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5 Easy Ways To Create A Happier Home

June 12, 2013 by

Our homes are an expression of who we are. And, everything we have in our homes, on our walls, and in our closets affects our mood, productivity, and overall happiness! In fact, this connection is so profound that studies have shown that we can shift our happiness simply by tweaking and modifying small habits and routines. 

If you want to be even happier at home, here are some simple ways to bring even more smiles into your every day life. 

  1. Make your bed — It's been shown that this easy, two minute task can positively impact your happiness.
  2. Declutter — Give yourself just 3 minutes to declutter your living room, dining table, or desk. Clutter causes stress, and oftentimes just 3 minutes can completely eliminate it!
  3. Display items you love — Hang pictures of happy memories on your walls, and display sentimental items that make you smile. Surround yourself with images of people you love, and things that make you smile and remember happy times.
  4. Set a daily intent — Before you get out of bed, state a positive affirmation to yourself that will set you right for the day. This will launch you into your day on the right foot!
  5. Start a gratitude journal — Take a minute or two each day to jot down things that you're grateful for. Reflection is a vital important part of happiness, and pausing to think about a positive event from each day helps gratitude grow.

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Father’s Day Gift Ideas

June 3, 2013 by

Father's Day is just a couple of weeks away and if you haven't already created/purchased something for your dad or grandfather you may be scrounging for a last minute idea… It’s always safe to go with a tie or work shirt, maybe a jersey or hat from their favorite sports team, or a utility item to add to their collection; but if you are looking to mix things up here are few out of the box ideas:

Rosetta Stone – Maybe he wants to learn a new language for an upcoming trip, or just for fun!

Cocktail/Brewing Cookbook – He might want to take up a new hobby and start brewing his own concoction or mixing a new cocktail!

Tie Clip – These are relatively inexpensive and back in style…

Photo Collage – Dads always love a heartfelt gift; it may be a bit time consuming, but totally worth the effort!

GQ Subscription – Get your dad up to date on the latest topics and style (in case he needs a hint…)!

Nike Fuel Band – Promote a healthier and wellness lifestyle with this cool gadget!

If you want something completely unique, check out Uncommon Goods online store at http://www.uncommongoods.com/occasions/fathers-day-gifts/fathers-day-gifts for more cool ideas.

Have fun and Happy Father’s Day to all!

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Tech Devices That Will Help You Enjoy Your Commute

May 22, 2013 by

If you live in city or commute to work, you probably have had your fair share of traffic headaches. Well, some new technology is out there that is designed to take the edge off of your commute. Check out these cool new devices below:

ExoMount. If you like to use your smartphone to navigate, you know that you need a great smartphone mount so that you don't have to constantly glance down at your cupholder for directions. As you may know, there aren't too many smartphone mounts look stylish, but the ExoMount is well-designed and sleek, and it allows you to maneuver the phone, so you can prop it at different angles. It comes in black, gray, or white. 

SuperTooth HD. When you use the SuperTooth HD, you get the luxury of having your car equipped with Bluetooth connectivity. This device connects wirelessly to your smartphone, and can stream your music, and phone calls handsfree. All you have to do is clip it onto your sun visor, and that's it! It also adjusts automatically with ambient light, so that it's easy on your eyes while driving.

Griffin iTrip. The iTrip is an awesome FM transmitter that enables you to play songs from your iPhone or iPod on any FM radio. The system is easy to use with intuitive buttons that allow you to skip, pause, and play your music.

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How To Live Like A Grown-Up

May 8, 2013 by

If you're newly out on your own, your new digs can often feel like an extension of your dorm room. But, if you're ready to step into your new role as a responsible adult, there are few must-haves that will have you feeling prepared and established in no time. Check out the list below of basics you need:

Batteries
If you've ever been "stranded" without a wireless mouse or remote control you know how essential batteries are to your every day life. Check out what size batteries your most-used items require, and stock up.

Light bulbs
Even though new florescent bulbs seem to last forever, they, too, will eventually die out. So, why not have a few extra on hand? You'll thank yourself on the day you flick the light on in your bathroom, and find yourself in the dark.

Basic cooking utensils and tools
Instead of relying on makeshift items for cooking, purchase a few basic items, like a good knife, saute pan, mixing bowl, spatula, wooden spoon, etc. There's nothing like having what you need when making a nice meal to make you feel like a grown-up.

Toilet paper
Keep a constant supply stored in your bathroom!

Living things
Whether it's a lovely plant or an adorable pet, there's nothing like caring for something else to make you feel a bit more like an adult. Also, bringing living things into your home will liven things up and create a nice, homey feel.

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Five Camera Apps for Smartphones

April 24, 2013 by

Thanks to the latest cutting-edge technology, our phones are becoming so influential in our lives, they can now do almost anything. Today, your phone can take the place of your laptop, calculator, MP3 player, and even camera. In fact, phones can take such great pictures nowadays, there's really no need to carry around an extra digital camera. Take your pictures to the next level with these camera apps for your phone. 

Snapseed
With just a few taps on your phone you can improve the quality of your picture with Snapseed. Instead of running your picture through multiple editing programs, this one app will create high quality photos. 

Instagram
Instagram lets you share pictures with your friends and followers. Every picture can be edited to have a fun filter to change the look of the picture. Tag each picture with a caption and keywords so people can search for your pictures, not just your friends. 

Camera Art FX
Create works of art instead of just normal pictures with all the special effects available with Camera Art FX. Watch in real time as a personal sketch artist in your phone creates pictures that resemble cartoons, neon lights, vintage photos, silent films, and more. 

Photosynth
There's no need to take group pictures in small segments anymore. Photosynth allows you to take panoramic pictures so you can get your entire party in one picture seamlessly. 

Camera+
Basically a more high tech version of the original camera on your phone. Camera+ lets you tap to adjust focus and exposure. There's even a stability feature to make pictures less shaky. After you take the picture you can adjust with filters and more. 

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On the Go? Check Out These Easy, Healthy Snacks

April 10, 2013 by

Oftentimes, the biggest issue people face when trying to stick to a healthy diet is snacking. Most snack food (i.e. junk food) isn't good for our health, and is filled with sugar, fat, sodium, and empty calories. But with just a bit of planning, you can be prepared with delicious snacks that are tasty and great for you, too! Below are a few ideas:

1.     Nuts and Seeds. Nuts and seeds are one of nature’s most perfect foods. They contain lots of protein and vital nutrients in an easily portable size. The very best nuts and seeds for your health are walnuts, almonds, and pumpkin seeds. Enjoy them roasted with just a pinch salt, or try out other more exotic spices.

2.     Rice Cakes. If you like crunch, but don't like calories, rice cakes are ideal! They're large enough to give you some substance, but low-cal enough to keep your weight in check. Plus, they come in a variety of sweet and savory flavors to please any palate.

3.     Fresh Veggies. Prep carrots, cucumbers, and celery and but them into small baggies or tupperware so they're easy to grab on the go. Add a little salt and pepper and some fresh squeezed lemon, or dip them into a light vinaigrette dressing.

4.     Dried Fruit. Fruit is always a fabulous snack, and dried fruits are not only good for you, but they're very portable as well. Try to avoid excessively sugary items like pineapple and mango, and instead go for dried apricots and other stone fruits, which lose less of their nutritional value when dehydrated.

5.     String Cheese. Convenient and delicious, this ideal snack is individually wrapped, and can stay fresh outside of the refrigerator for many hours. And, it offers a great amount of protein and calcium that will help hold off hunger until your next meal.

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Simple Ways to Save on Your Monthly Food Shopping Bill

March 27, 2013 by

If you find you're stretching your budget, you’re probably looking for ways to save wherever you can. Many people don’t realize it, but the grocery store is a great place to save cash! Below are some simple tips to cut your costs with food. They'll help you keep your pantry at Tera Apartments full for less money.

Always go to the grocery store with a list in hand. It helps if you plan your weekly meals ahead of time, and purchase only what you need to prepare them. Impulse buying may not seem like a big deal, but it can add up.

Don’t shop for food when you’re hungry. Even if you think you can manage your impulses, studies have proven that people regularly spend more money than they intended to if they’re at the grocery store with an empty stomach.

Save your receipts and enter them into a spreadsheet to track your spending. You can use a professional budgeting program for this or even a free solution like Google Docs. Tracking will give you a clearer picture of where your food money is going, and where you can cut back.

Cook larger meals and freeze them for later. Making a large pot of soup, say, can yield three or four meals as opposed to just one. Cooking in bulk not only saves time, it also saves money.

Stock up when food staples are on sale, like canned goods, pasta, and other panty items. These nonperishables are worth buying when the price is reduced.

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New iOS Apps: Helpful Apps For Your iPhone

March 13, 2013 by

iPhones have changed the way we use phones. They are no longer just a way to call or text someone, but now you have access to email, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram at any given moment. New apps are coming out every day to provide us even more entertainment during our day and to make our lives a little easier. Check out a few of our favorites below:

Personalized newsfeed
Flipboard pulls information from all your favorite social networks, websites, blogs, and magazines, and puts it into one easy to view place. You'll enjoy checking your favorite sites even more than before. 

Monitor your weight loss
If you're looking to lose weight, GAIN Fitness is the perfect app for you. This free workout coach will guide you through customized workout routines. The numerous workouts will keep you from being bored at the gym, and help you to stay motivated to meet your goals.

Track your activity
Juice, a free app, will help you track your exercise goals. This apps logs your activity and workouts, and gives you advice about how to maximize your energy level. It even provides tips on managing stress and sleeping better. 

Manage your money
Mint will help you manage your finances. Connect your bank account, credit cards, and monthly bills so you can track your spending right from your phone! The app will alert you if you are paying unnecessary fees or spending too much in one area. If you're trying to save money, this free app is the perfect way to find spots to cut back. 

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Spring Cleaning Tips

March 9, 2013 by

The sun is shining (at least today) and it is definitely getting warmer here in Kirkland, which means not only is spring on it's way, but the tradition of spring cleaning is right around the corner! Enjoy these helpful tips and basic tricks for a successful cleaning of your apartment:

~Declutter! Now is the perfect time to filter through your apartment and get rid of everything you don’t need. Sell on Craigslist, donate to charity or store the items that you don’t have to have. Tera offers additional storage at the community- just call to get more information. Remember, it will be a lot easier to clean if you don’t have clutter.

~Dust! Not just your furniture, but your light bulbs, art work, ceiling fan, picture frames, televisions, and blinds. Don’t forget to dust above the refrigerator.

~Clean your pantry, freezer and refrigerator! How old is that salad dressing you have at the very back of your fridge? Throw away all the expired products and wash out the drawers and shelves. It’s never fun to scrub away at a stain in your refrigerator for hours, when you could have wiped it out in just minutes!

~Don’t overlook the easily forgotten areas! Once a year, give your baseboards, door frames, and walls a good scrub-down. Wash them with a sponge and a squirt of dishwashing liquid mixed in a bucket of warm water.

~Deep clean your carpet! What a huge difference a professional cleaned carpet makes… your apartment will feel brand new.

Before anything, get organized. It’s always easier to have a plan and a To-Do list, so you don’t get off track! There are so many great spring cleaning checklists out there, just search the internet for helpful guides and additional tips.

Happy Cleaning!

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Spring Forward March 10th!

March 3, 2013 by

Daylight Savings Time begins on March 10th at 2:00 a.m., so don't forget to set your clocks one hour ahead before you go to sleep on the 9th!

According to timeanddate.com the idea of daylight saving time was first conceived by Benjamin Franklin in 1784 during his stay in Paris. He published an essay titled “An Economical Project for Diminishing the Cost of Light” that proposed to economize the use of candles by rising earlier to make use of the morning sunlight.

Although many believe that Benjamin Franklin invented DST, some say that modern DST was first proposed in 1895 by George Vernon Hudson, an entomologist from New Zealand. Hudson presented a paper to the Wellington Philosophical Society that proposed a two-hour shift forward in October and a two-hour shift back in March. He followed up his proposal with an article in 1898, and although there was interest in the idea, it was never followed through. The invention of DST was mainly credited to William Willett in 1905 when he came up with the idea of moving the clocks forward in the summer to take advantage of the daylight in the mornings and the lighter evenings. His proposal suggested moving the clocks 20 minutes forward each of four Sundays in April, and switching them back by the same amount on four Sundays in September.

For more on the history of Daylight Savings Time click here!
 

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