May Home Maintenance Tips
1. Service the Furnace and Air Conditioner- preventative maintenance will save you time and money. Make your furnace and/or air conditioner tune up an annual thing.
2. Replace Vacuum Cleaner Bags- Give your vacuum a once over to make sure it’s in tip top shape. Clean the filters and wipe down the exterior. Remember to empty vacuum bags outside to keep allergens out of the house.
3. Repair Screens- Inspect and clean screens that cover windows or patio doors.
4. Vacuum Refrigerator Coils- Your fridge will run more efficiently if the coils are kept clean. Use your vacuums hand tools to reach the cracks and crevices behind the fridge. Don’t forget the grill at the front of the fridge.
5. Wash Windows- Spring weather lets the sun shine in, but it doesn’t do you much good looking through grimy windows. While you’re at it, clean the blinds, drapes or other window coverings.
6. Replace the Batteries in Your Smoke Detectors- You should check your smoke detectors and CO2 alarms monthly to make sure they are working, but replacing the batteries at least once each year helps ensure they’ll be working when you need them.
North Lake Tahoe Educational Summer Activities for Kids
Summertime is wonderful for kids in North Lake Tahoe. There are a lot of summer camp options to choose from in the area and if you’re looking for something educational, there are dozens of local museums and historical places to check out.
Emigrant Trail Museum: The Emigrant Trail Museum is located at Donner Memorial State Park. You’ll learn about the history of this part of the Sierra, original local people including Native Americans, the Donner Party and the builders of the railroad. The museum also has a gift shop where you can purchase maps, postcards and more.
KidZone Museum: KidZone Museum is located at 11711 Donner Pass Rd in Truckee. They have various camps and workshops throughout the summer and are available for party rentals. Activity Centers include: Baby Zone, Art Studio, Jungle Jim, and Exploration Station.
Tahoe Maritime Museum: Tahoe Maritime Museum is located at 5205 West Lake Blvd in Homewood. Adults are $5 and children up to 11 are free. This museum features maritime memorabilia and crafts. Check hours by calling (530) 525-9253.
Vikingsholm Castle: Vikingsholm is located in Emerald Bay and the tour fee is $8 for adults and $5 for kids ages 6-17. Tours are available from Memorial Day Weekend through the end of September. There is a steep 1-mile trail to get to and from Vikingsholm, so the trip might not be appropriate for you kids.
Gatekeeper’s Museum: Gatekeeper’s Museum is located at 130 West Lake Blvd in Tahoe City. The gatekeeper’s cabin was originally built as the home for the Watermaster, who controlled the flow of water out of Lake Tahoe. The museum features historical exhibits from Native American baskets, newspapers, artifacts, resort history and more.
Watson Cabin: Watson Cabin is located at 560 North Lake Blvd in Tahoe City. Robert Montgomery Watson built the cabin in 1909 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
By Sasha Spiegel-Wallace
Refresh Your Home With These Spring Decorating Tips
A great way to refresh your home, whether you’re planning to sell or just want a change, redecorating a room or two may be just the thing you need. Better Homes and Garden has a fantastic list of spring decor ideas. I’ve highlighted some of them for you here.
1. Bright Spring Colors for the Living Room: Add pops of color to your main living area with bright vases, colorful pillows or fresh flowers.
2. Change it up with Wallpaper: Wallpaper doesn’t have to sing of your grandmother’s dated dining room. A fresh, airy pattern can lighten a room and a bold, bright statement wall can really accent your furniture or decor. Choose peel and stick options for easier removal.
3. Add Natural Centerpieces: Natural centerpieces in either flowers, ferns or a big leafy arrangement are often budget friendly and are great for nearly any decor.
4. Sheer Panels Add Dimension: Sheer Panels offer a bit of privacy, add texture and a splash of color. Curtains are also easy to change if you decide on another style or color later on.
5. Go All Out with Paint: If you really want to refresh a room, choose a new paint color. Go with an accent color that’s in your current decor, of choose a color you love. Talk with the associates in your local home improvement store for painting tips, best color options and paint types.
To check out all of Better Homes and Gardens spring decorating tips, click here. Maybe you need a little more help with some creative design ideas for your home. If you’re planning to sell your home in the near future, hiring a professional designer can save you time and frustration. I highly recommend Sue Pipal of Dragonfly Designs for your interior design needs.
For information about selling (or buying!) your home, please give me a call at 530-386-0302. I’ll be able to tell you what your home is worth and develop an efficient marketing plan that fits your needs.
Family Friendly Afternoon Tea and Beading Workshop in Tahoe City
As part of their Kids Art Saturdays, North Tahoe Arts is hosting an afternoon tea and beading workshop on Saturday, April 13 from noon till 2:00 p.m. All children (with guardians) are welcome and there will be tea and treats for all attendees.
North Tahoe Arts is a non-profit organization that supports and encourages the arts in North Lake Tahoe and Truckee. North Tahoe Arts Center regularly hosts classes, exhibits and routinely showcases local artists.
For more information about the afternoon tea and beading workshop, classes or upcoming art events, visit their website at www.northtahoearts.com or call 530-581-2787. North Tahoe Arts Center is located at 380 North Lake Blvd in Tahoe City.
