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10 Ways to Save Money and Create the Life You’ve Always Wanted

Most people assume that you need to earn more money in order to live the life you want, but this doesn’t have to be the case. By learning how to save money and prioritize your spending, you can still create the life you want even on a budget. This includes investing in a cleaning service, taking nice vacations, and doing anything else on your wishlist. These 10 tips from Plan B Cleaning will help you get started today!

1) Track expenses and set goals

In order to save money, you need to be aware of your spending patterns. Track your expenses for at least one month so you can see where your money is going. Then, set goals for each month. For example, if you want to save $100 per month, you’ll need to find ways to cut back your spending by $100. One way to do this is to create a budget and stick to it.

There are several tools and techniques you can use to do this, such as an online Excel sheet or template. You can also go old school and just stick to a paper and pen format. However, some people who mainly use cash like to section off using labeled envelopes, as well.

2) Avoid shopping for fun

When you’re trying to save money, it’s important to be mindful of your spending. One way to do this is to avoid shopping for fun. Only shop when you need something, not when you want something. This will help you stay on budget and avoid impulse purchases. It also means that you won’t feel guilty about purchasing a new item because you really needed it. A great example of this is kitchen appliances: many people go to the store with one appliance in mind, but they end up coming home with three or four items that they don’t need at all. Same thing for clothes. You only need a new pair of jeans but come back with some other things you already have and really may not even wear more than a couple of times.

3) Shop online at bargain sites

To save money, it’s important to be mindful of your spending. One way to do this is to shop at bargain sites like eBay and Mercari. You can also find great deals on second-hand items at consignment shops and garage sales. By being a savvy shopper, you can save money and still get the things you want. Plus, you’ll be helping the planet by shopping second-hand! When we purchase new items, those materials have to come from somewhere. Oftentimes, those resources are scarce and the manufacturing process is harmful to both humans and animals. Buying new clothes just because they’re on sale means that more natural resources will be used in manufacturing them. Instead, buy what you need when it becomes available and save your money as well as the planet.

4) Use coupons, discounts, and cashback apps

Manufacturer coupons are a great way to save money on groceries and other items you purchase on a regular basis. You can also find store coupons and discounts that can be used at your favorite retailers. Another way to save money is to shop when there are sales. By waiting for items to go on sale, you can save a significant amount of money. Finally, using cashback apps can help you get money back on purchases you make online and in stores.

5) Start a side hustle

A side hustle is a great way to make some extra money to help you afford the lifestyle you’ve always wanted. There are a few things to keep in mind when starting a side hustle, though. First, choose something you’re passionate about so it doesn’t feel like work. Second, make sure it’s something you can do on your own time so you don’t have to give up your day job. Third, start small and build up gradually so you don’t get overwhelmed. Don’t be afraid to ask for help from friends or family if you need it. Finally, be prepared for bumps in the road, and don’t give up if things get tough.

Some great examples are starting a small business to sell something you can create like jewelry, art, or even digital products. Another idea is to resell your own old clothes and items. Anything that does not fit you and may seem out of style to you can still have value for someone else. Poshmark and Mercari are both good apps for this and you can even get free shipping supplies for your business on USPS’s website.

6) Meal plan and use grocery lists

One of the best ways to save money is to meal plan and make a grocery list. This allows you to know exactly what you need and prevents you from buying things you don’t need. Meal planning can also help you save money by allowing you to cook in bulk and freeze meals for later. Another great way to save money is to start cooking your own food at home. By cooking at home, you’re able to control your portions and what goes into them, as well as save on take-out or dining-out costs. If you want an easier option, there are plenty of grocery delivery services that will allow you to order your groceries online with just a few clicks! Grocery delivery services typically have deals or coupons available on their website too, so be sure to check those out before placing your order!

7) Drink water

Drinking water at home and at restaurants is a great way to save money instead of spending it on sugary drinks and juices and alcohol that is not even good for you. Avoid sports energy drinks and soda or even orange juice and opt for water to keep both you and your wallet healthy.

8) Cancel subscriptions

Cancel any subscriptions that you may not be using or using enough. This can include streaming services for shows, movies, and even music. This can also include random websites you may have not even been aware of. This brings us to the next tip – cancel subscriptions and always review your credit card bills to make sure you are being charged correctly.

9) Learn how to invest

Investing money can be a great way to save money. You can invest in stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and other securities. Learning how to invest can help you make your money work for you. If you put $1,000 into an investment that earns 7% annually, it will grow to $1,074 after five years. There are plenty of resources online that teach people how to invest for free. They are often funded by advertising on the site which means they don’t cost anything and you’ll see ads from time to time as you browse through articles. Learning about investments can help put your money where it needs to go so that it continues to grow.

10) Contact Us

Contact Us! By scheduling our cleaning services, you can actually save money by not having to buy a lot of cleaning products and pay for damages that they may cause to your home and furniture. Additionally, if a cleaning service is not something you have budgeted for yet, these tips will help you get to that point where you can enjoy the leisure of letting us take over some of your chores. This way, we can clean and you can do more of what you love!

We recommend signing up for a one-time, weekly, biweekly, or monthly cleaning service. This will give you the time to do what you love most and enjoy your newly decorated patio in Fishers, Indiana. Plan: B Cleaning serves the Hamilton County area in Indiana, including Fishers, Carmel, Noblesville, Westfield, Fortville, and Geist. Call today to set up your cleaning service at (317) 572-8515 or visit our website at www.planbcleaning.com.

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Fun Ways to Spruce Up Your Front Porch on a Budget

When you need to spruce up your front porch, it can seem overwhelming when you realize how many options are available and how much money you may need to spend in order to make your house look like you want it to. However, that doesn’t mean you have to spend lots of money or do everything at once; instead, it helps to focus on the things that really matter most and have the biggest impact, whether it’s painting or planting flowers, or adding some other decoration or functionality that makes your home more enjoyable and inviting. Here are some fun ways, recommended by Plan B Cleaning, to spruce up your front porch on a budget!

Provide outdoor seating

A great way to spruce up your porch is to provide comfortable outdoor seating for your guests. You can find inexpensive lawn chairs or an outdoor couch at most home improvement or home furniture stores. For a more unique look, try shopping at yard sales or thrift stores for vintage furniture. Add some colorful cushions and pillows to make your seating area more inviting. You could even hang a hammock for people to enjoy on sunny days. If you have an open space in front of your house, consider adding a sitting wall. Create an intimate space by planting climbing vines along the edge of the sitting wall so that they will eventually grow up and cover it entirely.

Add a wreath to your door

A wreath is an easy way to add some seasonal flair or personalization to your front porch. You can buy them pre-made, or get creative and make your own. The wreaths can feature anything seasonal, like sunflowers for summer, poinsettias for Christmas, easter eggs for spring, and pumpkins for Halloween. Additionally, if you want to invest in just one wreath that you can use year-round, you can get your last name or the first letter of your last name, as well as a sports team logo. For a budget-friendly option, try using items you already have around the house, like greenery from your yard or old holiday decorations.

New plants and flowers

One of the easiest and most affordable ways to decorate your front porch is with new plants and flowers. You can pick up some fun-shaped pots at your local home improvement store and plant your favorite flowers in them. Adding some greenery to your porch will make it feel more inviting. If you want to add some height and color to your porch, consider adding a trellis or arbor for climbing vines like morning glory or jasmine. There are plenty of flowering vines that don’t need much sun and are perfect for porches as well as other flowers that love shade like hydrangea and bearded iris.

If you have room in your yard, why not use it? Potted plants or shrubs create an attractive space in which you can enjoy fresh air and greenery without much effort. Some potted plants that are low maintenance include philodendrons, crotons, boxwoods, bayberry bushes, and ligustrum shrubs. These make great options if you don’t have much time or experience gardening. Plant herbs: An herb garden can be an inexpensive project but will provide fresh herbs for cooking all year long – one of the best investments you’ll ever make!

Add a bird feeder

Bird feeders are a great way to add some color and life to your front porch. Not only will birds flock to your yard, but you’ll also get to enjoy watching them from the comfort of your own home. Plus, adding a bird feeder is a great way to attract other wildlife like squirrels and rabbits. If you’re on a budget, you can find bird feeders at most dollar stores or big box stores.

Add lighting

One of the easiest and most affordable ways to add some curb appeal to your home is by adding outdoor lighting. You can find solar lights at most home improvement stores and they are very easy to install. Simply stick them into the ground and let the sun do the rest! Line your front walkway, porch steps, or even your driveway for a pretty and practical way to light up your home at night. Be sure to keep these lights low enough so that they don’t obstruct drivers’ views.

Use bright paint colors

A fresh coat of paint is one of the quickest and easiest ways to give your porch a facelift. And, using bright colors will help create a cheery and welcoming atmosphere. To add even more curb appeal, consider painting your front door in a bold hue.

Add wind chimes

There’s something so calming about the sound of wind chimes. And they can be such a fun addition to your porch decor! You can find them in all sorts of colors and styles, so it’s easy to find the perfect ones for your space. Wind chimes are another thing you can thrift to find a more unique and affordable option. Plus, they’re relatively inexpensive, so you can deck out your porch without breaking the bank!

Contact us!

Decorating your porch is important for making it feel like your own personal oasis. It should be a place where you can relax and enjoy the outdoors with friends and family! If you need help maintaining a clean porch and clean home, Plan B Cleaning has got you covered!

We recommend signing up for a one-time, weekly, biweekly, or monthly cleaning service. This will give you the time to do what you love most and enjoy your newly decorated patio in Fishers, Indiana. Plan: B Cleaning serves the Hamilton County area in Indiana, including Fishers, Carmel, Noblesville, Westfield, Fortville, and Geist. Call today to set up your cleaning service at (317) 572-8515 or visit our website at www.planbcleaning.com.

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5 Tips for an Easy Back-to-School Transition for Parents

It’s the time of year when summer vacation finally comes to an end and children (and their parents) must return to school. Here are five tips to make this transition as easy as possible. You’ll learn how to ensure your child is prepared and ready to start the school year, how to maintain your schedule so that you can continue taking care of yourself and your family, and how to plan ahead so that you can stock up on school supplies, how to think about back-to-school clothes shopping, and what kind of activities you should consider participating in together as a family over the next few months.

1) Set Up The Night Before

Get your child’s backpack and school supplies ready the night before. This way, you can avoid the morning rush and help your child feel prepared for the first day. Plus, you’ll be one step ahead when it comes to getting out the door on time! Have a meeting spot outside of the house that is clear and away from distractions so everyone knows where to go if they are running late.

You should also know what your child will wear for their first day of school so there is no question about what clothes to pack in their bag or what shoes to wear with their outfit. You might want to pack some breakfast or a healthy snack in their lunchbox as well so they won’t have any excuses not to eat nutritious food all week long!

2) Get Them Excited

The first step is to get your kids excited about going back to school. Talk to them about all the fun they’re going to have and the new friends they’ll make. If they’re old enough, involve them in the planning process by letting them pick out their own supplies or clothes. Also, talk with them about what you’re expecting from them this year.

Give them a plan of action. Will you need help with chores or homework? Let them know what to expect and how they can help make it a fun, easy, and stress-free back-to-school season. By laying out clear expectations and communicating with your kids, you can set everyone up for success.

3) Have Breakfast Ready

As a parent, the back-to-school transition can be just as hectic as it is for your kids. Be sure to have a nutritious breakfast ready for them each morning. Fun and different breakfast recipes will provide the nutrition your child needs. This will help them concentrate and perform their best during the school day. Additionally, this will make mornings run smoother since they won’t be rushing around trying to find something quick to eat before they leave. You’ll also save time by not having to scramble with making dinner or packing lunches after work!

Make sure you have healthy breakfasts that are easy to grab on the go like oatmeal, yogurt parfaits, toast with peanut butter, and banana slices. There are plenty of recipes online too if you need more ideas.

Have Lunches Ready: Preparing lunch for your child each night ensures there is no excuse for coming home hungry and without food at the end of the day. There’s nothing worse than coming home from a long day at work only to realize that once again, your child forgot his lunch in his locker all over again.

4) Plan Ahead

The key to a smooth back-to-school transition is planning ahead. Get your child’s school supplies and new clothes as early as possible. An easy way to take care of everything you need to do is to make an online planner. If you need to schedule any appointments, do so in advance. And most importantly, talk to your child about what to expect on the first day of school. How will they get there? What will they be doing when they arrive? Who are their teachers? What are their classroom rules? These conversations can reduce anxiety before school starts. Remember that kids want to make a good impression on their teachers and classmates. With this helpful tip, parents can help kids have a successful first day!

It’s also best to plan out everything beforehand—including meals and extra activities like playdates or family outings. You may also want to plan out time with friends who don’t go to the same school. Your children will probably feel less homesick seeing their friends from their old school. Be sure to discuss with your children how they would like to spend time together. Offer them options such as going to the library, taking them to see a movie, playing video games at home, or going out for ice cream.

Whatever it is, know what’s important to your children and offer it up! Make sure to maintain regular routines as much as possible during the summer break. Children thrive when they have stability and consistency in their lives.

5) Taking Care of Yourself is Equally Important

The back-to-school season can be a hectic time for parents. You’re trying to juggle work, getting the kids ready for school, and making sure everyone is where they need to be. It’s important to take care of yourself during this time so you can be at your best for your family.

Here are five tips to help you do just that:

  • Schedule Time For Yourself – Schedule time in your day for tasks that only you can do. These tasks might include grocery shopping, paying bills, or taking a walk around the block.
  • Take A Nap – Try setting aside some time every day to nap. Napping refreshes both body and mind so when it comes time to tackle bedtime with your kids, you’ll have the energy to get through it!
  • Eat Healthy Meals – Food provides fuel for our bodies and minds. Feeding yourself healthy foods will give you more energy to make it through the rest of your day.
  • Be Prepared – Make a list of what needs to be done before school starts then break down each task into smaller pieces. Tackle one thing at a time until everything on your list is completed.

It’s really important to maintain self-care practices to avoid stress buildup that could lead to burnout. Find what works best for you and go from there!

Need help around the house? Contact us at Plan: B Cleaning

As the summer comes to a close and the kids get ready to head back to school, it’s important for parents to start preparing too. Our team of professional cleaners would be happy to take the burden of cleaning off your shoulders. With only the best cleaning supplies, equipment, and knowledge, Plan: B will be sure your home is ready for the new school semester.

Intrigued by a residential cleaning service that would do the hard work for you? Give Plan: B a call at (317) 572-8515 or visit our website www.planbcleaning.com. Plan: B proudly serves Geist, Noblesville, Carmel, Fortville, and all of Fishers, Indiana.

 

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8 Ways to Destress this Summer

Whether you’re stuck in an office, at home with the kids, or going to family gatherings and parties, summer can be a very stressful time. Between the heat, humidity, and sunburns, it’s not hard to feel frazzled when the warm weather sets in. Check out this list of eight ways to destress this summer that will help you handle the heat and relax!

1) Go for a walk.

Walking is a great way to de-stress. It’s low impact, so it’s easy on your body, and it’s a great way to get some fresh air and clear your head. Plus, walking is a great way to get some exercise, which can help reduce stress levels. You can take a friend, your puppy, or just spend some time with yourself. Find a new park or hiking trail near you or road trip to one that is an hour or two away. Going in the early morning or evening would be a good way to beat the heat and enjoy some cooler weather on your walk, as well. You can even bring snacks in a picnic basket to cool down afterwards!

2) Try a new restaurant or cafe by yourself.

Trying something new can be really exciting and invigorating. It’s a great way to get out of your comfort zone and explore something new. Plus, it can be a great way to meet new people and make new friends. Try a new restaurant or cafe by yourself. Or, if you would prefer to stay in, learn a new recipe! There are so many different cultures that have delicious dishes that you might not have had the chance to try before. There are even cooking classes offered at most grocery stores where you can learn how to cook from an expert chef. There is no better time than summertime for some relaxing time, enjoy the long days with some self care and make plans for more fun in the future!

3) Exercise your brain.

Exercising your brain is important for maintaining cognitive function and reducing stress. There are a variety of ways to exercise your brain and even find a new interest this summer. Read a book – reading will stimulate your mind and bring more creativity into your life, which will help you find new perspectives on challenges you may be facing. Choose something that’s easy for you to read with plenty of visuals, like a graphic novel or comic book. Or, find a book about a topic you already like, whether it’s historical, scientific, related to pop culture, or even a mysterious conspiracy. Or, learn a new language. Challenge yourself by enrolling in an online course or signing up for a language club at the library where you can get together with other learners once a week to practice what you’ve learned. You can also use online apps and resources with a quick Google search. You’ll not only improve your vocabulary but also develop skills that may come in handy in the future, such as improved comprehension and creative thinking abilities. And if nothing else, learning another language might just open up new career opportunities!

4) Hang out with friends.

One of the best ways to de-stress is to spend time with people you enjoy being around. Connect with close friends, or reconnect with an old friend. Old friends are great too – catch up over coffee or lunch and reminisce about good times.If you would prefer to kindle new relationships, now is a great time to meet new people. Join a club, go to events, or simply strike up conversations with people you see often. You can plan to do something you both, or all, would enjoy, such as a pool day, road trip, or movie night.

5) Switch off devices.

One of the best ways to de-stress this summer is to switch off all devices for one hour. This means no phone, no laptop, no TV. Just you and your thoughts. You’ll be surprised how refreshed you feel after just one hour without screens. Or, challenge yourself and cleanse for a whole day. Enjoy the simpler things in life like time in nature or a puzzle. Have a spa day or clean out your closet. There is so much more to do if you are willing to just look up from your devices for a day. You are also bound to feel more productive and refreshed.

6) Journal positive thoughts, feelings and attitudes.

Journaling is a therapeutic way to release stress and emotions. It can also be used as a tool to identify and work through any negative thoughts or feelings you may have. Journaling can also help boost your mood and attitude, as well as improve your overall mental health. This is because journaling gives you an opportunity to reflect and also unleash your creativity. Invest in a nice journal and some pens, and even fun tapes and stickers if you are interested. Then, allocate some time each day for your journal.

7) Write a letter or note of gratitudes.

On the same note, showing gratitude and giving thanks is a great way to uplift not only yourself, but also others! Write to a friend, family member, coworker, or even employee at your favorite store, library, and so on. Or, write to a soldier, health care worker or children’s hospital patient. You can find organizations to support through your letters that collect notes for different groups and more. This is a great way to get creative, stay busy, and give back to your community all at once.

8) Schedule a house cleaning.

The summer months are a great time to schedule a professional house cleaning. Not only will your home be clean and clutter-free, but you’ll also feel a sense of accomplishment and calm. Then, you can enjoy your staycation and time at home with your family, without having to worry about as many chores and the cleanliness of your home.

Contact us!

We recommend signing up for a one-time, weekly, biweekly, or monthly cleaning service. This will give you the time to do what you love most and enjoy the sun in Fishers, Indiana.

Plan: B Cleaning serves the Hamilton County area in Indiana, including Fishers, Carmel, Noblesville, Westfield, Fortville, and Geist. Call today to set up your cleaning service at (317) 572-8515 or visit our website at www.planbcleaning.com.

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10 Fun & Free Places to Visit Near Fishers, Indiana

Why is a cleaning company with a cleaning blog sharing a blog post about trips and travel today? Well, here at Plan B Cleaning, we clean so that you can have more time to do the things you love. This can mean spending more time with family and friends, finally reading that book, trying that new recipe, and so on. It can also mean finally exploring the fun and free things to do in your local area. So, today, we are proud to share ten fun and free things to do in the Fishers, Indiana, and Hamilton County area, the main locations serve. We also serve nearby areas including Carmel, Fortville, Geist, Noblesville, and so on! Check out our list of favorite spots, as well as our website to book a cleaning.

#1 – Saxony Lake & Beach

Saxony Lake and Beach, located at 13358 Pennington Road, is a great way to get some sand in your hair and sunshine in your system. It is a 20-acre lake and 300-foot beach made from Indiana sand. Hence, it is a great place to play with beach toys, build sandcastles, swim, jump waves, and enjoy the warm weather with family and friends! You can also bring some snacks and a good book to have a beachside picnic.

#2 – Conner Prairie Interactive History Park

Conner Prairie Interactive History Park is a very valuable and educational historical park with a mission to “expand the boundaries of our historical and natural resources by exploring, celebrating, and improving the human experience.” It is a great place to visit, especially with kids. The outdoor museum has several unique events year round, based on the season. They cover topics from traditional arts and arms to foods and family life. The park also offers lots of activities for children to play and learn hands-on, including climbable contraptions and Lilly Theater, to play dress up and put on a show. If you pay for a membership, general admission is free for members.

#3 – Cyntheanne Park

Cyntheanne Park is a great place to visit with your family, or even by yourself! You can make new friends and practice your skills in your sport of choice. Cyntheanne Park is the only municipality in the country to have 8 outdoor courts, including the Cage Pickleball Challenge Courts. Furthermore, it promotes physical activity, health and wellness, and time in nature through its vibrant environment and positive ambiance created by the community. You should check it out! It is entirely free, and a great place to visit over and over again.

#4 – Evan Lurie Galleries

While these galleries are a bit of a drive from Fishers, it is a great reason to plan a road trip! The Evan Lurie Gallery specializes in international art, with a focus on contemporary abstract as well as realism and neo-realism. There are artworks for everyone to enjoy. They come in different sizes and shapes, with unique dimensions, colors, and styles. Enjoy the art, which is bound to provoke fun conversations and ideas amongst your crew.

#5 – Atterbury Bakalar Museum

The Atterbury Bakalar Museum is always free to visit as it is funded by donations and run by volunteers. Hence, you can visit, and also sign up to volunteer if you feel compelled (or have a lot of time on your hands and want to get involved). At this aviation museum, you can learn more about the history of the Bakalar air force base, as well as the types of planes and gliders used in World War two. This is a very educational and eye-opening opportunity to indulge in history, regardless of whether or not it was your favorite subject at school!

#6 – David Owsley Museum of Art

If you have not heard of it before, the David Owsley Museum of Art (DOMA) is a university art museum located in the Fine Arts building on the campus of Ball State University, in Muncie, Indiana. However, it is free to the public for visitation and has an amazing collection of artworks. Their website proudly shares, “The museum houses more than 11,000 works of art from six continents representing 5,000 years of civilization.” Hence, this will be a history and art lesson in one, plus a great, unique experience that will surely be easy on the eyes. Plan your trip to this museum and pick out your favorite painting!

#7 – Ritchey Woods Nature Preserve

Ritchey Woods Nature Preserve is one of the only two nature preserves designated by the state, located in Hamilton County. It sits on approximately 127 acres, and has nine beautiful nature trails with over 2.25 miles that are perfect for running, walking, or enjoying time exploring the outdoors. It makes for a great hiking spot and place to picnic, as well. Furthermore, there are often summer camps and other activities that take place here. Be sure to look into them for your own kids (especially if you’re looking to get them unplugged, finally off of their devices!)

#8 – Taylor Center of Natural History

The Taylor Center of Natural History sheds light on an important part of American history and culture. At this museum, guests have the opportunity to learn about an American Indian village that was inhabited more than 700 years ago and view artifacts from their time. The Koteewi Trace exhibit is a comprehensive outdoor interpretive archaeological exhibit featuring a wide variety of components including a full-scale, American Indian structure. Together, it is a great experience to open your eyes to other cultures and the history of the area.

#9 – Carmel Arts & Design District

Carmel Arts & Design District is located in the heart of Old Town Carmel. It is a catch-all type of place, as it houses interior designers, art galleries, showrooms, unique shops, and delicious restaurants. There is bound to be something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you want to observe some more art, go window shopping, or opt for a nice dinner, this design district will have something for everyone. There is just a positive and easy-going atmosphere, making it a great place to relax over the weekend!

#10 – Our website

Finally, visit our website! Our list encompasses a little bit of everything, from art and shopping centers to areas of culture and nature, too. There is bound to be something you will truly enjoy. We recommend signing up for a one-time, weekly, biweekly, or monthly cleaning service. This will give you the time to do what you love most and even explore the city of Fishers, Indiana.

Plan: B Cleaning serves the Hamilton County area in Indiana, including Fishers, Carmel, Noblesville, Westfield, Fortville, and Geist. Call today to set up your cleaning service at (317) 572-8515 or visit our website at www.planbcleaning.com.