Many of us are spending an abundance of time inside right now, but that time need not go to waste. Who doesn’t love a freshly cleaned home, and what better time to do a little spring cleaning. Once the weather gets more beautiful, we are not going to want to be stuck inside with rubber gloves and a duster. This month is considered a sweet spot when the weather is still up in the air – pardon the pun, when dedicating a day indoors can still be justified. Below is a list of the best spring-cleaning tips we found. We suggest going room to room, taking your time if you can.
Things you will need to complete an effective spring-cleaning checklist. Check your local dollar store, it's where many of these items can be found.
Looking for a new home to hang your hat? If you are searching for apartments in Lafayette Louisiana be sure to stop by Lafayette Gardens Apartments. Located in the heart of Lafayette, it’s only minutes for shopping and dining in the famed River Ranch area. Call to schedule your tour of this community. TAGS: spring cleaning your apartment, clean apartments in lafayette la, lafayette apartments, apartments in river ranch lafayette la
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Whether it’s your first apartment or you are starting over in a new city, furnishing an entire apartment can be an expensive, if not overwhelming process. You may already have some idea of what you’d like your space to look and feel like, but your bank account is not quite ready to support your vision; we have a few solutions for that as well. The most common mistake is leaving the big purchases to the last minute. Planning for the essentials early affords you time to find, save, shop and possibly order what you really want. Thankfully, others have been where you are, made the mistakes and shared their valuable hindsight. Give yourself a 3-month lead, and in three easy steps, you’ll be on your way to first apartment heaven.
With the large and small essentials out of the way, you can relax on the finishing touches. Take your time finding the perfect wall art, accent tables, and other decorative touches. Give yourself time to curate accents that reflect your unique taste and personality. Better yet, if you or your friends are crafty or artsy, create a few one-of-a-kind pieces yourself. Below we offer a few nationwide locations for inspiration and fixer-upper finds. Keep in mind, you don’t need to start with all of the essentials at move-in, if you own a mattress, but don’t have a frame – furniture stores carry metal bed frames starting around $50, and platform bed frames can be ordered for about $100. Estate Sales Estate sales happen for a variety of reasons, downsizing, debt, divorce, or in some cases, the passing of a loved one. While most estate sales are run by professionals who know the value of the items being sold, occasionally you either find something that you feel is undervalued, or worth every penny they are asking for it, and you considered it a steal. Opening day at estate sales are very busy, many local antiquers, and even dealers, will visit hoping to score a treasure or two. You can expect to pay full price for the first and possible second day of an estate sale. By the third day, discounts usually ensue, if an item has not sold. You can expect prices to drop 25% on the second or third day, and 40 – 50% on the last day. If you find you have fallen in love with an item, you can ask the professional in charge to be placed on a sort of last call list. If the item has not sold when they are wrapping up the estate sale, the professional will start the call list for the remaining items. It helps if you establish a relationship with an estate sale professional. Flea Markets are Gold Mines Sometimes in the most literal sense, you are just as likely to walk away not having found anything as you are finding the perfect fixer-upper. But the sheer amount of creativity, ingenuity, and variety behind the vendors at open markets is hard to find. You never know what you’ll see, and it is probably different every time you go. For many of the vendors, this is a full-time job. Their time is spent acquiring and curating the best finds. It is possible you’ll find a seller that matches your taste to a tee, and you’ll find yourself visit them for years to come. The great thing about these small businesses, they are hunting for new items all the time. If you share the piece, treasure or concept you’re looking to execute, they might just be able to find it for you or point you in the right direction. Secondhand Stores Industry insiders refer to it as the resale industry. You may also hear it called goodwill hunting, consignment cruising and bargain hunting. Regardless of the name, you might be surprised that 1 out of 6 Americans goes thrifting a year. On the hunt for a good deal and perhaps you want to contribute to a good cause, you can find new and used clothing, shoes, electronics, washers, dryers, furniture and exercise equipment at thrift stores across the U.S. Research estimates there are around 18,000 reseller stores across the nation, bringing in revenues over $12 billion annually. Donations to these stores come from all walks of life. Often, they are the recipients of yard sale leftovers, emergency move-outs or relocation, estate sale leftovers or upgrades. Donators receive charitable donation receipts for the value of their gifts. There is really no telling what you might find at a thrift store. TV shows like Baggage Battles, American Pickers and Storage Wars publicize locating rare and valuable treasures in peculiar places. Thrift stores are among the hiding spaces of these items. Are you hunting apartments in Lafayette Louisiana? Do put Lafayette Gardens Apartments on your must-visit list. TAGS: decorating your first apartment in lafayette la, one bedroom apartments in lafayette la, apartments in lafayette la, one bedroom handicap apartments in lafayette laYou've signed the lease on your new apartment in Lafayette, Louisiana, and now it's time to plan your big move. One of the first decisions you will need to make is whether you will move your belongings yourself or hire a professional. Do you have friends to help, will you need to rent a truck or can you manage the move in a few loads in the back of your truck? If you choose to enlist a moving service, you should know there are a variety of moving services available. Services range from helping you move your heavy pieces, to boxing up and moving everything you own. If you have decided hiring movers is your best option, consider the following tips. 1. READ REVIEWS, TESTIMONIALS & GET REFERRALS. The best advice is to ask people in your circle for a referral. Friends who have made a move in the last year or so have first-hand experience and are the best source of referrals. Ask if they recommend that particular moving company or service? Either way, good or bad, their response will help you narrow down your options. After you have a list, consult online review resources such as Yelp, Angie’s List, HomeAdvisor, or Google to check client reviews and testimonials. 2. RESEARCH YOUR OPTIONS. After you’ve read a sufficient number of reviews, check the potential moving companies’ websites. Check with the Better Business Bureau for complaints or if they have recently had a business change of name. Check several movers websites to better understand the going rates for the different services you are considering for your move. You will need to schedule an estimate to get the exact cost of your move, but it will be helpful in deciding if you want or can afford this service before you call the company. 3. DECIDE WHO’S PACKING. Predetermine whether you will be packing your belongings or if you need the moving service you hire to do it. Whether you do it yourself or enlist the moving company, be prepared to purchase or pay for packing supplies. These small items can add up, so be sure to ask for details when getting a quote. 4. DETERMINE THE SERVICES YOU NEED. What kind of help do you need? Are you seeking a few extra hands to assist you while you move your belongings, or would you prefer a white-glove full-service move, where the company comes in, packs your belongings, transports them, and unloads and places them for you? Keep in mind that the more detailed the service, the more costly it will be. 5. OBTAIN ESTIMATES FROM SEVERAL MOVING COMPANIES. Reach out to your top moving service choices to determine a baseline on charges. A few companies might be willing to negotiate if you mention a competitor quoted a competitive rate for the same move. 6. KNOW WHAT TO ASK WHEN HIRING A MOVING COMPANY. Make a list of questions you want to ask each potential moving company. Below are a few sample questions you might consider asking:
7. EVALUATE YOUR ESTIMATES. When you’re comparing quotes, don't only look at the bottom dollar. Consider which company offers the best value for the services provided. Also, look at which company inspired the most trust. It's worth a few extra dollars if you feel you can trust one more than the other. 8. BE AWARE OF THE FOLLOWING RED FLAGS. The following situations may give you pause when hiring a company: The require payment in full before performing any services. Online reviews are primarily negative. They are not insured and licensed. 9. BE PREPARED ON MOVING DAY. If you are renting a truck and hiring movers to help move heavy items, ensure your moving truck is ready to go before the movers arrive on moving day. If you are packing the items yourself, the same consideration applies. You really don’t want to scramble, packing last-minute boxes while the movers are emptying your apartment. Moving will be stressful enough— be prepared. Hiring movers to help with your move to your new apartments in Lafayette, Louisiana can provide much-needed relief during the moving process. A reputable moving company can ensure you stay focused and provide efficiency on your big day. TAGS: is a moving company necessary for an apartment, 1 bedroom apartments lafayette la, 1 bedroom corporate leases lafayette la, 1 bedroom corporate apartments lafayette la, 1 bedroom handicap apartments lafayette laApartment hunting in any city can be a formidable task, but when you are searching for one out of state, it presents a whole new set of challenges. No matter your reason for the move, we found a few tips that can help make you go a little smoother. IF POSSIBLE, VISIT YOUR NEW STATE AHEAD OF TIME If your schedule permits, it’s advised to visit your new city ahead of time. Getting a feel and the vibe of your new city and potential apartment in-person is the best way to start your search. If you are fortunate and have a company relocation package, they may provide you with temporary housing while you’re visiting. If not, visiting your new city will afford you the opportunity to visit different areas in relation to your new job or school. RESEARCH, RESEARCH, RESEARCH Today, information is readily available via the internet. Most reputable apartment communities have websites that offer images of their grounds and apartments, along with amenities and special features. And with Google Maps, you can research the area to get a feel for local features, hangouts, shopping, neighborhood groceries and other points of interest. SEEK LOCAL HELP Many times, the university or your HR department can shed light on relocation. Check with these sources first, usually, someone there will have the inside scoop on popular neighborhoods and nearby amenities. Consider reaching out to the leasing agents at apartment communities. Often, they can share distance to the school or business that brings you to the city and possible benefits or hindrances of their location. It’s their job to stay informed on the area, so be sure to ask questions. SEEK OUT VIRTUAL TOURS Most apartment communities are going to share their best images on their website. But the more tech-savvy apartment communities are jumping on board with 3D touring. This technology gives a more accurate depiction of your new living arrangements and is considered the next best thing to a live tour. BE AWARE OF THE LOCAL MARKET While we all like to shop around to find the best bang for our buck, keep in mind the rental market of your new city. College and large cities often have a high demand for temporary housing arrangements. The earlier you start looking, the better, and if you find something you like, you need to act quickly or could end up missing out. FOCUS ON LOCATION Finding an apartment near your employer or school would be great and relieve you of the stress associated with learning your new city's layout. But occasionally, where you are employed or go to school may be in high demand area and out of budget. If this turns out to be the case, look for alternatives that are close to public transit or near the interstate just outside of your desired area. BE READY WITH A SECURITY DEPOSIT If you are relocating for work, your deadline may be out of your control. Make sure you have a security deposit ready when you start looking. While you are at it, have your references and bank statements available as well. It would be very disappointing to miss an opportunity for a lack of preparation. MONEY MATTERS For students and fist time renters, take time to understand the full cost of renting. Most apartment managers can share the average utility bill for a 1-bedroom apartment. But you need to factor in groceries, transportation, internet/cable and possibly renters insurance. Be sure that the apartment you are considering works well within your budget. Also, keep in mind that your credit score plays a role in your approval to rent. If you have not established credit, now is a good time to do so. If your credit score is low, consider taking steps to improve your score. Most local banks can help you understand the steps you need to take to establish or clean up your credit. HONESTY REALLY IS THE BEST POLICY If you are honest with the property manager about your credit situation, you might find they have a little wiggle room or discretion in this matter and can offer solutions to help you secure your first apartment. Apartment hunting can be stressful, especially when you are out of town or state. Our friendly property managers are here to help If you are looking for apartments for rent in Lafayette,LA be sure to stop by Lafayette Gardens Apartments to take a tour or call to schedule your virtual tour. TAGS: out of town apartment hunting, apartment virtual tours, relocation specialist, short term apartments in lafayette la, corporate apartments in lafayette la, corporate housing in lafayette la,Summer has been fun at our apartment community in Lafayette, La. But now it’s time to think of the school year ahead, so we’ve compiled a few tips from the pros below on how to smooth the transition — wishing our residents and students a successful school year. Back to school fills children with excitement and a little of the first day jitters, while parents are consumed with thoughts of “Have I prepared enough?” To help remove these thoughts and get you and your children prepared for the school year, all you need is a little planning and organization. Here’s a list of proven back to school tips to get you started on the right foot. 1. Sleep routine - get back into it. To help ease the stressful school mornings, restart a regular bedtime and morning time routine. Start your usual school sleep routine a week or two before school starts. 2. Start shopping for school supplies together. Entering a new grade is exciting and a little scary. When shopping, allow them to pick out their lunchbox, backpack, etc. Set a budget and share with them how much they can spend on these items, so it doesn’t stress you out. This is an excellent way to teach them about money and gives them a little bit of responsibility too! 3. Re-establish school year routines. Start setting the alarm and have them wake up at the same time every day and eat breakfast at the same time they would before or at school. Now would be an excellent time to have them start reading a book in the afternoon, preparing them for their homework routine. 4. Speaking of homework, set up a homework station. Talk with your child about a designated time and space where they can do homework. Depending on your child’s ability to finish homework without help, consider a time and place where you are available in case your child needs assistance. 5. Prepare for the unpredictable. As working parents can attest, it can be challenging to find a last-minute sitter when your child is sick. Now is a good time to start lining up sitter on the off chance you get a call from the school that your child is ill. 6. Create your after-school game plan. If both parents work, where will your child go after school? Depending on the age of your child, will they attend an after-school program, stay at a neighbor’s or will they be allowed to stay home by themselves? This helps eliminate confusion during the already crazy first weeks. If they will stay at home alone, go over house rules, safety concerns and what to do in case of an emergency. 7. They are not going to like this one. Turn off the video games and TV. It’s going to feel like you are cutting their summer short, however two weeks before school starts is a good time to start weaning the electronics. Shock sets in when they realize that six to eight hours of their day will be spent learning and not gaming or binge-watching favorite shows. Ease your child back into the learning process by limiting the electrics and encouraging them to read or play quietly. 8. Go over school materials and information. Most schools provide a packet online or via email with a ton of information on your child’s teacher, important dates, emergency forms, and transportation arrangements. Jot down important dates on your calendar or put them in your phone. 9. Get organized. Perhaps you remember, back to school means lots of paperwork that can consume the counters in your home. Designate a spot in your home for permission slips, upcoming projects and any other school-related papers. This can help eliminate surprises like last-minute runs to school to sign paperwork and midnight Target, Walmart or Dollar Store runs for project supplies. 10. Summer is also a good time to get your child’s yearly checkup. Germs and school are synonymous, so getting your child’s well checkup in before school starts is optimal. It allows for a baseline when you do have to bring them in for something more severe and you can also take care of any required vaccinations. While a smooth transition is not guaranteed, these tips are likely to take the edge off the rocky start. If you are looking for a new apartment in Lafayette, Louisiana, stop by Lafayette Gardens Apartments and take advantage of our back to school promotions. TAGS: back to school checklist, transitioning from summer to school, three bedroom apartments in lafayette la, back to school apartment specials lafayette la, move-in special lafayette louisianaClick To Add TextCollege students headed to life away from home for the first time may fair better in an apartment community with the amenities and privacy of home, than in living in a dormitory. Consider the following when looking for college freshman living accommodations in Lafayette, Louisiana. Freedom: while rules and regulations lend themselves to a civil society, dorms life comes with many more restrictions than an apartment does. The ability to welcome guests without someone watching over your shoulder, like a resident assistant or advisor would, is one such freedom. Also, having control over your roommate selection is a welcome advantage to apartment living. There will still be rules that the college student will have to observe, like paying your rent on time, keeping the noise level down, and avoiding anything illegal on the premises that risk eviction. Many would argue that living without an RA (resident advisor) builds maturity more rapidly. Space: A dorm room, well, is a room. No private full bath, well-equipped kitchen, or separate study space exists. An apartment that comes with an appliance equipped kitchen will save many a trip to the dining hall with limited offerings and hours. Imagine your late-night study sessions not having to be interrupted for coffee runs or trips for snacks. Your kitchen cabinets and refrigerator can be well-stocked accommodating special diet needs. Having a private bathroom is a wonderful plus when it comes to health and hygiene needs. Rather than having to share facilities and tote your toiletries down the hall, an apartment allows privacy. Having your own private bath stocked with your personal items is a small luxury for the first-year college student. Parking spaces come with most leases at an apartment complex. Campus parking at the dormitories can be limited and further away from some buildings than most apartment complexes in the Acadiana area. If you have a vehicle and visitors with cars, the ability to park in designated areas within a well-lit gated community is a considerable safety advantage. Finances: Dormitories may cost more in the long run. Consider meal plans and having to move to another room at the end of a term may end up costing more in time and effort than renting an off-campus apartment. Additionally, establishing a great renting history at an early age is another advantage of renting an apartment off-campus. You will have established credit and rental history before holding your first professional job. The ability to stay year-round and not leave for holiday breaks is an advantage students don’t always think of when deciding where they will live while earning their degree. 24-hour fitness centers, high-speed internet connections, and nearby shopping, entertainment, churches, and restaurants that come with leasing at Lafayette Gardens Apartment makes economic sense. Looking for a place to live minutes from campus in Lafayette? Tour Lafayette Garden Apartments in Lafayette, La and ask about student move-in specials. TAGS: dorm alternatives in lafayette la, college apartments lafayette la, apartments that accept college students in lafayette la, university of lafayette student living arrangements in lafayette laThe Minimalist Movement is alive and well. Minimalism is when you pare down, unclutter, and live with a style where less is more. Minimalism in home décor is when you use a few pieces where function is as important as form or maximum use from well-chosen pieces. Did you pare down to only find things build back up? After your deep Spring Cleaning, where you purge to get rid of clutter and redundant things, how do you plan to keep your Minimalist Movement alive? Here are some tips to maintain minimal amounts of things that commonly pile up in your home: Sort your mail by a recycle bin or trash container Despite the popularity of electronic mail and advertising, print companies still produce mail outs by the millions each month. All those pieces of paper, when thrown down on the entry way table, the dining table, or on your desk turn into clutter quickly. Go through your mail every day and throw away or recycle anything you do not have to keep. Several people recycle used envelopes by keeping them at hand as scrap paper to make quick lists or notes on allowing them to be repurposed quickly. Wash the dishes immediately We eat every day and whether it is take-out containers, coffee cups, wine glasses, or the dinner dishes and pots that build up, we all clutter the kitchen quickly. Wash those dishes immediately. Easier said than done? Not necessarily. While preparing a meal or prepping for the week, make sure you have a sink of sudsy, hot water at the ready. Place the dishes used in the sink and then load the dishwasher before you sit down to eat. Or, if you wash dishes by hand, let them soak while you eat and clean up will be a breeze. Dry the dishes and put them away if you wash by hand. The feeling of accomplishment is doubled by you doing something and seeing a clutter-free counter as a reward for your hard work. Every night put it back to right Before you go to bed, walk through your apartment or house, and put things up where they belong. Earrings go in the jewelry box, not on the dresser. Towels hang up or go in the hamper, not on the bathroom floor. Books go back on the shelf, not on the arm of the sofa. You get the idea. Put things where they belong every day so things don’t build up and become overwhelming. Bring something home and give something away If you value something enough to let it take space in your life, honor it by recycling what it takes the place of or by discarding something that has worn out. In example: You needed a new black t-shirt because your old one was a little too large or had a small spot on it. When the new shirt is placed in your closet, give the old one that you cannot wear to a thrift shop. If you replaced because the other one had a spot on it. Throw the old stained shirt away so you aren’t tempted to wear it when your new one is dirty. Once a week, deep clean a small space Spend 30 minutes, one day a week, to clean a small space where clutter can quickly build up. Three suggestions: the junk drawer in the kitchen, the back of the closet, or the plastic storage bin in the garage. You get the idea. Pick one spot, spend a small amount of time on it, and maintain the minimalist look in your living space. Need more room? Lafayette Gardens Apartments is located in the heart of Lafayette, La blocks from River Ranch shopping and dinning. Offering 1 Bedroom apartments, 2 bedroom apartments and 3 bedroom apartments, both furnished and unfurnished, with amenities to spare. Call or come by for a tour of one of Acadiana's best apartment communities in Lafayette Louisiana. TAGS: minimalist decorating for a contemporary apartment in lafayette la, unfurnished apartments in lafayette, furnished apartments in lafayette laSpring hasn’t officially sprung according to the calendar, but those of us who live in the South have already experienced temperatures in the seventies, frequent showers that brought flowers, and enough pollen in the air to turn our vehicles yellow. Allergy sufferers have been hit hard with various particles in the air that cause eyes to water, skin to itch, and repetitive sneezing episodes. What to do? Clean up! Whether routine or deep Spring cleaning following these allergen lessening tips from the American Medical Association will help allergy sufferers (and everyone else) from encountering too much of the things that make us sneeze:
TAGS: spring cleaning your apartment in lafayette la, 3 bedroom apartment homes lafayette la, 2 bedroom apartment homes in lafayette la, 1 bedroom apartment homes in lafayette la“Soup’s On!”, means dinner is served. It is a way to call those with an appetite to the table. When soup is truly on, a meal of liquid food will be ladled into bowls and served for nourishment and enjoyment to friends and family in Lafayette Louisiana Apartment. Soup, by definition is ingredients, usually meat and vegetables, floating or cooked in broth. Soups can be hearty or light. Soups can be served hot or cold. Soups can be the main course, or only course for that matter, or part of a meal. When part of a meal, soup can be the starter, in-between course palate cleanser, or the finish. Whether appetizer, broth between courses, or dessert, a knowledge of the variety or types of soups is good to have. Some common types of soups are bisque, chowder, and vichyssoise. Bisque is rich and creamy and usually made with lobster, shrimp, or crawfish. Bayou Bisque is served at Lafayette’s Blue Dog Café to rave reviews. Chowder is rich and typically made with fish, clams, and potatoes. While clam chowder is a staple in the eastern United States, in the Acadiana area shrimp and corn chowder is hard to beat and a popular choice when nights are cold. Vichyssoise is a potato, onion, and cream soup commonly served cold. It is a hearty and simple, economical soup to feed a crowd. Gazpacho is a cold vegetable soup that utilizes seasonal produce to great success. Broth is a soup or stock usually made from meat and vegetable chunks or bones. Consommé is a concentrated stock and somewhat thicker than broth. Different nationalities are known by their traditional soups. Italians are known for making minestrone. Cajuns are known for their gumbos including seafood gumbo, okra and sausage gumbo, and chicken gumbo. Catfish Court Bouillon is another Southern dish that is considered a delicacy. Both of these soups are served over rice. Posole is a Mexican chunky style comfort liquid food that dates back to Aztec times. Cowboys from various nationalities are known for making chili using beef, pork, vegetables, and even shrimp. And, stews are also common campfire meals served to rejuvenate at the end of a long day. Stoup is a combination of stew and soup with a medium consistency rather than thick (like stew) or thin (like soup). Soups are wonderful additions to any meal, or a complete meal in itself, regardless of the occasion or season. As winter time wraps up, consider serving your favorite soup before warm weather returns. Preparing soup in your corporate apartment is a delight when you have a totally furnished and equipped space like the corporate offerings at Lafayette Garden Apartments. Whether living in the area for weeks or month at a time, the friendly staff can get you set up in a 1-bedroom, 2-bedroom, or 3-bedroom floor plan. Need a place for yourself or your family where you can say, “Soup’s On!”, permanently. A Lafayette Garden Apartment is a wonderful home. Gated, lighted sidewalks and paths, and extra amenities make this Acadiana apartment community highly desired. Tour today. TAGS: comfort foods, best apartments in lafayette la, luxury apartments in lafayette la, pet-friendly apartments in lafayette laPink is a hot decorator color for 2019. Paint companies and interior design firms watch and track the latest choices and trends around the country and this year thinking pink is the way to go! Adding pink touches to your apartment décor is a fun and quick way to update and freshen your look. Doing it in the month of February serves more than one purpose. Shades of pink can brighten the gray winter days and since February is when Valentine’s Day is celebrated, pink touches can have you holiday ready as well. The fastest way to add a touch of pink to your 1-bedroom, 2-bedroom, or 3-bedroom floor plan is a vase of flowers. Pink carnations are the number one choice when it comes to an affordable flower to fill a vase. Fresh flowers are great and this time of year roses in shades of pink like fuchsia, blush, and petal pink are widely available. Tulips are another good choice. Hyacinths can go from bulb to bloom by sitting in a vase on the windowsill. If allergies or pets keep you from enjoying live plants or flowers in your home, go with silk. Affordable arrangements add a great touch with no upkeep and you can enjoy them for years to come. Add a touch of pink to your apartment door with a bow made with ribbons in multi-shades of pink. Inside each interior door gets a simple ribbon tied to the doorknob in the different shades of pink used to make the bow for the entryway door. Bowls of pink candy, pink gumballs, or pink confetti make great cocktail and dining table accents. Clear glass dishes, green glass, and white glass bowls hold pink contents beautifully. Or, for another great look, pair a light pink bowl with darker colored pink fillings. Pink linens and throw pillows are cute and festive. Flamingos and ladybugs in shades from bright to light pink are all over towels for the kitchen and bath right now. Throw and accent pillows with pink sequins and pink rickrack are room brightening choices. On the patio, all-weather pink flamingo pillows are stocked in garden centers now and will still look fresh and of the moment in summer. Head to the local print shop and get card stock in all shades of pink. Put the paper into frames that you can hang as a grouping or stand up on the countertop or vanity. Instant modern art! Keep thinking pink when it is time to decorate you. Your wearing apparel can be uplifting in healthy shades of pink. Pink socks, pink lipstick, pink sweaters, and pink pajamas are top choices when it comes to adding pink to your wardrobe. When drinking and eating pink translates to champagne, salmon, and all types of berries including strawberries, raspberries, and cranberries. Pink Teas are popular in the South to chase away the winter blues. Rose petal tea, pink lemon-aid, and pink iced tea cakes are three staples at one of these blah busting gatherings. If you are ready to be “in the pink” in the perfect 1-bedroom, 2-bedroom, or 3 bedroom Lafayette apartment in Lafayette Louisiana contact Lafayette Gardens Apartments. TAGS: decorating your aprartment - think pink, lafayette la apartments, river ranch apartments in lafayette laEvery new year brings new goals. Year after year statistic companies see that the top three goals or new year’s resolutions that are set involve improving personal health, changing personal finances, and self-care being addressed in a variety of ways. If one of your new year’s resolutions involves these three and you are looking for a place for rent, this article is for you! Resolutions are personal goals that you can work towards or add to your normal routine. What does finding a great place for rent have to do with the top 3 goals that people set each year? A lot. Let’s look at each one of them. The number one resolution every year by both women and men sounds something like this: I am going to eat healthier and exercise more this year. How can Lafayette Gardens Apartments help you do that? In many ways! A healthy lifestyle involves exercise. Finding the time to get in your vehicle, drive across town, and make it to the gym or to see a trainer before they close the doors for the night is hard. Paying for that work out time can get expensive as well. Imagine that the new apartment you find for rent in Lafayette has not one, but two fitness centers on the property. Now imagine that those two fitness centers are open 24 hours…they don’t close! One last thing to imagine, there is are no additional charges to work out in this great facility and you can walk down the sidewalk to get to the center. How great is that? Number two yearly resolution that both men and women set is: I am going to save money this year. When you are looking for an apartment to rent, cost is a concern. Lafayette Gardens Apartments always offers move-in specials. If you aren’t ready to invest in your own furniture or have to live somewhere temporarily for work, consider a furnished apartment. 1, 2, and 3-bedroom floor plans can come fully furnished down to the fork you use to eat your healthy meals from resolution number one. Saving money on expenses is cut when you live in an apartment complex that has great additional no-added-cost features. Some features you can experience when you make Lafayette Garden Apartments your home are security alarm systems and all major appliances being included. Other included features are on-site security, maintenance, and management. The third new year’s resolution most commonly made by people across the United States is: I am going to improve my relationships this year. Improving relationships usually means getting involved socially, making new friends, and finding a new hobby. Finding a place for rent in a community that involves easy interaction with your neighbors who have things in common with you can be a boost to your self-esteem and any self-improvement plan. In Lafayette, seek out the apartment community that offers a clubhouse, well-lit walking areas, a beachfront swimming pool, basketball court, and common areas with grills. What could be better for socializing and making new friends? Whatever your new year’s resolutions end up being if one of them is a new place to live, tour Lafayette Gardens Apartments today. TAGS: new years resolutions, apartments with a onsite gym in lafayette la, apartments with swimming pools lafayette la, apartments with recreation areas lafayette laThere’s an old song that says in part, “Signs, signs, everywhere are signs”. There are signs everywhere we go. Signs that tell us to stop. Signs that tell us there is construction ahead. Signs that tell us what is on sale at the market. When you are looking for a sign that says there is an apartment for rent that would be perfect for you in Lafayette, Louisiana, you need to know how to read the signs. Not only are there physical signs that will point you in the direction of a Lafayette apartment for rent, there are non-physical or abstract signs that will point the way too. Here are some signs to look for when you are searching for the perfect apartment for rent: Address Signs: the actual physical address is of utmost importance when you are looking for an apartment to rent. The street and number of the location tell you if you will be geographically located near the things you need to access in your day-to-day life. If the address sign reads: 110 E Marital Avenue you’ve found Lafayette Gardens Apartments and will be near restaurants, shopping, schools, parks, and will have easy access to major roads that lead to anywhere you need to go. What better sign that says this is a great location of an apartment for rent? Safety Signs: four signs that promote a safe environment you should look for at an apartment for rent are the lighting, ways to access the property, security staff, and precautions that will alert you to an attempted break-in. Lafayette Gardens Apartments has a well-lit, well-maintained parking area that allows you to see everything around you. The community itself is gated for increased security. 24-hour monitoring and dedicated staff is on duty to aid in any safety issues and each apartment has an alarm system. These things help maximum the feeling of safety where you live. Feeling safe is a good sign that you have come home. Availability Signs: apartments for rent mean that space is available for you. An adequate amount of space for you might mean a 1, 2, or 3-bedroom floor plan. Lafayette Gardens Apartments has floor plans available for singles, couples, and families. Furnished of unfurnished units are also offered. From time-to-time, waiting lists exist for certain sized apartments due to the demand for quality for rent housing. Take that as a sign that these apartments are filled with amenities that are in high demand. Information signs: gathering the most information and seeing if reading the signs means that you’ve found a Lafayette, Louisiana apartment for rent that suits you is the best thing to do. Ways you can gather that information. Log on to www.gardensoflafayette.com and see the Fall move-in specials and explore the website for further information of this much to offer apartment community. Call 337-993-8886 and schedule a tour with one of the complex managers who can answer your questions and set up a plan of action for you. If you read the signs, they will lead you to the best apartments in Lafayette Louisiana available to you. TAGS: move-in special lafayette la, deals on the best apartments in lafayette la, corporate lease specials, short-term lease specials lafayette la, corporate housing specials, apartment move-in specials lafayette laHalloween is an exciting time for kids and adults. Celebrating the hallowed eve with costumes and decorations is tons of fun. Make sure your fun and your little guys and ghouls stay safe with these tips from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP): When carving your pumpkin:
Costumes Considerations:
Making your home safe for trick or treaters:
When trick or treating:
For more information, visit www.aap.org Here’s one more tip for a happier Halloween: If you are looking for a new 1, 2, or 3-bedroom apartments for rent in Lafayette, La, don’t get spooked, visit the friendly representatives at Lafayette Garden Apartments and be treated to Fall Move-In Specials! TAGS: halloween safety tips for our residents, family apartments in lafayette la, 3-bedroom apartments lafayette la, 2-bedroom apartments lafayette la, furnished apartments in lafayette la, handicap apartments lafayetteSummer officially ends with Labor Day weekend. In the South, warmer temperatures will remain while the rest of the nation starts to feel a chill in the air. Warmer temps sometimes delay enjoying the hottest fall looks. Not this year! Fall Fashion trends include a huge array of looks that are wearable while the weather is still warm and carry over into the cold temperatures we’ll feel late in the year. Some of the best looks from the runway this year include: Animal Print—zebra and leopard were the most popular on the runway. Don’t go all out with animal print. A blouse in zebra stripes or a straight leopard skirt paired with basic black is your best bet. Leopard and zebra loafers make a simple outfit pop. Tweed—originally produced in Scotland, tweed is a rougher surface woolen cloth. Most tweeds are flecked with different colors. In the past, tweed was reserved for business suits or a more dressed up look. Runways this year saw tailored tweed jackets paired with jeans and basic fitted t-shirts. Tweed slacks with solid simple sweaters also were spotted for a dressy/casual mix of fashion. 80’s Cowboy—giving a nod to the classic dance flick “Urban Cowboy”, runways saw classic cowboy boots paired with bootcut jeans and the obligatory cowboy hat for weekend fun. Floral or prairie print dresses worn with full cowboy boots (not booties) were a hot look as well. Leather—while leather cowboy boots were everywhere worn with everything on the runway, leather anything was hot. Thicker belts, simply styled leather fitted jackets and leather skirts were also bold looks from several designers this year. Hoods—mixing form and function, the hood was popular and not just for casual wear anymore. Hooded evening dresses were shown right along with hooded sweaters, jackets, and sweatshirts. A hood adds built-in protection from the cold when needed and a pretty drape of fabric in many of the non-casual hooded looks spotted on the models at major designers’ shows. Opulent Fringe—evening looks contained fringe that wasn’t of the flapper variety! This fringe was made from beads, feathers, and crystals. The intricate work trimmed bottoms of evening dresses, backs of ball gowns, and more than one wedding gown featured luxury fringe as the showstopper at the end of a designer’s collection. Cover-it-up Dressing—proving that less is more when it comes to showing some skin, modesty returned to the runway this year for fall. Buttoning up that shirt all the way to your collarbone was popular. Hemlines coming to the knee and right below it hinted at modesty from years past. Skin was covered up proving that some of the sexiest looks are produced with form-fitting clothes that leave things to the imagination are worn with confidence. Check it Out—lumberjack checks were everywhere on runway models! Whether a cute hat, tailored slacks, simple shirts, or as a shirt dress, checks were made into many a cute look this year. The most popular was the traditional red and black check, however, blue with yellow and white and black were also popular check colors. Whether you favor Victoria Beckham, Tom Ford, Givenchy, or Calvin Klein, you will find fashionable fall looks. Try any of the fall trends out and collect the compliments. Need a place to hang your hat and your other fall fashion finds? Tour Lafayette Garden Apartments today. Their 1, 2, and 3 bedroom floor plans all have spacious closets with plenty of storage room. TAGS: luxury living is always in fashion, luxury apartments in lafayette la, apartments with tanning beds, apartments with fitness centers, apartments with gymsEven though the kids have headed back to school, families want to get the most out of the summer days left. The start of school doesn’t mean the end of summer. In fact, according to meteorologists, summer officially ends on August 31st. Most Northern Hemisphere residents think of the end of summer being on Labor Day. That early September long weekend holiday will usher in plenty of fun, football, and festivals in the Lafayette, Louisiana area. Until then, here are some suggestions for fun and low costs things to do with your family: Retro Recreation: Spend an afternoon or evening at the bowling alley, roller rink, or miniature golf course. These activities that experienced suburban popularity in the 50s still make for great family outings. If you’ve never skated, bowled, or played golf; that’s okay. Fun can be had with any of these activities that are beginner friendly. Aloha Movie Time: Say “hello” or “aloha” to a Hawaiian themed double feature. Invite friends and family to come over for a viewing of any film based in or about the 50th state. Two great choices are Moana and Blue Hawaii. Both movies are family friendly and will even get your toes tapping to the music. Go all out and put beach towels on the furniture and floor, have sun lotion on hand for the tropical scent, and serve pineapple right alongside the popcorn. Leis purchased at the local dollar store (they probably are marked down now) add a great accessory that anyone can wear. Moonlight Brown Bag Picnic: Escape the heat of late August by waiting to have a meal under the light of the moon one evening. Night time is already coming earlier and an evening under the moon and stars can be a refreshing alternative to gathering around the dining room table. Everyone can get in on packing the brown bags for an evening meal that is simple and enjoyable. Take an assembly line approach and have different family members stationed along the kitchen counter to add a portion of the meal to the brown bag. Have a little-themed fun with dessert by putting a Moon Pie in each sack. Don’t feel like prepping the brown bags yourself? Head to a local drive-in or drive-thru. Your meal will be placed in bags and you can head to a local picnic area or your yard or patio to enjoy dining under the glow of the moon. The next full moon is on August 26th. Do A Good Deed: While packing your brown bags, consider filling a few extra and distributing them at a nursing home, hospital, or at a shelter for the homeless. Doing a good deed as a family will bring you closer together and make for a feeling of happiness that is hard to experience any other way. Another good deed you can do as a family is clean out your closets, toy boxes, and storage areas and donate gently used items. You get fall cleaning done and there are many non-profit agencies that need clothing, toys, and household items to fill the needs of their clients. Enjoy the last few days of summer with your family. Is your family looking for a great place to live in Lafayette, Louisiana? Lafayette Garden Apartments offers a variety of floorplans in lovely, family-friendly surroundings that are great for any season. Stop by for a tour today and view move-in specials online now. TAGS: apartment move in specials lafayette la, family friendly apartments lafayette la, apartments with kids parks lafayette la, apartments with a pool lafayette laIt takes less than 10 seconds for you to make a good first impression on someone. That’s about the same amount of time that it takes for the threshold of your one, two, or three-bedroom dwelling at Lafayette Garden Apartments to make an impression as well. Doormats are the most common accessory used outside the home. They are functional, decorative, and can provide safety. The term was coined in the mid-1600’s. Judging from that fact, people have been using mats to welcome visitors, and themselves, into their habitats for close to 400 years. Keeping dirt, moisture, and debris outside your home’s interior is the primary function of a doormat. They are used to wipe and/or clean the bottom of shoes and feet so that the majority of grime stays outside. Keeping dirt outside means the flooring, whether it be tile, wood, or carpeting, stays clean. Having the soles of your shoes dried on the mat provides the safety of not slipping. It was customary in Biblical times to offer water and a basin so travelers could wash the dust from their feet. Doormats are the modern-day equivalent of offering the cleansing of your tootsies. Doormats were usually made of straw or vines. Rubber, plastic, and textiles that could be woven with patterns are all materials still used to form a mat that could be placed at the entrance to your home to welcome someone. Hence the name welcome mat in today’s marketplace. Decorative doormats can say a range of things besides “welcome”. Images, colors, materials, sayings, and shapes are all things that go into consideration when selecting a welcome mat for outside your door. The most common inexpensive welcome mat is a rectangle of black rubber that has raised ribs to aid in getting the dirt off your shoes and says “welcome” smack dab in the middle. Variations of that mat include a sisal and rubber version with “welcome” running through the middle in red, teal, or black. There are round versions of the traditional welcome mat and versions with welcome in just about any language you may speak. Have a favorite sports team? Fan Mats are popular so you can root, root, root for the home team and let anyone who comes in contact with your door know who you want to win in an instant. Are you an animal lover? You can find welcome mats with horses, cats, butterflies, and just about any breed of dog. One mat is die cut in the shape of a whale and shows a love of puns with “whale-come” written across the bottom. Humorous sayings are incredibly popular and enable you to share a smile with your visitors and neighbors. Do any of things bring a smile if you were to read them on a welcome mat: “Hi. I’m Mat.”, “Come back when you have a warrant”, “Well, butter my butt and call me a biscuit, look who’s here”, “Nice underwear”, or “Welcome. Beware of Husband. Kids are Shady. Wife is Cool.” According to an online home shopping site, the best selling funny mat simply says, “Leave”. Monogrammed mats with a single letter and made-to-order mats of the occupants last name are extremely popular. Mats that reflect the occupants' identity was a much-requested holiday gift in 2017. Need a place to lay your welcome mat? Tour Lafayette Garden Apartments today. TAGS: welcoming guest to your apartment in lafayette la, lafayette three bedroom apartments. lafayette two befroom apartments, lafayette one bedroom apartments, apratments lafayetteThere is nothing like gathering friends and family together to enjoy a barbecue. Summertime begs for you to join in this outdoor cooking delight. Here are some basic things you need to grill like a pro: Food for the Grill What do you want to cook? Meat eater and vegetarian can find some great choices this time of year. Corn, cauliflower, eggplant, beef, fish, chicken…it’s all great on the grill. Concentrate on preparing one thing and making it great rather than dealing with an assortment that will need different temperatures and times on the pit. Especially being a beginner, keep your barbecue choices to a few select food items. Side Dishes You will need fixings and side dishes to make your meal complete. Baked beans, potato salad, and garlic bread are traditional favorites that you can make yourself or purchase at a local deli or grocery store. Many guests love to help. Enlist them to bring a side dish and don’t forget dessert. The Sauce Battles rage among family and friends about the best barbecue sauce to use for the perfect flavor. Choices range from sweet to spicy, tangy to fruity, and tomato or veggie free…whatever your palate desires, you can find a sauce to suit its demands. Check out local farmers and craft markets to find delicious homemade sauces. Cannot decide on one for the whole group? That’s okay. Get a variety of sauces and hold an impromptu tasting. Cooking Surface / Techniques Are you using an electric grill, charcoal pit, or gas grill? Consider your surface and make certain you have the correct type of tools and surface accessories you will need as you cook. Aluminum foil, a few shallow pans, and cooking spray are three things that just about any outside cook find handy to have available to them. Safety Make certain that you have water for extinguishing any stray flames and hot pads for handling things right off of the grill. Prior planning will help keep you incident free. Cleaning Up Make sure you have trash bags, grill brushes, and mild cleansing detergent to get your grill back in good shape. Don’t make the mistake of thinking you can wait to clean up the mess the next time you grill by burning off any residue left behind. Experts agree it’s best to let the grill surface cool and wipe down before the next use. Friends and Family Make sure you’ve invited a variety of people that will make your cookout fun and interesting. Bonding can occur over the grill as you share cooking techniques and preferences on the type of food you prepare. If you are like most people in the South, before you’ve finished the meal being shared that day, you are already planning what you will be barbecuing in weeks to come. If you are looking for a place to live that has grill ready areas and space that allows for versatile outdoor living, check out The Garden Apartments in Lafayette, LA. One, two, and three-bedroom units are available and move-in summer specials can help you relocate with ease. TAGS: apartments with outdoor entertainment areas lafayette la, apartments with barbque stations, lafayette louisiana apartments, apartments near river ranch lafayette laIt’s summertime and living is easy at Lafayette Garden Apartments. It is also the time of year when seasonal vegetables and fruits are in abundance. Plan a weekend trip soon and add some fresh ingredients to your cookout, picnic, or weekly dining menus. Each season, and every month of that season, has colors and flavors associated with it and early summer seems to be the season of abundance. Warmer temperatures and longer days add to the fun of trying out new flavors. Visit any market and you will see so many shades of green your head will spin. Much variety can be found right now for the base of your salad. Can’t pick just one variety of lettuce, try them all for some great variations on a summer staple. Around every corner there seems to be something new to add to your diet. This is the time to indulge in shrimp, peppers, and tomatoes. Grill the shrimp and toss with the vegetables. Add a light dressing that you can make with fresh herbs, oil, and vinegar and you have an easy, healthy meal in minutes. Speaking of herbs, look for basil, parsley, thyme, mint, rosemary, chives, and lemon balm right now. Boil some pasta and toss with olive oil and a couple of the herbs you like and let it infuse for an hour or two. Fresh and yummy without spending hours in the kitchen. You can also infuse water with cucumber slices and your favorite herb for a refreshing treat. Vegetables that are in abundance in early summer are zucchini, yellow squash, tomatoes, onions, carrots, celery, and green beans. You will also find potatoes, sweet corn, peppers, asparagus, and cucumbers virtually anywhere you go. Instead of a crawfish boil, think about hosting a vegetable boil and take advantage of delightful flavors that can come about from a pot of boiling water. For an easy dessert, fill a bowl with all types of seasonal fruit. Easy to find and indulge in this time of year are blueberries, cantaloupe, cherries, figs, oranges, peaches, and lemons. Want to get a little decadent and go beyond fresh fruit in a bowl? It’s as easy as adding chopped nuts and a little whipped cream to the top of your mixed fruit offering. Homemade ice cream is a wonderful treat this time of year. Make with fresh fruit or top good old-fashioned vanilla ice cream with a puree of two or three of the juicy seasonal offerings you’ll find at the market this time of year. Where to go to find these fresh seasonal treats? Check out one of these Acadiana farmers’ markets: Lafayette Hub City Farmers Market at 427 Heyman Street, Lafayette Open year-round on Saturdays from 8-Noon Lafayette Farmers and Artisan Market at 2913 Johnston, Lafayette Open year-round on Saturdays from 8-Noon Le Petit Magasin de Scott at 916 Cayret Street, Scott March through October on Saturdays If you prefer a more traditional, indoor market experience, these Lafayette grocers and markets offer plenty of seasonal, fresh produce too: The Fresh Market, Fresh Pickin’s, Whole Foods Market, Rouses Market, and Tammy’s Grocery. If you are looking for a new apartment with wonderful opportunities for preparing your seasonal finds, head to Lafayette Garden Apartments for a tour. Pools, barbecue areas, parks, and even corporate living spaces with fully equipped kitchens are a few of the special things you’ll find in this gated community. TAGS: Summer fruits and vegetables, lafayette apartments, lafayette louisiana apartments, for rent in lafayette laIf you are looking for apartments in Lafayette, La. and don’t know where to begin read on and discover how making a list will help you find the space of your dreams. Lists are made for all types of things. There are grocery lists, vacation packing lists, party planning lists, and bucket lists of things that a person wants to do before their life is over. Making a list to help you find the apartment of your dreams may sound unnecessary but it can help you focus on the things that are truly important to you that you may not have realized until you wrote it down. Start with some basics to write your list. Type it into your phone so it will be with you if someone is helping you in your search include them in the list-making process, gather around a laptop or go old-school with pen and paper. It doesn’t matter how you write it down, just that you do. Brainstorm everything that you want in an apartment. You may think things like adequate parking for everyone in the complex is a given but when you start looking at spaces you may find that isn’t always the case. Don’t judge the list yet. Just write down everything you can think of that you would like to find in an apartment. Here are a few things that make most lists: the number of bedrooms needed, the number of bedrooms desired, number of parking spaces needed, whether the unit can be upstairs or downstairs, does the apartment allow pets, how much are deposits, am I okay with neighbors with children, do I want to live in a gated community and is the location suited to the type of commute I am willing to make to work or school? Some things that also might make your list: is their great food delivery in this area, is cable/internet connection possible or included, what type of lease will I have to sign and am I willing to sign one for the length of time required, and can I walk around this neighborhood safely? Once you have a list, you will probably have around 25-50 things to consider. Now is the time to re-read your list and make three categories: must-haves, would like to have, not necessary (but would be nice). These columns distributed by the level of need and want will help you quickly narrow down your search. With your list in hand start looking at spaces where you are considering making your home. Be brutal. If it has 4 of your must-haves but not all 7, keep looking. Does it have all your must-haves, but only a few of your like to haves? Make notes and go on to the next place. Starting your search online is a great way to eliminate places you won’t need to see in person. So, you’ve narrowed it down to a few places or your list helped you find the one place that has the things you wanted. Sign your lease, pay your deposits, and make a list of things you’ll need to do before you move. Lafayette Garden Apartments makes the top of the list when it comes to finding a great apartment. Visit them and see how many of their amenities are on your list, like 24-hour fitness centers, patios, and recreation areas including swimming pool. TAGS: choosing the best apartments in lafayette la, the best apartments in river ranch lafayette la, apartments with a gym in lafayette la, apartments with garage in lafayette laWhimsical Ways on St. Patrick's Day: Fun Things To Do in Lafayette, Louisiana on March 17th3/12/2018 Looking for something to do outside of your apartments in Lafayette, La this St. Patrick's Day? Everyone is Irish on March 17th. celebrating Irish nationality is fun whether you are wearing, eating, drinking, or sharing ‘of the green’. Following is a quick list of organized and self-created events to make your Irish (even if just for the day) eyes smile. Events on St. Patrick’s Day in Lafayette: Whether long-standing annual events or starting this year, here are four organized events with green themes that are taking place in the city on Saturday, March 17, 2018: National Day of Action with AFP-LA (Americans for Prosperity-Louisiana) Phone Banking Party (Free) 11 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. 315 S College Road Wear green and join the effort to make lots of friendly phone calls educating others about the mission of AFP-LA to protect the American Dream. Organizers promise games, green beer, and everything Irish. Seersucker Social Bicycle Ride—Historic Azalea Trail with Bike Lafayette and Scenic Lafayette Social Bicycle Ride ($5) 2 p.m. until 5 p.m. 537 Jefferson Street / The Wurst Beirgarten Take a leisurely ride up and down the 1930’s era Historic Azalea Trail. Riders of all levels are encouraged to come out and enjoy a 10 mile stretch of beauty. Decorate your bike and wear a favorite vintage outfit to add to the fun if you wish. Water, bathroom, and snack breaks are built into the afternoon. Riders can return to The Wurst for entertainment by The Rayo Brothers from 5 to 6 p.m. The band will take the stage again at 9 p.m. Classic Car Cruise—Historic Azalea Trail with Lafayette Convention & Visitors Center Car Cruise ($5 for cruise participants/Free to general public) 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. (Registration 1p.m./Cruise 2-4 p.m.) 1400 NW Evangeline Thruway / Lafayette Convention & Visitors Center Start the engine of your classic vehicle (1975 or before) and motor over to the Visitors Center starting point. Refreshments will be served before the cruise that takes you on 22 miles of the trail. Historic homes, public art, and flowering bushes dot the path. The cruise will end near The Wurst Beirgarten. Patty in the Parc 2018 Entertainment & Food Festival ($15) 5:30 p.m. until 10:00 p.m. 200 Garfield Street / Parc International Get your tickets now or at the gate for this outside annual event. A fun day for family and friends featuring the Gin Blossoms, Chee Weez, and the Highway 90 Band. Home Celebrations and Activities for St. Patrick’s Day: Green Beer and bands may not be your thing. It’s all good. Here are some ways to celebrate on March 17th that are a little different: Pickles, Peppers, and Potatoes: Belly up to the bar, the Irish potato bar that is! Roast or bake potatoes and allow your dining companions to indulge in lots of green toppings. Broccoli, celery, green onions, dill, cilantro, and asparagus are just a few green things that taste great on a potato. In keeping with the green food theme: chop up lots of different peppers (bell, jalapeno, and banana are popular varieties) and open jars of sweet, dill, and kosher pickles for your guests. Irish Movie Marathon: You might elect to be an Irish couch potato and celebrate the big day with classic movies featuring personalities from or about the Emerald Isle. A few worth a view are The Boondock Saints (crime thriller), Brooklyn (romantic comedy), The Quiet Man (drama with John Wayne as a boxer), and The Commitments (musical). The Muppet Movie with Kermit the Frog who sang about the difficulties of “Bein’ Green” onSesame Street and The Muppet Show would be a great end to a cinematic indulgent day. Good Luck to You Bags: Spread St. Patrick’s Day Cheer with your neighbors by creating Lucky You bags that you can leave on a doorstep to brighten someone’s day. Take a brown paper lunch bag and fill it with a miniature box of Lucky Charms cereal, a bar of Irish Spring soap, an Irish wish or joke, and a shamrock. Tie the bag and address it by christening the person with an Irish name. For instance, Mrs. Boudreaux becomes Mrs. McBoudreaux and John Thibodeaux becomes John O’Thibodeaux for the day. Suggestions for the Irish wish that you can write in green ink or print onto green paper include: “May your troubles be less and your blessings be more and nothing but happiness come through your door” or “What is Irish and stays out all night? Paddy O’Furniture.” Regardless of how you celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, Lafayette offers much by way of activities and locations to get your green on! Looking for a place to live in the area, visit Lafayette Gardens Apartments and find out how you can be one of the lucky ones to live in this luxury apartment village. For more information on Lafayette area events, visit downtownlafayette.org TAGS: st patricks day in lafayette la, luxury apartments lafayette la, apartment communities lafayette la,In recent years both Harvard University and The Wall Street Journal ranked Lafayette, Louisiana as the happiest place to live in the United States. People, weather, food, and activities were all considered when cities were ranked. It makes sense, the joie de vivre of this Acadiana city pulses through to everything that happens in this city. If you are looking to live in the happiest city, you want to select a location that has features that will lead to even deeper fulfillment. Imagine entering the gates of your community in the heart of the city of Lafayette. Right across the street are shops and restaurants in the highly desirable pedestrian community of River Ranch. Museums, art galleries, and schools are minutes away. When you open the door to your apartment, you enter a one, two, or three -bedroom space designed with convenience and ease in mind. Water, garbage, and sewage services are included in your rent to make moving in, not to mention daily living, a piece of cake. The beautiful interior design boasts walk-in closets, wide decorative crown molding, custom cabinets, and vaulted ceilings. Adding to the appeal of the décor are kitchen appliances in gleaming stainless steel. There are washer and dryers in every unit. Air conditioning, intrusion alarm, ceiling fans, a dishwasher, and a garbage disposal are other appliances included in your apartment to provide comfort. Relax in the garden tub or step outside to your patio/balcony area. If you desire to venture past your balcony/patio, enjoy the beachfront entry pool, basketball court, kids park, or pet park that are all located behind the gates of our community. If your recreation tends towards indoor activities, there is a movie theatre, coffee bar, and clubhouse on the property as well. Work out in one of two 24-hour fitness centers and get a healthy-looking glow from the tanning beds. Have all these amenities put a smile on your face? There are even more. A car care center and on-site management and maintenance that includes 24-hour emergency maintenance for those situations that require immediate attention or repair. Corporate housing accommodations are available at Lafayette Gardens Apartments. Furnished apartments upon request can be granted as well. Our staff understands the pressures and nature of oil industry careers and we can cater to the preferences of these unique workers. Hospitality and a welcoming, nurturing environment is a leading goal of staff members. We understand that you have choices when it comes to where you will make your home. We invite you to come tour our facilities. Let us talk to you about the way you want to live, where you want to live, our seasonal specials that are designed to fit many budgets, and what amenities you need to keep you happy. Lafayette Gardens Apartments is proud to offer you the best in apartment community living. TAGS: lafayette louisiana ranked the happiest city to live, river ranch apartments in lafayette la, apartments near river ranch lafayette la, corporate housing near river ranch lafayette la, handicap apartments in river ranch lafayette laFebruary is the month dedicated to the heart. That muscle that pumps blood throughout our body and keeps us alive is also credited with feeling the deep emotion of love. For 28 days in 2018, the heart, what most would claim as the most important organ in our body, is honored in two ways. American Heart Month and St. Valentine’s Day are celebrated in February. Each year the month is full of celebrations where the heart is the central theme. When Pope Gelasius made February 14th Saint Valentine’s Day, he put in motion a day that would become dedicated to love. American Heart Month began in 1964. The American Heart Association decided that the month could be dedicated to awareness. For over 50 years, American Heart Month raises awareness about heart health so the rate of death due to heart disease will lower. Awareness of what causes heart disease and what can be done to live a heart-healthier lifestyle has lowered the rate of death due to heart disease in the United States. According to The American Heart Association, even though statistics show that the number of heart disease-related deaths since 1964 are lower, heart disease is the still the leading cause of death for women and men in the United States. 1 in 4 deaths in America is contributed to heart disease. That statistic can change through education about heart health and by a person adopting a heart-healthy regimen as a way of life. As a leading research facility, Harvard University says that doing these five things can lead to a healthier heart: avoid tobacco, be active, aim for a healthy weight, enliven your diet, and drink alcohol in moderation or not at all. Being able to live in surroundings that offer you the opportunity to practice daily activities that lead to a healthy heart is possible. Think about your surroundings as you strive to make your heart healthier each day. Frequent non-smoking or non-tobacco using facilities. If you already smoke, find a smoking cessation class that will surround you with others who are kicking the habit and with counselors who have already quit tobacco use and are familiar with techniques to help you through this major change. The State of Louisiana offers these classes in all major cities. Activity that gets you moving is vital to a healthy heart. Exercising at a gym, walking your pet, and taking the stairs are simple ways to add some activity to your daily routine. Whether you are starting out slow because you haven’t been active for a while or adding to a lifestyle where you already workout daily, increasing activity even slightly causes results. Aiming for a healthy weight involves watching what you eat and moving your body. The best place to start to find out what a healthy weight is for your frame and height is your physician. Your doctor is familiar with your medical history and can help you set a goal to aim for the right weight for you and the proper diet to follow to get on track to maintain or reach that healthy weight range. The more colorful your plate, the more enlivened your diet will become. Vegetable, fruits, and spices come in a rainbow of colors. Surround yourself with all types of choices to add color to your diet in the produce section of your grocery store or stopping at a produce market like Fresh Pickin’s on Kaliste Saloom. Drinking alcohol in moderation means that you can still indulge. Research shows that a glass of red wine offers health benefits like the ability to improve cholesterol and fight free radical damage due to the antioxidants contained in a serving. Lafayette Garden Apartments in Lafayette, Louisiana is a premier community living facility that surrounds you with amenities that can help you practice heart-healthy living. On the grounds of the complex are two 24-hour fitness centers. Imagine working out every day at the time you want and not having to pay membership fees. In addition to work out facilities, the grounds also offer a basketball court, kids and pet parks, outdoor barbecue areas, and a beachfront entry swimming pool. Tour Lafayette Garden Apartments today and fall in love. Your heart will thank you. TAGS: heart healthy living at lafayette gardens apartments, apartments in lafayette louisiana, corporate housing lafayette laMardi Gras is almost here! We’ve listed the parades below for your scheduling pleasure. Laissez les bons temps rouler… LAFAYETTE MARDI GRAS PARADES Friday, January 13, 2018
Sunday, February 4, 2018
Saturday, February 10, 2018
Sunday, February 11, 2018
Tuesday, February 13, 2018
Have it all in the middle of it all! (337) 993-8886 TAGS: mardi gras in lafyette, parade schedule, lafayette gardens apartments, 3-bedroom apartmnets in lafayette, 3-bedroom handicap apartments in lafayette louisiana, 3-bedroom corporate housing apartments in lafaytte laDecorating a one bedroom apartment when you are renting can seem a daunting task, especially when you are first starting out. We have come up with 3 cost effect high impact tips for college students and those just leaving the nest below: Light Wall Paints or Artwork: Most designers agree that using paint is the most cost-effective high impact change you can make. The problem is, that most universities and apartment complexes will limit what you can do with the walls. In lieu of painting, try using bright colored artwork instead. In today’s world of Hobby Lobby, Ross, Kirkland’s and the like, finding large colorful art on discount is not a difficult task. Moreover, try your hand at painting your own art. While large canvases can be expensive, a cluster of smaller canvas can easily be purchased for around $25 - $40. And Hobby Lobby’s stencil section can help those who feel they lack the creativity to pull this off freehand. Stencil on your favorite shapes and get busy painting in colors that coordinate with your furniture. Furniture for impact: Most of us grew up in traditional homes that had a living, dining, and separate bedrooms. It’s hard to shake the idea that rooms can be multipurpose. For example, in a one bedroom apartment, the dining area can double as an office for college students and for those just starting out. And while we are conditioned to think our living area needs a sofa, you may find that two roomy armchairs are more appropriate given space. Adding a cocktail table that can double as a desk and use a 5x8 area rug to boost the color of the room are just a few examples. Organize with Shelving: Open wall mounted shelving not only conserves space but gives you ample space to display artwork, treasured books and memorabilia. When artfully arrange this solution can act as a focal point and really pull a room together. Keep in mind that hanging shelves have a maximum load capacity, most apartment complexes have maintenance personnel that can assist you with finding studs in the wall, this will add stability to the shelving and for slightly heavier object placement. If you looking for a spacious one bedroom apartment in Lafayette, La make sure to add Lafayette Gardens Apartments to your tour list. Located in the heart of Lafayette, near shopping and schools, this gem of a community offers two 24 hour fitness centers, a beach front entry swimming pool, three dog parks, a playground and so much more. TAGS: decorating your first apartment, one bedroom apartments in lafyette la, college apartments in lafayette la, dorm alternatives in lafayette laInsurance is extremely important in Louisiana, from your car and health to property, it is present in every aspect of our life. When it comes to a rental apartment, the property owners carry insurance that protects them against the loss of the apartment buildings, garages, office space, common areas, fences, swimming pools and storage buildings, as well as any business personal property that is kept on the premises and used to maintain or service the buildings and grounds. But their commercial insurance does not cover contents in the rental units. What is Renters Insurance? Renters insurance provides coverage to your personal property such as furniture, electronics, clothing among other possessions. This insurance only covers your personal contents, injury you may cause to the building or someone else and as such is far more affordable. Renters Insurance cost about the same a couple going out to a movie once a month. Why is it Important? Fire, theft, flood and other hazards can devastate a household. But most important is that it ensures your assets are covered. Renters insurance covers your belongings from theft and damage, but it also provides liability coverage in case someone is injured while in your apartment. What does it cover? The damage or loss of your personal property from fire, lightning, explosion, theft, a falling object, smoke, vandalism, weight of snow or ice, riot, or damage caused by vehicles and aircrafts. Also, while your belongings while off-premise if you are traveling and lose your luggage or laptop. We should mention that wind damage is not covered. It has been excluded throughout most of Louisiana by underwriters. Liability – This section of your rental insurance will cover any accidents on the rental property caused by you or family. Living Expense - If you are displaced by flood or fire. Here, renters insurance can pay for interim lodging until the property has been restored to livable condition. A few facts about Rental Insurance in Louisiana
Also, having an insurance for the damage caused by you doesn't make you exempt from any liability. The damaged party’s insurance company can sue you for the amount they have paid to cover the loss. If you are liable, your insurance policy will defend you and pay for the losses but only up to your policy limit. When you are apartment shopping in Louisiana, renters insurance is probably the last thing on your mind, but we highly suggest you take the time to investigate this low-cost protection that most insurance offer. It should only take a few minutes of your time. To rent a luxury apartment in Lafayette, LA, take a virtual tour of our apartments right away! TAGS: apartment shopping, house hunting lafayette la, apartment hunting lafayette la, one bedroom apartments lafayette la, two bedroom apartments in lafayette la |
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