CT, home, home maintenance, real estate, Stamford, Stamford CT real estate, Uncategorized, winterizing your home

It’s All About The Journey … Cold Weather Maintenance

Tips to Maintain Your Home During the Cooler Months

Preventing Costly Repairs and Maintaining a Healthy Home When It’s Cold Outside

Photo Courtesy of Pixabay

Now that the weather has turned to “winter” and regardless of your neighborhood, home size or style, maintaining your home is one of the most important things you can do. While the space that you live in reflects your lifestyle and/or personality, it is important to keep your home in good condition.

Factoring in home repairs and maintenance that will save you time and money will go a long way as the weather gets colder. While conditions may not be frightful just yet, keeping these useful tips in mind will put you and your wallet at ease.

Preventing Frozen Pipes

Leaky pipes can become problematic over time and lead to flooding, mold issues, foundation trouble, and diminished water quality. Frozen pipes can lead to leaks, and even more costly problems because when water freezes within the pipe, the expanding ice can cause pressure which leads to bursting and additional costly issues.

To ensure that your pipes remain intact, it is helpful to address all areas that need fixing and winterize your outside water sources. You can call a plumber, or attempt winterizing your outside pipes by doing the following – shut off the main water valve and pump, as well as the water heater to start, this way you can drain all of the outside valves and taps which should remain open throughout the winter. You may also blow excess water out of the pipes and discharge water out of the drain taps. As an extra precaution you can add antifreeze. Don’t forget to turn the water main & hot water heater back on so the rest of your house can function.

One last thing … foam rubber-pipe insulation can be wrapped around pipes to protect them against cold weather conditions.

Replace Air Filters

There are various key benefits to regularly replacing your air filters if you have a hot air furnace. Your HVAC system will run more efficiently, air filter replacement will reduce allergy symptoms, and you will save money by properly maintaining the filters and keeping vents clean.

Changing your air filters every 1-3 months can greatly effect the quality of your home’s air. Make sure that the MERV rating of your purchased filter also correctly coincides with your home’s needs.

Check Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors can save your life when properly placed and it is CT State law that you have smoke & CO detectors in the home.

These alarms beep loudly to ensure that you can hear them and get to safety quickly if there is a fire, gas, fumes or other sources of heat around. Usually inexpensive and easy to install, smoke alarms can last up to 10 years.

CO detectors, on the other hand, have the potential of detecting carbon monoxide, a gas also known as, “the silent killer” due to it’s colorless, odorless quality, which can emit fumes that can cause illness or death. Carbon monoxide detectors are triggered when the gas is found within the environment and sound an alarm to alert people of danger. Unlike smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors typically last 5-7 years.

As we enter into cooler weather, make sure your home is prepared. Keep these sound tips in mind and you’ll be on your way to a healthier, happier home.

Post Courtesy of Paul@DadKnows DIY

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build a home, CT, customize your home, home, lots for sale, new construction, real estate, smart home, Stamford, Uncategorized, Westover

It’s All About The Journey … Should You Build Your New Home?

Have you been looking for a new home and are tired of estimating the cost of renovations or reworking a floorplan to suit your lifestyle? Maybe it’s time to entertain the idea of bulding the home of your dreams!

Since a home is usually your largest investment and you can spend lots of time and energy searching for or designing “the perfect home”, building may be an option you should consider, especially if you have a wish list that includes specific needs (the things that you absolutely must have-like a 5 car garage or a gourmet kitchen) and wants (the features that you would like in your new home, but could do without if necessary) building may become an exciting option. While the home buying process involves a number of important choices, one of the very first decisions buyers need to make is whether to shop for an existing home or build a new one.

Building a Home

The big advantage of new construction is that you are more likely to get exactly what you want. For many, this factor alone is enough to choose building over buying, but there are other advantages too. A new home is more efficient, especially with the new energy codes which are both better for the environment and can save you money on your utility bills.

Another perk? A new house may literally be better for you. A new home is less likely to have the health concerns or toxic materials such as asbestos and lead paint. You can build with environmentally friendly materials, green Energy Star rated appliances, plus you have the option to outfit your home with future technology in mind such as home automation and solar.

Even though the upfront costs of building can be higher, it may be easier to recoup your investment. A newer home is typically more appealing than an older home to most people and a new home will require fewer repairs and less maintenance, which can save both money and time.

Money and features aside, building a house can lead to a level of satisfaction that you can’t achieve through buying an existing home. There is a definite feeling of an emotional connection to living in a new home that you have created.

If this option sounds enticing, check out these wonderful, level lots located in the prime Westover neighborhood. Located on a convenient cul-de-sac, the hook-ups for City Water, City Sewer, electric & cable are already there! With 3 lots still available, this could be the perfect fit for you!

Contact me for more information.

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CT, Education, home, real estate, Schools, Stamford, Uncategorized

It’s All About The Journey … Your Neighborhood School Profile: Turn Of River Middle School

This is my junior high alma mater!

An increasing population in the late 1950’s and 1960’s necessitated the opening of Stamford’s fourth junior high school, Turn of River (TOR) which officially opened in September 1963.

The school is located on Vine Road, hidden in a quiet suburban neighborhood, yet close to the hustle bustle of the City. The neighborhood features many different personalities and home styles and TOR students reflect this with a rich mixture of nationalities. TOR students learn from one another’s backgrounds and cultures, and thrive in a dynamic, all-inclusive school setting. TOR offers a comprehensive educational program as well as a nurturing environment for students.

TOR aims to help children acquire academic skills as well as to become life-long learners. In partnership with home and community, TOR is dedicated to the goal of academic, artistic, athletic, and character education, as well as developing children into responsible and caring individuals. The school continues to set high standards of academic excellence, community responsibility and a sincere concern for its students. TOR is committed to teaming, interdisciplinary instruction, and a 21st Century Curriculum, all designed to meet the needs of the early adolescent.

Turn of River offers a diversified program of extracurricular activities: intramural sports, community service, specialized instruction in art and music, world languages, yearbook, and a wide variety of after school clubs – yoga, student council, Rachel’s Challenge, Soul Writers, and Math Counts—to name a few. The school also offers an after-school tutorial program in reading and math, as well as providing an environment for students to complete homework with assistance four times a week. One of the many features of the school are it’s outstanding athletic fields.

Across from TOR, is the Harry Bennett Branch of the Ferguson Library, which is a great place for students to do their homework, research for a project or just sit down to enjoy great books in their collection. The Ferguson Library offers classes and programs including after school homework help, book group and craft class plus Teen Cooking Class whose topics range from baking your own pizza to learning about nutrition and healthy eating.

Talents ♦ Opportunities ♦ Responsibilities

Go Titans!

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CT, Education, home, real estate, Schools, Stamford, Uncategorized

It’s All About The Journey … Your Neighborhood School Profile: Stillmeadow Elementary School

Welcome to Stillmeadow

Roaring With Pride!

color-pencils

Stillmeadow elementary School is nestled in the residential neighborhood of Westover. Stillmeadow employs Positive Behavioral Instructional Support programs to build a positive school culture.

Mission Statement

“To read, to write,

To think critically, to learn deeply,

To reason, to analyze and evaluate information,

To communicate effectively in a variety of forms

And for a variety of purposes,

To inquire systematically into any important matter.”

classroom

At Stillmeadow, collaboration exists between administrators, teachers, parents, community, and students. This partnership helps to provide all students the ability to obtain the knowledge and skills necessary to become successful and lifelong learners. Stillmeadow is a school where each child is treated with dignity and respect, and children are taught with the future in mind. Staff ensures that each child has the opportunity to be happy and successful every day.

Stillmeadow also participates in instructional data teams (IDT) to analyze and monitor student performance. Through these analyses, teachers identify student strengths and weaknesses, discuss strategies and determine a plan of action to increase student achievement. The IDTs, along with the School Governance Council, focus on district and school goals and initiatives to update the School Improvement Plan annually. In addition, the literacy coach and math liaison provide continuity in the reading and math programs by planning and participating in staff development. Student intervention programs include Leveled Literacy Instruction, Recipe for Reading, Read180, and Read About.

After school programs include tutoring, chess, recycled art, and other recreational programs.

One of the most outstnading features of this school is Twin Meadows, a boundless playground. Bright colors, wheelchair accessible bridges and ramps, and tube slides make this playground a fun place for any child. When a Stillmeadow family had difficulties finding a playground where their twin daughters could play together – one of their daughters suffers from quadriplegic cerebral palsy from birth, they decided to build a boundless playground. The idea came to them after reading about another boundless playground in West Hartford. At Twin Meadows, there is something for every child. High back and seatbelt-equipped swings allow children with physical disabilities to swing next to children on typical swings. This playground opened October 2003 assisting and educating students with special needs, and it’s been the pride and joy of the school since then.

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CT, Education, home, real estate, Schools, Stamford, Uncategorized

It’s All About The Journey … Your Neighborhood School Profile: Northeast Elementary School

Northeast Elementary School is located in North Stamford and has approximately 625 students. Northeast is a Responsive Classroom Leadership School that focuses on integrating social skills with academic skills and school wide discipline through use of district leaders, a school-wide discipline policy, all-school meetings, and all-school field trips. The Responsive Classroom Program also includes Morning Meetings, Academic Choice, Guided Discovery, Rules and Logical Consequences, and Home School Communication. Enrichment and remedial programs are also provided.

The school is close to the Stamford Museum and Nature Center, the Stamford Historical Society, and the Bartlett Arboretum. These institutions offer unlimited opportunities to the students at Northeast School. Students are exposed to the arts through direct instruction in the performing and visual arts, vocal and instrumental music, and art appreciation through a cooperative relationship with the New York Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Northeast has a large bilingual program for Spanish-speaking students and is the home of the district’s elementary Hearing Impaired Program. The school encourages everyone to attend the Signing Celebration in the spring when the entire school demonstrates their ability to use American Sign Language. Northeast also puts on an annual school-wide musical and other cultural based events.

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CT, Education, home, real estate, Schools, Stamford, Uncategorized

It’s All About The Journey … Your Neighborhood School Profile: Newfield Elementary School

In the quiet residential neighborhood of Pepper Ridge in Stamford, you’ll find Newfield Elementary School – with approximately 625 students.

Newfield is a Responsive Classroom Leadership School that focuses on integrating social skills with academic skills and school wide discipline through use of district leaders, a school-wide discipline policy, all-school meetings, and all-school field trips.

According to the principal, Lisa Saba-Price, Newfield has a strong focus on engaging our community this year, and very excited about their new partnership with Neighbor’s Link. Students are learning at their own pace and are given the time they need to succeed and develop deep knowledge of subject matter. Newfield School staff works diligently to provide new ways for students to grow stronger socially and academically. This school strives to ensure each and every moment enables our students to enjoy learning and become strong 21st century learners.

In April 2015, KidsGardening.org officially announced that the Newfield Garden Program had been selected as a WINNER of the Jamba Juice “It’s All About the Fruit and Veggies” Garden Grant. Thirty youth programs were selected from over 400 applications for this year’s award!

Student have won numerous academic awards as well as art and writing contests. Community organizations present informational programs to various grades throughout the year. Student Council is a vibrant philanthropic organization that serves the community by collecting funds, food, and other items for those in need. The school also has a mentor literacy program whereby individuals from the community meet with students to support learning as well as offer individual attention.

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CT, Education, home, real estate, Schools, Stamford, Uncategorized

It’s All About The Journey … Your Neighborhood School Profile: Roxbury Elementary School

Respect • Ownership • eXcellence

Roxbury ROX with Good Character!

In this Westover neighborhood, Roxbury Elementary School is on Westhill Rd, across from Westhill High School which is on Roxbury Rd.., funny, is it?

Roxbury School is striving to build a positive school culture and help students demonstrate our character strengths. With approximately 625 students. Roxbury values academic excellence, teamwork, character development, college readiness and family engagement.

Roxbury, in partnership with a supportive community, inspires and prepares all learners through a challenging educational experience to achieve their full potential as productive citizens. The staff provides a challenging, yet supportive, environment. Teachers differentiate instruction to help students understand new concepts and to enable students to demonstrate their understanding of content in a variety of ways.

The School Improvement Plan is focused on increasing reading and math proficiency in all grades. Roxbury also participates in instructional data teams to analyze and monitor student performance. In order to build and maintain a positive school climate, Roxbury has adopted Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS). PBIS is a system that is focused on improving student’s academic behavior and behavioral outcomes. It ensures that all students have access to the most effective instructional and behavioral practices and interventions.

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home, outside living, real estate, summer time, Uncategorized

This is for the food lovers. What’s better then a dream kitchen … outside!

Here are some examples of great outdoor kitchens and how to make your own. Guys will love this because the grilling options are fantastic and they will feel like they are a gourmet chef.

Safety First

Before you start decorating you want to make sure you choose quality craftsmanship. Make sure you pick equipment and counter tops that are built for durability to protect your investment. HGTV says when choosing counter tops you want ample space and that 24″ to 36″ counter depth is the bare minimum. When choosing a style, go with a high end stone! It won’t stain, retain odors or fade in UV sunlight.

Time to choose the floor

When choosing your flooring consider foot traffic, spills, rain, wind, ice and fireproof materials.

Stone, concrete and tile are the best options. Stone is pricey but gives you a natural look and a feel of elegance. Concrete will give you versaitle durability and is good for cold weather climates. Tile is the most affordable option and can give you many different looks.

Last but not least the appliances!

Choosing the grill can be the most fun, and the most challenging aspect of your new kitchen. A few things to consider: a side burner is always a bonus, you can make /heat sauces or boil water while you’re grilling; how about a pizza oven, you can have it custom made or purchase a DYI kit; an overhead vent is important, especially if you are cooking close to the house.

Other appliances to consider: a sink can be very functional, how about a refrigerator/beverage cooler to keep food and drinks fresh and at hand and don’t forget about storage-builtin drawers & storage can make life so much easier!

Whether or not you add a dream outdoor kitchen enjoy the grilling in this season and make use of their wonderful yards.

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It’s All About The Journey … Outdoor Kitchens.

CT, home, landscaping, outside living, real estate, Stamford, summer time, Uncategorized

It’s All About The Journey….How To Make Your Yard The Envy Of The Neighborhood

Having trouble growing grass or just can’t seem to get inspired? Here are some ways to make your yard the envy of the neighborhood, as well as living up to your expectations.

Get some Mulch

Sometimes quick and easy is the way to go. If you are having trouble growing grass or your front yard just needs something fresh, try mulch. It’s not expensive, does not take a lot of time and brings a different look to the yard. You can then add flowers and bushes to give it something a little extra.

Other “Hardscaping” Options

If you find plain mulch a little boring – spark it up! Do some contouring with other mediums such as white pebbles, river rocks – let your imagination run wild. You can also get creative with design, have some fun!

Make a Wish!

Having a water fountain either in the front or the backyard can bring a whole new look and can tie your landscaping together. You can get one of these at any of your local hardware or salvage stores like United House Wrecking in Stamford. They can be pricey depending on the size but you can also find deals at outlets or flea markets. Some other decorative ideas include surrounding the fountain with lights so it is really an eye catcher at night.

Light the Way

Lighting is can be both functional and decorative and today, there are so many options! You can find these lights almost anywhere from the internet to high end stores and they can range in price from surprisingly inexpensive to over-the-top. From solar models to hardwired-your choice can really showcase your home in a different light.

On our next journey we will touch on how to make a

backyard your oasis.

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CT, home, real estate, Stamford

It’s All About the Journey … A Bedroom or A Spare Room for Spare Time?

One of the first thing buyers’ mention when purchasing a home is the number of bedrooms and bathrooms they want. No matter what the preference, when considering auxilliary bedrooms, certain things remain constant. Buyers usually hope to find bedrooms that will fit a double bed, dresser, possibly a desk and as much storage space as possible!

If your bedrooms satisfy those requirements, that’s great…but what if your current living situation doesn’t require one of the bedrooms to be used on a daily basis? Without changing structural elements, you could use that square footage to pursue personal interests or activities. Here are some easy ideas to turn that spare bedroom into a space you can enjoy until you’re ready to sell.

Media Room

A big flat screen TV, a comfortable couch and a nice stereo system can be just the beginning of a place to get comfortable and read or watch a movie. It can become a private space that allows you to get the television out of the living room and turns that space into a conversation and entertaining room.

Quiet Room or Library

If you’ve collected too many books over the years and have no place to put them, a library can be a good use for a spare bedroom. It can also be used as a designated “quiet room” to meditate and relax in.

Home Office

One of the most popular uses for a spare bedroom is a home office. Adding lights, furniture and desks can convert the space into a practical home office with privacy. Make sure you have a reliable internet or WiFi connection.

Home Gym

No excuses! It’s right next door. Your workout routine can be personalized with any equipment you prefer. Medicine balls, treadmills, weights, or video workout routines can all be accomplished in the square footage of a spare bedroom.

Yoga Studio

Another variation on the home gym could be turning a spare room into a yoga studio and save money by not going to someone else’s studio. Find a large mirror, bring in a fan, your favorite yoga mat and you’re ready to go. If you want to take your home studio to the next level, add hardwood flooring, a small TV to follow along with yoga instruction videos, and a radio.

Craft Room

Whether you’re knitting, painting, working on a stamp collection or want more room to work on your favorite hobby, a spare bedroom can easily be converted into a craft room.

Guest Room/Den

It’s always great to have a dual purpose room. A daybed or sleep sofa will easily accommodate the occasional overnight guest. When you don’t have guests, it becomes a room to get away from it all and curl up with a good book or watch a TV show your significant other wants no part of!

Lounge/Study Area

Setting up a spare bedroom as a lounge or study area eliminates overcrowding when both these spaces are allocated to individual bedrooms. The rooms are also dedicated for specific purposes making clean-up and organization a lot easier.

Music Room

If you’ve ever wanted space in your home that’s devoted to music, turning a spare bedroom into a music room is a good idea. It can serve as an individual’s private space to spend time practicing or enjoying their own personal musical interests.

A spare bedroom doesn’t need to become a warehouse of stuff you don’t know where else to put. The good news is you don’t need a mansion to incorporate any of these ideas.

Every room can be a place to relax, rewind, and enjoy!

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