Real Estate, Style

Renovating – Have a Plan

Lora Knows...

Home renovations can be complex and challenging. Proper preparation is crucial for a successful project. Here are three key steps you should take during the preparation process to increase the likelihood of a successful home renovation:

  1. Define Your Goals and Budget:
  • Start by clearly defining your renovation goals. What do you want to achieve with this project? Whether it’s adding space, modernizing a room, or improving energy efficiency, having a clear vision is essential.
  • Determine your budget. Establish a realistic budget that takes into account all costs, including materials, labor, permits, and contingencies for unexpected expenses. It’s essential to have a financial plan in place to avoid overspending.
  1. Plan and Design Carefully:
  • Work with a professional architect or designer to create detailed plans for your renovation. They can help you make the most of your space, choose materials, and create a timeline for the project.
  • Obtain any necessary permits. Depending on the scope of your renovation, you may need permits from your local government. Ensure you have all the required paperwork in order before you begin construction to avoid potential delays and fines.
  • Create a project timeline. Develop a realistic schedule that outlines the order of tasks, from demolition to finishing touches. This will help you and your contractors stay on track.
  1. Choose Reliable Contractors and Suppliers:
  • Research and hire experienced, licensed contractors. Get recommendations, check references, and request multiple quotes. A trustworthy contractor is essential for the success of your renovation.
  • Select high-quality materials and products. The materials you choose will impact the durability and aesthetics of your project. Invest in reliable, long-lasting products that align with your budget.
  • Communicate effectively with your contractors. Maintain open and clear communication throughout the project. Discuss any changes or concerns promptly to avoid misunderstandings and delays.

In addition to these three key steps, it’s important to be flexible and expect the unexpected during the renovation process. Delays, unforeseen issues, and design changes can occur. Having a contingency plan and some extra funds set aside for such situations is advisable.

Overall, a well-thought-out plan and careful preparation are key to a successful home renovation. When you take the time to define your goals, create detailed plans, and work with reliable professionals, you increase the chances of achieving the results you desire while staying within your budget and timeline.

Cooking, Entertainment, Holidays

Halloween Cocktails, Boo!

Lora Knows...

I love to do different types of cocktails for friends and family to enjoy as we spend time together. These festive Halloween Candy Corn Martini cocktails will be a hit at our next game night!

  • 1 ½ Ounce Whipped Cream Vodka – we use Pinnacle
  • 3 Ounce Sour Mix – can be purchased, but I make my own (recipe below)
  • 2 Ounce Pineapple Juice
  • ½ Ounce Grenadine – we use Liber & Co.
  • Whipped cream for topping – homemade is fun, but store bought works just as well

Instructions

  • Combine Whipped Cream Vodka, Sour Mix and Pineapple Juice in a shaker with ice, shake away
  • Pour mix into a martini glass
  • Slowly pour Grenadine into mix so it settles at the bottom
  • Top with whip cream

Sour Mix Recipe

  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
  • Juice the lemons and limes
  • In a heavy bottomed sauce pan add the sugar and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring now and then. Once all the sugar is dissolved remove from the heat.
  • Pour the citrus juice into the simple syrup and mix together. 
  • Let it cool completely and strain through a fine mesh strainer.
  • Pour final product into a container. I use a glass bottle with a lid.
  • Place in the refrigerator, will last for up to three weeks.
Entertainment, Holidays

Cute Halloween Treat Bags

Lora Knows...

OK, it’s official – I’m going a bit overboard with the Halloween theme – and am going to do individual treat bags. This isn’t the first year we’ve done bags, but those weren’t nearly as cute as these. I brought the idea to Dean and showed him how sweet they are, get it “sweet” – so I’m over doing puns too haha. He thinks they’re great, so this year instead of doing regular bags or tossing the candy into a bowl, everyone will get a broom bag filled with goodies.

Here is all you need to do to transform little brown lunch bags into magical witch’s brooms.

You will need the following materials for each bag you create:

  • Brown lunch bags – it takes 2 bags to make 1 treat bag
  • Broomstick – use a halloween pencil, tree stick, or festive item
  • Scissors
  • Twine – I’m using Halloween ribbon
  • Tags – Printable tags, however I ordered Halloween tags from Amazon
  • Hole punch, if needed
  • Treats and Favors to fill the bag

Directions:

Step 1. Take the first bag and cut thin vertical strips that end 1″ from the bottom. On the second bag cut vertical strips that are 4″ long from the top.

Step 2. Place bag 2 with the shorter strips inside the bag 1 with the longer strips.

Step 3. Fill the inside bag with the treats and favors and place the stick inside the bag, in the middle of the treats and favors.

Step 4. Using the hole punch, punch a hole at the top of the label. Thread the ribbon through the hole. Set aside.

Step 5. Gather up with long strips of the outer bag and leave about 3″ inches at the top and secure them with the ribbon by tying it around the bag and making a bow. Be sure to leave about 3 inches at the top.