Spring Door Decor

Nothing says Spring like a brightly decorated door welcoming you in!  Think outside the typical wreath with some unique ways to spruce up for Spring!

Utilize dollar store flip flops for a fun way to adorn your entrance

Rain boots, ribbon and fake flowers make a cheery display

A wreath made from a brightly colored garden hose is a fun twist on an old stand-by

Flower baskets are an easy way to incorporate Spring color

Possible Tax Deductions

Tax time is almost here and though it isn't anyone's favorite time of year there are ways to make it less painful - especially if you're a homeowner.

Besides the more obvious deductions for mortgage interest and property taxes there are other ways you may be able to save money. Always talk with a professional to make sure that the deductions apply to you and that you know how to file correctly. Remember - it can't hurt to ask!

Eligible deductions for homeowners:

- Mortgage Interest

- Property Taxes

- Private Mortgage Insurance

- Medical Improvements (such as ramps or lifts)

- Dedicated Home Office Space

- Energy Efficient Home Improvements

If you've sold a home in the last year you may be eligible for deductions from that as well. Talk with a tax professional and enjoy even more benefits of owning a home!

Spring Gardening - Part Two

So you've come up with the perfect spot for your garden and worked on a layout.  Now...what to plant?

It's a good idea to start with some easy-to-grow veggies that will not disappoint. Some of the best no-fail plants include:

- Basil
- Cucumber
- Summer Squash
- Green Beans
- Lettuce

Of course a summer harvest wouldn't be complete without red, ripe tomatoes.  Tomatoes need plenty of water and sunshine. Stake the plants to keep them from laying on the ground.  Look for disease resistant varieties where possible.

Different plants compliment each other and aide in growth.  Plant corn, beans and squash in the same area. Basil planted near tomatoes helps to repel flies and mosquitoes. Lettuce, carrots and radishes grow well together.

So here at the end of February what is your next step? . If you're growing from seed - begin the process inside where the seedlings will be safe from cold temperatures. If you're looking for rare or heirloom varieties begin placing your orders online.

Planning Your Vegetable Garden - Part 1

If you're ready to start thinking about the Spring - now is the perfect time to start planning your vegetable garden.  It's not too early! A little preparation and planning now will make your planting season go on without a hitch.

So how to begin?

When planning your first vegetable garden don't try to do too much too soon. It's better to have a smaller garden that you can manage then a large garden that is out of control.  The first thing to consider is location.  Most vegetables need about 6-8 hours of sun in order to remain healthy and produce as they should.  Think of a location that will be easy to water and easy to harvest.

Draw out a plan for your garden showing where you would like each item to go. It's not necessary to have a lot of space between plants - just know it will require some weeding by hand in order to maintain.

For some sample layout designs see the links below.

http://www.almanac.com/content/online-garden-planner-old-farmers-almanac

http://www.bhg.com/gardening/plans/vegetable/

Adopt a Highway

Adopt a Highway Clean up Day Saturday, February 6th

We will be meeting at the Boat Ramp on the corner of Longtown Road West and Columbia Club Dr at 8:30am on Saturday morning to clean up our community. If you would like to help out please email Tracy Corson at tlceec@gmail.com so that we have a head count for drinks. Everyone who helps out will receive a coupon/gift card for a breakfast biscuit and there will be a raffle for all those who participate for a gas card. We are more than happy to email teachers or club sponsors to validate community service hours.

Party Prep

Whether you are a serious professional football fan or not, the Super Bowl has gained it's place in the line of American past times.  Friends gather to eat, cheer on their favorite teams, watch the half time show or rate the commercials.

Thanks to Pinterest - we've got plenty of great ideas on how you can make your party a winner!

Need some entertainment for your non-football loving guests? Game Day Bingo!

Personal size snacks - cut down on the double dipping and mess

Fun ways to incorporate retro candy

DIY Decor!

Stay Warm Tips

The winter weather has finally arrived and you are trying desperately to stay warm!

Here are some ways to warm up - the smart way!

1. When you're coming home to a cold house, don't crank the thermostat up too high too fast. Thermostats don't work that way and it will just end up costing you money.

2. At night, or when you're not home, don't let it get too cold. Otherwise it will take a long time to heat back up. The key is to not try and go to extremes with your temperature. Dropping by just a couple of degrees at night is the better way to go.

3. Make use of a programmable thermostat. Automatic adjustments will happen more slowly and more efficiently.

4. During the day, keep your blinds open to let in the warmth of the sunlight. Make sure all of the windows are locked to prevent drafts.

5. Don't close the heating vents in rooms that aren't used often. This could cause an imbalance in your heating system.

Do you have any stay warm tips this winter?