Copper Accented Cement Leaf Faux Fossils

These stunning faux fossils are just the thing to make with a small amount of leftover cement. They add the perfect touch to your garden and are ultra easy to complete. They would also make a wonderful gift option.

I love to create stunning accents for my home and garden with cement. Over the years I have made quite a few gorgeous items, from a dessert stand that was show stopping, to adorable little toadstools and even jewelry holders.  

I love DIY projects that make use of items I have around the house. This one was perfect as it used a freshly discarded plastic lid, a small amount of leftover cement from a project at the house, and a leaf plucked from my yard.

I added the cement to the lid and tapped it level. I pressed a leaf that I found appealing, into the wet cement. Then I let it dry for 24 hours in the sun.

I carefully peeled the leaf out and painted the imprinted area with copper paint. I allowed it to dry for another 24 hours inside, to keep it free of dust.

It was easy to pop the cement disc out of the lid, but if yours is stubborn, you can cut the side with a box cutter or a knife. 

I thought about painting my leaf fossil green, but I had a little copper paint in my collection. I thought it would be interesting, and add a great pop of color to my lush green flower beds.

As you can see, I needed several coats of paint . But, in the end, it turned out pretty nicely.

Find more great cement projects here:

Cement spoon garden markers

Grass imprinted concrete garden art

A Guide for Planning Your First-Ever Solo Vacation

 

Embarking on your first solo vacation marks a significant milestone in personal freedom and self-discovery. Solo travel not only allows you to explore at your own pace but also offers profound benefits, such as boosting your confidence and providing a unique sense of accomplishment. If you're considering a solo trip, the Great Smoky Mountains offer an ideal destination. With its breathtaking landscapes, accessible trails, and wealth of activities, it’s a place where you can truly connect with nature and yourself.

Here’s how you can make the most of your first solo adventure.

1. Choosing the Smoky Mountains: Why It's Perfect for Solo Travelers

The Smoky Mountains are a paradise for solo travelers seeking both adventure and tranquility. Known for their mist-covered peaks, these mountains offer endless opportunities for exploration and personal reflection. The well-marked trails range from easy walks to challenging hikes, making it easy to find something that suits your pace. Moreover, the area's safety and the friendly locals ensure that even as a solo traveler, you'll feel right at home. The diverse range of activities, from exploring historic cabins to participating in ranger-led programs, means every day can be as relaxed or as adventurous as you wish.

2. Booking the Perfect Cabin Rental

When booking your Smoky Mountain cabin rental, prioritize location for stunning views and ease of access to trails and local attractions. Look for cabins that offer the comforts of home, like a kitchen and a cozy living area, which are essential after a day of hiking. Many cabins also feature decks or hot tubs where you can unwind while surrounded by nature. When choosing your cabin, consider its proximity to the park’s main entrances or key landmarks, as this will minimize travel time and maximize your immersion in the natural beauty around you.

3. Packing Essentials for the Mountains

Packing properly is key to enjoying your solo adventure in the Smoky Mountains. Essentials include weather-appropriate clothing—think layers that you can add or remove as needed. Sturdy hiking boots are a must, along with a first aid kit, a flashlight, and a waterproof jacket. Don’t forget to pack a map and a compass, even if you plan to use your smartphone or GPS, as these traditional tools can be invaluable if technology fails. Additionally, bring a reusable water bottle and snacks to keep your energy up throughout your explorations.

4. Planning Your Itinerary

Planning your itinerary ahead of time can help you make the most of your solo trip. Start with the must-see highlights of the Smoky Mountains, such as Clingmans Dome and Cades Cove, then add in activities that cater to your interests, like photography or bird watching. Balance your days between bustling activity and moments of solitude. Schedule some downtime to relax or write in your travel journal, especially after more strenuous activities. Being flexible with your plans can also lead to unexpected discoveries and opportunities to engage more deeply with the place and its people.

5. Navigating Solo Safely

Staying safe is paramount when traveling alone. Always let someone know your plans for the day, especially if venturing into less populated areas. Stay on marked trails and be mindful of wildlife, keeping a safe distance at all times. Check weather conditions before heading out and start your hikes early to ensure you have enough daylight. Carrying a whistle and a small, portable charger for your phone can also enhance your safety during longer hikes.

6. Meeting New People and Making Friends

Traveling solo doesn't mean you have to be alone all the time. The Smoky Mountains region is known for its warm hospitality and community-oriented spirit. Participate in group hikes or guided tours offered by local outfitters or the park itself to connect with fellow travelers. Attending local events such as festivals, craft shows, or live music evenings also provides great opportunities to meet locals and other solo travelers. These shared experiences can lead to meaningful connections and even lasting friendships.

7. Best Dining Experiences

The Smoky Mountains are not just a feast for the eyes but also a delight for the taste buds. The area boasts a range of dining options that highlight Southern cuisine. Treat yourself to local specialties like smoked barbecue, fresh trout, and homemade biscuits. Restaurants with mountain views offer a scenic backdrop to your meal, enhancing the dining experience. Don’t miss out on visiting local breweries or distilleries for a taste of regional craft beers and spirits. Dining alone can be a liberating experience, giving you the chance to truly savor the flavors and reflect on your day.

8. Capturing Memories: Photography Tips

Solo travel in the Smoky Mountains provides picturesque landscapes perfect for photography. To capture the best shots, consider waking up early to photograph the sunrise when the light is soft and the mountains are quiet. Use your phone or camera to take panoramic shots of the vistas or close-ups of the flora and fauna. Experiment with different angles and settings to find unique perspectives. Most importantly, don’t forget to occasionally put the camera away and soak in the beauty with your own eyes, ensuring the moment is captured in your memory as well as your memory card.

9. Budgeting for Your Trip

A solo vacation can be as luxurious or as budget-friendly as you desire. To keep expenses in check, plan your travel dates during the off-peak seasons when accommodation rates are lower. Consider preparing some meals at your cabin rental, especially breakfast and dinner, to save on dining costs. Many of the best experiences in the Smoky Mountains, like hiking, wildlife watching, and visiting historical sites, are low-cost or free. Keep an eye out for discounts on tours or attractions, and always set aside a little extra for unexpected opportunities.

10. Reflecting on Your Solo Travel Experience

As your solo trip comes to an end, take time to reflect on your experiences. Consider keeping a journal throughout your journey to jot down thoughts, feelings, and discoveries along the way. Reflecting helps cement the memories and lessons learned from traveling alone. It can be incredibly rewarding to look back and see how you've navigated challenges, embraced new experiences, and grown. 

Conclusion

Planning and executing your first solo vacation in the Smoky Mountains can be a deeply rewarding experience. It’s a chance to meet a new you against the backdrop of nature’s grandeur. Each step of the way, from the trails you trek to the quiet evenings spent in your cabin, you'll build confidence and collect memories that last a lifetime. Embrace the journey as much as the destination, and let the Smoky Mountains inspire and transform you.

Exterior Home Maintenance - 6 Tips to Fix Weather Damages

 

Source

Maintaining the exterior of your home is crucial, not just for aesthetic value but for structural integrity, especially in a place like Pittsburgh. Known for its challenging climate, Pittsburgh experiences a diverse range of weather conditions, from heavy snowfalls and icy winters to wet springs and sweltering summers. Each season brings unique challenges that can wear down your home’s defenses. Regular maintenance is essential to prevent long-term damage and to ensure that your home remains a safe and comfortable haven against the weather's harsh elements.

1. Addressing Roof Damage

In Pittsburgh, the roof endures extreme conditions that can lead to significant damage over time. Winter storms can cause shingles to break or become loose, while ice dams can create moisture problems that compromise the roof’s structure. It's important to regularly inspect your roof for signs of damage and address these issues promptly to prevent minor problems from becoming major ones.

When roof damage goes beyond simple repairs, it may be time to consider a replacement. For such significant undertakings, consulting with roof replacement experts in Pittsburgh is advisable. These professionals specialize in handling the complexities of roof repair and replacement in the region, understanding the specific needs that arise from local weather patterns. Their expertise can guide you in making the best decisions for your home, ensuring that your new roof is well-suited to withstand future weather challenges.

Looking up the keyword Pittsburgh Roof Replacement experts near me on any search engine will prove helpful in hiring reliable roofers. 

2. Siding Repairs and Upgrades

Siding not only enhances the visual appeal of your home but also protects its structural integrity by shielding it from the elements. In Pittsburgh, where the weather can be particularly harsh, the siding needs to be robust enough to withstand constant exposure to moisture, wind, and temperature fluctuations. Regular inspections can help identify problems such as cracks, warping, or mold growth, which are signs that your siding may need repair or replacement to continue protecting your home effectively.

Choosing the right materials is crucial when repairing or upgrading your siding. Materials like vinyl and fiber cement are popular for their durability and ability to withstand Pittsburgh’s wet climate. Additionally, modern siding materials can offer improved insulation properties, which help maintain your home's temperature and reduce energy costs. Upgrading your siding is not only a maintenance task but an investment in your home’s longevity and energy efficiency.

3. Gutter System Maintenance

Gutters are essential in controlling water runoff from your roof, ensuring it is properly diverted from your home's foundation and landscaping areas. This function is crucial to preventing water-related damage that can compromise the structural integrity of your home. Effective gutter maintenance is especially important in Pittsburgh, given the frequent rain and melting snow. Clogged or damaged gutters can lead to water overflow, which can damage the foundation, erode the landscaping, and lead to water intrusion in basements.

It's advisable to clean your gutters at least twice a year—before the heavy rains in spring and again in fall to clear out leaves and debris. If your gutters are sagging, pulling away from the house, or showing signs of rust and wear, it may be time to call in professionals for repairs or replacement. Ensuring that your gutter system is functioning correctly can prevent a host of expensive and complex problems down the line, safeguarding your home against water damage effectively. That’s why installing LeafFilter gutter guards, which will keep debris at bay, is a really smart idea for any homeowner.

4. Window and Door Sealing

The seals around windows and doors are crucial for keeping out unwanted air and moisture, particularly in Pittsburgh's fluctuating climate. Ineffective sealing not only allows the cold or heat to penetrate your home but also significantly impacts your energy bills by making your heating and cooling systems work harder. Checking these seals regularly for gaps or wear and replacing them as needed is a straightforward yet effective way to enhance your home's energy efficiency.

For those experiencing drafts even after new seals are installed, upgrading to double-pane windows can provide an additional layer of insulation, which is especially beneficial in areas like Pittsburgh. Here, winters can be brutally cold, and summers uncomfortably warm. Double-pane windows help maintain a consistent indoor temperature, reducing the strain on your heating and cooling systems and ultimately saving on energy costs.

5. Landscaping to Protect Your Home

Effective landscaping goes beyond beautification; it can also play a strategic role in protecting your home from weather-related damage. In Pittsburgh, planting trees and shrubs in specific areas can help block harsh winds and stabilize temperatures around your home. Additionally, these plants can assist in managing water runoff, which is crucial during heavy rainfalls, reducing the risk of soil erosion and water damage to your foundation.

Choosing native plants that are well-suited to the local climate can further enhance the protective benefits of your landscaping. These species are more likely to thrive, requiring less maintenance and offering better resilience against local weather extremes. Positioning these plants thoughtfully around your property not only enhances curb appeal but also provides a natural barrier against the elements, helping to safeguard your home year-round.

6. Seasonal Clean-up and Inspections

Regular inspections and clean-up tasks are vital for maintaining your home's exterior integrity. In Pittsburgh, with its range of seasonal weather changes, conducting these checks at least twice a year can prevent many potential problems. Before the onset of winter and again before summer, take the time to inspect your home thoroughly. Look for any signs of wear and tear that might have occurred during the previous seasons and address them promptly.

Engaging professionals for these inspections can be particularly beneficial. They bring an expert eye to the process, often catching issues that you might overlook. Professional clean-ups can also ensure that all aspects of your home's exterior, from gutters to roofs to basements, are prepared to handle the upcoming weather conditions. This proactive approach not only keeps your home looking its best but also prevents minor issues from escalating into major repairs.

Conclusion

Maintaining the exterior of your home in Pittsburgh requires attention to detail and an understanding of how local weather can impact different structures and materials. By following these six tips—addressing roof damage, managing siding repairs, maintaining gutter systems, sealing windows and doors, employing strategic landscaping, and conducting regular seasonal inspections—you can ensure that your home not only looks great but is also well-protected against the elements.

10 Tips for Weather-Proofing Your Home

 

Source

Weather-proofing your home is more than a precaution; it's a necessity, especially in places with diverse climates like Holland, Michigan. Known for its beautiful tulip gardens that bloom every spring, Holland experiences a wide range of weather throughout the year, from snowy winters to warm, sunny summers. This variety means that homes in Holland must be prepared to withstand whatever Mother Nature decides to throw their way. Here are some essential tips for weather-proofing your home to ensure it remains cozy, safe, and efficient, regardless of the season.

1. Start with the Roof

Your roof's integrity is paramount when it comes to weather-proofing your home. Beyond regular inspections and replacing worn shingles, consider the benefits of installing ice and water shields in areas prone to ice dams. These shields can prevent water from seeping under shingles and causing damage to the roof structure and interior of your home. Additionally, ensure your attic is properly ventilated. This will not only extend the life of your roof but also prevent ice dams by maintaining a more consistent roof temperature.

2. Seal Windows and Doors

Sealing leaks is just the first step; upgrading to double or triple-pane windows filled with inert gas can dramatically improve insulation, reducing the burden on your heating and cooling systems. A professional window company in Holland MI, such as All Weather Seal, can offer energy-efficient solutions and professional installation to ensure airtight seals. Similarly, for doors, upgrading to models with better insulation values and installing storm doors can provide an additional layer of protection against the elements.

3. Clean and Repair Gutters

While cleaning gutters is essential, so is ensuring they're properly aligned. Gutters that slope incorrectly do not efficiently channel water away from your home, potentially leading to foundation issues. Additionally, consider installing downspout extensions to direct water further away from your home's foundation. This simple addition can significantly reduce the risk of water damage to your basement and foundation, especially during Holland's heavy spring thaws and downpours.

4. Insulate Your Home

Insulation goes beyond just adding more material in the attic. Consider having a professional energy audit to identify heat loss areas, which could include hidden spots like electrical outlets, light fixtures, and where walls meet the ceiling. Expanding foam or blown-in insulation can fill these gaps, significantly improving your home’s thermal envelope. Additionally, insulating your garage door and ensuring any ductwork in unheated spaces is properly insulated can prevent cold spots and ensure more uniform temperatures throughout your home.

5. Protect Your Pipes

To further safeguard against frozen pipes, consider installing pipe insulation sleeves, which are easy to apply and cost-effective. For pipes located in particularly vulnerable areas, electrical heating tape can offer additional protection by providing direct warmth. On extremely cold nights, keeping your home a few degrees warmer than usual can make a significant difference in preventing freeze-ups. It's also wise to know where your home's main water shut-off valve is located so you can quickly respond in the event of a pipe bursting.

6. Strengthen Your Home's Exterior

The exterior of your home is its first line of defense against harsh weather. Regular inspections can catch minor issues before they escalate into major problems. If you find cracks or damage, addressing these immediately can prevent water from seeping into your home, which can lead to mold growth and structural issues. In areas where severe weather is a common occurrence, investing in high-quality siding materials can make a significant difference. Fiber-cement siding, for example, is renowned for its durability and resistance to wind, fire, and water, and it can withstand the rigors of extreme weather. Additionally, ensuring that your home’s trim and foundation are in good condition can prevent air leaks and water intrusion, keeping your home insulated and dry.

7. Landscape Wisely

Thoughtful landscaping is not only about aesthetics but also plays a crucial role in protecting your home from weather damage. Strategic planting of trees and shrubs can serve as natural windbreaks, reducing the impact of heavy winds on your home. They can also provide shade during the hotter months, contributing to keeping your home cooler. However, it's important to plant them at a safe distance from your home to avoid root damage to the foundation and to prevent any risk of branches falling on your house during storms. Choosing native plants that are adapted to your local climate can also reduce the need for water and maintenance, making your landscaping both beautiful and resilient.

8. Install Storm Shutters

Storm shutters are an invaluable addition to homes in areas prone to hurricanes or heavy storms. They offer protection for your windows against flying debris and can significantly reduce the risk of damage during severe weather events. Whether you opt for permanent shutters that blend with your home's exterior or temporary solutions that can be deployed when a storm is on the horizon, the added layer of protection can give you peace of mind knowing your home is better shielded against the elements.

9. Check Your Home's Ventilation

Adequate ventilation is key to maintaining a healthy indoor environment, particularly in controlling moisture levels. High humidity can lead to mold and mildew, which can compromise the structural integrity of your home and affect your health. Ensure that areas like your attic, basement, and crawl spaces have proper ventilation. Installing exhaust fans in your kitchen and bathrooms can also help in reducing moisture. This step is particularly important in maintaining your home’s warmth in winter and its coolness in summer, contributing to overall energy efficiency.

10. Create an Emergency Kit

Despite all the precautions, it’s always best to be prepared for any emergency. A well-stocked emergency kit is essential for weathering storms safely. Include basic supplies such as water, non-perishable food, flashlights, batteries, a first-aid kit, and blankets. Also, consider adding items like a manual can opener, a radio, and spare chargers for electronics. Regularly reviewing and replenishing your emergency kit ensures you’re always prepared for unexpected weather events, providing both safety and comfort during difficult times.

Conclusion

Weather-proofing your home not only protects your property but also enhances your comfort and peace of mind throughout the year. By taking these steps, you can ensure that your home is ready to face whatever weather comes its way, allowing you to enjoy the beauty of each season without worry.

Easy Cement Ring Holders

These easy concrete ring holders have a delicate fern implant, and a pretty gold finish for a luxe look, on a budget. Make a few for your jewelry and a few to share, because everyone is going to LOVE these pretty and functional ring holders.

I love to make things with cement. From garden stones, to garden mushrooms to functional patio coasters and lots of things in between. I wanted to find a way to bring my love of cement into the house, but was stumped on a functional way to do so. I was stumped for ideas and kind of dismissed it altogether. Then one day, the kids were eating snow cones and it was like a light bulb went off in my head. 

This is such an easy project. All you need is a few paper cones, concrete and some plant life to complete it. The paint is optional, but I think it gives a nice touch to the finished product. You can make a dozen of these for about $10, so they are perfect for gifting, and add a nice touch to the home. You could use these are ring or bracelet holders, paper weights, or a decorative accent.

I picked these plants from my yard. I have no idea what they are. They have always come up in the flower bed on one side of my house. They might be a weed, or maybe a fern of some sort? I don't know, but I think they are pretty and were a good fit for the project. Use whatever type of plant you have on hand for your ring holder.

Supplies:

Cement

Water

Paper Snow Cone Cones

Cooking SPray

Plants

Sturdy Cups to hold the paper cones during dry time

Mix the cement according to the instructions. You will not need to use a lot of cement for the this project. Start with 5 cups of cement or so.

Place the paper cones into a cup for support. 

Lightly spray the inside of the paper cups with cooking spray.

Gently lay the plants you wish to imprint in your ring holders on the side of the paper cup.

Carefully fill the paper cup with cement making sure you don't displace the plants from the sides.

Allow to dry for 24-48 hours in a warm dry place.

When the cement is completely dry peel the paper cone away. 

Brush the fern from the cement with your hands, or a toothbrush.

Paint the ring holder in your desired shade, using a good quality spray paint.

If you enjoyed this cement project you might also like

Cement Spoon Garden Markers

Grass Imprinted Garden Art

5 steps you should take to avoid a pest invasion this winter season

 

Why would pests target my property?

As temperatures start declining, and the weather gets colder many rodents, birds, and other pests will be looking for a place of refuge from the elements. Your property might be the ideal location for pests to stay for the winter. Pests would target your property because of the warm enclosure provided, the constant stream of food resources, and protection from predators. Obviously, this is not something you want to happen! If this does happen, then you need to find local exterminators, such as a specialist raccoon exterminator, who will be able to eradicate the pests before serious damage is caused. Some parts of the property are more susceptible to infestation than others, such as garages, basements, and attics. These are all locations that are secluded, often quieter, and darker than the rest of the property making them more attractive to pests.

The key pests to look out for this winter are bats, birds, rats, chipmunks, cockroaches, and spiders. You can learn about these different pests and more here.

Steps: 

1). Seal entry points

For a pest infestation to begin they need to access your property. By sealing possible entry points such as maintenance ducts, water pipes, roofs, and crawl spaces you prevent pests’ initial entry. Preventative sealing can be done with quick-drying cement, glue, or a restructuring of certain areas. Using screens to prevent bug entry is useful, though other pests may be able to take down those screens or gnaw through them. Screening windows and doors are a good measure, but regularly inspecting for damages is key to success with that method.

2). Pay special attention to the roof

Gaps in the shingles on the roof of a property provide easy access points for pests such as bats, birds, and rats to climb into your attic or vent system. This would be dangerous as those pests can often get trapped in the air duct or attic bringing them into your home. Inspecting possible entry points on the roof of the property, vents with large holes, missing or loose shillings, and spaces between the roof and wall is critical to identify risk areas. Bats want to nest in warm locations such as between the wall or attic and can commonly squeeze themselves to fit in-between the gaps between walls and roofs.  Closing holes on your property's roof is difficult and dangerous, so make sure your roof is in tip-top shape by hiring a professional to inspect it. These professionals also have the expertise of how to seal holes permanently and efficiently so you won’t have to.

3). Keeping clean inside

Pests, especially rodents, will be searching for a food source and any crumbs left on the kitchen counter will fill their need. Cleaning spaces that have crumbs or dried food such as the pantry regularly cuts off the pest from their food source forcing them elsewhere. Keeping dry food in safe containers such as a bread box, or glass jar instead of a traditional plastic bag or cardboard box better protects against rodent scavengers. Plastic and cardboard can be easily dismantled by a rodent’s sharp teeth, exposing their diseased saliva and droppings: contaminating unprotected food. Keeping all areas where food is consumed clean and making sure that there are no food products left out overnight or for extended periods of time is an essential step in keeping pests out of your house.  

 

4) Garage and attic organization

Keeping your garage/attic/basement organized and clutter-free allows you to better see possible pests and denies pests the cluttered, dark environment they prefer to live in. Keeping items aligned and vertically stacked denies rodents the dark hiding places they prefer for reproduction. For storage, plastic storage boxes are safer than cardboard boxes. Similar to cereal boxes, pests can chew through cardboard easily to access and destroy what you are storing. Rats, in particular, look for cluttered areas to occupy because they can better evade predators and exterminators. So, cleaning out that clutter is an important preventative measure. If you have items you no longer need and they cannot be sold or donated, you might want to look into the roll off dumpster hire costs, SC, or elsewhere closer to you, so you can see how much it will be to use a dumpster to help clear away all the unwanted items you have accumulated. 

5). Clean chimneys

Some pests can look for chimneys as an access point to some properties. These chimneys often lead directly to a bedroom or living room, so preventing pest entry from there is vital. Installing a simple mesh cap on the chimney to prevent entry is often the best solution. If unsuccessful at roof entry, bats and birds will attempt to enter through the chimney so preventing both is important. Along with cleaning common spaces, maintaining a clean chimney makes pest deduction easier. If any of these methods seem too taxing mentally or physically, consider calling a wildlife specialist. They’ll ensure that the job gets done.