By Colleen Ford
Spruce up your balcony or patio with some hardy outdoor plants!

By Colleen Ford
Spruce up your balcony or patio with some hardy outdoor plants!
By Jason Ernst
Chicago was something of a speakeasy capital during the Prohibition years, fueled largely by the bootlegging of prolific gangster Al Capone. And although the speakeasy’s purpose ended with the 1933 repeal of Prohibition, demand for speakeasy-style bars never truly fizzled out. Today, “secret” bars requiring a password for entrance are as popular as ever, as well as those decorated with the trappings of the 1920s and Prohibition era. Here are 15 hip retro bars where you can get a taste of the times without fear of legal retribution. The Bassment Tucked beneath The Hampton Social, this hopping Chicago speakeasy hosts in-house jazz, […]
By Jason Ernst
Unless you are an obsessively disciplined minimalist, you probably wish you had more storage space in your apartment. Furnished storage space is an option worth considering, but too much additional furniture is likely to clutter your apartment. DIY storage systems are a less expensive, more practical alternative for many apartments. Before buying new furniture or renting storage space, make sure your closets, cabinetry, desks and dressers are organized for optimal storage. If they’re not, these space-saving DIY projects should help you better use your apartment’s existing storage infrastructure. Magazine rack organizers Magazine racks are conveniently sized for storing an array of household […]
By Jason Ernst
The Colorado River’s southern shores are home to some of Austin’s most treasured green space. And the fast-growing neighborhoods lining those shores are the site of dynamic service and retail activity. As a result, there are plenty of exciting ways to pass time in and around the South Shore District. The next time you want to make the most of a day off without venturing far from your South Shore apartment rental, consider these worthwhile experiences. Relax or recreate at Lady Bird Lake Lady Bird Lake, the easternmost reservoir along Texas’ Colorado River, was designed as a power plant cooling pond. Now an integral […]
By Jason Ernst
You could probably attribute it to Seattle’s strong Nordic heritage, health-conscious population or oft-gloomy weather. But for some reason, the Emerald City and its environs are home to an impressive number of exceptional day spas. We’re not complaining or anything. It just makes it that much harder to have a bad spa day. But for a truly remarkable spa day, here are nine Seattle spa retreats every massage enthusiast and sauna rat should know. Ananya Spa Year after year, this waterfront Seattle spa receives positive critical reviews and appears on lists of the city’s best spas. Ananya is praised for the quality and […]
By Jason Ernst
For many, crocheting is a fun hobby suitable for multitasking. You can fashion a blanket or scarf with yarn and your crochet hook while watching TV or listening to an audio book. You can even crochet while exercising on a stationary bike. If you’re interested in crochet but have no prior experience, follow this step-by-step guide to getting started. Acquire materials To start crocheting, you’ll need a crochet hook, yarn, scissors, a darning needle (large-eye) and a measuring tape. You’ll also want a bag, box or bin for storing your crochet materials. Lastly, you’ll need a pattern to work from. Free crochet […]
By Jason Ernst
Whether you’re exploring historic sites, immersing yourself in another culture, or ogling at a natural wonder, travel affords some of the richest and most rewarding experiences you can have. Do your part in protecting the places you visit by respecting local norms end employing sustainable travel practices. Here are 10 ways to reduce your travel footprint or compensate for carbon emissions associated with getting you to and from your vacation destination. Set thermostat to save energy Before you leave for your destination, set the thermostat in your apartment higher than usual to save electricity. If traveling in winter, set the thermostat lower […]
By Jason Ernst
For decades, Buckhead has been a hub for Atlanta nightlife and drinking culture. With long-standing institutions still thriving and energetic new bars and clubs opening up at a steady pace, the neighborhood’s star shows no signs of fading. Here’s a look at eight of the hottest places to enjoy a cocktail in Buckhead right now. Cook Hall Cocktails are DIY at this sanctuary for contemporary comfort food. Well, sort of. Several of James Beard award winner Belinda Chang’s inventive cocktails are available as DIY cocktail kits. You’ll get precisely the volume of spirits, mixers, and other flavored ingredients required for each cocktail you […]
Houston’s highly-regarded food scene offers something for all tastes and all occasions. The next time you’re making reservations for a romantic evening with your special someone in Montrose, River Oaks or Uptown Houston, here are a dozen date restaurants to consider.
By Jason Ernst
According to the USDA’s Natural Amenities Scale, the 10 most beautiful counties in the country are all in California. If you live in or have visited Orange County, you probably won’t be surprised to hear it made the list. If it’s been too long since you made use of the natural splendor at your fingertips or you’ve recently relocated and want to get to know Orange County the right way, check out these exceptional outdoor attractions. A post shared by Bolsa Chica Conservancy (@bolsachicacon) on May 5, 2018 at 8:21am PDT Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve This remarkable Huntington Beach destination is a […]