Memorial Day BBQ Side Dish Ideas

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You may consider Memorial Day the official marker of summertime. It is a time that we honor and remember those who served our country, and you may have decided to host a barbecue and invite a few veterans over to your home. If you are nervous about finding the perfect side dishes to match your BBQ, fear not because here are seven BBQ side dish ideas that you can use for your Memorial Day party:

Roasted Sweet Potato

Looking for something sweet to complement your protein choice? Roasting sweet potatoes is an extremely easy and tasty idea for homeowners. Plus, it is really simple! Just chop them up and drizzle them with olive oil before placing them in the oven!

CrockPot Mac N’ Cheese

Mac n’ cheese is a classic when it comes to barbecues. The best part is you can easily make it in the crockpot for a portable, fast recipe.

Fresh Fruit Salad

Nothing says fresh on a warm day like fruit salad. Plus, fruit salad is an easy, last minute idea that you can throw together. Try adding in your favorite summer fruits for customization.

Brown Sugar Grilled Pineapple

Looking for a dessert that will not show on the scale the next day? Brown sugar pineapples are easy and delicious options for your Labor Day barbecue. Bonus: there are only three ingredients (pineapples, brown sugar, and canola oil)!

Jalapeño Cornbread

If you love spice, you will love this savory side dish! You can add jalapeños into a box mix of cornbread or make them from scratch. Either way, the plate will be cleared off with this delicious side dish.

Baked Garlic Parmesan Fries

Everyone loves a flavorful french fry and adding a garlic parmesan seasoning turns your fries into the talk of the party. All you need is garlic, parsley, salt, olive oil, parmesan, and fresh potatoes to make this snack come true.

Watermelon, Feta, and Mint Salad

Running short on time? You can quickly throw together this 5-ingredient salad in no time! All you need is fresh, seedless watermelon, mint, olive oil, feta cheese, and salt for a new BBQ favorite.

We hope you enjoy your Memorial Day party and that your side dishes are a hit!

Tips and Tricks for Being the Hostess with the “Mostess”

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Hosting guest is always a fun way to unwind from the busy week. There is something satisfying about giving your friends and family an extra special visit at the place you call home, and as any party planner knows, you need to be prepared to be a successful host. If this is your first-time having guests over, it is important to know your limits. Do not invite more than you or your house can handle at first. Your goal is to make your guest feel at home and never have to ask for anything. With great hosting skills and etiquette, your company will feel welcomed and invited into your atmosphere; however, you still should have plans for entertainment. Here are the top ways to entertain your guests and become the hostess with the “mostess”:

Food and Drink

Everybody loves food; therefore, having a dinner party can be a great idea for first-time hostesses. You have time to socialize before and after eating. You can also prepare drinks to keep the entertainment going throughout the night. Just make sure that all your guests are accounted for and served throughout the evening. You may also want to have different options available. Food allergies and intolerances are becoming more common, so check with your guests beforehand to make sure your food options will suffice.

Movie

Movies are great as well for entertaining guests. They can help keep everyone entertained for a couple of hours. Try to find a genre of movie everyone agrees will work. This comes down to knowing your guest beforehand. You may not want to do a movie if you have a very diverse crowd with different movie preferences. That being said, comedies are always crowd-pleasers. It can be beneficial to watch the movie beforehand to make sure it will be a hit.

Board Games

Board games are very interactive; they allow people to socialize while adding some fun competition. Have several board games available so you can find one that everyone will enjoy. Team board games are great ways to let individuals not feel out of the loop. Try to introduce everyone at the beginning of the night to make sure no one feels excluded or awkward.

Remember not to force anything. If you notice a guest feels hesitant or uncomfortable participating in activities you have planned, you should be adaptable. It is good to have several suggestions and work with the group. You are the host so your suggestions will be very important. You may even want to inform your guest of activities prior to the invite — this way your company knows what to expect.

If your company consists of different age groups, consider tailoring different activities for them. You may want to check-in on all groups throughout the night, and consider making kids games or other areas of entertainment for all ages.

For more entertainment ideas, makes sure to subscribe. Thanks for reading!

How to Design a Coffee Bar in Your Home

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Coffee is our fuel which keeps us going through the day. If you are a coffee lover, you know how important coffee is to your sanity, and since your home is your sanctuary, maybe you should dedicate some space to this necessity in your life. Coffee bars are great to add to your home and do not require a ton of investment to begin creating. You can have your coffee bar in your kitchen, office, or even your bedroom. If you are looking to create your own coffee bar, here is everything you should consider adding to it:

The Essentials

To create your coffee bar, you will need to have a few coffee essentials present. Decide how you plan on brewing your coffee. You can add a Keurig, a coffee maker, an espresso machine, a pour over maker, or a french press. You can even invest in a hot plate and brew your coffee wherever you decide to set up the coffee bar. Just make sure to get some coffee mugs or to-go thermals as well. Add anything to your coffee stand that would typically be added to your coffee. You may want to include creamer, sugar, sugar alternatives, honey, and milk. For items that need chilled, you may need to invest in a mini fridge for the area. Consider having clean-up items readily available under your coffee station like paper towels or rags in case any accidents may occur.

Brewed Your Way

Not an avid coffee drinker? That is okay. A bar is still a great option to add to rooms for aesthetics and entertainment. You may want to create an alcohol bar with some of your favorite drinks readily available. You can have a reach-in fridge with chilled beverages or even install a kegerator for instant brews. You can also create a dessert or and an “hors d’oeuvre” bar. Find the perfect remedy for your home or tailor your bar to your guest or events.

Appearance is Everything

Your coffee station does not need to be solely for functionality. Consider decorating it to make it a fun focal point in a room. You can make a DIY chalkboard, install floating shelves, display your mugs, and even add some plants for added character. You can even create a shabby chic look with a distressed, whitewashed coffee stand or a more modern look with floating shelves and a metal end table. The possibilities are endless.

A coffee bar can be aesthetically pleasing and a great addition to your home. You can put it in your dining or living room or even in some place further away from the kitchen in your home. A coffee bar can make your coffee making experience even more enjoyable. For more tips and tricks, make sure to subscribe.

Must-See Arizona Travel Spots

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Arizona is a beautiful state with so much to offer. Whether you are a snowbird or live here year around, the state has a large number of events, natural wonders, entertainment, amusements parks, and museums. From scenic road trips to epic nightlife venues, Arizona has it all, and we wanted to share our favorite must-see Arizona activities with you. Let’s take a look!

Scenic

Arizona is known for its beautiful landscape.? From its red painted deserts to stunning mountain ranges to the grandest of canyons, Arizona has a broad spectrum of scenic attractions.? Starting up north, the Grand Canyon spreads a majestic 277 miles of pure spectacular sights to see.? Enjoy the canyon by taking tours, white water rafting, or even participating in helicopter rides.? Head to the East to see the Petrified Forest.? This National Park is full of beautiful colors of petrified wood and is home to the Rainbow Forest.? However, if you are looking for a more lively forest, check out Phoenix’s Desert Botanical Garden!? This garden is a treasure of vibrant plant life for the entire family to explore.

Entertainment and Night Life

Enjoy some of the super malls featured in Scottsdale and Phoenix.? You can also check out many of the casino’s the state has to offer in Chandler, Glendale, Phoenix, and Scottsdale.? Arizona has many ways to keep locals and tourists entertained.? Are you looking for a “spooky” evening?? Head over to the Fear Farm Sports & Entertainment in Phoenix for a fright-filled evening. If you are looking for a more social evening, check out some of Arizona’s many entertainment districts like the Glendale Entertainment District for movies, dining, clubs, and more.

Outdoor Adventures

Want to get more hands-on in this desert?? Head over to Sedona for the famous Broken Arrow Pink Jeep Tour.? While in Sedona, check out some ATV rentals.? Nothing feels more invigorating than driving through this mountainous terrain.? Sedona has many gorgeous hiking trails, but do not be disappointed if you cannot make it out there because Arizona is packed with fun hiking trails, waterfalls, and a beautiful night sky.? Just make sure to take plenty of water before venturing out into this enchanted oasis.

Arizona is filled with endless activities and beautiful landscapes.? You will never get bored.?From nightlife to relaxed evenings and even adventurous days, Arizona has it all. For more local tips, make sure to check out more of our content and subscribe!

Using Vinegar as a Natural Bathroom Cleaner

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Homeowners encourage the use of chemical-free products in their homes to protect their loved ones. Vinegar is a safe bathroom cleaner that avoids the use of harsh chemicals. Plus, you can use vinegar in many areas of your home, but we want to teach you how you can use vinegar to clean your entire bathroom.

Shower Walls

Fill a spray bottle with 1/2 cup of white vinegar and 1/2 cup of water. If the stain is more difficult to remove, mix together 1/2 cup of boiling water with 1/2 cup of white vinegar. Place the mixture into a spray bottle and spray the stained area. Let it sit for approximately fifteen minutes then take a damp cloth and rub it off in a circular motion.

Shower Head

Grab a plastic bag and fill it with white vinegar. Tie the bag to your shower head using a rubber band and let it sit overnight. In the morning, run the shower head’s water and scrub any remaining residue.

Clogged Drains

Fill a pot with water and wait for it to boil. Once the water has begun to boil, take the pot and pour the hot water down your drain. Then take 1/2 cup of baking soda and pour it down the drain. Let the boiling water and baking soda sit for a couple of minutes then pour 1 cup of vinegar and 1 cup of boiling water on top of the baking soda you just put down the drain. Plug the drain and let it sit for no longer than ten minutes. (Note: A reaction is taking place underneath the drain plug so use caution). Lastly, pour another pot of boiling water down the drain to flush out any grim and residue left in the drains.

Sticky Residue

Put white vinegar into a spray bottle and spray a couple of times over the sticky residue. Let it sit for five to ten minutes then take a damp paper towel and wipe away the mess.

Smelly Trashcan

Pour vinegar on top of a piece of bread. Place the soaked bread on top of a paper towel then stick it in the bottom of the trash can overnight. In the morning, the bad smell should be gone!

Vinegar is a versatile household item that can clean various areas of your home. The next time you are in a rut, try cleaning your bathroom with vinegar. It is the perfect alternative to chemical-filled products.

Fun in the Sun

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Outdoor entertainment is an important aspect that you can add to your home if you plan on hosting guests. It is also great because entertaining guest outside does not acquire you to clean up the inside of your home frantically. To help you maximize your home’s outdoor potential, here are five great outdoor entertainment ideas to add to your home:

Pools

Pool parties create a fun, refreshing atmosphere that is fun for all ages. You will want to think of water-related games that can draw guests into the pool. Plus, pools are great investments to add to your home and add to your property value. They also make vacationing as easy as walking right into your own backyard.

Bars

Adding an outdoor bar or kitchen to your patio or garage will make your house the hotspot of the summer. Consider adding an outdoor pizza oven or an outdoor kitchen for ultimate entertaining goals. You will find that outdoor bars are great for socializing and make your space an energetic, fun environment your friends will not forget.

Games

Games can be fun for all ages. You can add a basketball hoop to your driveway for hours of fun or even set up a volleyball net. Find games that entertain you and cater to your company you are having. Perhaps, you like bocce ball or cornhole. These are great inexpensive investments that will have you and your guest entertained and coming back for more fun.

Barbecues

If you are looking for a fun activity, have people over for a cookout. Grilling and barbequing are timeless pleasures that everyone enjoys. Just make sure you have seating for your guest. Consider getting some patio furniture or setting up a table before your guests arrive. Also, do not forget to purchase condiments, plates, and beverages prior to hosting.

Hosting outside is a great way to enjoy a beautiful day with friends. Whether you host a pool party or a barbeque, you can enjoy the warm weather with people you love.

How to Properly Clean Your Walls

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Most homeowners know the essential cleaning areas. They clean their floors, counters, and windows, but did you know that you should wash your walls? Walls can easily attract unwanted dirt, debris, and fingerprints. Your furniture can even leave unattractive scuffs and marks on your walls, but there is no need to fret because we have the ultimate cleaning solution for you. Let’s take a look!

Supplies:

  • Canvas Drop Cloths/Old Sheets
  • Old Sponges
  • Lamb’s Wool Duster
  • White Rags
  • Dye-Free Sponge
  • Two buckets

Preparation:

Move the room’s furniture into the center of the room. Place canvas drop cloths or any old bedding sheets on the floor. Before we begin, place an old sponge over any nails in the room. The sponge will remind you where your nails are and help ensure safety while cleaning the wall. Put on your rubber gloves and fill your two buckets. Fill one with cleaning solution and the other with hot water.

DIY Cleaning Solution Mixture:

Depending on your stain, the cleaning solution can vary. For mild to regular wall stains, mix together one gallon of warm water with two tablespoons of natural dish detergent. For heavy wall stains, mix together one gallon of water, one cup of non-sudsy ammonia, one cup of white vinegar, and one cup of borax.

Step One:

Remove all dust from the walls with a lamb’s wool duster. Clean off your duster outside to assure all dust leaves the room.

Step Two:

Begin washing the walls by dipping your sponge into your cleaning solution. To avoid dripping, work from the bottom of the wall to the top of the wall. Gently clean small sections of the walls with the sponge. After each section, rinse the wall with the hot water from your other bucket.

Step Three:

Take your white rags and tap them against the wall to remove any remaining moisture.

Note: Do not take breaks while working on one wall, because it may cause wash marks. Only take breaks in between working on walls.

These tips apply to standard painted walls and help homeowners clean without using harsh chemicals. Test one area of your wall before beginning treatment.

Guide for Planning The Ultimate Graduation Bash

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Congratulations! You or someone you love is graduating. This is a monumental step in your life. To help make sure you have the celebration of the century, we have created a quick and easy guide for planning the ultimate graduation bash. Let’s take a look!

Location, Location, Location

Typically, graduation festivities are held at the graduate’s household, but if you are deciding to do something a little different, be sure to book in advance. Places like restaurants, party venues, and parks can serve as an excellent graduation party location, but they tend to fill up quickly. You will want to begin looking at places as soon as possible.

Let Them Eat Cake

While you are entertaining your guests, be sure to have some type of food for them to enjoy. From catering to a home-cooked meal, you will want to serve a crowd-pleasing meal for all to enjoy. You may even want to add some sort of bar area for the adults. The bar and food will help to encourage people to stay longer at the event which in essence, is more fun for all!

Memories to Last a Lifetime

Since you will most likely want to remember your graduate’s party, you should be sure to take video footage and photos of the event. This is a time of celebration, and you will not want to forget everyone’s smiling faces and laughter.

Easy Entertainment

Besides eating and catching up with the new graduate, your guests will need some activities to keep them entertained and busy. Below, you will find four affordable and fun activities for your guests:

  • Graduate-Themed Games
  • Coloring for Kids
  • Board Games/Indoor Games
  • Outdoor Games (Giant Jenga, Corn Hole, Etc.)

Dec’d

Decor can be an essential part of the overall theme. You can easily decorate the area with pictures of the recent graduate. Everyone would love to see a timeline of their education, and it can be a fun activity while people wait for food.

Get Your Groove On

Lastly, be sure to play music in the background. Music can help fill in for awkward pauses plus it always adds life to a party. Just be sure to select a playlist that is appropriate for all ages.

We hope you enjoyed these tips and tricks! Congratulations again and good luck on your future endeavors.

Tips and Tricks for Entertaining on The Patio

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We love springtime in Arizona because of the long days filled with the warm sun and best of all, cookouts with your family and friends. In fact, springtime is the perfect season for gathering outside and cooking food on the grill since summers can get really, really hot. If you plan on hosting guests at your home, you will want to make sure that your patio is entertainment-ready.

If entertaining in style is important to you, it is essential to take the time to design and accessorize your outdoor space. Here are some of our favorite must-haves for your patio:

#GrillGoals

The most important item you will need for the perfect outdoor space is a grill! Whether you prefer a charcoal or gas grill, here are some things you want to take into consideration before you purchase a grill:

  • The size of the grill should be proportionate to the space that you have.
  • Determine whether you desire a standard or advanced grill with all the bells and whistles.
  • Decide who will be using it most in your family and what their preferences are when it comes to cooking.
  • Make sure you buy a grill that can serve your entire party-size in a good amount of time.

A Place for All

The most significant thing for entertaining outdoors is a comfortable dining set. The perfect dining set will allow your guests to enjoy their meals while taking in the natural beauty that surrounds them. Will you mostly be hosting larger events or intimate gatherings? If so, then you should opt for a dining set that sits four to six people. However, if you will be hosting larger gatherings, you may want to purchase something that can accommodate more people. Perhaps, extra seating outdoors that can be pulled up at a larger table.

Coziness is Key

Go the extra mile to make your guests feel comfortable by adding cushions to the seat. In fact, cushioned seating will encourage your guests to linger around the dining table longer. If you plan on hosting larger guests, you should even consider adding extra seating and tables around the yard to encourage guests to stay longer.

Bugs, Bugs, Go Away

Keep bug repellant nearby or an essential oil burning to help keep the bugs away from your party. It is hard for people to enjoy their meal when bugs are flying all around them.

Light up The Night

Sufficient outdoor lighting is essential, especially since it can get dark outside, fast. You want your guests to be able to see and interact at night. Be sure to test out the lighting scheme prior to the event to ensure everything is working properly. You can even include string lights above your patio for extra style.

What are your personal tips and tricks for entertaining on the patio? We would love to hear your thoughts below in the comment section.

Tips for Cleaning Your Kid’s Toys

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Your kid’s toys and playsets need to be cleaned consistently to avoid potentially spreading germs and other illnesses. A lot of cleaners contain chemicals that can be just as harmful to children’s health as germs. You can avoid using harsh chemicals on your child’s toys by making an all-natural cleaner. Below, we listed ingredients for our favorite all-natural cleaner. Let’s take a look!

All-Natural Cleaner Supply List:

  • Glass Spray Bottle
  • Distilled White Vinegar
  • Water
  • Lemon Essential Oil

How to Make an All-Natural Cleaner:

Combine one cup of white vinegar with one cup of hot water into a glass spray bottle. Add in six refreshing drops of the lemon scented essential oil. This combination is safe and effective in cleaning your children’s toys. Plus, it can also be used on your child’s playground or indoor playset.

How to Clean an Outdoor Playground:

  • Step One. Using a broom, clear off any dirt or debris that is currently on the playground.
  • Step Two. Take your garden hose and spray off any remaining dirt that may be stuck. Note: You may want to use a high-powered spray nozzle for this step.
  • Step Three. Spray your all-natural cleaner on the playground and wipe it off with a soft and fluffy rag.
  • Step Four. Repeat these steps at least once a month.

Dirty and Clean Toy Boxes:

Experts recommend that you have two toys bins, one for clean toys and one for dirty toys. Anytime a toy becomes dirty, and you do not have the time to clean it right away, place it inside of the dirty toy bin. Note: the dirty toy bin should be out of reach from your children. You should try to clean your children’s toys at least once a week.

Green Cleaning:

The United States Environmental Protection Agency encourages the use of green cleaning and disinfectants for your child’s overall health and well-being. Remember always to encourage your children to wash their hands often in order to prevent the spread of germs.

A healthy life starts with awareness and action. If you feel like you need to clean one of their toys, it is better to be safe than sorry. Try to clean toys that they frequently stick in their mouths or ones that have been used by other children.