements, especially as we look forward to warmer weather. The deck is a valued spot for relaxing and entertaining.

Location, Location…

The climate in your area and the views you’ll see are the major factors to consider when deciding where to place your deck. A north-side deck may be the coolest location. Southern or western exposure may be too warm in the middle of the summer unless the deck is shaded by trees or a pergola. You might be able to avoid prevailing winds by locating your deck where the house will provide some protection. Also consider a setting that minimizes traffic noise and unwanted views and one that allows some privacy. A multi-level deck can transform a problem site such as a steep or rocky slope into a useful area.

How Do I Look?

A high-maintenance back yard can be changed into an enjoyable outdoor living area with a deck that includes areas for conversation, cooking, eating, entertaining, or even a hot tub. Add visual interest and maximize usefulness with built-in seating, built-in planters, wrapping the deck around a corner, or integrating a screen. Screens can also offer privacy – either fence-like for maximum privacy, or an open trellis that allows light and breezes through. Of course, adding shrubbery or vines to a trellis can increase privacy.

A deck can be any shape you want. Simple changes like an angled corner or a 45-degree decking pattern can dress up your deck and add visual interest.

Wood…or plastic?

Though treated wood is most often used for decking, new engineered decking can be easier to maintain and lasts longer.

Engineered decking is made of everything from sawdust to plastic to peanut shells. It tends to be more stable and wears better than wood. Plastic decking is another option. Choose from a wide range of colors, with textures that include smooth, woodgrain, and grooved.

You can also complement your home’s style and customize your deck with the many railing options available today, including traditional wood pickets, PVC railing, metal balusters, Plexiglas, and cables.

 Decisions, Decisions…

Sort the following list in order of most importance to you and match the material options to that list.

  • Initial cost
  • Maintenance effort & cost
  • Length of service life
  • Appearance of the floor (real wood, composite, texture)
  • Color
  • Special features such as being waterproof to protect area below

 As you eliminate options and continue down the list you may have to compromise, but with all the materials available you will soon come up with a deck that will fit into your budget and improve your home and enjoyment of your outdoor living space. Start planning! Summer is almost here!

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“Green” Lawns can Help The Environment and Save You Some Money!

Posted on May 2, 2011 by mbrllc

 

Looking to make some upgrades to your landscaping this year? Make sure you keep the environment in mind during your planning. A lot of people are already aware of how to conserve energy within their homes, but here are some tips to think about for your surrounding landscaping.

Incorporate Native Plants

When planning your landscape, incorporating native plants is always a good idea. They are adapted to your area and require less maintenance and water than exotic plants. You can also reduce the need for pesticides because they’re more resistant to pests and diseases. You don’t need to exclude foreign plants from your landscaping, but incorporating natives in your plan can make a big difference.

Conserve Energy with Solar Powered Lights

Using a few solar powered landscaping lights, as opposed to an entirely electric powered lighting system, can help to reduce your overall energy use.

Use Natural/Organic Fertilizers for Maintenance

Using just a couple natural products (fertilizer, pesticides, etc.) can help by reducing the amount of potentially harmful wastewater runoff in the environment. This can also create a healthier environment for your family and pets.

Plant Shade Trees to Reduce Energy Use
Planting deciduous trees (trees that drop their leaves in the fall) is a great way to help reduce the work load on your HVAC systems by reducing the direct sun on your home. When these trees drop their leaves, they also allow sunlight to warm a home during the winter. If possible, plant tall trees on the east and west-facing sides of the house. Planting trees on the south facing side of your home can help shade the roof, as the sun will not hit that side of the house much during the summer.

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Do you have a “Green” home? It certainly pays to check

Posted on March 14, 2011 by mbrllc

“Going Green” is a growing priority for a lot of homeowners these days.  It’s certainly a good idea, because not only is it beneficial for our overall well-being, it can also save you some money as well.

You can start by taking a good hard look at your home. A little investigating could reveal some areas that you could improve or fix in order to help lower utility costs and increase the overall efficiency of your home. You should also consider hiring a professional contractor to perform an energy audit. They will be able to assess the overall efficiency of your entire property (appliances, HVAC, windows, doors, insulation, etc.) and offer recommendations as to where you can make some improvements.

Here are some tips on areas that you could investigate immediately:

Inspect the basement, attic, stairways and garage (including the walls) for drafty areas.

This could be a sign that you need to add to or replace insulation.

Check your windows. Are they single-pane glass? If so, replacing them with double-pane glass windows will reduce drafts and increase insulation.

Is your roof in need of repair? If your roof requires replacement or repair, consider going with a lighter covering. A dark roof absorbs heat – a lighter covering will reflect the sun’s rays away from the house.

Check your thermostat. Is it programmable? Programmable thermostats are very inexpensive and, once set properly, can immediately have an affect on your utility bill.

Inspect any ducts that you may have access to. Leaky ducts greatly reduce the efficiency of your HVAC system. If you find leaks call a professional contractor to repair them and inspect the entire system. There’s most likely other leaks that you can’t find on your own.

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