Category Archives: Rest and relaxation

30-minutes Self-care Tips for Moms

I’ve got these very useful tips from popsugar.com for moms out there to spare a few precious minutes to take care of themselves — self-care tips for you and me.

“Running allows me to set my mind free. Nothing seems impossible. Nothing unattainable.” — Kara Goucher, Olympic long-distance runner

If you have 30 minutes for self-care.

  • Borrow your kid’s coloring book, put on a Spotify playlist you like, and start coloring.
  • Write down something that’s bothering you or keeping you up at night. Then start thinking about the steps you need to take in order to complete the goal, working backward. So if selling your house is something on your mind, think about all of the steps that are getting in your way of doing it (i.e. fix the leaky roof, have the basement repaired, paint the porch, etc.).
  • Stash your phone in your pocket and go on a nature walk.
  • Make yourself some tea and take a soothing bath.
  • Cue up your favorite workout and get exercising.
  • Set up a phone date with a friend you’ve lost touch with. Make sure they’re available to chat with you too.
  • Go to a bookstore and dive into a book or your favorite magazines.
  • Start and complete a mini art project. Maybe it’s turning the pictures on your phone into an album.

Discover the Natural Beauty of Southeastern Oklahoma

If Oklahoma brings to mind vast plains and grasslands, you might be surprised to learn about the existence of forests and mountains in southeast Oklahoma. A vacation to the region gives you an opportunity to get away from it all and get back to nature. Autumn visits are sure to please with fall foliage displays that rival those seen further east. Revive and unwind while hiking, paddling or fishing, then return to peaceful lodgings at Beavers Bend Resort Park cabins.

Hiking Trails

You will find a plethora of hiking trails in Beavers Bend State Park. While a majority of the trails are rated easy to moderate, the 8.6-mile Skyline Loop offers a challenge for more experienced hikers. Grab a trail map with ratings and reviews to find the perfect hiking paths for your trip, whether you are looking for a short, casual stroll or a heart-pumping full-day trek.

Kayaking or Canoeing

The clear, cool waters of the Mountain Fork River make it a perfect place for your kayak or canoe outing. Paddle your way through tall stands of trees and along rocky hillsides. Stop for a picnic and a snooze on the shores. You can find anything from 4-mile trips to multi-day expeditions for whatever floats your boat!

Fishing

The 14,000-acre Broken Bow Lake is surrounded by the forested Kiamichi Mountains. The entire site is managed by the Army Corps of Engineers, so you will be rewarded with unbroken views of natural beauty while out on a fishing boat excursion in the middle of the lake. Hire a guide to find the best locations to toss your line on this large body of water.

Eastern Oklahoma offers a beautiful setting for a quick getaway or a longer vacation. You will find plenty of outdoor activities to rejuvenate or relax. Set your sights on something new and plan your next holiday getaway to Broken Bow, OK.

What You Should Know Before Installing a Pool

A pool is a great way to add beauty and fun to your backyard. Swimming pools and water features are symbols of luxury and can make your home desirable, despite not offering the best return on investment. Whether you’re interested in hosting pool parties or getting some low-impact exercise, here are some things to know before you get started.

True Cost of Ownership

When budgeting for a pool, be sure to consider the true cost of ownership. In addition to installation, there are also costs associated with maintenance, including filtering, cleaning and heating. You should also budget for a pool cover, decking, ladders, lighting and other auxiliary items. Local regulations may require you to build fencing and other safety elements. Furthermore, there may be increases in the amount of homeowner insurance you’re required to have as well as increases in your property value and associated taxes.

Pool Type

Carefully consider the type of container your pool will sit in. Concrete, vinyl and fiberglass are popular options with various pros and cons. Concrete is usually the most expensive and requires considerable maintenance. Vinyl is less expensive, but a tear requires complete replacement. Fiberglass is relatively low-maintenance, but varies widely in quality. Consult a provider of one-piece fiberglass pools Missouri to discuss your options.

Details, Details, Details!

You’ll also need to pay special attention to the terms of your contract and warranty. You need to be clear on what the warranty covers when it comes to parts, materials and structural items. Some parts are covered by a manufacturer, while others are covered by the dealer. It is important to know who to call when something goes wrong. It is also recommended that you request a sample warranty from each bidder and go over the details.

Having a pool for a private workout or cooling off on a hot day is truly a pleasure. A swimming pool brings visual appeal to your backyard. Before you get carried away, consider all the upfront and long-term costs and make sure to understand the terms and conditions of any contracts or warranties.