Things To Do Archives » Larry & Kathy Reichle

Lawn Care For The Fall: Essential Tips to Follow

October 15, 2018 by Kathy Reichle Leave a Comment

All summer you’ve been watering, cutting, trimming and feeding your yard in the hopes of having the greenest plot of land in the neighborhood. So what should you do to get your lawn in shapefor the cool breezes of autumn? These six steps will help you get a head start on the colder weather.

Aeration and Overseeding

If you live in a climate with cool-season grass, fall is the perfect time to aerate your lawn because the air is cool and the soil is still warm from the heat of summer. The earlier you can do this, the better the results will be for your yard. Depending on where you live, September or early October is the best time to tackle this project. You’ll pay around $120 for lawn aeration.

Aeration removes small plugs of soil from your lawn, allowing greater amounts of air, nutrients and water to reach the root system of your grass. It also reduces soil compaction in the process. Following aeration, you might want to overseed your yard. Overseeding makes it easier for seeds to germinate while the soil is loose.

Feed Your Yard

Fall is the prime season of the year to fertilize cool-season grasses. Unlike warm-season grasses, which often go dormant in the fall and winter, cool-season grasses can actually hit their peak growth rates during the fall. This means they need a full dosage of nitrogen to help boost the health of the soil and your grass. Most importantly, this will help prevent the growth of weeds, which choke out the grass over time.

Cut Down on Mowing

Throughout the summer, you’ve gotten into the habit of mowing weekly. But if you have cool-season grass, it’s time to start cutting back on the number of mowing events each month. Generally speaking, every other week should be your maximum. If you have too much leaf coverage on your yard, you can mulch those up, but remember to leave your cutting deck high so you aren’t cutting off too much of your grass in the process.

The professional recommendation is not to cut off more than one-third of the total blade of grass each time you mow. Doing so can result in scalping the lawn, which stunts the growth of your grass. If you live in a warmer climate with warm-season grass, you can likely skip mowing altogether because your grass is going into its dormancy cycle.

Leaf Removal

There are two approaches you can take when dealing with falling leaves. At a bare minimum, you should remove any fallen foliage within seven to 10 days because it blocks sunlight from reaching your grass. But, if you get a relatively light leaf fall each autumn and you own a strong mulching mower, you can turn fallen leaves into a composting gold mine. If you mulch your leaf fall on a regular basis — at least once a week — you are recycling the nutrients back into the soil. If your leaf pile is too big, consider hiring a pro. You can expect to pay about $310 for professional leaf removal services.

Sow and Reseed

Believe it or not, but fall is a great time to reseed the bare patches of your yard and sow new sections of lawn for cool-season grasses. Applying fresh soil and some new seed to barren patches of your yard can help prepare your lawn to bounce back in the fall. As mentioned earlier, this time of year is often the strongest for cool-season yard growth, so take advantage.

Winterize Your Sprinkler System

If you have an underground sprinkler system to help you keep your yard green all summer, it could be the biggest threat to your utility bill and soil during the winter months. If you fail to blow out your underground system, the water left in the pipes could freeze, expand and burst the pipes. This could lead to a water leak in your yard that could compromise the integrity of the soil and cause serious damage. If you live in a cooler climate, it’s important to winterize your sprinkler system immediately.

Conclusion

With one weekend of work, you can accomplish most of these tasks and have a yard that looks great for the coming fall months.

WRITTEN BY ANDREA DAVIS

Old House Renovation: Making Those Hard Repair-or-Replace Decisions

September 24, 2018 by Kathy Reichle Leave a Comment

When you’re planning (or in the middle of) a whole house remodel there are always questions about what to keep and what to do away with. Sometimes those questions are about big things, such as hallways, bedrooms or walls. Other times they’re about more particular items, such as doorknobs, trimwork or old wooden windows.

No matter what type of item, the question is usually a challenging one because there often is no “right answer.” If this sounds like a question you might have to tackle in your future, maybe I can help you be more prepared.

Always Lean Toward Restoration

The first step in making the decision of “restore vs. replace” is one of mindset. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been in a home with a contractor, tradesman or even homeowner who just thinks everything that’s not brand new needs to find its way to the dumpster! That’s the wrong mindset in my opinion. Replacing something just for the sake of replacing it is wasteful at best. In the case of something really special like the wavy glass in my kitchen windows it can be downright tragic.

So the first thing you want to do is to adopt a “restore over replace” attitude. Whenever an item is being considered, your first thought regarding restoration should be “how can we?” By looking at things with this mindset you’ll find yourself thinking creatively and seeing solutions that lead to restoration. In the long run, this kind of mindset is key to creating a beautiful project that has the unmatched depth of character that can only be achieved through restoration.

Pay Attention to Unique Details

In the restoration of an older home, there are those older elements that are unique and unlike brand new homes, and then there are those items that are essentially the same today as they were yesterday.

When it comes to decorative building elements, the saying, “They just don’t make them like they used to,” is often true.

Walls are a good example of something that isn’t “usually” that different in a brand new home as compared to a 300-year-old home. Sure, there are exceptions, but I’m talking about smooth interior painted walls. Restoration of an old plaster wall in a bedroom might cost five times as much as just replacing that same wall with drywall and the end result may look nearly identical.

A solid wood interior door, on the other hand, may be the opposite situation. The existing home might have solid doors made of a hardwood you just can’t buy anymore. If you look closely, those old doors might have a particular profile on the trim or the panels. Even if you can get a similarly designed door, the chances of replacing that detail are slim. When it comes to decorative building elements, the saying, “They just don’t make them like they used to,” is often true.

I Just Love It

I was talking with some fixer-upper owners one day in their home when the homeowners and I started talking about an archway between two rooms. I mentioned how unique and interesting that archway was and the wife said, “I just love that arch, but I know it has to come out.” When I inquired further, I found that two other contractors had told her the arch had to go to accomplish the other objectives of the project. I helped them find a solution that saved the arch.

Whenever there is any element of your home, no matter how tiny or how big, that inspires you to use the words “I just love that,” my advice is to work very hard toward restoring that item rather than replacing during your whole-house remodel. Even if it’s difficult or something else has to be sacrificed. Those “love it” items are what makes the house yourhome.

Cost is Always a Factor

The last factor, of course, is cost. Sometimes restoration of an item is less costly than replacement; other times it’s far less expensive to replace than to restore. When you’re attempting a major project like a whole-house remodel, sometimes it can just come down to money. What makes the most financial sense in the long run?

Options Are Good

The great thing about this question is that it reveals the fact that there are options. You’re not forced to go one way or another and you shouldn’t listen to people who try to take those options away.

Restore when you can, replace when you have to … and enjoy the process either way!

by Tim Layton

15 Best Things to Do in Seattle

May 30, 2018 by Kathy Reichle Leave a Comment

Don’t let the cloudy skies deceive you: Seattle is full of things to do—outside, on the water, in the air, and inside. A stone’s throw from Mt. Ranier and with direct water access, seafood- and boat-lovers can fish, tour, or just sit nearby and enjoy the views. Iconic spots like the Space Needle and Pike Place Market remain central attractions for good reason, and the city’s got its own arts scene, well-captured by the Museum of Pop Culture and performance venues like Kremwork. You certainly won’t be bored while you’re here; you’re more likely to struggle to fit it all in. Let our curated list of the what to do in Seattle be your guide.

ACTIVITY

Museum of Pop Culture

The collections here focus on the most impactful moments in popular culture, including science fiction, rock music, and many others across the pop culture spectrum, with innovative exhibits and interactive installations bringing it all to life.

ACTIVITY

Let’s Go Sailing

Those looking for a classy way to cruise the Puget Sound will find it on Let’s Go Sailing’s racing yachts. The sleek vessels coast through Seattle’s waters, offering glimpses of sea life, Mount Rainier, and the coastline. Excursions are customizable, for private charters or group trips.

BAR

Starbucks Reserve Roastery

This massive, gleaming roastery is the Starbucks Mecca. Translation: Be prepared to be awed and overwhelmed. It’s not just an oversized Starbucks—there is a coffee-centric cocktail bar serving espresso martinis, multiple food counters, and of course, a roasting area with tours available, all served in a theatric environment.

ACTIVITY

Seattle Art Museum

The Seattle Art Museum’s sleek and contemporary digs are as artful as the works that inhabit it. As an institution of Seattle’s art scene, it’s a must-see for any visiting art lover. The multi-level space is expertly curated, with a permanent collection, rotating exhibits, a library, and restaurant.

ACTIVITY

Pacific Science Center

Designed by Minoru Yamasaki for the 1962 World’s Fair, this science museum boasts 300 interactive exhibits, two IMAX theaters, and the coveted Laser Dome. Science geeks, inventors, and creative kids (and adults) lose track of time nerding out on all the exhibits.

ACTIVITY

Ethnic Seattle Food Tour

Exploring Seattle’s ethnic neighborhoods can be overwhelming without a guide to help navigate the unfamiliar signs and specialty foods at hole-in-the-wall restaurants with foreign menus. Ethnic Seattle helps guide patrons through Little Saigon and Japantown on manageable 2.5-hour tours.

SHOP

Pike Place Market

Pike Place Market is one of Seattle’s most iconic destinations. This century-old public market houses dozens of stalls and shops for farmers, restaurants, purveyors, and artisans, all overlooking the Elliott Bay waterfront.

ACTIVITY

Wing Luke Museum of the Asian Pacific American Experience

This 60,000-square-foot facility pays tribute to the confluence of Asian and Pacific American history. Set in an industrial-chic brick building, three floors house contemporary galleries with temporary and permanent exhibits, in addition to historic spaces accessible through guided tours.

ACTIVITY

Seattle Aquarium

Situated on Pier 59, appropriately right on the Elliott Bay, the Seattle Aquarium has become a landmark for the city and a fun way for people to see the diverse underwater world of the Pacific Northwest.

ACTIVITY

Ballard Kayak

Launching from the Shilshole Bay Marina, Ballard Kayak & Paddleboard hosts people looking to get a closer view of Seattle’s waterways without venturing too far from shore. Manageable group sizes make it a pleasant experience as you paddle your way through Seattle’s coves, locks, and sounds.

ACTIVITY

Seattle Cycling Tours

From basic Seattle cycling tours to neighborhood-focused outings like “Amazonia” to Bainbridge Island half-day journeys, Seattle Cycling Tours has nearly every inch of bike-able asphalt covered. Group sizes tend to hover around a dozen, and the local guide will dish plenty of narrative about the city along the way.

BAR

The Crocodile

This classic Seattle music venue draws people for its casual setting, national acts, and devoted music community. A stage and dance floor are the centerpiece, and black-and-white rock-and-roll photos proudly decorate the walls, while a bar on the back dishes out pizza.

ACTIVITY

Seward Park

This sprawling, lush park spans 300 acres of forested land and is home to an array of native wildlife like eagles. A 2.4-mile bike path makes covering a lot of ground with little time a cinch. After exploring the old growth forest, carve out time to walk the shoreline and check out the art studio.

ACTIVITY

Space Needle

The Space Needle is undoubtedly one of Seattle’s most iconic landmarks. Built for the 1962 World’s Fair, it’s a futuristic observation tower and the most prominent building in Seattle skyline. Visitors can reach the top of the Space Needle by elevator for unparalleled views of the Seattle area. It’s undergoing a major $100 million renovation that will be unveiled in summer 2018.

BAR

Kremwerk

This eccentric performance venue and nightclub hosts some of Seattle’s wildest nights in its industrial blue-shaded basement—DJ nights, drag shows, and an epic dance floor ensures it. Seattle’s underground music and arts culture gravitates to this LGBTQ-friendly venue.

Eight Must-Do’s Before You List Your Home For Sale

March 4, 2018 by Kathy Reichle Leave a Comment

The Spring selling season is on, and if you’re considering listing your house, it’s time to get it in tip-top shape. You may think your home is already listing ready right now, but a real estate agent may not agree. These eight activities will help you put your best house forward.

Clean up that yard

You can’t underestimate the power of curb appeal. An unkempt yard, chipping paint, even a mailbox that’s seen better days can turn off a potential buyer – or turn one into a bargain hunter. And you don’t want either.

“Your home’s curb appeal is the first thing buyers see when they drive up to the property. Buyers immediately start assessing the exterior and landscaping, forming a knee-jerk first impression,” said Professional Staging. “This initial reaction is very powerful. It instantly sets the tone of the tour and will have an effect on how buyers perceive the rest of the property. If their first impression is a negative one, then the rest of the home will suffer for it. The state of a home’s exterior usually matches the interior. If the grass is long or patchy, the paint on the house is faded or peeling, and there are cracks in the driveway, then buyers are going to be very wary of what other kinds of maintenance issues could be awaiting them inside and in places that they can’t see. These issues instantly translate to dollar signs and stress for home buyers, so it’s likely they will move on to the competition to avoid them both.”

porch.comConsider your door

Chances are, you don’t look much at your front door because you come in and out of the garage. A buyer approaching your house will notice if your door isn’t pristine and may project the lack of pristine-ness onto the rest of the house. A fresh coat of paint is inexpensive but the impact is dramatic.

Declutter

A cluttered house can mask its best qualities and also make potential buyers feel like it’s not as spacious as they want it to be. “Resist the urge to roll your eyes at this one,” said Family Handyman. “It is imperative that your home looks livable. Potential buyers may not be able to see past your clutter. Think of it this way – don’t move things you no longer want or need. Make decisions now and your house will sell faster and your move will be easier. Take one room, or even part of one room, at a time and dive in. Recycle or shred paper. Donate books, toys, clothing and duplicate household items. If you’re getting frustrated and you can’t deal with one more stack of papers or shoebox of old photos, put them in a plastic tub, label the tub and stack it somewhere out of the way.”

Depersonalize

You want your home to be memorable, but for the right reasons – not because of your wall full of crosses or bookcase overflowing with antique figurines. Pack them away to neutralize the space. “The next step on your declutter list? You want to remove any distractions so the buyers can visualize themselves and their family living in the property,” Kipton Cronkite, a real estate agent with Douglas Elliman in New York, told Realtor.com. “He says that includes personal items and family photos, as well as bold artwork and furniture that might make your home less appealing to the general public. The goal is to create a blank canvas on which house hunters can project their own visions of living there, and loving it.”

Light bulbs, handles, and hardware, oh my!

Burned-out bulbs, loose handles, and hardware that’s worn, scratched, or rusted is easy to take care and can help your place look finished.

Give everything a good dusting

Look up! How’s that ceiling fan? You’d be surprised how a little thing like a dusty fan can impact a buyer and turn them into a non-buyer. Get out that duster and hit all the corners and window sills you never notice. And then clean all those windows so when you open all the blinds and drapes to let the sun shine in, the light doesn’t get blocked by smudges and fingerprints.

Walk through your home like you’re seeing it for the first time

Come in through the front door and examine every inch of the house. You’ve probably been ignoring little things that have just become part of the landscape. A scuffed baseboard here. A broken switchplate there. Even the pile of shoes in the front hall that you don’t even notice anymore. Potential buyers will, and these little things could be enough to turn them off.

“Once you’ve decided it’s time to sell your home, start to look at it with an objective eye,” said Family Handyman. “If you were the potential buyer, what red flags would you see when you walked around your house and yard?

Clean out your closets, your cabinets, and your pantry

Don’t fool yourself into thinking people won’t open doors and drawers and look through everything (Side tip: Hide your valuables before showings, just to be safe!). You don’t have to worry about being judged for your fashion sense—although, you might want to pack away those ‘80s parachute pants! You should be more worried about whether buyers will walk away because they think there isn’t enough closet or storage space, or it’s not efficient space.

You have to pack anyway since you’re moving, so start early. Empty out closets, cabinets, and storage areas so the space looks sufficient and nicely organized. For closets, the idea is to make them look filled, but not overfilled. Create space between hangers and fold other items neatly on shelves. Make sure there is ample space for shoes because, let’s face it, this could be a deal breaker for some people.

WRITTEN BY JAYMI NACIRI

50 ways to give your finances a fresh start in 2017

January 27, 2017 by Kathy Reichle Leave a Comment

We get it: Money resolutions can feel like a lost cause, especially if you’re already drowning in debt or saddled with uber-bad credit. But if the fear of falling short is stopping you from even attempting to reach any financial goals, well, it may be time to think smaller. There are lots of little steps you can take over the course of 2017 that, in tandem, can lead to ultimate financial balance.

Here are 50 ways to give your finances a fresh start this year.

1. Do your taxes ASAP

You’ll want to avoid taxpayer identity theft, which can delay a much-needed refund. Plus, an early refund can bolster your financial situation.

2. Auto-save

Jumpstart your emergency fund by setting up an automatic deposit or transfer into a savings account each month.

3. Give cash a try

If you’re prone to overspending on credit or debit, spend a week or two keeping only cash in your wallet. You can’t overspend cash — once it’s gone, it’s gone.

4. Ask for a raise

If you have a performance review coming up, or the opportunity to ask for a raise, now’s the time to take stock of your professional value and put together a pitch for better compensation.

5. Check your credit scores

You can’t know what to improve if you don’t know where you stand. You can get two free credit scores, updated every 14 days, on Credit.com.

6. Spring-clean your credit report

Do a major audit by pulling your free annual credit reports via AnnualCreditReport.com and dispute any errors you find with the credit bureau(s) in question. (You can go here to learn how.)

7. Re-evaluate your savings strategy

See if you can maximize your savings by opening an account with a higher annual percentage yield (APY) than your current one or consider a savings vehicle, like a money market fund or a Certificate of Deposit (CD).

8. Move

While it can cost a lot at first, moving can be a long-term money-saving strategy. A good rule of thumb is to keep your housing expenses below 30% (or, ideally, less than 25%) of your income. Do the math and a little research to see if you can do better than your current rent payment. Make sure you factor any the expense of any increase in commute times to make sure it really would be a financially beneficial move.

9. Ask for a lower credit card APR

If you’re paying high interest on your credit card, see if you can’t talk it down. By negotiating down your annual percentage rate (APR), you could save serious money.

10. Get a balance transfer credit card

Look into moving high-interest credit card debt onto a new card touting a low-to-no introductory APR for the rest of the year (or longer). Note: Most issuers charge a balance-transfer fee.

11. Prioritize payments

Our favorite way to pay down multiple credit cards? Put as much money as you can toward the balance with the highest APR, while paying the minimum on your other plastic. That way, you’ll save on interest charges.

12. Consider a credit-builder loan …

If your credit is shot, which would increase your APRs, one way you can start to rebuild your payment history is with a credit-builder loan. You can look into credit-builder loans at your local bank or credit union.

13. … or a secured credit card

Secured credit cards, which require an upfront deposit that serves as your credit limit, are designed specifically for people who need to build or fix their credit. You can find our picks for the best secured credit cards here.

14. Figure out where the ‘right’ ATMs are

Every time you use an out-of-network ATM, you’re paying money to use your own money. Cutting back on those fees can really help you save in the long run.

15. Simply review your budget

How often do you look over your budget? If it’s been a while, start the year off fresh with a budget more customized to where you (and your finances) are today.

16. Scour your credit card statements

You could spot areas where you’re overspending. Plus, you’ll want to be on the lookout for fraud or billing errors.

17. Try a budgeting app

There are a lot of free ones out there that can track your spending, point out what expenses are really draining your bank account and alert you when you’re about to go overboard.

18. Eat at home

Dining out too often can put a serious strain on your wallet. Try cooking at home just a few times a week, and you’re sure to free up some money you can use to pay down debts or put into a savings account.

19. Plan your meals

Better yet, try planning out your meals several days or a week in advance, and set aside time to shop for and prepare them. This minimizes the chance you’ll dine out, which is generally more expensive than home-cooked food.

20. Cancel memberships

If you’re not using your streaming account, or don’t use it that often, go ahead and cancel it. You can always renew later if you decide you miss it, and you’ll free up money each month.

21. Review your transportation situation

Can you begin biking to work or ride with a friend to cut gas expenses? Perhaps walking to work a few times a week could help you save on bus fare.

22. Invest

If you haven’t already started putting money aside for retirement, this may be the year to start doing so. Added bonus: If your company matches any investments you make, it’s like getting free money for those golden years.

23. Look into a rewards credit card

If you charge a lot and pay those balances off in full, but only have a standard credit card, you may be losing out on rewards for your spending. Check your credit scores and see what types of cards you’d qualify for. You may even be able to get a rewards card that doesn’t have an annual fee.

24. Evaluate your rewards credit card

Already have a rewards credit card? Now may be the time to look at it and see what perks it’s offering you. Does your credit card reward you most for money you spend at the gas station? That’s great if you drive a lot, but if you’re taking public transportation or walking, there may be a better rewards credit card out there for you.

25. Negotiate with your creditors

If you’ve got outstanding debts, see if the creditor or collector will agree to a payment plan. (You can find tips for negotiating with creditors here.)

26. Clip coupons

Yes, it’s old-fashioned, but those weekly circulars from your local grocery store, and coupons from newspapers, mailers and sites like Coupon.com can really add up, especially if you hit double- or triple-coupon days.

27. Pay off a loan

If you’re nearing the end of your loan term, whether it’s for a car, student loan or something else, consider paying it off if you have the cash. You’ll cut out the interest you would’ve paid and, chances are, you’re paying more in interest for the loans than you’re making on the money if you leave it in your savings account until the bill comes due.

28. Review your insurance policies

It’s a good idea to review your insurance policies — whether it’s your home insurance, car insurance or any other type — to see if you’re still getting the coverage you need. Then, take that information and shop around to make sure you’re getting the best price available.

29. Ask more questions

Personal finance can be really confusing, so don’t be embarrassed if you don’t understand some of the concepts — even the seemingly basic ones. Commit to learning more about things like how credit works, your options for retirement planning or smart ways to use your credit card.

30. Set calendar reminders

Putting bill due dates in a digital calendar and setting up notifications will help you remember to pay things on time and save you the hassle of late-payment fees or damaged credit.

31. Set a savings goal

Think back on what you wanted to do last year but couldn’t afford. Was it a vacation? Buying holiday gifts? Build an emergency savings? Figure out how much you want to save, when you want to save it by and how much you have to set aside each month to reach that goal. Then do it.

32. Give up your vices or guilty pleasures

Do you put too many dollars toward dining out? Perhaps you spent too much on alcohol or cigarettes? Consider giving up these things (or at least cutting back on them) and using the excess cash to pay down debts, build up an emergency fund or save for a big ticket item.

33. Sell stuff you don’t need

Take a look around the house and see if there’s anything you’re not using. By selling your unwanted items, you can free up money to put toward your savings or paying down credit card debt.

34. Change your passwords

Protect financial accounts by changing up those access digits, especially if you’re using any of the worst passwords from 2015.

35. Comparison shop

Want to score a great deal? Search online and shop around to find the best deals on products. You don’t have to settle for the first deal you see.

36. Consult a professional

If your money situation is complex, a visit with a certified financial planner, credit counselor or certified public accountant may be worthwhile.

37. Turn your hobby into cash

Websites like Etsy have made it possible for thousands of people to sell their wares with little or no investment beyond the craft itself. So, if you make your own candles, scented soaps or other artisinal wares, consider setting up a shop.

38. Fill a piggy bank

At the end of every day, drop your loose change into a jar or other vessel — it doesn’t have to be a piggy bank per se — and do it every day. One of our editors tried this last year and had $285 in change by the end of it. That’s a nice dinner out, and then some.

39. Cut water costs

If you don’t already have low-flow shower heads and toilets, consider getting them. New toilets can be expensive, but you can cheat by filling a liter bottle with water and then dropping it in the tank so you don’t use as much water each time you flush.

40. Buy generic brands

Why pay full price for name brands when generics work just as well? Get in the habit of buying these, at least some of the time, and your wallet is sure to get fatter.

41. Make shopping lists

An easy way to save money is by making a shopping list before you hit the stores. Stick to it, especially if you’re shopping when you’re hungry, and you’ll avoid buying items you just don’t need.

42. Refinance

If your credit has improved, see if you can qualify for a lower-rate on a mortgage, auto loan or private student loan, for instance. Just be sure to account for any fees associated with refinancing before you go ahead and do so.

43. Make your home energy efficient

It may cost more upfront, but little upgrades like installing a programmable thermostat can help you cut down your energy costs. You can find more ideas for making your home energy-efficient on EnergyStar.gov.

44. Use the library

If you buy a lot of books or music, try borrowing it from the library instead. As long as you avoid late return fees, you’ll end up saving a considerable amount of money.

45. Consolidate your credit card debt

Look into getting a personal loan, or debt consolidation loan, to consolidate debts you’re carrying on multiple credit cards. Depending on your credit, you may be able to secure a lower rate.

46. Live below your means

Spending less than you earn on a regular basis is one way to ensure you always have an emergency fund on hand. Borrowing less than you need — or at least not over-borrowing — will save you big on interest.

47. Reevaluate your tax withholding

Sure, a big tax refund is nice, but it indicates you were paying the government too much all year. Consider changing your withholding specification on your W-4 to get more money back on each paycheck.

48. Wait a day before buying

If you’re prone to impulse-shopping, institute a one-day waiting period before buying. That’ll give you time to evaluate if the purchase is a want or a need.

49. Pay your credit card more than once a month

Link your debit card account to your credit card account and then make a habit of paying down your balances once a week — or at least twice a month. That’ll help you avoid spending more than what’s in your bank account.

50. Skip the trip

Sure, an expensive vacation seems like a necessity, but, if finances are tight this year, opt for a staycation or an affordable road trip instead.

Lunar New Year 2017 events from Chicago to NYC to Disney to Vegas

January 16, 2017 by Kathy Reichle Leave a Comment

Lunar New Year begins Jan. 28, kicking off the year of the rooster. The holiday is observed in China, Vietnam and other Asian countries, but a number of U.S. destinations from New York to Las Vegas also host celebrations. Events include parades featuring lion dancers, special holiday menus at Asian restaurants, cultural festivals and more.

Disney California Adventure Park in Anaheim, California, hosts a Lunar New Year celebration from Jan. 20 through Feb. 5. Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse will be costumed for the occasion, greeting guests and offering photo opportunities alongside other Disney characters like Mulan and Mulan’s dragon sidekick Mushu.

Live performances at Disney California Adventure will include Chinese acrobats, dancers and musicians in colorful costumes, activities and crafts themed on the holiday and three new marketplaces offering food inspired by Asian cuisine. A new short feature called “Hurry Home” will be shown each night prior to the “World of Color” show, telling the story of a little lantern on a journey home for Lunar New Year, using projected animation, lighting, special effects and fountains. The park will also be decorated with lanterns and banners wishing guests a happy Lunar New Year in English, Chinese, Korean and Vietnamese. Details at http://www.Disneyland.com/LunarNewYear.

In New York City, visitors have three Chinatowns to explore: one in downtown Manhattan, one in the Sunset Park neighborhood of Brooklyn and one in Flushing, Queens. Check out the restaurants, food markets and shops selling everything from housewares to souvenirs. In Manhattan, holiday events include a Jan. 28 firecracker ceremony and cultural festival in Sara D. Roosevelt Park and a Feb. 5 Lunar New Year parade kicking off at 1 p.m., http://www.nycgo.com/events/lunar-new-year-parade-festival. There’s also a parade and festival in Flushing on Feb. 4.

San Francisco has been celebrating Lunar New Year with a parade that dates back to the 1860s. This year’s event rolls the evening of Feb. 11 with acrobats, lion dancers, floats and a 268-foot dragon, kicking off at Second and Market streets. Other events include a flower market fair, Jan. 21-22, and a Feb. 19 5K/10K run-walk.

In Las Vegas, Jan. 28 is the kickoff for a 15-day celebration at Lucky Dragon Hotel & Casino, a new resort themed on Asian culture. Elsewhere in Las Vegas, at The LINQ Promenade, a four-day festival is scheduled for Jan. 27-30 including dragon dances at 6 p.m. nightly on the Fountain Stage. A Jan. 27-29 “Chinese New Year in the Desert” event includes performances, a parade on Fremont Street, a party at Downtown Container Park and the DragonFest Benefit Concert at The LINQ Theater.

Other Las Vegas venues hosting lion and dragon dances, parades, performances and more include the Cosmopolitan, ARIA Resort & Casino, The Palazzo Las Vegas and The Venetian Las Vegas, MGM Grand Hotel and Casino, Palms Casino Resort and the Bellagio and Palace Station. The Conservatory & Botanical Gardens at Bellagio will host a display that includes incense, red lanterns and a rooster perched atop a mountain. The Palazzo’s Waterfall Atrium and Gardens will host a 15-foot, crystal-covered rooster and an 18-foot dragon. In addition, many restaurants offer holiday menus.

Lunar New Year parades also will be held in Washington, D.C., Jan. 29; Chicago, Feb. 5; and Orlando, Florida, Feb. 11.