Lifestyle

Christmas is coming soon!

Published

2 years ago

December 3, 2022

This week, we’re talking about one of our favorite holidays-Christmas! We know it can be tough getting into the spirit every year, so this season we are celebrating all things CHRISTMAS!

From listening to christmas music, reading christmas stories, to finding new ways to add some holiday flavor to your life, we have gathered a collection of tips and tricks for you to try out.

So let us begin by saying hello to the winter wonderland that is the Holidays!

Hello friends! It’s time to say goodbye to fall and welcome the beautiful season of winter. Along with that comes the lovely celebration known as christmas!

This month we’re here to talk about how to make the most of the season by exploring different ideas and traditions.

Many people enjoy gathering together during this season to celebrate the birth of Christ, but there are many other ways to honor the season. What works best for you depends on what you feel comfortable sharing and having in the community around you.

Hopefully you will find something here helpful as you prepare for the coming days.

Christmas is a time for relaxation

Christmas is coming soon

This week, we are talking about how to organize your life so that you do not feel stressed out during the holiday season. While it may be fun to celebrate the holidays with friends and family, there can be too much going on around you.

Many people begin the new year by cleaning their homes and giving up things they no longer use or need. This can include donating clothes, toys, and furniture to charities and getting rid of unneeded items such as old dishes and clothing.

After this purging process, these individuals start thinking of ways to reduce spending and save money. Some give up eating at restaurants because it is expensive, and others cut back on daily activities like taking trips to see relatives since it costs money.

These actions will help you spend less money in the short term, but what about in the long run? Will saving money make you happy?

No, it will not. Saving money makes us happier when we are adding to our savings account, but not when we are withdrawing funds from it. It is important to enjoy the experiences you have right now before you focus on future endeavors.

Get a good book to read

Christmas is coming soon

A great way to enjoy the winter season is by reading a good book. You can choose from many different genres, from fiction to non-fiction. Many people have made their favorite books into movies or TV shows so that they can easily access them.

There are several excellent novels out there for all types of readers. Some of my favorites include:

1. The Devil in the White City – Erik Larson

A classic story set during the Roaring Twenties in Chicago, this book follows two young men as they navigate the social circles of wealthy elite. It’s an entertaining read that will keep you intrigued throughout.

2. Gone With the Wind – Margaret Atwood

This novel is best if you are already familiar with the movie but want to learn more about why it is considered one of the greatest love stories ever written.

3. To Kill a Mockingbird – Lee Child

This tale of small town life in America is both thought provoking and emotionally engaging. Although some may find the subject matter too heavy at times, I think every reader should give it a chance.

Plan a holiday party

Christmas is coming soon

This week, we are talking about how to plan your winter holiday party! We will talk about where you want to hold the party, timing of the event, and what to include in it.

If you’re hosting this party at home, make sure you have enough supplies. You do not need to buy too much food, but just be certain that everything is adequate for the number of people coming.

Supplies like paper plates, napkins, plastic ware, straws, and drinks should be sufficient unless there are very few numbers.

This way, people does not get tired looking outside their house or trip down stairs to find nothing they need. Make sure to organize and prepare ahead so everyone can enjoy the night without any worries.

Planning a winter holiday party takes time before the event, but it is totally worth it.

Start planning your holiday shopping

Christmas is coming soon

Before you get too excited, though, make sure to do some important preparation first!

This includes organizing all of your gifts, figuring out what days of the week you will be able to visit family and friends, as well as determining if there are any special events coming up that could influence how you schedule your daily life.

For example, if I was hosting an event two weeks from now, then I would have to give up my night shift so I can be available during the day for work and personal commitments. The same goes for vacations or times when people might not be in town.

By being aware of these potential changes, you can factor this information into your gift buying and decorations gathering!”

It is very difficult to survive major holidays like Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s without having enough money saved up. It looks great on the surface, but spending every penny you’ve got just before the holidays makes it hard to feel relaxed and comfortable.

Fortunately, saving money isn’t really a big deal if we’re prepared ahead of time. There are many ways to save money at this time of year, and most don’t require much effort or investment.

Try new recipes

Christmas is coming soon

This week’s recipe is for Classic Roast Turkey with Gravy, your average all-American roast turkey paired with brown gravy. While some may consider this boring or even sickening, I think it’t totally worthy of a place in the top ten favorite roasting dishes at Thanksgiving.

Why? Because you can make this dish taste so good without any special ingredients! Just using quality olive oil, salt, pepper, and butter as toppings creates an excellent flavor base that other seasonings can be added onto.

Classic roasted turkey is also known to have a lot of leftover gravy which my family enjoys either cold or heated up and mixed into oatmeal or rice. It makes for a nice change of texture and flavor profile.

If you are looking to try making your own classic roast turkey, start by choosing a very oven-proof pan like a roaster baking sheet or just use a pre-made one. Next, choose a heavy duty pot that will not break down while cooking. A stainless steel pot would work well here since it does not react with food.

Now pick out a full size raw bone sized piece of meat. Make sure it is cut into pieces so it can cook more evenly and do not worry about it being too thick or thin, the poofing nature of cooked fresh turkeys makes it balance out.

Do some crafts

Christmas is coming soon

While you can definitely start buying your gifts early, we recommend waiting until after Thanksgiving to really get into it. That way, if someone has an anniversary coming up or their birthday is in January, you have some time to find something for them!

Many people begin celebrating Christmas around November 9th-11th, so why not take advantage of that gift shopping lull by doing some fun craft projects?

You could make decorations or special cards for winter workouts (or even just because it’s cold!). If you know anyone who loves cooking, make a gift basket with all their favorite cookware and snacks.

If friends or family members love reading, create a book collection or pick out some new books for them to read.

Look up Christmas songs

Christmas is coming soon

Many people get very attached to some of their favorite music, especially during times of celebration or reflection. If you are looking for new additions to your collection, check out our list here! Some of these tunes may be familiar, while others may not be, but all will put a smile on your face and add some beautiful sound to your listening experience.

Many songwriters use inspiration from everyday life to create their lyrics and stories. It is no surprise then that many classic carols like “Santa Claus Is Comin’ To Town” and “Jingle All The Way” were about celebrating the winter season and the coming year!

Christmas is an incredible time to listen to music. Whether it is to celebrate with family, learn something new, or just because you love this music, never underestimate its power.

Sing along

Christmas is coming soon

This week’s song is “Santa Claus Is Comin’ to Town,” which many consider to be one of the most famous songs about Santa. Many people know this song well, singing parts of it or whole verses every year during the holiday season.

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Lifestyle

Unlocking Your Potential with the WIN YOUR DAY Framework

Published

4 weeks ago

August 23, 2024

Unlocking Your Potential with the WIN YOUR DAY Framework

In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the sheer number of tasks, responsibilities, and challenges we face each day. We all want to achieve more, feel more fulfilled, and make a meaningful impact — but how do we get there? The answer lies in mastering your day, every day. This is where the “WIN YOUR DAY” framework comes in — a powerful approach that empowers you to take control of your life, reach your goals, and become the best version of yourself.

What is the WIN YOUR DAY Framework?

WIN YOUR DAY is a comprehensive guide designed to help you navigate the complexities of daily life with purpose, resilience, and integrity. It’s not just about achieving short-term success; it’s about building a sustainable foundation for long-term growth and fulfillment. Here’s a breakdown of what each letter stands for:

W — Work Hard: Dedicate yourself fully to your goals and priorities. Consistent effort and determination are the foundation of success.

I — Inspire Others: Lead by example. Your actions can motivate and uplift those around you, creating a positive ripple effect.

N — Never Give Up: Stay resilient in the face of challenges. Persistence is key to overcoming obstacles and achieving your dreams.

Y — Yearn for Growth: Cultivate a constant desire to learn and improve. Seek out opportunities for personal and professional development.

O — Own Your Actions: Take full responsibility for your decisions and actions. Accountability leads to personal growth and success.

U — Uplift Others: Offer support and encouragement to those around you. Helping others enriches your own life and strengthens your community.

R — Reflect Daily: Take time each day to reflect on your progress, successes, and areas for improvement. Self-reflection is vital for growth and clarity.

D — Dream Big: Set high aspirations and believe in your potential to achieve them. Big dreams lead to big achievements.

A — Act with Integrity: Stay true to your values and principles. Integrity is the cornerstone of trust and respect in all relationships.

Y — You Are Capable: Believe in your ability to succeed. Confidence in yourself is a powerful tool for overcoming challenges and reaching your goals.

How WIN YOUR DAY Transformed My Life

I’ve always believed that everyone has the potential to do great things, but it wasn’t until I started applying the WIN YOUR DAY framework in my own life that I truly began to unlock my potential. My journey wasn’t easy — growing up in rural America, facing the challenges of a single-parent household, and later navigating the intense world of undercover law enforcement. But these experiences taught me the importance of resilience, hard work, and staying true to my values.

As I transitioned from law enforcement to entrepreneurship, I found that the principles of WIN YOUR DAY were not only applicable but essential in every area of my life. By working hard, staying resilient, and constantly seeking growth, I was able to build a successful business and, more importantly, a fulfilling life.

Why You Should Embrace WIN YOUR DAY

The beauty of the WIN YOUR DAY framework is its versatility — it’s not just for entrepreneurs or high achievers; it’s for anyone who wants to live a more intentional and impactful life. Whether you’re a student, a professional, or someone navigating a major life transition, these principles can guide you toward achieving your goals and living with purpose.

By embracing this framework, you’ll not only see improvements in your personal and professional life, but you’ll also inspire those around you to do the same. The positive ripple effect of living with integrity, resilience, and a commitment to growth is immeasurable.

Start Winning Your Day Today

Ready to take control of your life and start winning your day? Visit WIN YOUR DAY to learn more about how you can implement this powerful framework in your life. You’ll find resources, insights, and strategies that will help you turn every day into a victory, no matter the challenges you face.

Let’s start this journey together. Remember, every day is an opportunity to win — let’s make the most of it.

About the Author

Jeff Robertson is a motivational speaker, entrepreneur, and former law enforcement officer. With decades of experience in public safety and business, Jeff uses his WIN YOUR DAY framework to inspire others to overcome challenges and achieve their full potential. Learn more about Jeff and his work at Rabason.com.

Lifestyle

Building Communities with Wohlford Contracting: Local Expertise and Exceptional Service

Published

1 month ago

August 19, 2024

In today’s fast-paced world, finding a construction company that genuinely understands the unique needs of your community can be challenging. That’s where Wohlford Contracting stands out. Based in the Roanoke area, Wohlford Contracting is not just a construction company; it’s a partner dedicated to enhancing and preserving the character of local communities like Smith Mountain Lake, Salem, Christiansburg, and Franklin County.

Wohlford Contracting has spent over a decade earning the trust and respect of homeowners and business owners throughout the region. Their approach to construction goes beyond bricks and mortar; it’s about understanding the community’s needs and delivering services that align with those needs. Whether it’s a residential remodel or a commercial build, Wohlford Contracting’s projects are a testament to their commitment to quality, trust, and local expertise.

One of the defining features of Wohlford Contracting is their deep connection to the communities they serve. Their team doesn’t just work in these areas—they live there too. This local presence gives them a unique understanding of the challenges and opportunities that come with each project. From navigating local building codes to incorporating design elements that complement the area’s aesthetic, Wohlford Contracting ensures that every project is tailored to fit the local context.

For those considering a construction project in the Roanoke area or surrounding communities, Wohlford Contracting is the ideal partner. Their team offers a range of services, from custom home builds at Smith Mountain Lake to historic renovations in Salem, all while maintaining a focus on quality and customer satisfaction.

Smith Mountain Lake, with its breathtaking views and serene environment, has seen Wohlford Contracting transform lakeside properties into dream homes that blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings. In Salem, their work balances the preservation of historical charm with modern functionality, ensuring that the city’s character remains intact as it grows. Over in Christiansburg, Wohlford Contracting is playing a crucial role in meeting the demands of a rapidly expanding community, offering construction solutions that support both residential and commercial development. Meanwhile, in Franklin County, they’re helping to preserve the area’s rural beauty while bringing innovation and modern design to new builds.

What sets Wohlford Contracting apart is their unwavering commitment to doing the job right the first time. This dedication to quality and attention to detail has earned them a reputation as one of the most reliable construction companies in the region. Their clients know that when they choose Wohlford Contracting, they’re choosing a partner who will see their vision through to completion, with no shortcuts taken.

If you’re looking to start a construction project in the Roanoke area or surrounding communities, consider Wohlford Contracting. Their local expertise, combined with a commitment to quality and trust, makes them the perfect choice for any residential or commercial construction needs.

For more insights into how Wohlford Contracting is building communities and delivering exceptional service, check out their latest blog post here.

Lifestyle

Maximizing Space: Creative Ideas for Home Renovations by Wohlford Contracting

Published

4 months ago

June 4, 2024

As homeowners, we often face the challenge of maximizing our living space without compromising on comfort and style. Whether you’re living in a compact apartment or a sprawling house, making the most of your available space can significantly enhance your home’s functionality and aesthetic appeal. At Wohlford Contracting, we specialize in innovative home renovation solutions that help you optimize every inch of your living space. Our latest blog post, “Maximizing Space: Creative Ideas for Home Renovations,” offers valuable insights into transforming your home. Here’s a sneak peek into some of the creative ideas we explore.

Open Floor Plans: Enhance Connectivity and Light

One of the most effective ways to create a sense of spaciousness in your home is by adopting an open floor plan. This design approach involves removing non-load-bearing walls to merge different areas of your home into a single, expansive living space. An open floor plan not only enhances the flow of natural light but also fosters a sense of connectivity among different parts of your home. In our blog post, we discuss the benefits of open floor plans and provide practical tips on how to implement this design in your home.

Multifunctional Furniture: Double the Functionality

Furniture that serves multiple purposes is a great way to save space without sacrificing utility. Multifunctional pieces like sofa beds, ottomans with hidden storage, and extendable dining tables can help you make the most of your available space. These versatile furniture items allow you to maintain a stylish and organized home while catering to your various needs. Our blog post highlights several multifunctional furniture options that can enhance your living space.

Vertical Storage Solutions: Utilize Wall Space

When floor space is at a premium, vertical storage solutions can be a lifesaver. By utilizing your wall space, you can keep your home organized without encroaching on your living areas. Wall-mounted shelves, tall bookcases, and hanging cabinets are excellent options for adding storage without cluttering your floors. In our blog post, we explore various vertical storage solutions that can help you maximize your space effectively.

Basement and Attic Conversions: Unlock Hidden Potential

Basements and attics often go unused, yet they hold tremendous potential for additional living space. Converting these areas into functional rooms like extra bedrooms, home offices, or playrooms can significantly increase your home’s usability. Proper insulation, lighting, and ventilation are essential to making these spaces comfortable and livable. Our blog post delves into the steps and considerations involved in converting basements and attics into valuable living spaces.

Under-Stair Storage: Make Use of Every Nook

The space under your stairs is often overlooked, but it can be transformed into practical storage or functional areas. Custom-built storage units, cozy reading nooks, or compact home offices can fit perfectly under the stairs, making the most of this otherwise unused space. In our blog post, we share creative ideas for utilizing under-stair space to enhance your home’s functionality.

Kitchen Renovations: Maximize Efficiency

The kitchen is often the heart of the home, and maximizing its space can greatly improve your living experience. Installing pull-out pantries, corner carousels, and deep drawers can optimize storage and organization. An island with built-in storage and seating can add functionality without overwhelming the space. Our blog post offers detailed tips on how to renovate your kitchen to maximize efficiency and style.

Bathroom Upgrades: Compact and Functional

Even small bathrooms can be transformed into spacious sanctuaries with the right design choices. Wall-mounted sinks, floating vanities, and recessed shelving can free up floor space and create the illusion of a larger bathroom. Light colors and large mirrors further enhance the feeling of openness. Our blog post provides practical ideas for upgrading your bathroom to make it more functional and comfortable.

Outdoor Living Spaces: Expand Your Horizons

Your outdoor areas can serve as extensions of your living space, providing additional room for relaxation and entertainment. Decks, patios, and screened-in porches can be transformed into comfortable outdoor living spaces with the right furniture and lighting. In our blog post, we discuss how to maximize your outdoor areas to create a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor living.

Why Choose Wohlford Contracting?

At Wohlford Contracting, we are committed to delivering high-quality home renovations that cater to the unique needs of our clients in Roanoke, Virginia, and the surrounding areas. Our team of experienced professionals brings innovative and practical solutions to every project, helping you maximize your living space beautifully and efficiently.

Read the full blog post here to explore more creative ideas for your home renovation projects.

For personalized consultation and expert renovation services, contact Wohlford Contracting today. Let us help you transform your home into a more spacious and functional haven.