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“For each petal on the shamrock this brings a wish your way. Good health, good luck and happiness for today and every day.”
-Irish blessing |
| Tip of the Month |
As spring draws ever nearer, many homeowners are thinking about sprucing up their homes. Unfortunately, if you’re not a savvy DIY-er, home repairs can be expensive when you hire help. The following three tips from Andy Bell, founder of a franchise repair service, Handyman Matters, will help you prevent that leaky faucet from blowing your budget:
• Cut base charges. Repair people usually charge a flat fee ranging from $25 to $90 for a visit and then tack on hourly charges. Save money by consolidating repairs into fewer visits and paying only one base charge. If you need your furnace checked, have the HVAC specialist also tune up your air conditioner.
• Communicate on the phone. When you call a repair person, be clear on the phone as to what the problem is and the history of the problem. If the repair person knows exactly what to expect, he or she will come prepared and save time and money. You might also ask if it’s possible to e-mail a photo of the problem.
• Purchase your own supplies. Most repair companies charge a markup of 20% to 100% of the cost of materials, and may also charge you for the time spent shopping. If you can purchase your own paint, tile, carpet or other home repair material, you will save money on the repair.
Source: USA Weekend
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Seasonal
Suggestion
Channel the luck of the Irish this St. Patrick’s Day by decorating your home for the occasion. Whether you are throwing a St. Patty’s Day bash or just enjoying the holiday yourself, consider these tips for bringing the Emerald Isle into your home:
- Add Irish blessings or Gaelic words to decorative items, such as candles, coasters or frames. “Slainte” means “cheers,” while “go n-éirí leat” means “all the best.” The Internet is a great source for longer phrases or blessings.
- If you’re not looking for a sedate, classy celebration, purchase novelty items from a party store. Little black cauldrons can hold gold-foiled chocolate coins, or you can present each guest with their own festive hat to wear at the party.
- Add a few drops of green food coloring to anything! Cookies, beer, punch and bread are all good targets – if you want to eat green things, that is! You could also serve a variety of green foods – broccoli, green M&M’s and sour apple soda are just a few options!
- For a classier get-together, visit a garden center and purchase natural materials, such as spongy mosses, shamrock plants and smooth river stones, along with a Celtic-themed planter. Use as a centerpiece or accent piece. You can also consider a flat of wheat grass for a low centerpiece, coupled with Irish linen.
Source: Holiday Decorating for Dummies by Kelley Taylor, Wiley Publishing, Inc., 2003.
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