Life Tips

 

Did you know that 70 percent of people in the United States of America own a grill? With grill ownership comes great responsibility, and it is important that you know your options when it comes to grill accessories and grill brushes. It is hard to grill meat perfectly if your grill grates are dirty and greasy.

Learning how to clean a grill becomes much easier when you have a grill cleaning kit that provides you with all of the tools you need. You’ll grill each time with clean grill grates and produce the perfect burgers and ribs each time.

The good news is that you’re in the perfect place to learn all about the best grill cleaning tools on the market in 2022. Keep reading this article to learn about the best grill brushes available on the market today!

GrillArt Grill Brush and Scraper

If you’re looking for a sturdy and durable grill brush for your grilling needs then you’ll definitely want to check out the GrillArt grill brush and scraper. It has a thick handle that is easy to control and makes it comfortable to use. It also comes with thick and sturdy wire bristles for keeping your grill’s grates spotless after you’re done grilling.

It brings an overlapping design to the table which means that you’ll have easy access to all parts of the grill’s grate. Cleaning your grill has never been easier than when you use this grill brush and scraper.

The biggest pros of this grill brush are the fact that it is easy to grip and use with one hand and it is sturdy. You’ll get many years of great use out of this grill brush. You can learn more about how to clean a grill from Own The Grill.

Outset Plastic Grill Brush With Scraper

If you’re someone that likes simplistic designs and minimalist functions then you’ll love the Outset Plastic Grill Brush With Scraper. You’ll have no problems relying on this great grill brush when it comes to your grill accessories.

It is the perfect fit for someone that loves bringing the grill to picnics and tailgating occasions because it is small and easy to store. It features a lightweight design using plastic as well as a bit of metal for the scraper. It also has some heavy-duty bristles that will help you clean grill grates with ease.

The biggest benefit of this grill brush is its compact size. It is lightweight and easy to use with one hand, and the fact that it includes a scraper is a nice bonus.

Weber Bamboo Grill Brush

You’ll get more of the traditional grill brush look when you get the Weber bamboo grill brush for your grilling setup. This brush also features a scraper for getting any grease or extra meat off of your grill’s grates. You’ll also have options when it comes to the length of this brush.

There is a 12-inch brush option and an 18-inch brush option depending on your preferences and the size of your grill. Both options are large enough to allow you to use both hands and really apply some elbow grease to your grill’s grates for a perfect clean. The handle is also quite comfortable to use, making this a great addition to any grill cleaning kit.

The biggest pros of these grill brushes are that there are two different lengths to choose from and it has a replaceable brush head. You’ll get many years of great use from this grill cleaning tool and its sturdy design.

The only real drawback to the Weber bamboo grill brush is that it features nylon bristles. This isn’t a problem when you’re brushing a cool grill but it will damage the brush if you try to clean a hot grill that you’ve used recently.

Kona Safe Grill Brush

Some people don’t like using grill brushes that feature bristles, and that is understandable. If you fall into this category then you need to take a look at the Safe Grill Brush from Kona. This grill brush has three different rows of steel which act as a giant and safe brush for cleaning your grill grates.

It comes with a thick handle that is made of plastic which allows for a strong and comfortable grip. You’ll also find that it stays quite cool when you’re using it on a warm grill.

The biggest benefits of the Kona Safe Grill Brush are that it is durable and easy to use and that it comes with a comfortable handle. One thing to keep in mind is that it’s not the most effective at getting residue off of the grill’s grates.

Weber 3-Sided Grill Brush

Another great option that you should consider when it comes to grill brushes is the Weber 3-Sided Grill Brush. This brush features a short handle that allows the user to get a good and strong grip when they’re learning how to clean a grill. The brush’s design is also great for maneuvering around the grate and cleaning all areas of it.

You’ll also love the large area that you can clean and cover with this brush thanks to the size of the brush head. Cleanup after grilling is quick and easy when you use this effective grill accessory.

One of the immediate pros that you’ll discover when using this grill brush is how easy it is to control and use thanks to the stability that the design offers. It also allows you to clean multiple grates at once thanks to its large brush head.

The only real drawback is the short handle, which makes it tricky to clean a hot grill.

Consider These Great Grill Brushes for Your Grill Cleaning Kit

An important part of learning how to grill and how to clean a grill is getting the right grill brushes for your cleaning kit. There are many great grill brushes out there that offer different strengths and weaknesses. Some are better for use on smaller or cooler brills while others are a better fit for cleaning a hot grill.

For more helpful articles like this one, check out our blog.

Going through life, it’s not always easy to know what you should and should not be doing to properly nurture your body. It’s important to start making moves towards your physical health sooner in life rather than later.

If you’re looking for ways to make smarter moves for your physical well being, a little light research will begin to light the way. Take a moment now to read through a few healthy life tips for people of all ages.

Choose healthy drinks

The drink you consume throughout the day matters more than you may think. Drinking sodas all day won’t keep your body in good shape for long. Instead, focus on drinking plenty of water.

You could also consider some infused teas for various purposes throughout your journey. Pay attention to the contents of what you’re drinking throughout the day, and always make water a part of your plans.

Keep your body moving

It’s important at any age to keep your body moving. A sedentary lifestyle will almost always lead to serious health issues down the road. Find something you like to do that gets your body moving… something that gets your heart beating faster.

You don’t have to get a gym membership to keep your body healthy. You could go for an evening walk every day, play basketball with friends, or even take a few laps in the pool. Whatever you do, keep it moving.

Everything in moderation

You don’t have to be super strict about your health at all times. Enjoying a soft cookie from time to time is totally acceptable. The main goal should be moderation in all things.

You can have too much of a good thing. Eat at home more often than not. Drink water more often than sugary drinks, and get up off the couch more than you sit.

Get plenty of good rest

Sleep is a vital part of keeping your body healthy throughout life. Your body needs time to regenerate every night, and bedtime is just the right time for your body and mind to prepare itself for the next day. When you don’t get enough sleep or quality sleep, your body suffers.

When you don’t get enough sleep, your mind doesn’t function at its peak capacity. Sleep deprivation will also affect your muscles and agility in a negative manner. It’s vital to make it a point to protect your sleep time throughout life.

Nurture your mental health

Finally, don’t neglect your mental health. Mental and physical health are directly connected. If you are tired and malnourished, you will most likely find depression along the way as well. Take good care of your temple, and your mind should follow suit.

So you’ve chosen to garden as your next hobby. Since different people have unique experiences, no one can tell whether or not it’s right for you.

Before you start, you want to consider some things, such as what types of plants are compatible with the weather in your area and what types are easy to maintain. Of course, you want to also think about if you have the time and willingness to put up a garden. A way to start this is to set up your budget and time.

Shopping for your plants

Like any other aspect of life, creating a garden also needs planning. Decide on which kinds of plants you want in your garden before hitting different plant stores or garden centers. Do your research before anything and learn everything you can. You should also know what types of plants are suited in your area and best for your lifestyle.

However, don’t be afraid to make mistakes since you can learn from them. Every gardener’s experiences are unique. Even if you’ve created some errors, there’s always a way to turn it around.

Shopping for plants on a budget

If you’re on a tight budget, be sure to stick to what you know and leave some extra in case you need to fix or replace something. Visit retailers to check out their offers to avoid spending too much. Prices and quality of plants and gardening tools vary in different stores and nurseries. Online garden centers are also where you can check out good deals.

Watch out and be careful not to shop impulsively. It makes you lose focus on your budget and neglect the plants you want. Remember, if you’re not sure about something, stay away from it.

Another thing you can do if you’re on a budget is to buy in bulk since it’s less costly. You can share the costs with others to also get the same benefits. You can also do this when you want to rent gardening and maintenance tools, such as tillers and lawn aerators.

Prioritizing safety

For the sake of everyone in the household, especially your kids and your pets, it’s best to put up horizontal fencing around your plants. Don’t forget that some plants are hazardous to your pets when consumed. Be sure to store away your fertilizers, compost, and gardening tools right after use. You don’t want any accidents for your pets or kids that run around the outdoors. Plus, you don’t want them to mess up what you’ve worked for.

Starting small and not overcrowding

Start-up gardeners tend to get too excited and end up planting too much. Don’t be one of them and stick to what you planned and what you need. Watch out for overcrowding them so every one of them can get the nutrients they need. If they are too close to one another, some of them can miss out. Once you get used to the basics and master them, you can plant more and extend your garden if you’re comfortable enough.

Planting more than you planned can be overwhelming, and you might get tired of them too easily. If this happens, it wouldn’t be a surprise if you want to give up within a year. Remember that the bigger your garden, the greater the responsibility.

You want to start small and figure out the right size for you. Complete your list of plants, herbs, and/or vegetables you would reach for regularly. Consider container gardening if you want to. Again, don’t buy seeds and plants you’re not sure about. Different plants require different ways of caring and maintaining.

Getting rid of weeds while they’re young

Weeds are invasive plants that take away nutrients from your significant ones. So it’s best to control them while they’re still young before they multiply and spread throughout the rest of your garden. Pull them out and make sure you get their roots as well. You can dig them up so there are fewer chances they can grow again in the same spot. Do this while wet or moist because it’s easier this way.

As someone who is new to gardening, choose plants that aren’t so challenging to plant and maintain. Think about beforehand whether you have time to maintain your garden or your work will go to waste.

Gardening is a hobby many people enjoy doing. Then again, it also takes alot of responsibility to be successful. If you don’t feel happy and satisfied about the outcome, either you’re doing something wrong or gardening might not be for you. You should know yourself well enough to know that.

Remember that you don’t need a full-grown garden to make your outdoor homey and beautiful. If you decide that gardening isn’t for you, there are other purposes your outdoor space holds.

 

Choosing parenthood over singlehood is a tough choice, one that’s bound to change your life forever. And the hardest part about it is that it will never end because you’ll always be someone’s parent. But that can also be a blessing in disguise because raising beautiful kids can be a gratifying job. Here’s how you can better protect your children inside your home.

Discover the Wonders of Childproofing

The moment you have a kid, any part of the home can be deemed dangerous for them. This may not be an urgent matter if you’re dealing with a newborn, but if you have school-aged children on your hands, it would be a different matter altogether. The reason for this is that toddlers tend to run around and grab anything they can get their hands on.

If you leave anything within grabbing distance, you can be sure that they’ll get to it. And because they’re more determined to wreak havoc inside your home, they may get to these things faster. But that’s nothing that childproofing your house can’t fix, which you have to do the moment your kids start learning how to walk. Or maybe even before then.

Childproofing the house includes placing doorknob covers and cabinet locks on all potential areas they could reach. You can also use a stove guard to prevent your children from getting near the gas range, or you can keep the kitchen door closed at all times, especially since there are knives inside it.

And if you have a staircase, don’t forget to install adjustable gates on the top and bottom to prevent accidental falls. Make sure that all your large furniture pieces and wall embellishments are secured to their places because these can be hazardous if you have kids running around the area.

Consider Placing a Steel Door

When someone’s at the door, the normal response would be to open it to see who’s on the other side. However, this can be dangerous because you can’t be sure that the person on the other side of your door won’t harm or kidnap you. And this becomes even worse if one of your kids answers the door in your place.

That’s why you should consider placing steel security doors in your front and back doors. This creates an additional protective barrier between you and the person outside. Doing so can eliminate the possibility of you or anyone from your family being dragged from your home without your permission.

Moreover, you can hit two birds with one stone by installing a steel door because while its main goal is to increase the protection of your home, it can also improve the property’s overall appearance. Because you can have it custom-made or designed according to your taste, you won’t have trouble making it seem just like any part of your home’s exterior design.

Use a Smart Doorbell in Your Porch

Another way to avoid having to come face-to-face with the person ringing your doorbell is to have a peephole in your front door that you could use to see who’s outside. Or you could also peek through the windows if there are any. But the easiest and most modern solution to this problem is to place a smart doorbell on your front door. This makes it easy to see and speak to the person outside.

Plus, because the doorbell uses smart technology, you can either speak to the person outside through the receiver near your door or the mobile app on your phone. This way, you won’t have to keep going downstairs to answer the door, and you can avoid having one of your kids answer it unsupervised.

Install Window Locks and Bars

Children are curious beings. Even though they’re smart and insightful most of the time, there could be instances when their curiosity gets the better of them. For instance, they might wonder how far the fall would be from the second-floor window until the backyard. Or they might want to climb the tree near their window.

Because you won’t always be there to watch your kids 24/7, it could be wise for you to install window locks and bars. Additionally, this can be a practical move that is multi-purpose because while it works to keep your children from climbing out of the windows, it can also prevent burglars from breaking in.

So, if you have inquisitive children, try not to let them out of your sight until you can have your window bars and locks installed. This way, you won’t even have to worry about the possibility of your kids falling out of the window and getting seriously injured because you’ll know that it’s not feasible.

Being a parent is hard work because you’ll constantly be worried about their safety, even if they’re right by your side. However, this could be harder when juggling other responsibilities while taking care of the kids because that means you can’t give them your 100% attention. But if you follow these tips, it might make your job a lot easier.

Raising a dog isn’t easy. You’ll need to be committed to your new four-legged friend, take care of him or her, and make sure that he or she is well taken care of. If you’re raising a puppy, it will also take time for them to grow up and learn how to behave. Fortunately, raising a dog is fun!

People who own dogs will tell you that they are worth the work. Dogs provide companionship, love, and security in a home. They can be great additions to any family and can help reduce stress levels. Sure, you might need to invest in things like a dog trainer, food, toys, and a bed, but your furry friend is sure to be worth all your expenses.

Why Raising a Dog is Worth It

Raising a dog is not easy, and it’s something that you have to do with commitment.It might be hard for those who are new to the process of raising a dog, but with determination and dedication, people can easily learn how to be great dog owners. There are many reasons why raising a dog can be rewarding, and some of those reasons include the following:

• Dogs provide companionship

Dogs offer us love and friendship that is unmatched by any other animal. This is because dogs are naturally affectionate, and they love to be around people. They will stick by our side no matter what happens in life because dogs are the best friends that people could ever get.

When raising a dog, you can expect them to always have your back whenever you need support – even during difficult times when we don’t feel like we have anyone else to rely on. Therefore, owning a dog will help people feel more connected and loved.

• Dogs help us stay active

Another great benefit of raising a dog is that we are forced to get up and move around, even if we don’t feel like it. Dogs need to be exercised regularly, so owners have to take them for walks or runs every day. This is great because it encourages dog owners to stay active, which is always a good thing.

By staying active with your dog, you can also help to build a strong bond between the two of you. Dogs love spending time with their owners, and getting regular exercise is one of the best ways to make sure your dog stays happy and healthy.

• Dogs are great for our mental health

Finally, dogs are known to be great for our mental health. They can help us reduce stress and anxiety, and can provide us with a sense of companionship that is hard to find elsewhere. If you’re looking for a way to improve your mental well-being, then getting a dog may be the perfect solution for you.

Despite these benefits, raising a dog is not without challenges. Below are important things you need to know about what it takes to raise a dog:

• You need to provide food

Owning a dog means you need to provide them with food. Different breeds have different dietary requirements, so it’s crucial to do your research before you bring a dog into your home. You’ll also need to brush up on how much food they should eat per day and what types of foods are best for dogs in general. This way, you can be sure your dog is getting the nutrients they need to stay healthy.

• You need to provide water

Just as you need to provide food for your dog, you also need to make sure they have access to clean water at all times. This means having a designated spot in your yard or home where your dog can always go to drink water if it is thirsty.

• Regular check-ups and vaccinations are necessary

Owning any pet means facing veterinary expenses at some point during their lives. Dogs need to be taken to the vet regularly so that they can be checked for parasites, get their shots updated, and more. This is one of the best ways to keep dogs healthy and happy.

• You need to clean up after them

Owning a dog means making a commitment to clean up after them. You need to be responsible for picking up their poop whether it is in your yard or on a walk. This is essential for keeping your dog healthy and the environment clean at the same time.

Dogs can bring a lot of joy into people’s lives. However, deciding to get one is a big commitment. It is important to consider all the factors that go into raising a dog before getting one. This way, you can be sure that you are ready for raising one.

CBD or cannabidiol is derived from the cannabis plant. Although it has been misunderstood and misrepresented over the years, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the use of a purified strain of CBD oil to treat epilepsy. Since then, cannabis has been made legal in several states.

While the use and legal aspect of natural CBD oil has been a matter of debate for decades, researchers have pointed out various therapeutic uses of CBD oil. While THC and CBD are both compounds derived from marijuana, they are widely different. Multiple benefits of CBD have been recorded and supported by evidence over the years.

CBD vs. THC

Many people believe that CBD and THC are the same. Nothing could be further from the truth. The only similarity between these two compounds is that they are both derived from the same plant. THC is an active compound that is known for its psychoactive and psychological effects. It is a mind-altering compound that provides users with a “high”.

CBT, on the other hand, does not have any psychoactive properties. While it has been shown to produce some changes in a person’s body, it does not create any mind alteration.

How Does CBD Work?

Humans and some animals have similar endocannabinoid systems. This means that our body has cannabinoid receptors that interact with cannabinoid products when introduced to the body. There are two cannabinoid receptors: CB1 and CB2 receptors.

The first one is generally present in various parts of the body but at a higher concentration in the brain. They are associated with pain, movement, emotion, thinking, mood, memories, appetite, and other functions. THC generally attaches to this receptor.

On the other hand, the receptor is primarily associated with the immune system and affects pain and inflammation. CBD stimulates both the receptors to produce their cannabinoids in the body, which is known as endocannabinoids.

Benefits of CBD oil

The use of natural CBD oil produces several benefits in a person’s body. The following are the most significant benefits of CBD oil:

• Alleviates Pain: The production of endocannabinoids reduces chronic pain as they interact with neurotransmitters and help reduce inflammation in the body.
• Treats Symptoms of Cancer: CBD can reduce various symptoms and side effects of cancer and cancer treatment, including pain, nausea, and vomiting. They have been found to work excellently for elevating vomiting caused by chemotherapy which is very popular in Cancer patients.
• Reduction in Anxiety and Depression: While anxiety and depression are generally treated using pharmaceutical drugs, these have various harmful side effects, including insomnia, drowsiness, sexual dysfunction, agitation, and more. Many studies have found promising results for using CBD oil in the treatment of search mental health conditions.
• Neuroprotective Properties: Some researchers have discovered that CBD can stimulate the endocannabinoid system. This can be used to treat neurological disorders like multiple sclerosis and epilepsy.
• Help in Addiction: CBD has been effective in helping people quit smoking by impacting the nicotine craving area of the brain. CBD may also be effective for people with opioid addiction disorder and other substance use disorders as well.

CBD has also been found to assist people in various disorders like type 1 diabetes, anxiety disorders, acne, insomnia, all sinus disease, asthma, migraine, cluster headache, PTSD, joint pain, Parkinson’s disease, lung conditions, shisha disease, and much more.

CBD oil is one of the most heavily studied compounds for its various health benefits. It has been studied for relieving and elevating various symptoms for life-threatening disorders like cancer and some mental health conditions. CBD is now available in multiple forms, such as oil, lotions, and gummies. While the legality of CBD is still being reviewed and processed from time to time, you can’t undermine its benefits.

 

Many people work from home these days since their companies wanted to ensure they remain safe from the virus. As people spend more time at home, they may notice some improvements they need to work on. This resulted in an increase in home improvement projects during the pandemic.

But others notice the presence of pests that can damage the property and affect their health unless they get rid of them. They can hire professionals to control the mosquitos, rats, ants, and other pests in the house. But homeowners should also make sure these pests do not invade their homes again. Here are some ways homeowners can make sure their homes remain pest-free.

Cleanup Regularly

To ensure the home does not attract pests after the professionals get rid of the pests, homeowners should clean the house regularly. The presence of spilled food and clutter can attract these pests into the home. Unclean environments are normally appealing to rodents, ants, and other pests.

Due to this, homeowners should eliminate the clutter, dust, and contaminants. They should also mop the floors with disinfectants, which can also protect them from the virus causing the current pandemic.

Fix the Windows

To prevent mosquitoes, cockroaches, spiders, and houseflies from entering the house, homeowners should make sure to fix any broken windows. This means they should replace any broken glass or window panes to ensure these pests cannot enter the house.

If the house uses window screens, the homeowner should check them for any tears or holes they should fix to keep pests out. Some homes use window screens to enhance ventilation while keeping unwanted insects out.

Remove Damp Areas

Many pests live in damp and dirty areas in the house. These insects, like cockroaches and mosquitoes, take shelter in warm and humid environments. To prevent these pests from staying in and around the house, homeowners should regularly check the home and make sure all the areas are dry. This is particularly true in the bathroom, kitchen, and garage. They should keep these areas well ventilated so it will stop any damp sport from forming.

Declutter the House

Another effective way of controlling pests in the house is to declutter the house. Homeowners should dispose of empty boxes and toys that their children have outgrown. Aside from gathering dust in the attic or storeroom, these items become hiding places for different types of pests.

Homeowners should also sell or dispose of other items that have remained unused for years. These items include shoes, worn-out luggage, plastic bags, old newspapers, and empty bottles.

Keep the Yard Clean

Homeowners already know the importance of keeping the interior of the house free of garbage, especially the kitchen. But they should also be aware of keeping the yard clean and free of garbage. The trash cans in the yard can attract pests looking for food or a place to put their nest.

In this situation, the homeowner should ensure that the trash cans in the yard have air-tight lids. They should also empty the trash cans as well as clean them regularly.

Additionally, homeowners should check the yard, patio, and decks to ensure they are free of plant clippings and fallen leaves. They should also check the garage and clean them regularly. When these places are dirty, they will end up attracting pests and other critters.

Seal Gaps and Cracks

Aside from the windows and doors, insects and pests can also enter the home through cracks, crevices, and gaps in the house. With this, the homeowner should go around the house and look for these holes in the wall to prevent pests from entering the home.

Homeowners should also check cracks in the foundation, loose sidings, and missing shingles on the roof. They can also check the gaps on the utility lines of the home, including water pipes, electric cables, and cable wiring. Once they find these holes, they should seal them using copper mesh, sheet metal, or mortar. If they use expanding caulk, many insects and pests can chew on them until they make a big enough hole for them to enter the house.

Store Food Properly

Since pests have a heightened sense of smell, homeowners should make sure to store food inside sealed containers. They can keep crackers or cereals inside resealable bags. They should also clean the pantry immediately when food spills. Removing spoiled food also reduces the sources of attraction for any unwanted pests.

Ensuring that the home is pest-free is easy as long as homeowners know what to do. They should also take the necessary steps to keep pests away.

 

Studies show that growing plants at home and having exposure to gardening improves one’s quality of life and enhances mental and physical well-being. Whether you’re a starting green thumb or have already grown a garden sprawling with gorgeous greens and beautiful flowers, here are some easy-to-grow plants that you can add to your home:

Crocus

This flowering plant is loved by many as it signifies that spring is indeed coming – with its buds peeking through the snow after a seemingly long winter.

This early bloomer is a low-lying perennial plant that can be grown practically anywhere, from the woodlands, coastal areas, and to your garden. Many known varieties of the crocus plant are usually described as blooms that range from white, yellow, lilac-blue, and violet.

Its flowers, aside from being perfect to gather in bouquets for its aesthetic blooms, one variety is known as the source of saffron, which is used primarily for seasoning but can also be used for dyes and medicine.

Plant care: Crocuses are advised to be planted in early fall and stay dormant in the soil until the last days of winter and finally sprout in the early days of spring. They also love soaking in full sunlight and thrive best in well-draining soil. For watering, they are generally low-maintenance. To know more about taking care of your crocus, find instructions here.

Hosta

Unlike your typical flowering plants, the hosta attracts green thumbs and plant collectors alike as it is known for its striking green foliage with distinct leaf shapes and patterns. It is also referred to as “plantain lily,” with its fleshy roots and short rhizomes.

A favorite among perennials, hostas often sport luscious leaves in bright green, gold, or even blue colors. Some kinds of bloom flowers of their own and blooms may serve as part of a beautiful ornamental display. Some flowers have been known to be fragrant and attract bees, thus making them easier to pollinate.

Plant care: Hostas can thrive even under partially shaded areas but would love to benefit from being exposed to direct sun 2-3 hours a day. They can also survive in different and wide ranges of soil, but it is best to plant them in highly organic and well-drained soil.

Geranium

A name that might be familiar even to plant newbies, geranium is a sun-loving plant that would bring a splash of color to your flower beds from the late stages of spring up to early fall. Geranium still makes it to the list of most popular plants up to this date, thanks to its classical roots being chosen for decades to adorn planter boxes and indoor pots of homes.

Its flowers vary from purple, pink, red, white, mauve, orange, and in rare times – orange-black. Geraniums are also known to be trailers, meaning if left to their device and allowed to grow anywhere it wants; it can just take over a whole wall or any other surface.

Plant care: Geraniums may be grown as indoor houseplants or planted outside on a flower bed. They may also be planted in pots with a drainage hole and contain well-drained soil. To get its bloom to its maximum potential, it would be best to expose them to an area wherein it can soak up to 4-6 hours of sunlight.

Sweet pea

Known for its stunningly colorful blooms and luscious sweet scent, the sweet pea is an addition that you can’t miss in your home plant collection. With flowers ranging from maroon, violet, indigo blue, white, pink, and red, it is an excellent choice to adorn your patio or even indoor pots as they grow typically as a bush or climbing types.

Plant Care: Sweet peas thrive well in warm, sunny, and slightly-shaded areas, making it a great indoor plant, as long as it is kept somewhere with a window or on the balcony or patio area. They grow well in well-drained organic soil and would need regular watering, especially during the dry season. Fertilizer and compost also can significantly help in its growth.

Mint

Although it might seem a little bit out-of-place in this list, mint is highly recommended for aspiring or already practicing green thumbs as it is reasonably easy to grow and serves many uses and benefits.

Mint plants are usually grown for their leaves, with known varieties such as spearmint and peppermint. Being a perennial plant, its leaves are very fragrant and can even bloom tiny flowers with colors white, purple or pink. Aside from its functionality of being useful in cooking, mint plants can also add accent to your garden, among other many purposes.

Plant care: Mint is relatively easy to grow as it can survive with just the right amount of moisture and the right kind of soil. Maintenance for a mint plant would only require an adequate amount of light, either under full sun or shade. Watch out for overgrowth, however, as it can quickly spread over your garden.

Takeaway

With just the right amount of tender, loving care, you can quickly grow these plants that are easy to take care of while also adding more beauty and life to your home garden. Alternatively, if you’re only after the visual appeal, opt for quality artificial plants in various shapes and green tones to add to your home.

Contrary to popular belief, the investment options for those who reside in their home country of the United Kingdom differ from expatriates living abroad. One good example is the ISA or the Individual Savings Account. While it may be commonplace for many UK residents, it is an option that generally isn’t available for emigrants. Due to its convenience, tax-efficiency, and safety, many ex-pats miss out on the advantages that ISA yields. However, that doesn’t necessarily mean that they don’t have any worthwhile investments that they can pursue. And in this piece, we’ll discuss some of the opportunities available for expatriates.

1. Offshore investments

One of the most common investment options for expatriates comes in the form of offshore investment bonds, and it isn’t hard to see why. After all, it isn’t subject to capital gains and income tax. What this essentially means is that the investment will grow free of tax, which in turn, could potentially lead to more substantial returns on your investment in a shorter time frame compared to bonds that are onshore. To invest, a single payment is a lump sum. However, the amount that you’ll need to pay will be determined by the chosen provider.

It is well worth noting that once the money from the selected offshore bond is brought into the United Kingdom, it will be subject to tax. As such, it is imperative to ensure that you’ll be abroad for a long period. To ensure that the encashment goes smoothly and that your profit is maximized, it makes sense to hire the services of a professional financial advisor.

2. Overseas pensions

An overseas pension, in many ways, is an investment and source of stable income for expatriates to retire. It is growing to become a preferred scheme for many because it presents people with the opportunity to either withdraw or hold on to one’s pension in the selected currency. Why does this matter? The answer is simple: it protects people from any exchange rates that could be potentially volatile. Additionally, pensions in the United Kingdom will only transfer funds to their partner when they pass away. However, with an overseas pension, you have a lot more flexibility when it comes to choosing who inherits the funds.

3. Property acquisition

Another effective way to diversify your portfolio for your investments is through property acquisition. The process starts with purchasing a piece of property in the country that you are currently based in. Once its value has risen, you can benefit from passive income through renting. Keep in mind that the task is much more challenging for expatriates than locals, especially if you normally move from country to country. Because of this, you may need to hire an agency that can manage your property and make collections when needed.

As an expatriate, understanding all of your options when it comes to prospective investment opportunities can improve your portfolio. Whether you choose to opt for offshore investments, an overseas pension, property acquisition, or all three, you’ll surely maximize your returns.

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Having a bar in your garden is a brilliant opportunity to enjoy spending time at home. Bring the beer gardens to you, and lap up the sun during summer heatwaves. When it comes to creating a bar in your garden, where do you start? Here are our top DIY garden bar ideas to help you with your own project. Cheers to that!

Put Artificial Grass Around the Bar

If you’re looking for the perfect material for in and around your garden bar, cheap artificial grass is the way to go. You can lay it down in an interior or exterior space, as it’s suitable anywhere.

Artificial grass can easily be washed down, so any drink spillages can be sprayed away with no issues. High heels, slipper socks and bare feet are all suitable for walking over artificial grass too, as its synthetic surface is cushioned for comfort. This is ideal for having bar stools or other furniture stacked on top of it, as it will take the weight with confidence.

Another reason why you should install artificial grass in your garden bar is that it can’t become uneven or patchy. It takes care of itself, and won’t fade during your summer garden parties or winter chills.

Fire up a Pizza Oven

Get the fire burning and dough rolling, adding a pizza oven to your bar will be the life and soul of the party. Everyone loves a bite to eat with a drink and a pizza oven would be an incredibly fun way to bring people together.

You don’t have to spend a huge amount of money on building a pizza oven. Get your gloves on and use cement to pile house bricks, breeze blocks or concrete together. This will give you a sturdy foundation for cooking some tasty Italian style pizzas.

Go to Another Destination

Nothing says DIY quite like decorating a room to look like an exotic location. Your garden bar can be transformed into whatever theme you want. From a tropical Hawaiian beach, to a bustling German brewery, make your bar match your drinks!

To transform your area into a specific theme, start with the bar itself. Add photographs or ornaments that would be found in your dream location, such as postcards and beer mats. When doing this, consider your overall colour scheme and what works well together. If you want beach vibes, choose sandy colours and light blues. If you want a fireplace and mulled wine, go for a chic, winter look.

Theming your garden bar is a great DIY project, as you can really have some fun with it. Root around in holiday brochures or raid magazines for inspiration.

Hang up a Dart Board

Is a garden bar even complete without a dartboard? An iconic and unforgettable part of any British pub, having a dartboard is a competitive way to pass time and make memories with your family or friends. You can even play alone and get aiming for that bullseye.

Even though it’s extremely British, dartboards are known around the world. So, if you have a themed bar, it will still hang proudly next to the beer cooler!

Add a Cooler to a Table

Every bar needs a table of some sort to hold drinks and snacks. Well, why not have a table that keeps your drinks cold too? If you build a table around a cooler, or buy one with a fridge installed inside it, you can chat away and simply reach for a fresh beverage at your greatest convenience. A popular version of a bar table is when you can put ice at the bottom of a table, pop your bottles in and place the table lid on top. This will impress any guest, and make the bar look classy.