Ideas to Get You Cooking in Your Small Kitchen

You don’t have to have a cavernous apartment kitchen to make it work for you. Even if your kitchen is the size of a ship’s galley, there are plenty of creative small kitchen solutions you can employ to store your stuff and enlarge the usable space.

Create visual space
Drawing the eye upward is a great way to create space in a vertically-challenged kitchen. With the okay of your landlord, consider a repaint of your kitchen using neutral colors near the floor and bright, energizing colors for top cabinets. With approval, consider removing cabinet doors, a kitchen decor trick that creates depth and openness, making the kitchen seem less confining. (Store the doors for future use, of course.)

Brighten it up
Shadows detract from space, so banish them with better lighting. Keep window coverings as sheer as possible and don’t let knickknacks hog the space. If your counter space permits, try a lamp or LED lights (tap lights, for instance) that can be mounted under cabinets with adhesive or a bracket, giving you a brighter, more welcoming work area.

Hidden storage space
Do you eat in your kitchen or another room? Many times, the kitchen table is a redundant piece of furniture, one that takes second place to a dining room table. If yours is getting ignored, get rid of it! You’ve just created an empty wall, available for a hutch, shelving unit or cabinet that can store many of your kitchen wares.
You don’t have to store all of your kitchen items directly in your kitchen. Do you have a nearby closet that could serve as a pantry? With more shelving, you can even store away your small appliances and create more counter space. Perhaps you have some free wall space? A dish shelf can help you display bright, collectible pieces and free up cabinet space. You can also mount stemware or store coffee mugs under your top cabinets to free up shelves for other items.

Keep it clean and clutter free
Even in a spacious kitchen, a cluttered countertop is a dismal site; in small kitchens, it’s a “keep out” sign. Be sure to clean and store your dishes after every meal, as well as all tools and ingredients. If you’re running short on space, make time for some kitchen organizing: go through all of your cupboard and drawers, and discard items you’re not using often. (We’ve all bought dishes and tools that seemed like a must-have at the time, but have never seen the light of day since.)
Ready to reclaim your kitchen? You can accomplish a lot in a modest space with some smart storage and space usage.

Raleigh History, Tourism and Preservation

Raleigh Historic Districts Commission
The Raleigh Historic Districts Commission serves as the City Council’s official historic preservation advisory body to identify, preserve, protect and educate the public about Raleigh’s historic resources.

City of Raleigh
Find out more about the city's government, businesses, residents and leisure.

Greater Raleigh Convention and Visitors Bureau
Official source for Raleigh area visitors and event information. Browse through listings of accommodations, attractions, events, restaurants and more.
Greater Raleigh Chamber of Commerce
Browse this website for information on businesses and organizations that can help you plan your next vacation, move or business venture.

Raleigh City Museum
A private, non-profit organization dedicated to collecting, preserving and interpreting the history of Raleigh, North Carolina's, capital city.

Wake County Historic Preservation Commission
Created in 1992 to preserve districts and landmarks in Wake County that embody important elements of the county's culture, history, architectural history or prehistory, and to promote the use and conservation of such districts and landmarks for the education, pleasure and enrichment of the residents of the State.

North Carolina Division of Archives and History
This state office collects, preserves and utilizes the state's historic resources so that present and future residents may better understand their history.

North Carolina State Historic Preservation Office
This state office assists private citizens, private institutions, local governments, and agencies of state and Federal Government in the identification, evaluation, protection, and enhancement of properties significant in North Carolina history and archeology.

Preservation North Carolina
This private, non-profit statewide organization protects and promotes buildings, sites and landscapes important to the diverse heritage of North Carolina. Through its award-winning endangered properties program, Preservation NC acquires endangered historic properties and then finds purchasers willing and able to rehabilitate them.

National Alliance of Preservation Commissions
NAPC represents the nation's preservation design review commissions, provides technical support and manages an information network to help local commissions accomplish their preservation objectives.

Historic American Buildings Survey/Historic American Engineering Record (HABS/HAER)
The HABS/HAER program documents important architectural, engineering and industrial sites throughout the United States and its territories. Its collections are archived at the Library of Congress and available online.

National Conference of State Historic Preservation Officers
The professional association of the State government officials who carry out the national historic preservation program as delegates of the Secretary of the Interior pursuant to the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, as amended.

National Trust for Historic Preservation
Learn about the programs of, and membership, in the oldest national nonprofit preservation organization.

Historic Hotels of America
A feature of the National Trust for Historic Preservation's Heritage Traveler program that provides information on historic hotels and package tours in the vicinity of this itinerary.

National Park Service Office of Tourism
National Parks have been interwoven with tourism from their earliest days. This website highlights the ways in which the National Park Service promotes and supports sustainable, responsible, informed and managed visitor use through cooperation and coordination with the tourism industry.

National Scenic Byways Program
This website, maintained by the U.S. Department of Transportation, Federal Highway Administration, includes information on state and nationally designated byway routes throughout America based on their archeological, cultural, historic, natural, recreational, and scenic qualities. Visit the America’s Byways Outer Banks Scenic Byway website for more ideas.

Check them out.....
•Crabtree Creek Recreational Demonstration Area
•J. S. Dorton Arena
•Mordecai House
•St. Augustine's College
•Oakwood Historic District
•Peace College
•Hawkins-Hartness House
•North Carolina Executive Mansion
•North Carolina State Capitol
•Christ Church
•Haywood Hall
•Briggs Hardware Building
•Shaw University (Estey Hall and Leonard Hall)
•Tucker Carriage House
•St. Mary's College
•Joel Lane House
•Pullen Park Carousel
•Boylan Heights
•Oak View
•Yates Mill

Selected Bibliography for Raleigh

Your Apartment Move-Out Checklist

Moving out of your apartment can be stressful. With a move-out checklist, you leave the guesswork behind and assure that you don’t leave any loose as you close out your old apartment.
Don’t worry if your timeline is shorter than the one below, just adapt this list to fit your situation.

Two months before your move
•Read your lease thoroughly to find out how much notice is required. Submit your handwritten notice, signed by all parties on your lease, stating your intended move out date.

Four weeks before your move
•Put in a change of address form at the U.S. Postal Service
•Notify any utility company whose service you’re currently using such as Phone, Power, Water, Cable/Satellite TV, Newspaper or magazine subscriptions, bottled water delivery

The week of your move
•Thoroughly clean your apartment including all bathroom surfaces (including toilet); floors and carpets; clean your oven and replace drip pans if necessary..
•Remove all staples and nails in the walls and fill in any holes left behind (check with your landlord on preference of filler material).
•Perform a Checkout walkthrough of your apartment, be sure all trash is removed and apartment is clean.

Moving out of your apartment doesn’t have to hurt! Use this handy move-out checklist to get all your departure errands done and done right so that you can head off into the sunset, eager to start the adventure of living in your new place.

How to Get a Copy of Your Credit Report

There may not be anything more vital to your financial security than checking your credit report. The federal government mandates that the three credit reporting agencies provide everyone a free copy annually. Follow these tips to get a copy of your credit report.

Why you should monitor your credit report
Everyone should pull their credit report at least once a year. Even if you manage your money well and don’t suspect that you have any problems, monitoring your credit report is key to preventing identity theft or mistakes that could cost you a good interest rate or loan.

When to review your credit report
Monitor your credit at least once a year. Besides an annual check you should also check your credit if either of the following happens to you:
•You are turned down for a loan. If your application is rejected, by law you are allowed a free credit report from the credit agencies to find out why.
•You receive a suspicious bill or suspicious charge on your credit cards or through other means. This might be a sign that someone has stolen your identity.

How to get your credit report
Some companies offer to send you your credit report and your credit score in conjunction with credit protection programs. At AnnualCreditReport.com, you can check your credit report for free. You are allowed one free report from each of the three reporting agencies — Equifax, Experian and TransUnion.

Warnings
Only the credit report is free. Each credit agency also offers to sell you your “credit score,” which is the FICO score used by creditors to determine your financial trustworthiness and which interest rates and loans for which you qualify based on your credit history. Those are not included in the free credit report.
If you do choose to buy your credit score — which is helpful in determining what you need to do to improve your credit — also note that FICO is the most commonly used score among those who loan out money. The credit agencies now offer a separate credit score that is based on their own calculations but is not widely used by loan officers yet. That number might not be the one used to determine whether you qualify for a car loan, for instance.

For more information about credit reports, visit the Federal Trade Commission’s Web site, which has a variety of information about consumer rights, the dispute process and what citizens should know about their credit.

Childproofing Your Apartment

Just when you think you’ve gotten down the care of your baby, self mobility comes into play! Now is when the real fun — and potential hazards begin. Take the guesswork out of what your child can get into and don’t give her the chance. Read on for our top childproofing tips.

Electricity
There are a number of products on the market to make your electrical outlets safe for kids. Whether you opt for plug caps that go directly into the prong holes, screw-in adapters that slide over the holes when a plug is removed or a cover that envelopes the entire outlet, don’t give your child the opportunity to stick something into the wall outlet. Likewise, keep all dangling cords out of reach and secure them to the wall using cord protectors that keep them flush with the floor and wall. Locks for washers, dryers, refrigerators and other appliances are also available.

Kitchen
There is a lot of potential danger for a crawler or toddler in the kitchen. Get used to turning all pan handles inward so curious hands can’t reach up to pull scalding food down and use only back burners when you can. You might consider a range shield that will make it hard for a child to touch anything on the stovetop. You can also get covers for burner handles, to keep kids from turning them on or just pull off the handles and put them out of reach when you’re not in the kitchen.
Keep all small appliances such as toasters, food processors and blenders away from the edge of the counter and make sure their cords are unplugged and stowed when not in use.
Anything sharp, chemical, toxic, breakable or small and hard (candies, nuts) can be swallowed and needs to be up high out of reach or in locked drawers/cabinets. Also make sure that plastic bags are stowed out of your child’s reach, as they present a suffocation hazard.

Bathroom
A lot of toxic things are stored in the bathroom — from cleaners to medication. Be sure to store any potentially harmful item up high or in a securely locked cabinet. Fingernail polish remover, germ-killing sprays and tweezers can all pose a serious threat to a curious child. You might also want to put a lock on the toilet lid to prevent your child from falling in or playing in the water. The most important rule of all in bathroom safety: never leave your child unattended in the bathtub.

Bedrooms
In your baby’s room, and throughout the apartment, make sure that all outlets are covered and cords are wrapped. Store toys in easy-access bins or a toy box with a non-slamming lid on it. Put all diaper-changing supplies in a hanging caddy above the changing table, or some other out-of-your-child’s-reach location. You, on the other hand, need to have easy access to supplies since it is dangerous, even for a moment, to ever leave your child alone on the changing table.
In other bedrooms, make sure that all coins, jewelry, cufflinks, sewing supplies and other potential choking hazards are safely stowed out of reach, along with scarves and ties. In any room that collects paper clips, staples or other office supplies, be sure they are also put out of reach.

Furniture
Any piece in your apartment that your child could climb on and possibly tip over on himself should be secured to a wall with anchors — especially bureaus and bookcases. Also look for corners on tables and desks and apply rubber or plastic edges to them.

Common areas
Your family or living room is the location for lots of good times, but also requires childproofing. Make sure that all plants are out of reach, since many of them are poisonous and their pots are breakable. Also put any knick knacks or breakable items out of reach. Even innocuous decorative items can pose a hazard. That cute sculpture the office gave you seems innocent enough until your kid finds a way to break off pieces of it and put them in her mouth. Television and stereo equipment should be out of reach as well, with all cords wrapped and tucked out of sight.

Doors, windows and stairs
Keeping your child from dangerous areas in your apartment is the best way to prevent accidents. Make sure you keep doors and windows locked and put childproof handles on the doors of rooms you don’t want your child accessing. To keep little fingers from getting hurt, you can install a U-shaped pinch guard on doors and closets. While you’re checking your windows, make sure all blind or drapery cords are wrapped snugly out of reach. Install permanent gates at the bottom of staircases ascending off the ground floor and at the top of stairs to a lower level.
When childproofing your apartment, you have to think and move like one. Get down on the floor and crawl around. Anything you can reach or run into your child can too. Having a little one on the move requires lots of extra vigilance, so do your work before they get mobile.

AWESOME RALEIGH MOVIE EXPERIENCE!

Why IMAX?
Boasting NC’s only 3D-capable giant screen, the Wachovia IMAX Theatre at Marbles Kids Museum in downtown Raleigh IS THE ultimate movie experience. You'll be blown away by the crystal clear IMAX movies shown on the giant 50-foot high screen.

With more than 200 films available, audiences have been taken to the far reaches of the earth, transported into the future and put into the driver’s seat through films such as Into the Deep 3D, Space Station 3D, and NASCAR 3D: The IMAX Experience. Hollywood films that have been digitally re-mastered into The IMAX Experience have entertained audiences like never before.

The IMAX 3D Experience
The IMAX Experience in 3D - the world's most immersive movie experience - has entertained and enlightened millions of people worldwide. With crystal clear, larger-than-life, 3D images complemented by exhilarating state-of-the-art surround sound, audiences feel as though they are in the movie.

IMAX 3D glasses are provided for use during all 3D films at the Wachovia IMAX Theatre.

The IMAX Film
IMAX 3D uses dual filmstrip technology, using two separate strips of film for both image capture and projection. IMAX is the world's largest film format using 15-perforation, 70mm film to create images of incredible sharpness. The 15/70-film format is ten times larger than conventional 35mm film. This makes it the largest commercial film ever invented. IMAX large format film is so strong it could be used to tow your car.

The IMAX 3D Camera
The IMAX 3D camera is one of the highest resolution image-capturing devices in the world. By simultaneously recording separate left- and right-eye images onto two 65mm wide filmstrips—one for each eye—the IMAX 3D camera helps to create spectacular high-resolution images characteristic of the wide field of view of IMAX presentations. Weighing between 42 and 100 pounds, these cameras are extremely versatile and can be used in virtually any environment—from outer space to the ocean floor, the top of Mt. Everest and all around the globe.

The IMAX 3D Projector
IMAX projectors are the most advanced, precise and powerful projectors ever built. The IMAX 3D projector simultaneously projects two strips of 15/70 film, one for each eye, onto a special IMAX 3D screen. Each member of the audience must wear IMAX 3D glasses, which channel the right-eye image to the right eye and the left-eye image to the left eye. The polarized lenses separate the left- and right-eye images. Light from the 7,000-watt lamp of an IMAX projector is so bright that, if one were operated on the moon, people on Earth could see it with the naked eye.

The IMAX Screen
Forty-five hundred times larger than an average TV screen, IMAX and IMAX 3D giant flat screens soar up to eight stories high and have a slight curvature that extends beyond the field of geometric recognition. Because these screens fill your peripheral vision, you feel like you’re right in the action. IMAX 3D screens are painted silver to maximize the amount of light reflected back to the audience.

IMAX Sound
The six-channel, multi-way digital IMAX speaker system with sub-bass utilizes 44 speakers grouped into six clusters behind the screen and at the rear of the theatre to deliver uncompressed sound that is simply unsurpassed in depth and clarity. Sixteen amplifiers generate more than 12,000 watts of power, not volume, to provide the audience with life-like sound. IMAX’s proprietary loudspeaker system delivers exacting volume and quality at every seat throughout the theatre. From a small drop of rain to an enormous clap of thunder, you'll hear every shade and subtlety, regardless of where you are sitting.

Living Room Decoration for Beginners

Regardless of where you’re living, there are basic decorating rules you should follow to avoid your living room looking too small or overwhelmed, or even too open. Just remember these basics:

•Paint. Nothing makes a room stand out so quickly than throwing some color on the wall, covering up that neutral light beige every landlord uses.
But be careful: You don’t want to overwhelm the room, so consider reading tips on how to add color to your apartment. For instance, painting just one wall makes it an eye-catching accent wall and focal point of the room, but you can keep the walls neutral and paint your furniture instead, making it stand out. You can even add texture to the walls to really make it pop.

•Dark colors in a small room make the room look smaller. So if you’re eyeing painting the wall and your living room is tiny, consider going with a bright, light color. It makes the space look bigger and brightens the room as well. Apartmentguide.com has some tips for small spaces that are useful for decorating small living rooms.

•Furniture that is too big can overwhelm a small room, but if you have room to spare, make it count. Essentially, don’t buy a couch that’s too big for your living room. But if your living room is big, play with the space. Finding living room furniture to fit your space doesn’t have to break the bank either. Some tips on finding inexpensive furniture include checking online, shopping at the thrift stores and even renting.

•Keep the color in check. Painting your living room red may be a great idea, but if your living room furniture is also dark and red, as are your curtains, it could overwhelm your decorating scheme. Instead, place bold colors in smaller doses: Instead of a bold wall color, use a neutral and then accessorize with color in curtains, throw pillows and rugs.

•Light it up. Apartments are usually lacking in light, so don’t be afraid to add lamps — floor lamps, table lamps, even hanging lamps. Not only does it brighten smaller spaces, but it also allows you to add subtle color through the shades.

Personalize
Even if you never do any of the beginning living room decoration, there are other ways to spice up your living room:
•Add photos or artwork. Frame them and then hang them. It brings the eye to the walls and adds a nice homey touch to your living room. You can even display them on tabletops.
•Make your living room decoration breathe by strategically placing evergreen plants around your apartment. Just make sure they have enough light, among other plant needs .
•Accessorize, either with throw pillows or blankets, or even just books and knick knacks placed around the room. Make these items fit your personality.
Decorating your living room can be as simple as throwing some paint on the walls and hanging photos. Whatever you do, just make it reflect your style and tastes.

Raleigh Grows in Leaps and Bounds

Raleigh, along with Durham and Chapel Hill, is part of the Research Triangle in North Carolina. Over 300,000 residents call the city home and finding apartments in Raleigh will ensure you are close to higher education, excellent outdoor attractions, arts and culture.

As the capital of North Carolina, Raleigh offers excellent opportunities for experiencing the arts. Here you will find the North Carolina Museum of Art as well as The North Carolina Symphony and the North Carolina Museum of History. Raleigh is also home to the State Fairgrounds and the North Carolina Sports Hall of Fame. But, after you finish with all of the adult attractions, spend a day with your children at the Marbles Kids Museum. They will appreciate the interactive exhibits and the thrill of the IMAX theater.

Raleigh is one of those cities where residents enjoy all four seasons. Snowy winters, green springs, warm summers and colorful falls characterize the climate here. As a resident of Raleigh apartments, you can experience this beautiful weather whenever you like at parks and recreation facilities. In these parks you can find opportunities for fishing and camping while at nearby lakes you can enjoy a day on the lake boating. Golf courses as well as stables for horseback riding are available in the metro area, too. And, no matter where you are searching for apartments in Raleigh, you can enjoy proximity to natural beauty at the Joel Lane Museum House Gardens, Raleigh Municipal Rose Garden or the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial Gardens.

Students searching for apartments in the Raleigh area for college, will find convenience in living near the campuses of public institutions such as North Carolina State University and Wake Technical Community college. Private institutions such as Meredith College, Peace College, Shaw University and St. Augustine's College are also located in Raleigh.

But, if you are looking for some great shopping in the city of Raleigh and you are searching for apartments on the north side of the city, you are in luck. Crabtree Valley Mall and North Hills are located here. And, for great neighborhood shopping, check out Cameron Village found closer to downtown. You'll find unique shops and eateries conveniently located near North Carolina State University and Pullen Park.

With so many attractions and great neighborhoods in Raleigh, searching for apartments can be difficult. But, with ApartmentGuide.com's neighborhood information and detailed listings of Raleigh apartments for rent, most of the work is already done for you.

Tips to Help You Bathe Your Pet

Bathing a pet might be the least favorite thing pet owners do with their furry friends. Pets don’t like it, and they might make you aware of that with their claws. But even though they can clean themselves, pets still need help bathing. Use these tips to make bath time easier on you both.

Get ready to get dirty…and wet
You need to prepare for what could be a very wet battle between you and your pet. This means you should dress accordingly and clear a way into the bathroom or kitchen. Put on clothes you don’t mind getting wet (long sleeves aren’t a bad idea), put down towels on the floor and pick up anything you don’t want knocked down or splashed.
You might want to go ahead and set up the bath before you let on that you intend to give your dog, cat or other pet a good scrub down: Fill the tub or sink with a few inches of water, put your grooming supplies out, and open and seal off possible escape routes. Have either the detachable shower head or spray nozzle ready to go to rinse them off, or a large cup or measuring bowl.

Trim first, then trick
Whether you have a dog or a cat, you’re likely to get clawed if you don’t trim that possibility out of the equation from the get go: Nab your pet and trim their nails. Once you’ve got that done, you can get your pet to the already prepared bathroom or kitchen: Small dog or cat? Pick them up, walk into the bath and shut the door. Large dog? You might have to trick them with treats to get them to the bathroom or kitchen. They’re not stupid. They know what lies ahead for them in that room.

Heavy lifting
More than likely, your pet is not getting into that water willingly. Make sure the water’s not too hot or cold, and test it with a paw before you dump them in. But chances are, you’re going to have to lift them up and force them into the water. You’ll also probably have to hold them down with one hand while you bathe your pet, which makes the previous preparation important. Gently shampoo your pet to untangle fur, but be mindful of their eyes. There’s no reason to make this even worse for them.

Towel off, brush down and let them go
Obviously you don’t want a dripping wet dog running around your house, so once you’ve finished, drain the tub and start toweling off your furry friend. You may have to use a blow dryer on low heat for pets with longer hair, but it’s important to get them as dry as possible. Once you’ve done that, you should brush them to free up tangles, and then let them go. They’ll happily run out of the bath. Just be sure to give them a treat once you’re done. And don’t let them outside until they’re fully dried.

Pay someone else
You may not want to deal with the hassle of bathing your pet, but it is important to do so. Licking their fur will not undo damage matted fur has caused, and many animals need their fur trimmed during the hotter months to help them deal with the summer heat. Don’t be afraid of taking them to a professional groomer who’ll do the dirty deed for you.

Dog Breeds That Make Good Apartment Dogs

Choosing the right apartment dog can seem like a daunting task. With so many dog breeds to choose from, how do you know which pooch is for you?

The good news is that many dog breeds make good apartment dogs. The key to choosing an apartment dog is to choose a canine with an energy level that suits your lifestyle and a temperament that will allow him to be comfortable in an apartment.
Pick an apartment dog whose activity level matches your own. If you’re an active person and plan on jogging every day with your dog, you can choose a high-energy dog breed. With a lot of exercise, a high-energy dog can be happy in an apartment. But if you’re a couch potato, look for a pup that prefers resting over going for runs.
A dog’s temperament is also critical in determining whether or not he’ll be a good apartment dog. For a dog, an apartment community is a pretty stimulating place — there’s a lot of people coming and going, and there’s a constant hum of interesting noises. A good apartment dog is one who can handle all that stimulation without getting overly anxious. Anxious dogs are barkers, and they could get you evicted.
With both energy level and temperament in mind, here’s a list of five dog breeds — both large and small — who’d make good apartment dogs.

Yorkshire Terrier
Yorkies are among the best apartment dogs because of their small size. With full-grown Yorkshire Terriers weighing in at around seven pounds or less, these tiny dogs are very active indoors but don’t require outdoor exercise. They love cuddling and are the ultimate lap dogs. As an added bonus, these diminutive dogs can be easily trained to use the bathroom on indoor “piddle pads” — squares of diaper-like material that absorb waste — making them very low maintenance.

Mastiff
While they are among the most powerful and heavy dog breeds, Mastiffs actually make good apartment dogs because they are very low energy. Weighing as much as 150 pounds, these gentle giants are very calm and rarely bark making them suitable to busy apartment communities. With short walks every few days and daily indoor playtime, Mastiffs can be happy apartment dogs.

Schipperke
The Schipperke is a highly active small to medium-sized dog breed that does well with active apartment dwellers. Very alert and intelligent, these Belgian dogs need a lot of mental and physical stimulation through regular indoor playtime as well as outdoor walks. Some are prone to barking, but the breed makes a good apartment dog for its manageable size and loving, loyal temperament.

Greyhound
Exceptionally quiet and gentle, Greyhounds are a large breed that make good apartment dogs. Despite being known as athletes, these mellow dogs make great family pets and enjoy nothing more than lying around on the couch all day. They do require regular walks, but they don’t need excessive daily exercise.

Basset Hound
Thanks to their mild temperament and inactive indoor lifestyle, Bassets are a good apartment dog breed. With average adult Basset Hounds topping out at about 40 to 60 pounds, they are also an ideal medium size for many owners. Basset Hounds do love the outdoors though, and while they can be OK without a yard of their own, they need regular outdoor exercise to be happy and healthy.

Don’t see your favorite dog on the list?
The truth is that any dog breed could potentially be a good apartment dog. It all depends on the pup’s personality. And don’t think you have to limit yourself to purebreds when you choose an apartment dog. Adopting a mutt from a rescue shelter is also an option.

How to Tell Your Roommate You’re Moving Out

All good things must come to an end, and so it will be with you and your apartment roommate. As with many aspects of the roommate relationship, telling a roommate you will be moving out can be stressful. But letting your roommate know you’re leaving can be relatively easy and leave everyone involved with generally good feelings — if you handle things in a respectful way. Here are some tips for letting your roommate know that you’ll be moving out.

How to tell your roommate
Your approach will depend on your existing relationship with your apartment roommate. If relations with your roommate are good, tell them in person that you are moving out. If you and your roommate tend to have nasty disagreements face to face, you may want to consider letting your roommate know you’re moving out in a less direct way. If you think there’s a chance that there will be a disagreement over money later, telling your roommate you are leaving through e-mail has the advantage of being time-stamped, so you can prove that you gave your roommate plenty of notice.

When to tell your roommate
Let your roommate know as early as you can, so that he or she has time to search for a new roommate or apartment. You’ll also want to give your roommate plenty of notice so that he or she can make plans around your moving your belongings out of the apartment.

How much should you say
Should you tell your roommate why you’re moving out? It depends on your reasons for moving and the emotions involved. If you’ve been silently seething for months over disagreements, bringing these issues up while telling your roommate you are moving out is not going to be of much benefit to either of you. After all, you’re not going to be living with this person much longer. Even if you don’t get along, you want to be relatively gracious. Of course, if your reason for moving out has nothing to do with your roommate, such as switching jobs or wanting a better location, this will be much less of a difficulty to bring up to your roommate.

Hammer out final details with your roommate
Don’t forget to discuss the details of moving out with your roommate. Work out who has to pay the last bills, when you’ll be moving out, and how you’ll get back anything you put towards the security deposit. If you and your roommate have a roommate agreement, read through it to make sure you are honoring any provisions you are your roommate set in the event someone moved out.

Do unto your roommate…Finally, just because you’re moving out doesn’t mean you get to give up your usual responsibilities in the apartment such as cleaning or paying bills. Your roommate may still be useful in the future as a personal reference, even if you don’t plan to remain in touch after you move out. Consider what you would want your roommate to do if you were the one being left behind, and act accordingly.

10 Credit Report Myths

With today's tightened lending requirements, credit is harder to come by. So 750 is the new 720 - when it comes to an above-average credit score, that is. Whether you're thinking of refinancing your mortgage, purchasing a new home, or taking out a car loan, it's more important than ever to understand the factors that affect your credit report. After all, a higher credit score could very well translate into a better interest rate that saves you thousands of dollars. When it comes to your credit report, believing the myths can definitely hurt you.


1 - MYTH: I can boost my credit score by closing credit cards I don't use.

FACT: Think twice before closing an account - especially if it's a credit card you've had for several years. That's because both the length of time that an account is open and the balance in relation to the card's maximum limit factor into a credit rating, according to Rodney Anderson, a mortgage and credit expert and the managing partner of Rodney Anderson Lending Services located in Plano, Texas. A better bet may be to store the credit card in a drawer. Just be sure to keep the account active by using the card to make a purchase at least once a quarter, he advises.

2 - MYTH: Checking my credit report will lower my score.

Fact: A "hard credit pull" - say when you're applying for a new credit card or a mortgage - will stay on your credit report for at least six months, and will lower your score, says Avinash Karnani, co-founder of justthrive.com, a free online personal finance management tool. But when you check your own credit report, it does not impact your credit score. In fact, checking your credit report and score is a "great tool, especially when you're making big-ticket purchases," says Charles Harris, an executive at FreeCreditReport.com. "The higher your score, the more likely you may be able to negotiate lower interest rates, which gives you more control over your personal finances."

3 - MYTH: My age, race, gender, marital status, income, or where I live can impact my credit score.

Fact: Not true, says Lynnette Khalfani-Cox, author of Zero Debt: The Ultimate Guide to Financial Freedom (Advantage World Press, 2008). Under U.S. law, it is illegal for credit scoring to take into account race, age, color, nationality, religion, sex, or marital status.

4 - MYTH: If I negotiate with my credit card or mortgage company, my credit score will go down.

Fact: That's not necessarily true, says Spencer Sherman, author of The Cure for Money Madness (Broadway, 2009) and founder of Abacus Wealth Partners, a wealth advisory company. "If you're up-to-date with payments, it will not likely affect your score," he says. To protect your score, try extending the term of the loan or negotiate a reduction in interest rate as opposed to a reduction in principal, he advises.

5 - MYTH: I pay cash for everything and don't buy on credit or use credit cards, so my credit score should be excellent.

Fact: Having no credit history or never using credit can actually have a negative impact on your credit score, says Khalfani-Cox. In fact, people with no credit cards tend to be viewed as higher risk than those who have managed their debt responsibly. Credit rating agencies like to see that you have a history of paying credit obligations on time.

6 - MYTH: My $6 library card fine will have no impact on my credit score.

Fact: Library fines, even if they're small, can lower your credit score by as much as 50 to 100 points, says Rich Rosso, a financial consultant for Charles Schwab. The same applies for unpaid parking tickets and utility bills. If you pay up before the debt reaches a collection agency, you should be OK. Visit your library's web site to find out its collection agency policy, Rosso advises. "Every municipality appears to have various time frames for collection based on size of the debt and the length of time it's been in arrears." For example, Cedar Rapids Public Library in Iowa will initiate a courtesy reminder three times after items are due. If fines are still not paid and books are not returned, then the borrower's account may be turned over to a collection agency.

7 - MYTH: If I pay off a collection account, my credit score will immediately improve.

Fact: Not so, says Rosso. "Paying off a collection account will not remove it from the credit report. It will remain for seven years."

8 - MYTH: As far as credit rating is concerned, all credit cards are the same.

Fact: Stay away from store-brand credit cards. Approximately 10 percent of a person's credit score is based on the institutions from which money is borrowed, says Anderson. And finance companies, which are often used by retailers that offer their own credit cards, are considered higher risk than banks. "A prevalence of credit lines from finance companies could negatively affect your credit rating," he says.

9 - MYTH: As long as I don't max out my credit card, my credit score will be fine.

Fact: That's wrong, Sherman says. "Most people stay just at the edge of their credit limits, but you want to stay well below your maximum available credit." That's because 30 percent of your credit score is dependent upon the percentage you are using of your total available credit. Aim to keep your balance within 25 percent to 35 percent of your credit limit.

10 - MYTH: I don't make enough money to have a good credit score.

Fact: Your income has no effect on your credit score, says Karnani. This myth may derive from a truth; namely, people with more money tend to have better credit scores. "People who make more money are less likely to be borrowing above their limits and paying for things on credit rather than using existing funds."

Still, anyone can improve his or her credit score by taking simple steps, Karnani says: pay down your debt, monitor your credit report to track how often you are applying for cards and loans, and make sure to keep your oldest credit card open so it remains in your credit history.

Do's and Dont's of Moving Your Pets

Moving isn’t just hard on you. Packing, moving and unpacking can also take a toll on your pet — especially if have a long way to travel to your new home. Here are some dos and don’ts of moving pets that can help ease the transition.

Moving pet dos
Moving pets can be tricky. Can they go in the moving van? (No.) Can I ship them? (Yes.) Can they stay in a hotel? (Depends.) Here’s what you should do when you move with your pet:
•Do plan ahead: If you know you’re moving cross country and are flying to your new home, make all the necessary arrangements for your pet to fly with you. This means making special accommodations for your dog to be transported, either on the plane in the cargo hold or shipped by a pet transport company like WeMovePets.com.
•Do buy a good pet carrier: If you’re used to just putting your cat in the back seat and you’re driving to your new home, then that should suffice. But if you’re driving a long distance or flying, then you’ll need a good pet carrier that will protect your animal during transport.
•Do talk to your veterinarian: He knows your pet well and can advise you on whether your cat is up for major traveling. If needed, he can even prescribe a pet tranquilizer to help calm your animal down, particularly if you have a nervous dog or neurotic cat.
•Do get your pet used to the drive: If your cat never goes anywhere with you, take him on short drives leading up to the move. That way, he won’t spend the entire drive with his claws in your leg, making the trip both painful and dangerous.
•Do change your pets’ collar tags: The day you head to your new home, put the new tags on identifying your new address and new phone number in case the worst happens and you get separated from your pet.
•Do keep pets away from the moving madness: While loading up the moving van, keep them in a quiet place away from all the turmoil.
•Do find a new veterinarian before you move if you are moving long distances: Should something terrible happen during transport, you will want to be able to take your animal to a veterinarian immediately. Having a new doctor in your rolodex will save you precious time trying to find an open animal’s clinic. Make sure to have not only the new vet’s phone number, but his address and directions to his office.
•Do comply with local laws. Many municipalities require pets to be registered with animal control in case a collar is lost. Follow the laws once you move, or you could be fined.

Moving pet don’ts
There are many things that can go wrong during a move. Losing or hurting your pet shouldn’t be one of them.
•Don’t wait until the last minute to arrange transportation: You may find that your flight is booked for both humans and four-legged friends. You don’t want to leave your furry friend behind.
•Don’t try to transport your pet in the back of the moving van: It’s not safe during the move. Make other arrangements.
•Do call any hotels before arriving to confirm that your pet is welcome. Many hotels — if you have to stop overnight — do not allow pets to stay in the rooms. Check PetsWelcome.com for pet friendly hotels that allow animals to stay with their owners.
•Don’t forget to pack a pet travel kit: This kit should include food, a bowl, a leash, plastic bags to scoop up any potty waste and any medication. You may also want to stash some toys in there to ease your pet into his new home or to play with at the hotel.
•Don’t feed your animal right before the move: They might get motion sickness.
•Don’t forget the walks: If possible, try to keep up with your animal’s normal routines: Walks, feedings, bathroom breaks. This will help keep them from getting a little crazy from the move.
Moving your pet can be fairly easy if you follow some easy pet travel dos and don’ts. The Humane Society has great information on moving with pets, as does the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.

Happy Moving!

Pet-Proofing Your Apartment

Dogs and cats, like young children, require their caretakers to take safety precautions in their home. Just as you would want to avoid having your child eat or play with something harmful, you will want to take these basic steps to keep your pets healthy and happy.

Kitchen
The kitchen is loaded with temptation and potential problems for your pet. Make sure all cupboards and cabinets are latched and that all chemicals, cleaners, laundry products and insect products are high and out of reach.
Some pets even like to pry into the refrigerator, so if yours is extra curious, consider a child-proof latch for that too. Garbage cans should be covered or put into a latched cabinet. There are plenty of dangers in that “delicious” smelling trash, such as food wrappers.
Seemingly innocent food items could prove harmful to your pet as well. Make sure that the “treat” you’d like to indulge your cat or dog with does not contain chocolate, bones, high fat or alcohol. Onions, grapes and raisins can all cause digestive problems for furry friends. Even things you wouldn’t imagine a pet would want to taste such as tobacco products, coins and many household plants could all find their way into your dog or cat’s stomach, causing poisoning or choking.

Living areas
Make sure that there are no dangling power cords to lamps, televisions, DVD players, computers or other electrical items that your pet could run across or pull down and that all children’s toys, batteries, craft items and knick knacks are put away and out of reach of a pet that could knock them over or chew on them. Be vigilant about leaving shoes and clothes on the floor as well, especially around teething pets — buttons and drawstrings can spell disaster if ingested.

Bathrooms
Just as you would secure all medications from your child, make sure that no medicines, animal or human, are within your dog or cat’s reach. Also make sure toilets are covered to prevent drowning or drinking of harmful chemicals.
Laundry, storage and other areas
Be cautious about using any kind of chemical or insecticide in areas your pet might access, reading all labels carefully to make sure such products are not harmful to them. As elsewhere in your home, be sure to store all cleaners, soaps and chemicals safely out of reach.
Check your dryer for kittens before using and bang the hood of your car before starting to make certain there aren’t any cats (yours or a neighbors) who’ve taken shelter there for warmth. You’d be amazed at what lengths felines will go to for a snug sleep.

Special gatherings
As wonderful as having guests over can be, get-togethers at your home can also create opportunities for your pet to get into trouble. Be sure to ask guests not to feed your pets from the table and monitor discarded plates to see that the food makes it to a sealed garbage can before your dog or cat can intercept it. Also be aware of who is coming in and out of front or back doors and where your pets are, so that your dog or cat doesn’t take off unattended.
Holiday plants such as mistletoe and holly are bad for your pet if ingested, as is the water from a live Christmas tree. Tinsel, ornaments and practically anything you hang on a Christmas tree can create dangerous temptation for your pet, so if yours is especially curious or drawn to bright and shiny objects, you might want to consider keeping the tree behind a closed door.

Having a pet is a lot like having a child and requires, especially in regard to safety, the same kind of planning and precautions. Don’t assume your dog or cat knows what’s good for them to eat or safe to play with. You’re the parent to your furry family member so make sure to act like one!

SEND ME PICTURES and STORIES ABOUT YOUR PET!!!!

I am going to start a gallery for our beloved best friends!
Any pictures I receive will be added into an album on FACEBOOK & posted on our blog too!

I know that my cat Ivan keeps me and my husband in stitches ALL THE TIME! He is a character.
Ivan teh Terrible spent his first 6 months in a house with 70 cats! Turns out he is quite a skilled thief. My husband was making a PB&J, put it into a ziplock bag, turned to make tea. He then heard some krinkling sounds. He looked up to see Ivan standing on the kitchen counter with the ziplock bag in his mouth. They stared at each other for a tense moment..then Ivan leaped from the counter, bag in tow, and led my husband on a chase through the house...the ziplock bag & sandwich as big as him! Good Times..Good Times!

If you would like to share your silly stories please send them to us!
Send any stories and digital pictures to sumtersquare@druckerandfalk.com Please put in the subject line- ATTN: JONI