Summer is a great time to tackle outdoor projects. We’ve highlighted 5 of our favorites—fun and easy DIY ideas that will transform your yard and your summer.
The hammock is a classic addition to any yard. Plus, a project that gives us a reason to nap afterward is okay by us! This hammock stand is light enough to move around the yard. You’ll need to purchase the actual hammock but if you prefer, you could make your own hammock, too. The project requires some knowledge of power tools and saws; if you aren’t used to them, ask for help from an experienced DIYer.
You can get some big box stores or lumber yards to cut the wood planks for you.
If you don’t have weatherproof wood stain or paint, use regular versions. Just add two coats of varnish.
Put your hammock in a shady corner, and preferably one with a view.
Make sure to supervise kids in a hammock. Hammocks can be an attractive nuisance where children can get stuck or injured.
A garden path is a beautiful addition to your home and can add curb appeal. While you could create expensive versions with stone or pavers, we’ve chosen an easy and lower cost version that uses gravel as its base. Gravel has several advantages. It works in many different climates. It allows rain to soak through to the ground. It’s also easy to reverse if you decide later to do something else.
Gravel comes in different colors. Choose one that complements the color scheme of your house or garden.
Include a decorative edge to set off your gravel path.
Add flowers along the edges for a pop of color.
Add interest with flat stepping stones in the center of the path.
Gathering around the fire pit is the perfect activity to cap off a summer night. The supplies aren’t necessarily expensive, but they can be heavy so ask for extra help if needed. Make sure the fire pit is a safe distance from the house and away from high grass, bushes, and low-hanging trees. Clear and level the ground. Then build the pit using large and small bricks in a circular shape. Fill it in and edge it with small rocks. Then create a seating area, and let the fun begin.
Check your local building codes and requirements so you know what is allowed.
Avoid burning treated wood, wet wood, or anything that gives off a gas or dense smoke.
Don’t use flammable fluids to start or relight a fire.
Check the weather. If windy conditions are forecast, it could be dangerous to light a fire. Embers could easily blow towards your home creating a house fire.
Supervise children closely around a fire pit. Do not leave them unattended for any reason.
Safely dispose of ashes when you’re done for the night.
Keep a fire extinguisher nearby.
Your homeowner’s insurance may require extra coverage. Talk to your agent.
When you can’t take your kids to the beach, a sandbox is the next best thing. This DIY project is easy to construct and can offer hours of fun. With this sandbox plan, you construct the sides and use the earth for the bottom. Choose the right spot, clear the area and dig down a little bit further into the soil to help keep the walls in place. Then cover it with landscape fabric, assemble the sandbox and fill it with play sand.
Add seats by adding 4 triangles to the corners of the sandbox.
Add space for a beach umbrella by drilling a hole for a short piece of PVC pipe.
Make sure you put the sandbox in a place where you can easily see the children.
Cover the sandbox when not in use. Plywood works well. So does a plastic tarp.
You can turn your storage shed into a fun, livable space, such as a music studio, children’s playhouse, or craft room. You’re only limited by your imagination. Start with a new coat of paint. Caulk any cracks, add insulation and drywall. Hire a subcontractor if you’d like to install electricity, lighting, air conditioning, or heat. Add some furnishings, décor and enjoy!
Check with your town to determine if you need a permit for the renovation.
If electrical or plumbing work is needed, chances are you will need to get a permit.
Consider painting your shed in the same colors as your home for a “mini” version.
Find inexpensive décor and furnishings on Facebook marketplace.
Make sure you can lock your shed to protect your new living space.
If your project increases the value of your home or adds liability, you may need to adjust your insurance. Check with your agent or get a free policy review to find out more.
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
Teachers are like solar panels, we recharge in the Summer. However, this shouldn’t be the only time we recharge. We should have an ongoing plan to help energize ourselves daily and when done so correctly, rarely need a recharge at all.
Let’s talk about teacher burnout…
Are you missing happy hours or Sunday brunch with friends most weekends? Are you declining family time or weekend trips because you, “had” to lesson plan or, “needed to” to get your grading done?
Did you volunteer for that committee or club because you thought it would look bad if you didn’t?
Are you spending your duty-free lunch breaks completing paperwork, working with students, or emailing parents?
Have you arrived at school 2 hours before students arrive to be prepared for your day?
For me… it’s an overwhelming YES, YES, YES ….. & YES.
Each and every day, teachers GIVE so much to our students. Of course we want to do anything and everything for our students all the time. But is it healthy or sustainable over time?
NO, you will burn yourself out!
Teacher burnout is a very common problem that needs to be talked about more. I believe it is hard to identify if it’s happening to you because, “You can’t read the label, when you’re stuck inside the bottle.” For some teachers, it’s hard to understand and accept when it’s time to start saying, “No,” and take a break.
These difficult conversations need to happen. We have to start working together to normalize teachers saying, “No.”
Saying “No” isn’t always a bad thing. It can even be what’s in the best interest of your students.
Over my 11-year teaching career I have heard a lot of talk about having a good or healthy work-life balance. I have been given tips and tricks to maintain self-care and a happy life. But what no one ever talks about is that it’s not a “One size fits all” approach.
I do not believe in, “work-life balance.” I don’t think there is a magical formula of how each teacher can “balance” their work and their home life at the same time. I think that it should be called, “work-life fit.” A work-life fit is the flexibility to make choices for your own life that fits into what you have going on in that moment. You should be able to create a work environment and lifestyle that fosters both personal and professional life at the same time. As educators, we cannot compare ourselves to each other. What “fits” in one teachers’ life, might not “fit” into yours.
Your goal is to do only the extra things if it fits into your life at that moment. If it doesn’t, don’t do them. And if you are in a place to do extra things you want to for your classroom, do it. Don’t let anyone else shame you for going above and beyond in your career if that’s what fits in your life.
But if you are a teacher that doesn’t have the space and time for all the “extra” things, and you are still trying to squeeze them in, this is when you will experience teacher burnout.
Dr. Leah Katz @dr.leahkatz shared a graphic on signs of burnout. It is important to know what to look for, for yourself, your colleagues, and family members that are educators.
When I start to feel or see signs of burn-out I focus on two things – my mindset and setting boundaries. I have to keep my mindset focused that things will get better. Then I have to act to make that a reality.
I sit down to create a list of things I can take off my plate and specific goals on how I can set boundaries for new things that may come my way. Here is a list of the boundaries I have set for myself.
Don’t:
Spend all evening/weekend working… I work on the weekends, but I don’t let it steal my entire time
Skip breakfast… I love to meal prep on Sunday so that this doesn’t happen
Drink only coffee… I am the worst at hydration so I make sure to always have a water bottle
Stay past your contact hours… unless I am getting paid and I WANT to
Check your email after 4 PM… just don’t do it, it can wait.
Feel guilty about setting boundaries and saying, “No.”
Lie awake thinking about school
However, I can choose to do some of these things once in a while, IF I think they fit into my life AND I know they bring me joy.
As we move into the new school year, I am already trying to find where I can pause for some peace. Where can I build time into my schedule to reflect and do tasks that calm me? I reflect on what energizes me and how I can surround my life with those things and people.
Give yourself grace. Give yourself time. Give yourself an honest talk about what “fits” with your life.
If you start to experience teacher burnout and you are aware of how to find your peace and calm, you will be able to better read the label on your bottle because you won’t be stuck inside anymore.
Casey Keyser is a third-grade teacher at Butterfly Ridge Elementary in Frederick County, Maryland. She was recently recognized as the national winner of the NEA Foundation’s 2021 Teaching in Excellence Award. Casey is the proud owner of the Education Resource Blog, Fair Winds Teaching, and loves to connect with her education community through her TeacherPayTeacher’s business.
Our dads deserve the absolute best, and if money wasn’t an object they would get it. But that isn’t always the case, and sometimes we have to settle for a less expensive present. Don’t fear, we’ve got you covered!
This Father’s Day opt for a gift that is a bit more personal than a gift card, but won’t break the bank. Here are 10 easy last-minute gifts to snag for the father figure in your life.
1. Meat (or whatever he likes) Basket
You can’t go wrong with food- ever. If your dad or husband is an avid griller, go to your local meat market and find some of his favorite meats, seasonings, and sauces; put them all in a basket and there is your quick and easy gift! If he isn’t into meat or grilling, no problem, just fill the basket with whatever food he likes- candy, sodas/alcohol, beef jerky, fruits & veggies, etc.
2. Garden’s Tool Seat
Does the man in your life like to garden? Or work on vehicles? Then we’ve got the perfect gift. This lightweight steel and nylon stool combines the features of a tool bag and a folding chair all in one! It’s perfect for gardening or sitting in that garage working on a car. To see it, click here.
3. Bluetooth Ear Protecting Headphones
Mowing, weed-eating, working on projects, snow blowing, riding equipment; your dad needs these headphones. Not only will they protect his ears, they also have the power to connect to his phone, so he can listen to music or talk on the phone while he is working. Click here for more info.
4. Roku Streaming Stick+
If he doesn’t have one already, now is the perfect time to get dad a streaming stick. This Roku stick is made for long-range, has voice control, lets him stream his favorite shows on platforms like Netflix, Hulu, & Diney+, and is a breeze to install. If you don’t already have one, a streaming stick is a perfect gift for any dad with wifi. Click here for more information.
5. Garage Wall Organizer
If your dad is like most, he probably has a lot of tools (if not, tools are also a great idea!). Give him somewhere to keep them when you give him a garage wall organizer. This will help him keep all of his tools in one spot, organized, and where he can easily grab and go. If your dad doesn’t have tools, no problem! This wall organizer can hold all sorts of things from buckets to brooms and ball bags. Click here to grab one.
6. Customized Family Portrait
Want to tug at his heartstrings? Get him a customized family portrait of your family. There are all kinds of portraits that you can order on Etsy! You can even add names, pets, and your own quote at the top. Click here to find one your dad will love.
7. Cooler With a Built-In Speaker
Whether he is golfing, at the pool, camping, in the garage, or just spending time outdoors he’ll love this portable cooler with a wireless speaker. He’ll be able to bring his ice-cold drinks (and food) with him and listen to music wherever he goes this summer! Click here for more information.
8. A Kneading Massage Pillow
Because being a dad is hard work. The best thing about this pillow is he can use it anywhere. Back hurt? Feet sore? Pull a leg muscle? Just put them on the heated pillow and let it go to work. Click here to snag one.
9. Key Finder
Let’s be real, this one is really for all the wives out there that hate having to look for everything their husband loses all of the time. This blue tooth key finder makes it easy! Just place it on any item that he may lose often (like his keys or wallet) and now you’ll never have to look for them again! Click here for more information.
10. Multitool
And last, but not least, it wouldn’t be a Father’s Day gift blog post if we didn’t at least include one tool. This multitool has over 20 functions that include, wire cutters, saw, needle nose plyers, scissors, can opener, and more! What dad wouldn’t want one of these things? Click here for more information.
Happy shopping and Happy Father’s Day!
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
It’s time to make a move. Perhaps you landed that new job and you’re looking to live closer to work. Maybe you’re finally getting that extra square footage—and the backyard—you’ve always wanted. Or maybe you’re downsizing to a smaller rental. Moving is a fact of life. According to the U.S. census, Americans will move approximately 11.7 times during their lifetime.
But the big question is, will you do it yourself? Or will you hire movers? Here’s some guidance so that you can decide.
Moving Comparison At-a-Glance
Do-It-Yourself
Hybrid
Moving Companies
Most affordable
Affordable
Most expensive
Time-consuming
Time-consuming
Least time needed
Need help from family, friends
Don’t necessarily need help
No help needed
Risk of injury, risk of lost or damaged goods
Risk of injury, risk of lost or damaged goods
Risk of lost or damaged goods
Do-It-Yourself Moves
You’re strong and capable. You handle a lot of tough tasks in your life. Why not a move? Do-it-yourself, or DIY, moves are popular because they’re generally less expensive and we all want to save money. If you’re thinking about a DIY move, consider what’s involved in this type of move:
You will need time in your schedule. If you don’t have enough time, this type of move is not for you.
You will have to do all the organization and packing.
You will likely need help from friends and family on the actual move day if not before.
You will likely need to rent and drive a moving van or truck. You will have to pay for fuel and tolls.
Factor in the time you will need to take off of work when you are moving yourself.
Hybrid Options
You don’t have to choose between a DIY move or a moving company. There are options that feature the best of both.
Consider paying for labor to help with loading and unloading. Many truck rental companies offer add-ons of labor help. That way, you can do a DIY move with help.
You can rent a portable moving container. In this type of move, a company drops the container or pod at your property. You load it up, and the company moves it to the new location, where you unload it.
Moving Companies
If you don’t have the time, or if you have a large move to make, hiring a moving company makes sense. Professional movers don’t just do the heavy lifting. They make moving less stressful and more efficient. But their services come at a cost. There are several factors that go into a moving company’s cost estimate:
The size and weight of your belongings
The travel distance, mileage and fuel, and time
Packing and moving supplies if the company is contracted to handle those
The moving date (Generally, moves done mid-month and midweek offer the best discounts).
What To Consider
Get a written cost estimate from your prospective mover. (We recommend getting at least three cost estimates from three different providers.) Make sure that the mover you choose is licensed and insured. Read the agreement carefully, including the small type, to ensure that there will be no surprises. Beware of moving companies who provide estimates for your move without visiting your home and taking an inventory of your belongings. Watch for movers who ask for cash or a large deposit before the move. You should only pay on delivery.
Most renters and home insurance policies will not cover your belongings while they are being moved. The moving company will offer liability and valuation coverage. You may decide to purchase additional moving insurance from a third-party provider. If you’re considering an interstate move, learn your rights and responsibilities as outlined by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.
Do you need to tip your movers?
Yes, it’s standard practice to tip each person who is moving you. Consumer Affairs recommends tipping 15% to 20% for long-distance or large moves. You can tip less, 5% to 10% for shorter, closer moves. This amount is split among the moving crew, so if your move costs $2,000 and you’re just going across town, plan to tip about $200 total.
How to Cut Costs and Save Time on Your Move
Hiring a mover? Ask if there are cheaper dates and times to move.
Downsize before moving. Donate or sell items that you no longer need or want. That way, you’ll have less to move.
Use the buckets, baskets, clean trash cans, and suitcases that you need to move anyway to store items that you want to move. Use blankets and towels, in the same way, to protect and cushion breakables.
Be safe when looking at ways to cut your moving costs. You will often find websites offering helpful tools for moving such as moving cost calculators that require you to enter your information to get the link. What they neglect to tell you is that they will be sharing your information with moving companies. You will start to get calls immediately from dozens of companies trying to sell you services. Think twice about entering your information online.
Don’t Forget!
Whether you’re moving from a rental or you own a home, there are apps that can help you to organize your move and take away some stress. Here are some popular ones:
MoveAdvisor
Moved
Dolly
Unpackt
And if you’re moving because of work, your moving expenses may be tax-deductible! Keep your receipts and use IRS form 3903 to document your move when you file your taxes.
Here’s to the start of a wonderful adventure in your new home. Have a safe and successful move.
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
The 9-to-5 world doesn’t exist when you’re a nurse. You’re pulling 12-hour shifts and likely working for multiple days or nights in a row, just to have a few days off and then do it all over again.
So, how do you prepare and get used to such a strenuous schedule? Read on and we’ll share the tips that could make your shifts (you know, the ones that feel like they are never going to end?) seem a little easier.
Tip #1: Eat a well-balanced diet.
The better you eat, the better you’ll feel. That’s why we recommend bringing your breakfast, lunch, or dinner rather than trying to pick up something at the hospital or nearby.
Bring healthy food that you’re excited to eat. Try fun and healthy recipes like overnight oats with peanut butter and honey or pre-cut veggies with a hummus dip.
Bring enough food to satisfy your cravings. The last thing you want to do is head to the vending machine because you’re hungry.
No matter what your shift, eat a meal before you leave home. That way if you miss your first break, you won’t be starving.
Tip #2: Stay hydrated – at work and at home.
Remembering to drink enough water is tough, especially when you’re in the middle of a busy shift. But staying hydrated is important. Not only does it help flush your body of any toxins, it helps you avoid that dehydration headache.
Calculate how much water you should drink daily. Divide your weight by two to get the number of ounces. For example, if you weigh 140 lbs., you should drink 70 ounces of water a day.
Invest in a big water bottle and set a goal to refill it every few hours.
If your hospital allows it, keep the water bottle by the nurse’s station or somewhere you pass frequently. If not, make a plan for how you will access it.
Keep up the routine at home as well as work until drinking water becomes a habit.
Tip #3: Make sleep a priority so that you get enough.
Adults need between 7 and 9 hours of sleep a night, according to the National Sleep Foundation. Getting enough sleep will allow you to function at your best when you’re at work.
Set yourself up for success. Stick to the same sleep schedule every day, including your days off.
Choose a relaxing routine that makes it easier to fall asleep. Disconnect from your phone and electronics a half an hour or more before bedtime. Read or enjoy a warm bath. Make sure you have a comfortable mattress.
Skip the caffeine if you’re planning to sleep in the next 6-7 hours.
Use a sleep mask to block daylight.
If you’re working the night shift and you’re having trouble staying awake, try a coffee nap. Drink a cup of coffee, then immediately nap for 20 minutes. You should wake up refreshed.
Tip #4: Plan your wardrobe so you are dressed comfortably.
What you wear does matter for a 12-hour shift. Choosing comfort as well as style will help you feel your best.
Set your clothes out the night before. Include a jacket or sweater because chances are, the climate in the hospital is cold.
Choose scrubs that are comfortable and shoes that are easy to stand and walk-in.
Many nurses wear compression socks to help prevent lower leg swelling, an occupational hazard for nurses who are constantly on their feet.
Tip #5: Make a list so you don’t forget anything.
Even if it’s something you bring every shift, there will be times when you might forget it. Making a list takes the pressure off so that you don’t have to remember everything.
Keep a list of the essentials and put it by the front door or by your bag.
Your list may include your ID badge, keys, phone and charger, water bottle, stethoscope, extra scrubs, and hand lotion to counteract the effect of those alcohol-based hand sanitizers.
Tip #6: Schedule out your days to easily fit in errands and activities.
When you work for three straight days, it’s as if you’re on permanent hold. Stores are generally closed after work making it hard to run errands or do banking. Your friends also don’t share your unusual schedule. It’s a bit challenging, but you can make it work.
Take advantage of 24/7 banking, call centers, and other options to reach out as needed.
Schedule social outings on your days off; trying to do so on a workday will just create additional stress. Use the chance to meet a friend with a traditional schedule for lunch during his or her workday and your day off.
Schedule in time to do what is important to you, including exercise and spending time with loved ones.
Tip #7: BUT – Don’t overschedule yourself.
It’s tempting to pack in as much as possible on your days off or your days at work. Keep your schedule manageable with enough downtime to feel good.
Think before picking up extra shifts at work. Do you really want to do this?
Pause before agreeing to social plans. There are only 24 hours in a day and sometimes those plans can wait.
Tip #8. And lastly, practice self-care (you deserve it).
Nurses are always looking out and helping others, but as a nurse, you need to remember to protect your well-being, too. You’ll want to focus on self-care.
Schedule time to relax, meditate or pursue a hobby you enjoy.
Take steps to manage your stress at home and at work.
Keep work and home separate. Worrying about your patients is natural but not productive for your mental well-being at home.
Remember to exercise. Take the stairs instead of the elevator at work. Park further away for a long walk to your car. Combine social time with exercise and work out with a friend on your days off.
Surround yourself with positive people. Practice gratitude and you’ll find plenty to appreciate in your life.
Finally, working long hours can lead to loneliness, anxiety, and depression. If you’re unable to concentrate, have negative self-talk, or are not feeling your best, consult your primary care provider. In order to help others, you need to make sure to help yourself.
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
Teachers are like solar panels, we recharge in the Summer. However, this shouldn’t be the only time we recharge. We should have an ongoing plan to help energize ourselves daily and when done so correctly, rarely need a recharge at all. 
