How to create a magic filled table setting
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How to create a magic filled table setting

I am all about creating a setting full of magic. Whether it is a table for 2 or 20, a simple family gathering in the backyard or a special occasion get together. It’s all about setting the stage for a magical gathering that will treat your guests and create wonderful lasting memories.

Magic Filled Table setting

First and foremost when setting a table for friends or family – most folks think of what they will serve and plan the menu. My menu planning looks a little different. I don’t start with the food- I start with the ambiance and setting

The Best Vintage Style Terra Cotta Pots
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The Best Vintage Style Terra Cotta Pots

Can little terracotta pots and planters filled with blooming beauties bring joy?

I say yes. And according to the many of you who asked about the pots I shared yesterday – it seems you agree too. So today it is all about some of the best vintage style pots and planters.

Terra Cotta Pots & Planters

Something funny- every time I type ‘terra cotta’ it changes it to ‘terra cottages‘. Which I guess is kind of okay since these little vintage style terra cotta ( or terracotta depending on what you like) garden pots are perfect for cottage style.

Home improvement still high on families agenda
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Home improvement still high on families agenda

Apr. 7—Economic trends are keeping home improvement high on the agenda of area residents, said Raymond Builders Vice President Greg Wright.

The trend has continued since the mid-2010s but is especially strong right now due to economic issues.

“I think we are seeing, as interest rates increase, people are putting more money into their homes,” Wright said.

Forbes magazine highlighted numerous trends in the industry including more personalized space, more color in kitchens and a mix of indoor-outdoor space.

Wright said the popularity of outdoor landscaping and outdoor entertainment areas has grown. He said the home improvement industry in general

BBB report shows home improvement scams at top of 2022 list
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BBB report shows home improvement scams at top of 2022 list

The Better Business Bureau has released its list of the top scams reported in Canada in 2022, and home improvement scams have moved to the top of the list.

Reports of home improvement scams by Canadians increased by 51.2 per cent last year. People also lost more money to this type of scam, with a median dollar loss of $1,900, up 187.4 per cent from $661 in 2021.

“Home improvement scams rose from the #4 riskiest scam type reported by Canadians in 2021 to #1 in 2022,” says Simone Lis, President and CEO of BBB serving Mainland BC and the

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Contractor scams can be hard to prove. What to do if it happens to you

  • While the number of home improvement fraud cases has remained consistent, in recent years the Delaware State Police have increasingly pursued felony charges.
  • Home improvement fraud cases are difficult to prove as it requires proving the contractor intended to swindle a customer from the time a contract was signed.
  • The percentage of guilty pleasures in home improvement fraud cases is less than 25%.

EDITOR’S NOTE: This story has been updated to clarify that most home improvement fraud complaints are neither criminal nor civil violations. Due to inaccurate data provided by the Department of Justice, a graphic was also corrected for

our may 2023 box and a giveaway
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our may 2023 box and a giveaway

I’m happy to announce our May box giveaway! This May Box is all about spring and will be curated around the theme, Vive le Printemps. I love to live by the seasons, but I’m the first to admit that by the time we get to March I am totally over the winter, and longing to get to Spring!

I love the season because this is when I make plans for the garden, when I sow some seeds for the summer. I made planting layouts for the potager, and got excited to soon start dividing and replanting the dahlia tubers

Homeowners, Here’s How to Get More Money Back on Your Taxes
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Homeowners, Here’s How to Get More Money Back on Your Taxes

This story is part of Taxes 2023CNET’s coverage of the best tax software, tax tips and everything else you need to file your return and track your refund.

It’s not easy affording a home, even after you’ve made the down payment and started a mortgage. The average homeowner spends $15,405 on top of their mortgage each year, according to real-estate company Clever.

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Robert Rodriguez/CNET

All those expenses come with a silver lining, however — tax credits and deductions for your home that can lead to a bigger tax refund. For homeowners, learning as much as you can about your

3 Easy Ways to Dry Flowers for Decor
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3 Easy Ways to Dry Flowers for Decor

I’ve always been a flower girl. Whether it’s flowers for celebrating a special occasion or for designing a beautiful centerpiece, flowers always add a warm feeling to your home. And while I love fresh flowers as much as the next person, one of my favorite ways to use flowers in my decoration is by using dried flowers.

French Antique furniture with dried flowers

Dried flowers truly give a room personality and can add a vintage charm to your decor that can last for years. They are also low maintenance and easy to DIY. From hanging them up to dry naturally to speeding up the process with