Her Last High School Dance #SeniorProm

It's been two years since her last prom and here I am just now having a chance to write about it.  I really miss having our daughter home.  It's her second year at the naval academy and times can be tough at times when we miss her.  I get a little depress when I miss her but luckily, I have so many pictures I could look back to when she was still here at home.  Anyway, back to her Senior Prom, this is the dress she wore.

We actually bought a purple dress before this one but she didn't like how it felt on her body when she tried it at home so we bought another one.  She love this one better.

Glad my daughter experience these things coz I never had the opportunity.  I didn't have the resources and we had a different setup with Junior and Senior Prom.

3 Tips to Make Moving to Florida Easier & Less Stressful

Image Credit: Lance Asper from Unsplash.

Countless people consider moving to Florida every year. For many, it’s for their retirement, while others just want a chance of building a life somewhere else. No matter your reason, you could want to take the plunge.

That doesn’t always mean it’s something you should just rush into, though. It’s always worth making sure you know what you’re doing and take the right steps to get there. Using a few tips helps with this, and you’ll end up making sure it’s the right decision for you.
Moving to Florida: 3 Tips to Make it Easier
1. Pick a City You Like

One of the first steps you should take is to figure out where in Florida you want to move to, like Miami. If you’re moving for a job, then you could’ve already figured out exactly where. Outside of that, you’ll have plenty of options, so it’s worth spending a bit of time looking into this.

Each city offers its pros and cons, and looking into each of them can be recommended. Some will be much more affordable to live in than others, for example. If you’re living on a tight budget, then it could be worth going for some of the more affordable options.
2. Look into Properties

You’ll naturally need somewhere to live after moving to Florida. Thankfully, there are countless places to rent or buy you could look into. Make sure you know what you need when you’re doing this. You could need more than a few real estate documents and similar items to help with this.

And that’s without mentioning the financial side of things. Take the time to research everything before making the move. Even better if you can start looking for properties before you even get to Florida. The more effort you put into ahead of time, the better off you’ll be.
3. Grow Your Social Circles

Once you’ve moved to Florida, you’ll naturally need to start making friends. What you mightn’t have realized is you could get a start on this ahead of time. Social media groups can be a great resource for this. You could find other people moving to the state or who have recently moved there.

Looking into these could help you find an easy way to socialize and start making friends. It’ll help you kickstart your social life once you eventually get there. Since you’ll want to make friends anyway, there’s no reason not to put a little effort into it. You’ll be throwing Christmas parties before you know it.
Moving to Florida: Wrapping Up

When you’re moving to Florida, it’s not uncommon to feel a little stressed and overwhelmed. Thankfully, there are ways to minimize that, and it’s always worth putting some time into a few tips. They’ll help you avoid a lot of the stress while making the process more straightforward.



While there’ll still be some work involved, there’s no reason why you should have to deal with a lot of stress and countless headaches. With a little effort, you’ll be living in Florida and enjoying it before you know it.

12 Top Tips For Giving Your Backyard A Makeover

A backyard makeover can transform your outdoor space into a haven for relaxation, entertainment, and family fun. Whether you're looking to create a tranquil garden retreat or an inviting area for social gatherings, a few thoughtful changes can make a significant impact. Here are some top tips to help you give your backyard a stunning makeover.



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1. Plan Your Vision

Before diving into any physical work, take time to plan your backyard makeover. Consider how you want to use the space. Do you need an area for children to play, a spot for gardening, or a place to entertain guests? Sketch out your ideas and create a rough layout. This plan will serve as your roadmap and help you stay focused on your goals.
2. Assess the Space

Evaluate your existing backyard space. Identify any problem areas that need attention, such as poor drainage, uneven ground, or overgrown vegetation. Assessing the current state of your yard will help you prioritize tasks and ensure you address any underlying issues before starting your makeover.
3. Set a Budget

Determine how much you're willing to spend on your backyard makeover. Setting a budget will help you make informed decisions and avoid overspending. Keep in mind that you don't need to tackle everything at once; you can phase your project to spread out the costs over time.
4. Choose a Focal Point

Every great backyard design has a focal point that draws the eye and sets the tone for the space. This could be a beautiful tree, a water feature, a fire pit, or a stylish patio set. Choosing a focal point will give your backyard a cohesive look and create a central area around which you can design the rest of the space.
5. Incorporate Greenery

Plants are a vital element in any backyard makeover. They add color, texture, and life to your outdoor space. Consider a mix of trees, shrubs, flowers, and ground cover to create a layered and visually appealing landscape. If you're short on space, vertical gardens and hanging planters are excellent options for adding greenery without taking up much room.
6. Enhance Your Lawn

A well-maintained lawn can be the centerpiece of your backyard. Regular mowing, watering, and fertilizing will keep your grass healthy and lush. If your lawn has seen better days, consider lawn aeration and seeding or laying new sod to give it a fresh start. Edging your lawn with bricks or stones can also give it a clean, defined look.
7. Add Outdoor Furniture

Comfortable and stylish outdoor furniture can turn your backyard into an extension of your home. Choose furniture that suits your needs and complements the style of your house. Weather-resistant materials like teak, aluminum, and wicker are durable and perfect for outdoor use. Don’t forget to include cushions and throws for added comfort.
8. Create Zones

Dividing your backyard into zones can make it more functional and organized. You might have a dining area, a lounging space, a play area for kids, and a garden section. Use elements like pergolas, trellises, or low hedges to define these zones and create a sense of separation.



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9. Install Lighting

Outdoor lighting can enhance the ambiance of your backyard and extend its usability into the evening hours. String lights, lanterns, and solar-powered garden lights are popular options that add a warm and inviting glow. Spotlights and path lights can highlight key features and ensure safety.
10. Incorporate Water Features

Water features like fountains, ponds, or small waterfalls can add a soothing element to your backyard. The sound of flowing water creates a peaceful atmosphere and can help drown out noise from the surrounding area. Even a simple birdbath can bring a touch of nature to your space.
11. Consider a Fire Pit

A fire pit can be a fantastic addition to your backyard, providing warmth and a cozy gathering spot for family and friends. There are various options, from built-in stone pits to portable metal ones. Ensure that your fire pit complies with local regulations and is placed at a safe distance from any structures or flammable materials.
12. Maintain Regularly

A beautiful backyard requires regular maintenance to keep it looking its best. Stay on top of tasks like weeding, pruning, and cleaning outdoor furniture. Regular upkeep will prevent small issues from becoming larger problems and ensure your backyard remains a pleasant retreat.
There You Have It

A backyard makeover can be a rewarding project that enhances your outdoor living space and increases your home's value. By planning carefully, setting a budget, and incorporating these tips, you can create a backyard that suits your needs and brings joy to your everyday life. Happy gardening!

5 Easy, Affordable Tips to Maximize Your Home Space

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Optimizing your livable space at home doesn't have to be overwhelming or expensive. With the right tips and tricks, you can maximize your existing square footage, making even the smallest areas more functional and enjoyable. 

Below, we’ll look at some key solutions not only to declutter but also enhance your daily living. Let’s get started!

Install a Storage Shed

One of the best ways to clear out clutter from your garden or lawn and make it more livable is to install storage sheds in your backyard. You can use these additions to store away seasonal decorations, gardening tools, and outdoor equipment, freeing up valuable indoor space. 

When installing your shed, make sure to choose a location with easy access and ensure it's on level ground and stable. Additionally, think about custom shelving and hooks to maximize storage within the shed. This project, while simple, can make your living areas more livable and organized - and also create a garden that is thoroughly enjoyable all year around!

Build a Deck or Veranda

Expanding your home's usable area becomes easier when you build a deck or veranda. These outdoor spaces can act as dining areas, hosting zones, or relaxing spots - and, they can make your yard look amazing! If you need some extra inspiration or set of hands to maximize your outdoor space’s potential, then using professionals like Eden’s Garden Design can make all the difference! You want your space to look its best, and an outside perspective could be just what your outdoor area needs to shine and make your home even better.

Just make sure to follow a few key tips, including:

• Choose the best location that gets a balance of sun and shade. 

• Use weather-resistant materials for durability. 

• Add built-in seating and storage. 

• Incorporate features like a pergola for partial shade or railings for safety. 

Create Multi-Functional Rooms

Another way to maximize your indoor living space is to transform rooms to be multifunctional.  For instance, a home office can double as a guest bedroom with a Murphy bed. In your living room, you can choose a sofa bed, making it easy to accommodate guests without needing a separate room. You can also use foldable or extendable furniture to retain floor space when it’s not needed. 

Pro tip: For a successful transformation, within each space, be sure to create zones for different activities using rugs or room dividers. 

Optimize Closet Space

Even if you onòly have space for a small closet or wardrobe, there are several ways to keep the space optimized - starting with adding adjustable shelving to adapt to changing needs. 

Also, use hanging racks for shoes, hats, and accessories, and install double rods to hang more clothes vertically. 

For items that you don’t use so often, opt for clear storage bins to keep them visible and accessible. Lastly, by arranging items by size and frequency of use, you ensure everything has its place and is easy to find. 

Use Smart Storage Solutions in Your Garage

Your garage, often an overlooked space, can become a storage powerhouse with smart solutions. First, utilize pegboards for hanging tools, making them accessible and eliminating clutter. Additionally, be sure to install overhead storage racks for seasonal items or gear that you only occasionally use. Lastly, wall-mounted shelves free up floor space, providing room for larger items, such as bikes and scooters. 

To keep dust and pests off your belongings, consider using stackable bins with clear labels,  magnetic strips, and clear labels. 

These strategies not only declutter your garage but also make it functional, adding to your home’s overall efficiency.

Are These Clothing Essentials In Your Wardrobe?

 A fashionable wardrobe is one thing. A functional wardrobe, on the other hand, is something not a lot of people have! Without functional essentials, your outfits may always look good, but they’ll be frustratingly impractical and uncomfortable as well. 

That’s why you should check out the list below. If you don’t have these essentials in your wardrobe, stock up on them ASAP! 

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A Light Jacket

If you’ve got a light jacket in the wardrobe, whether it’s made of denim, polyester, or leather, you’ll always have something casual to throw over the top of your looks and complete them. Jackets are much more versatile than coats, help you to feel comfortable no matter the weather outside, and can be matched with the majority of any styles you have in your wardrobe. 

Really, a good light jacket goes a long way! You’ll always have an outer layer to brace against the weather outside, even when it’s a bit sunny and warm, and you won’t have to lug around a big coat that’s heavy on the arm. 

Thermal Gloves

A good pair of thermal gloves for women will get you through any and all cold days. You can slip them on whenever the air turns a bit chilly, and thanks to the wonders of modern technology, you should still be able to use your phone when wearing them too. 

Thermal gloves are interesting in the way they trap heat in and keep the cold out, which makes them better than any other material on the market for preventing blue fingertips! Get some thermal gloves and have a better winter in 2024!

Straight Leg Work Trousers

If you’ve got a pair of professional trousers in the wardrobe at all times, you’re always going to have something to put on when you’re not sure about the dress code. These trousers go with pretty much anything, so you won’t be too far stretched to find shoes and a top that matches with them either. 

New job? Wear the straight leg pair. Going out with an old friend? Pop the straight legs on. Feeling like working remotely from a cafe this afternoon? These trousers will keep you in the working mood. 

Workout Leggings

If you don’t own any workout leggings, this is your sign to get a couple on hangers straight away! They’re just an incredible piece of clothing to have on hand, as Workout leggings allow for a full range of movement no matter how tight the band feels around the waist. This provides a very flattering look from the naval down, and helps you to feel supported when you’re out and about, whatever the activity at hand is. 

If you don’t have any of the clothing essentials above in your wardrobe right now, think about hitting the shops ASAP! This is your excuse to go on a huge clothing haul and get some comfortable and functional pieces, which can be mixed up in any way you like and worn with anything. 

The Road To Bigger Muscles In Six Weeks

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Building muscle is critical for proper health and aging. Everyone needs getting it right can slow down the biological clock and make you healthier.

But how can you get rippling abs and bulging biceps in just six weeks? Well, it’s not going to be easy, but it can be done, according to https://www.cnet.com/how-long-does-it-really-take-to-build-muscle/. It’s just a question of getting the strategy right. So what do you need to do? Let’s take a look.

Use Compound Lifts

The first place to start is with compound lifts. You want to perform exercises that target multiple muscle groups, not just one or two.

The best exercises are squats, deadlifts and rows. You can then add things like pull-ups and bench press to your routine as you become more advanced.

It’s okay to start with some muscle groups before you move onto others. Just ensure you focus on the foundations first before trying to flesh out some of the showier muscles.

Eat A Calorie Surplus

Eating sufficient protein matters, but getting a calorie surplus is arguably more important for building muscle. If your body is going to build new tissues, it needs additional energy. Otherwise, an intense exercise routine might cause muscle wasting.

Consuming more calories of healthy food than you’re taking in is probably more challenging than you imagine. Sometimes, you’ll deliberately need to force yourself to do it, especially if you’re eating a lot of vegetables and whole foods.

If you’re struggling to meet your calorie targets, get more energy from nut butters and dried fruits. These options are tasty and encourage you to eat more.

You want to provide your body with around 500 kcal more than your baseline+exercise requirements daily to see significant muscle gain in six weeks. Less than that, and you might not notice the results.

Use Supplements Wisely



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You’ll also want to use supplements wisely. These can help you pack on more muscle in a shorter space of time, as explained by https://science.bio/sarms/. Supplements are excellent for people who struggle to put on muscle naturally and need additional assistance.

Hire A Personal Trainer

If you’re struggling, you might also consider hiring a personal trainer. Having an expert there to guide you through the movements and check on your form can be extremely helpful for a lot of individuals.

Hiring a personal trainer is expensive, but you can purchase hour-long sessions in blocks to bring down the price. You can also meet up with them once a month instead of every day to check on your progress and form.

Get More Sleep

Most muscle building occurs when you get more sleep. Therefore, focus on securing your eight hours per night. During the day, you might only generate 20% of your added muscle over a six-week period. But rest at night could be responsible for 80% of those gains.

Set a consistent bedtime of say, 10 pm every night and wake up at 6 am. Sticking to this routine will prepare your body for sleep and help you rest more when you hit the sack.

Easy Ways to Make Your Yard Look Amazing

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If your yard is not exactly an inspiring place to spend time, then you need not worry because it is actually really simple to change that, yes, even if you are not particularly green-thumbed. Here’s how:

1. Plant a Wildflower Wonderland

If you want your garden to look amazing, but you aren’t exactly a pro when it comes to growing, then wildflowers are your new best friend. These aren’t your high-maintenance roses or diva-like orchids. Wildflowers are like the free spirits of the plant world – colorful, resilient, and pleasantly low-maintenance. Sow some wildflower seeds in a corner of your yard and watch it transform into a vibrant, butterfly-friendly paradise that you barely need to maintain, in no time at all.

2. Create a Cozy Fire Pit Corner

Imagine a cozy corner with a fire pit where you can roast marshmallows, share stories, or just stare into the flames pondering life’s mysteries. You don’t need an extravagant setup – a simple fire bowl and a few comfy chairs will do the trick. It’s like having a camping experience without the hassle of, well, actual camping. You can do this yourself, or you can entrust a company that offers landscape design services if you want to know that it’s going to be done right. They can help you with this and so much more when it comes to creating a cozy space.

3. DIY Birdhouses: For the Tweeters

Invite some feathery friends over by setting up birdhouses. You can DIY these with some basic supplies and a bit of elbow grease. It’s like opening a boutique hotel for birds – just be prepared for the chirpy wake-up calls.

4. Lawn Care Services: The Grass Gurus

If you want to keep it looking lush without turning into a full-time grass whisperer, consider hiring a residential lawn care service to take care of your grassy areas. They’re kinda like personal trainers for your lawn, keeping it in tip-top shape while you sit back and enjoy the greenery with your feet up.

5. A Garden Path: Lead the Way

Add a winding path through your yard using stepping stones, gravel, or wood chips. It’s not only practical but also adds a touch of whimsy and mystery. Where does it lead? To a hidden garden? A secret reading nook? Let the path tell a story.

6. Water Features: Bring in the Babble

Nothing says zen like the sound of trickling water. Add a small fountain or a birdbath to bring a calming vibe to your yard. It’s like having a mini-retreat for when life gets too loud.

7. Upcycle with Unique Planters

Get creative with planters. Old boots, wheelbarrows, or even an unused bathtub can be quirky homes for your plants. It’s like a fashion show for your flowers, and the more eccentric, the better.

8. Outdoor Lighting: Set the Mood

Strategically placed outdoor lighting can transform your yard into a magical evening escape. String lights, solar path lights, or even DIY lanterns can create a warm and inviting ambiance. It’s like giving your yard a little twinkle.

9. Herb Garden: Spice It Up

Why not grow something you can actually use? Plant a small herb garden. It’s practical, smells fantastic, and you can brag about your ‘homegrown’ seasoning skills. Plus, you’ll feel like a wizard in the kitchen.

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10. Recycled Art: Junkyard Chic

Add some personality with recycled art. Turn old items into garden sculptures or decorative pieces. That rusty bicycle or broken typewriter can have a second life as a quirky garden feature. It’s eco-friendly and a great conversation starter.

11. A Hammock: Swing into Relaxation

Nothing screams relaxation like a hammock. Find two sturdy trees, or invest in a hammock stand, and voila – you have the perfect spot for naps, reading, or cloud-watching.

12. Vibrant Vegetable Patch

Veggie patches are actually much simpler than they look to plant and maintain and they add some much-needed color to the yard, while also feeding your family, so what’s not to love?

13. Rock Garden: Low Effort, High Impact

If you’re looking for something truly low maintenance, a rock garden is the way to go. It’s like the rugged, minimalist cousin of the traditional flower bed – less watering, less weeding, more zen.

14. Themed Garden Spaces

Create themed spaces in your garden – a Zen corner with a Buddha statue and bamboo, a tropical spot with exotic plants, or even a fairy garden for the kids (or the young at heart), and it will easily add more interest and turn your yard from drab to fab. If you need some extra inspiration or set of hands to maximize your outdoor space’s potential, then using professionals like Eden’s Garden Design can make all the difference! You want your space to look its best, and an outside perspective could be just what your outdoor area needs to shine and make your home even better.

15. The Personal Touch: Garden Decorations

Garden gnomes, wind chimes, or a quirky welcome sign can give your yard personality and make it feel more like you in an instant.

16. Vertical Gardening: Up, Up and Away!

Short on space? Think vertical. Use your walls and fences as gardens. Install shelves or hanging planters and fill them with a cascade of greenery and flowers. It’s like creating a living piece of art – plus, it’s a great way to hide that fence that's seen better days.

17. The Secret Nook: A Hideaway Haven

Every yard needs a secret nook. It could be a small bench hidden behind some tall plants, a hammock tucked away in a quiet corner, or a tiny table and chair nestled under a tree. It’s your personal hideaway for those moments when you need to escape – without actually escaping.

18. Repurposed Pallets: Rustic Charm Galore

Wooden pallets can be repurposed into just about anything: garden furniture, plant stands, or even a mini deck. It adds a touch of rustic charm and screams ‘I’m eco-friendly and crafty’ without actually screaming – because that would be weird.

19. The Nighttime Glow: Solar Light Magic

Solar lights are a must for that twilight magic in the yard once the sun sets. Line them along pathways, around your garden beds, or hang them from trees. They charge during the day and light up your garden at night, creating an enchanting nighttime oasis. It’s like having your own little galaxy of stars at ground level.

With these simple ideas, your yard can be so much more than just a patch of grass. So, go on, give these a try, and watch your garden transform into a spectacular outdoor sanctuary. Happy gardening!

The Keys to Rewarding Our Children

Sometimes we need to implement reward systems to help our children achieve a specific goal or behavior. We need to increase their motivation, and this means developing a reward system that aligns with their needs. While there are many benefits to a reward system, not just getting them to do the things you want them to do, but also increasing their self-esteem, encouraging responsibility, and developing new skills, it's important to understand how to implement an effective reward system. Let's show you some methods.

Involve the Child

Involving the child in choosing the reward is critical because if they have a very specific love or passion, you can use this to your advantage. For example, if they love to watch anime movies online, it helps you set an appropriate goal. However, it's important to be age-appropriate too.

Be Realistic

Realistic expectations are just as important because we may find out soon that we're asking too much of them. Goals always need to be achievable, and while something like tidying their room may seem like a monumental task, we know our children well enough to give them the right types of support to help them do this. For example, when tidying their room, they may not do it to a high standard, but the fact that they have done it is worth rewarding. We should always strive for consistency at the outset, and then we can raise the bar later.

Offer Specific Praise

We should always praise our children for the efforts they've made because this is something that is incredibly hard for them. Going back to the analogy of them tidying their room, if they've done it, we need to praise them for doing this and encourage them to keep doing it often. So, then we continue to offer specific praise on a regular basis that improves their self-esteem.

Be Patient

As children learn new skills, it can be tempting to rush them along, especially if there's a time-specific goal, for example, one week of tidying their room every night. However, if the skills involve learning something new, it can take some time to get used to it, and they may challenge this by saying they're not able to do it or not have the confidence. When we choose a skill for them to do, it always has to be within their abilities, but even if they are learning something new, we should give it time. We have to remember that learning a new habit can take anywhere between 18 and 254 days!

Be Clear in Your Direction and Guidance

The child needs to know exactly what has to be done, whether we are homeschooling our children and are in the process of learning something new, or we just need to get them to tidy their room. We should always provide clarity because mixed messages could result in them getting frustrated, as well as us. Ultimately, to implement a good reward system is about following through on what you promise. If they want something because they did five days of tidying their room, they have achieved this, so, therefore, we have to deliver what we promise.