It’s holiday season and you’re ready to decorate! But as a renter, your options might feel limited. The good news is that with just a few renter-friendly tricks, you can transform your space into a cozy, festive retreat without breaking the rules or losing your deposit. Whether you’re going for a classic winter wonderland or a modern holiday vibe, these tips will let you celebrate in style!
Tailor the décor to fit your lifestyle and space.
You want your place to feel festive but not cramped, so make sure to work with the space you have. You don’t have to add a lot. Use wall space if you don’t have floor space. Swap out your normal décor with seasonal versions; change your throw pillows or put festive covers on them. Choose a holiday doormat. Remember that a pop of color goes a long way in a smaller space.
Stock up on hanging supplies.
Put away the hammer, the screws and the nails. Those will leave permanent holes in your walls. Instead, stock up on suction cups and adhesive hooks. Choose adhesive options that are easily removable and won’t leave marks on the wall. Command strips, washi tape, and wall putty are all good options.
String up the lights.
Set the scene with lighting. Hang strings of LED fairy lights along the ceiling or at other focal points in your home. For lights in doorways, use a curtain tension rod as the base and wrap the lights around it. You can even add some greenery. Choose lights approved for indoor use; battery-powered lights are a plus, so you don’t have to worry about plugging them in. Flameless candles also create a beautiful glow. Keep light safety in mind. Remember to turn lights off when unattended.
Cling to the windows.
Window clings and removable decals are easy to apply and take off. Since static electricity holds them in place, you don’t need any special tools. Plus, you can find plenty of fun options, from snowflakes to candy and holiday themes.
Try these instead of a tree.
There are many alternatives to a full-sized tree, which can take up much-needed space in an apartment. Instead, decorate a blank wall with an outline of a tree using washi tape. Then adorn it with tinsel, lights, and paper ornaments using a wall-safe adhesive. Try a poinsettia stand to create a festive tree; just be aware that this plant can be hazardous if ingested by small children or pets). Decorate your house plants with lights and lightweight ornaments.
Display your favorites.
The holidays are all about memories. Here’s your chance to put some of yours on display. Show off your favorite ornaments in large clear vases. Hang a gallery of beloved holiday photos from years past. Display your holiday cards on a Command picture ledge or decorate your doors with them. Anything that brings you joy is perfect to display at holiday time.
Turn up the scent.
Fragrance goes a long way to set the mood. Bring seasonal scents into your room with pine, peppermint, cinnamon or your own favorite blend. Add a few drops of essential oils to a spray bottle filled with distilled water. Use it to create the perfect scent. Alternatively, poke whole cloves into oranges and use that as a fragrant centerpiece.
Bring on the green.
Hang full-size or miniature wreaths with suction cups or other adhesives. Artificial garlands make great table centerpieces. Fake greenery is maintenance-free and hypo-allergenic. Real greenery brings a natural look and scent but might need some care to stay fresh.
Don’t overload the outlets.
Electrical outlets can only handle a certain amount of power. Overloading them can lead to a blown fuse – for you and your neighbors – or in the worst case, an electrical fire. Limit the number of plugs that you use and the use of extension cords. Unplug all electrical decorations before you go to bed.
Double check the rules.
Check your lease agreement and the rules of the apartment complex. Many do not allow live trees which dry up and can pose a fire risk. Also, be courteous to your neighbors. Avoid motion sensor lights and sounds that could be set off in the middle of the night. If you’re unsure about whether a décor choice is allowed, double check with your landlord.
Finally, make sure you are covered for the unexpected with renter’s insurance. Renter’s insurance is surprisingly affordable. For as little as $10 a month, you can get a renter’s policy at California Casualty. Not all renter’s insurance is the same. Some policies cover more than others and costs vary. Check with your insurance provider to find out the options.
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.
Those beautiful autumn leaves you’ve been admiring are not so pretty when they’re clogging your gutters. Acorns, leaves, branches, and other debris have a way of piling up, leading to blockages that can cause water damage and costly repairs. Enter gutter guards—a practical solution that keeps debris out while letting rainwater flow freely. Here’s a quick guide to gutter guards, including why autumn is the best time to check and clean your own gutters.
What exactly are gutters?
Gutters are channels along the edge of your roof that direct water away from your home. They include downspouts that bring water down to the ground, moving it at least 5-10 feet away from the foundation. When gutters get clogged, they no longer work the way they should. Water could stay pooled in the channels or move in ways that negatively affect your home. Clogged gutters can lead to expensive problems: soil erosion, basement flooding, structural damage, roof damage, siding damage, and foundation issues. A buildup of debris could also increase the risk of a fire. Luckily, there is an easy way to protect your gutters from getting clogged – gutter guards.
Types of Gutter Guards
There are many different types of gutter guards. Some can be self-installed, and others require a professional. Below is a brief description of the main kinds along with their pros and cons. (Check the warranty on your shingles before you install a gutter guard that requires attaching directly to shingles with screws or nails as that could potentially void it.)
Screen Guards
This is like a window screen for your gutters. The screen keeps out debris while the holes let the water pass through.
Pros: These guards are affordable and can be self-installed.
Cons: Dirt and small debris can still pass through the screen and get in your gutter. These guards need to be removed and cleaned at least once a year.
Micro-mesh Guards
Micro-mesh guards are like screen guards, but with holes that are much tinier. They are particularly good at keeping out pine needles and dirt, which can slip through larger openings. These guards are usually made of stainless steel and other durable materials.
Pros: Micro-mesh guards are low maintenance, and long lasting. They are easy to clean and should be cleaned every 3-12 months.
Cons: They require professional installation.
Reverse-Curve Guards (Surface Tension Guards)
These guards are attached beneath the shingles, and they go over the gutter and curve back a little. The curve creates a hood, so debris doesn’t get into the gutter, but the unique design lets the water seep through.
Pros: These are long-lasting and low maintenance guards.
Cons: Reverse-curve guards require professional installation. They also are highly visible and could affect your home’s aesthetic.
Brush Guards
These guards are made of stiff brushes that point up inside your gutters. The bristles catch debris as the water passes through.
Pros: They are easy to install and remove for cleaning.
Cons: These guards require frequent cleaning. Small debris can get caught in the brushes’ bristles, and these guards can be tough to clean as a result.
Foam Guards
This triangular-shaped foam fits inside your gutter to prevent leaves and other debris from lodging there. It’s usually made from polyurethane and has a spongy texture that allows water to flow through. Some foam guards restrict water flow more than others.
Pros: These are affordable and easy to install. They are good at blocking large debris.
Cons: Small debris can enter through gaps between the foam and gutter walls. The foam also can break and is susceptible to mold due to dampness. These need to be replaced every 1-2 years, depending on weather conditions in your area.
DIY vs. Professional
Should you install your own gutter guards or hire a professional? Here are some things to consider.
Choose DIY gutter guards and install them yourself if:
You want or need to save money.
You’re generally handy and comfortable on a ladder.
Your roof is easy to access.
You like the choices available for DIY. You can find most at your local home improvement store.
Hire a professional to install your gutter guards if:
You have the budget for professional installation, and you prefer the convenience.
You want a warranty to show the installation was done correctly and that will address potential future issues.
You want a higher quality gutter guard than is available DIY.
Your roof is unusually steep or is difficult to access.
You have concerns about doing it yourself.
Before the Installation
The best time to install gutter guards is late summer and early fall. This helps prepare for the large volume of leaves that start coming down during the season. Before the installation, you will want to clean and check your gutters.
Cleaning your gutters is part of fall home maintenance. It helps to ensure that your home is ready for winter storm season and severe weather. Here’s a quick overview of how the process is done.
Gather your supplies: a bucket for debris, trowel or gutter scoop, garden hose with spray nozzle, latex or waterproof gloves to protect your hands from wet debris, safety eyewear, and a sturdy ladder.
Start at the downspout. Use your gloved hand or a trowel to remove leaves, twigs and packed material.
Then go up to roof level on your ladder. Use your gloved hand to clear large debris like leaves or twigs. Use the trowel for compacted debris.
Remove and clean the downspout strainer.
Flush the downspout and the gutter with water from your hose.
Look for leaks, making sure water flows freely through the downspout. You will want to repair any issues before you add gutter guards.
Inspect your gutter for rust spots or peeling paint which could show signs of deterioration. Again you will want to address any issues and potentially replace those parts before adding the guards.
Look for mold or mildew near the foundation which could mean water is getting in there. That could signal a larger problem.
Ready to start the project?
Once you have clean gutters without any issues, you are ready to protect them with gutter guards. Measure your gutters so that you will be able to purchase the right length of gutter guards. If you’re doing a DYI installation, make sure to fully read and understand the instructions. Watch tutorials and online customer reviews for a heads up on potential mistakes. Know that installing gutter guards can take anywhere from a couple of hours to a couple of days. If you’re choosing a professional installation, make sure to get several estimates and ask for references to avoid scams.
Your home is your greatest investment. Keep it fully protected for added peace of mind.
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.
Your pet is part of the family, so you want to make sure they’re welcome wherever you rent. From understanding pet policies to preventing your four-legged companion from leaving a lasting pawprint on the property, there are a few key things to keep in mind. Whether you’re moving with a playful pup, a curious cat or a chatty bird, here’s how to navigate the rental process and find a home that’s both pet-friendly and hassle-free!
Almost half of renters live with pets, according to Zillow. Pet owners tend to be responsible and reliable. They renew their leases more frequently than non-pet owners. In this regard, they’re desirable tenants. There is a chance with pets, of course, of damage to the rental property or possible disturbances with neighbors. Landlords who welcome pets will make accommodations, such as charging a pet feet, to minimize their financial risk.
Importantly, not every property is ready to welcome your pet. The following steps will help guide you in finding the perfect home.
Research pet-friendly rentals.
Start your search early. It will take extra time to find the right fit. There are several ways to find pet-friendly rentals in your area. Importantly, do not try to hide the fact that you have a pet. That would put you in violation of your lease.
Ask friends and family members to keep a lookout for pet-friendly places.
Inquire about pet-friendly apartments and homes in pet groups on social media, at the local Humane Society, and at your veterinarian.
When searching rental websites, look for filters for pets. Make sure to check if there are restrictions on types, breeds, or numbers of pets.
If a rental does not mention pets, don’t discount it. Reach out and ask. Single family rentals may be more likely to be flexible on a case-by-case basis.
Note that landlords are required by the Fair Housing Act to make reasonable accommodations for disabled renters with service dogs, even if they don’t generally allow pets.
Create a pet resume.
One effective way to present your pet to your future landlord is by creating a pet resume. This can help turn tolerant landlords into pet-friendly ones.
Start with a cute photo, your pet’s name, age, breed, and weight. For dogs and cats, note whether they are spayed.
Describe your pet’s personality and favorite things.
Include a list of vaccinations and proof your pet is licensed in the town, showing you are a responsible pet owner.
If there are any past incidents, include them and tell how you will take action to prevent them in the future.
Get a reference letter from your current landlord, your trainer, or previous roommates about your pet. Make sure to talk about areas of concern to landlords: behavior around others, odor, noise, etc.
Be prepared to pay extra when renting with a pet, as compared to those without pets. The landlord must cover his/her risk in case there is damage. For example, carpets may have to be replaced when a renter leaves if a pet urinated there.
Expect to pay a pet deposit ranging from $250 to $500. The landlord can use this money to make repairs when you leave. However, it may or may not be refundable, so make sure to ask.
You may be charged a monthly pet rental fee in addition to your own rent.
Note that if you have a service animal, your landlord cannot charge you a pet fee. It is against federal law to do so.
Review local and state laws as they apply to pets. Some states limit what landlords can charge in pet fees.
Check out the space for your pet.
Once you find a good rental, you will want to visit it and check it out. What you see online may not always be what’s there in reality. A personal visit will show you if it’s right for you and your pet.
Find out if there are any restrictions on where pets can go.
If your pet needs an outdoor space, is there a backyard area? A nearby park or place to walk?
If you have a small living space and no backyard, make sure that setup will be right for your pet.
For cats, keep them entertained with multi-level living such as cat condos and kitty condos placed up high.
Check whether there are plants that are poisonous to your pets on the property.
Read your lease thoroughly.
Before you sign a lease at your new place, make sure that it says exactly what you were promised by your landlord. Specifically check that it spells out the pet policy.
Never sign a lease that says no pets even if the landlord verbally gives you permission. Make sure it is written in your lease that pets are allowed.
The lease should clearly outline pet deposits and fees.
Take the time to understand and agree to the rules you and your pet must follow.
Include pet coverage in your renter’s insurance.
Many landlords require you to have renter’s insurance. It’s also a good idea to have it to protect you, your possessions—and your pets.
Renter’s insurance is like homeowner’s insurance but for tenants. As a start, it protects your personal belongings (that’s right, your landlord’s insurance policy will not cover your belongings) but that’s not all. It’s an important safeguard if you’re found at fault for property damage or injuries at your place (and even around the world). It also can help if you don’t have access to your apartment or home due to a covered loss.
Adding your pet to your renter’s policy will cover you if your pet damages someone else’s property or injures another pet or person.
Note that sometimes, there are breed restrictions for coverage.
Moving with Your Pet
Your pets are part of the family, but moving day will be particularly stressful for them. After all, they won’t understand why strangers are taking their furniture. With all the commotion, it’s also easy for a pet to get lost in the shuffle, or have a scared animal run away or hide. Consider having relatives or friends take care of your pets or board them in a kennel for moving day. Also make sure that you have your pet’s records for easy access when you need them.
Are you renting without a pet but would like to adopt? Make sure your lease allows it. Finally, don’t forget to protect your fur baby with pet insurance for added peace of mind, and to save on your vet bill. Remember, you can easily add pet insurance from Pet’s Best to your California Casualty auto or home policy. Find out more about what pet insurance can cover by talking with a California Casualty customer service representative today.
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.
Turn your next drive with your kids into a meaningful moment. Whether it’s a quick trip to the store or a longer journey, being in the car together can spark conversation. It’s the perfect chance to connect and dive into the little things that matter most. With fewer distractions, the car becomes a place where stories flow, questions unfold, and you create memories that last beyond the ride. Here are some guidelines to get the conversation started.
Create an Inviting Atmosphere for Great Conversations
Ensure it’s easy to listen and be heard by keeping distractions to a minimum—turn down the radio and ask everyone to stow away devices.
Mix up the topics with a balance of fun and thoughtful discussions that match your child’s age and interests.
Keep the vibe upbeat and supportive—focus on connecting rather than correcting.
Engage by listening just as much as talking. Listening is the key to deepening your bond.
Encourage open dialogue by asking questions that spark more than a yes or no response.
If the conversation doesn’t flow right away, stay patient and keep the lines of communication open.
Creative Ways to Build Stronger Connections
Try any of these creative approaches to tap into topics that are meaningful to your child or teen.
Hobbies and Interests:
Whether your kids are into sports, art, reading, or something else, ask them about it. Your interest shows that their hobbies matter and helps boost their confidence. Inquire about the latest scrimmage, the book they’re reading, their favorite TV show or another beloved activity. You will want to show genuine curiosity and pose follow-up questions. Remember, your role isn’t just to guide, but to celebrate their unique interests and growth.
New Technology:
There are plenty of fun, new gadgets and apps that help us manage our world. Talk with your children about some of the latest tech. Then reveal what the world was like, before they were born, without this technology. Help them imagine what it was like with an engaging story or two. Ask them what new technology of the future should be invented. You never know how that might inspire them.
Current Events:
Talking about social media trends or other age-appropriate current events with your teens is an opportunity to teach them about the world and develop their critical thinking. Encourage them to share their thoughts and opinions, asking open-ended questions like, “How do you feel about what’s happening?” or “What do your friends think about this?” These discussions can help them process information, understand different perspectives, and build a sense of empathy and awareness. Create a safe space for them to ask questions or express concerns.
Role Plays:
Car rides can be the perfect time to role-play with your child and help them work through different problems in a relaxed setting. You can create scenarios based on challenges they may face, like dealing with a disagreement at school or preparing for a big test. By playing different roles, you can guide them to think through solutions, practice how to respond, and build confidence in handling tricky situations. It’s a great way to engage their problem-solving skills. Plus, the casual environment of the car makes it feel less pressured for both of you.
Fun and Silly:
For a lighthearted and engaging conversation with your kids, try mixing in some fun and silly questions. Ask them, “If you were an animal, what would you be?” or “What food could you eat every day for the rest of your life?” These boredom-busting questions can spark creativity and laughter. You might also ask, “If you could switch places with anyone in the world, who would it be?” or “If you could change your name, what would it be?” For an extra challenge, try speaking only in questions to keep the conversation flowing in unexpected ways. And when all else fails, throw in a dad—or mom—joke to lighten the mood!
Driving Safety:
Being in the car is a natural time to talk about vehicle safety. Again, keep the conversation age appropriate. If you have a teen, point out decisions that you make as you drive, and share safety tips such as how to safely pull over on the side of the road. Note the dangerous behaviors that you see from other drivers such as tailgating. Get them ready to focus on the road by asking them to navigate and tell you where you should turn. For younger passengers, point out road signs for stop, yield and crosswalks. Ask them what they notice when looking outside the window. Talk about why we wear seatbelts and what could happen if we forget. Teach them safety around vehicles.
Finally, you’re traveling with precious cargo when you transport your family. Make sure your car is well-maintained and protect it with the right car insurance. Safe travels.
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 nearly Halloween—and whether you’re transforming into a mischievous monster, a zany zombie, or a whimsical witch, you can be “trick-or-treat-ready” in no time. With a dash of creativity and simple supplies, here are some ideas for spook-tacular looks that bring all the Halloween fun without the fright of a big price tag!
Children’s Costumes
No-sew Dinosaur
Supplies: hooded sweatshirt, white and colored duct tape, scissors, ruler
First make the dinosaur teeth. Cut a 2-inch piece of white duct tape.
Fold both top corners to the center to form a triangle at the top. Leave the sticky strip along the bottom.
Press the exposed sticky strip to the inside edge of the hood.
Repeat and place each triangle next to each other until the hood is filled.
Next make the scales that go along the back. Cut a 5-inch piece of duct tape.
Fold the tape in half, leaving a half inch at either end that still has the sticky strip exposed. Cut a triangle shape in the non-sticky part. (See the video for a visual.)
Attach the triangle starting at the front center of the hood. Repeat in a straight line all the way down the back of the sweatshirt.
Bubble Bath
Supplies: white, clear and pink balloons, yellow duckie, white shirt and pants, white head band, rubber cement, safety pins
Blow up the balloons in various sizes.
Dress your child in the white shirt and pants.
Pin the balloons in clusters onto the outfit. (Put the pin through the latex below the knot.)
Pin some balloons to the headband.
Use rubber cement to attach the yellow duckie anywhere that you’d like.
Spelling Bee
Supplies: black shirt and leggings, yellow and black duct tape, bubble wrap, giant fluffy black pipe cleaners, headband, letters (felt or bulletin board letters in a contrasting color work well)
Apply lines of yellow duct tape in stripes on the shirt along the front. Then repeat along the back. (Pro tip: Really stretch the fabric out. There’s no stretch in the tape, and so if you go too narrow, it will be hard to get the shirt on and off.)
Cut the bubble wrap in two long oval shapes. Lay them on top of each other and pinch them in the middle. Tape that middle with the black duct tape.
Tape the wings to the back of the shirt.
Attach two pipe cleaners to the headband to form antennae. Bend them at the top so they curl.
For the final touch, affix the letters in random order all over the bee costume. You can even get creative and spell some words.
Teen/Adult Costumes
Bubble Tea
Supplies: black pom-poms, white felt, cardboard tube, solid color wrapping paper, a headband, a dress or long shirt you’ll be wearing, scissors and a hot glue gun
Glue the pom-poms to the bottom of your dress/shirt in a random fashion.
Cut strips of white felt and glue them along the bottom of the dress/shirt. This will help it to look more like a cup.
Next make your straw. This will go on your head. Cover the cardboard tube in wrapping paper.
Poke a hole through the bottom of the tube. Thread the headband through that hole.
Hot glue the headband in place. Bobby pin it to your head.
Magic Eight Ball
Supplies: black t-shirt and black pants, white and black felt, light blue cardstock, white paint marker, hot glue, headband
Cut out a large circle in white felt.
Cut out the number 8 in black felt that will fill your circle.
Glue the 8 to the white circle and then glue the circle to the center of your t-shirt.
Cut a triangle in blue cardstock. Write on it with a white paint maker, “Ask again later.”
Attach the cardstock to the headband. You will need to cut a strip of cardstock, fold it in half and glue one side down to the band and the other side to the triangle.
Going Batty
Supplies: black hoodie, black pants, an old black umbrella, pliers, wire cutters, safety pins, scissors, black electrical tape, black foam
Open the umbrella fully. Carefully remove the central metal structure with pliers and wire cutters so you are left with the fabric canopy and metal spokes.
Cut the umbrella fabric in half lengthwise, so you have two triangular wing shapes.
Use safety pins to attach each wing to your hoodie, so that the cut edge runs along the underside of your arms. This will give you the bat wing effect when you lift them.
Cut out ears from the black foam and attach them to the hood using electrical tape.
Couple Costumes
Mario and Luigi
Supplies: Overalls (or pants and suspenders), red and green shirts, red and green hats, black felt and elastic for mustaches (or eyeliner to draw your own), white gloves, yellow and white paper, red and green markers, tape, hot glue, hole punch
To make the signature “M” and “L” for the hats, cut out circles and draw the letters (L in green and M in red).
Tape the L to the green hat and the M to the red hat.
Cut out two circles to form the “buttons” at the top of the overalls. Attach with tape.
Cut out two identical mustache shapes for each person in black felt.
Cut a piece of elastic and place at each side of the mustache shapes in between them. Hot glue to secure.
Pencil and Notebook
Supplies: (For pencil) old cone-shaped party hat, tan and yellow card stock, black marker, glue stick, elastic, scissors, yellow dress/outfit, silver socks, pink shoes (For notebook) white t-shirt, red and blue fabric markers, yardstick
Glue the tan card stock over the party hat.
Cut a strip of the yellow card stock. Then cut a scalloped pattern along the top.
Glue the yellow card stock along the bottom of the hat.
Use the black marker to color the top tip so it looks like pencil lead.
If needed, add the elastic to the party hat.
For the notebook, use a yardstick to draw a vertical red line from the shoulder to the bottom of the t-shirt along the left side.
Then use the yardstick as a guide to draw horizontal blue lines about 1-2 inches apart.
Pair the white shirt with jeans.
Sushi and Soy Sauce
Supplies: pillow, orange pillowcase, white dress/outfit, green and black tulle, green shower loofah, green spray paint, foam batting, white fabric marker, hot glue, plastic headband, black outfit, black apron, printout of soy sauce logo, red beanie
Spray paint the foam batting green. When dry, cut it into long strips. These will be your cucumber sticks.
Put the pillowcase on the pillow. Use fabric marker to draw diagonal lines to mimic a piece of raw salmon.
Glue the loofah to the plastic headband. This is the wasabi. You can add some smaller cucumber sticks too if you’d like.
To assemble, wear the white dress/outfit. (You are the rice.) Attach the pillow to your back using the tulle. Tie it off to the side.
Tuck in some of the longer cucumber pieces.
For the soy sauce costume, affix the logo to the front of the apron.
Wear all black, the apron, and a red beanie for your cap.
Pet Costumes
Watch Dog
Supplies: plain t-shirt that fits your dog, peel-and-stick felt, printed watch faces, hot glue, black marker
Cut felt into strips to resemble a watch band.
Hot glue watch faces to the middle of the bands.
Stick the watch bands onto the t-shirt. Space them so that the faces don’t overlap.
Add black dots for the holes in the band.
Groovy Hippie
Supplies: child’s size tie-dyed t-shirt that will fit your dog, craft foam, hot glue, beads, round rim sunglasses, elastic
Cut out a peace sign in craft foam.
Hot glue it to the beads to create a necklace.
Dress your dog in the t-shirt. Tie it off with a knot in the side for a better fit and to ensure that your dog can go to the bathroom.
Place the peace sign beads around your dog’s neck. Adjust so it’s not too tight or too loose.
If your dog will tolerate it, finish the outfit off with a pair of sunglasses. Secure them with elastic tied to each side.
Rocket Dog
Supplies: 2 empty one-liter soda bottles, silver spray paint, yellow, orange and red tissue paper, silver duct tape, image of the NASA logo
Paint the bottles silver and allow to dry. (Pro tip: Hang the bottles by clip hangers on a low tree branch for easy painting.)
Duct tape the bottles together at the middle.
Create streams of tissue paper flames that come out of the openings. Duct tape to secure the flames.
Add the NASA logo or another outer space image of your choice.
Attach the rocket launchers to your dog’s harness using the duct tape.
Happy Halloween from all of us at California Casualty!
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.
Picture a living room where soft throws, flickering candles, and calming neutral tones create a haven of warmth and relaxation. That’s the idea behind Hygge, the Danish art of coziness. Whether you’re unwinding with a cup of tea or enjoying a quiet moment, a hygge-inspired space wraps you in comfort and serenity. Ready to embrace the cozy life? Let’s explore how to turn your living room into the ultimate snug retreat.
What exactly is Hygge?
Hygge (pronounced hoo-ga) is a Norwegian word that means coziness. It’s a Danish concept characterized by simplicity that embodies a feeling of comfort and contentment. At its core, hygge is about slowing down and savoring moments that bring joy and relaxation, helping to create a sense of well-being and balance in everyday life.
Elements of Hygge Design
Hygge design is all about simplicity and functionality. Here are some easy ways to incorporate hygge elements into your living room.
Space
Hygge spaces are uncluttered, light and airy spaces with distinct areas.
Clutter is stressful. The first step is to declutter your room. This gives you the blank canvas to thoughtfully consider what belongs here.
If you’re ready for a painting project, paint your walls in a light earth tone such as white, off-white or cream.
Add sheer drapes or window coverings in shades of those same colors.
Plan out cozy places within the room to gather, such as a reading corner and conversation nook.
Furnishings
When considering your furniture, look for modern, minimalistic designs.
Draw inspiration from Scandinavian furniture with clean lines, rounded edges and tapered legs.
Avoid stiff furnishings. Instead choose a chair with overstuffed arms or super soft upholstery.
Blend old and new. You can incorporate vintage furniture next to modern.
Arrange seating for conversation and interaction, rather than around the television.
Less is more but make sure you have ample seating for everyone.
Calming Neutrals
The neutral color palette used in hygge design draws inspiration from nature.
Choose calming tones such as creams, grays and browns. Think of the colors that you find in natural shades of wood.
Select patterns with similar colors that will not disrupt the harmony.
Avoid bright pops of color. Instead, go deeper with earth tones.
Everything you add should create a peaceful atmosphere.
Tactile Textiles
A neutral palette allows the textures to really stand out.
Choose materials that invite you to touch them, such as fluffy pillows, thick knits, boucle blankets, and items made of linen, cashmere, and fuzzy mohair.
Add a deep pile area rug that invites your toes to sink in.
Layer your textures. Group together throws and cushions of different textures.
Pile blankets high in a wicker basket within easy reach of your seating area.
Soft Lighting
Lighting creates the right ambiance for relaxation.
Just as you layer fabrics, you can layer lighting. Choose an overall dimmer switch for full room lighting that can be adjusted to fit your mood. Then add pockets of lighting in areas within your space.
Use a floor lap or table lamp in your reading nook. Choose light bulbs with a warm color temperature. Lamps with frosted shades offer beautiful, filtered light.
Candles provide a flickering glow. Choose flameless varieties that are safe around kids and pets, for increased fire safety.
Twinkling lights give off a softer light than your overhead light. Choose tiny white or clear lights that work with hygge décor.
Natural Elements
Hygge is inspired by a connection to nature. Bring those natural elements inside.
Add potted plants, fresh or dried flowers, for some natural inspiration.
Incorporate organic materials like wood and stone in furniture and décor.
Consider wood floors, wooden bookcases and shiplap paneling on walls.
Display artwork depicting scenes in nature or using natural items or themes.
Décor
Hygge is about minimalism. You’ll want to keep your décor simple and meaningful.
Display your treasures—the things that are meaningful to you. That includes children’s artwork, DIY crafts and family photos.
Avoid overcrowding shelves and tables with knickknacks.
Less is more when it comes to décor. Start with a blank slate and add one or two pieces to create that cozy, welcoming feel.
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