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Add These Plants To Your Garden If You Care About Your Skin
If you’ve got a green thumb and want to take extra special care of your skin this summer, just add these plants to your garden.

We made it! It’s officially summer and it is time to get our chill on. But just because the weather is so nice, doesn’t mean it can’t be bad for your skin. Obviously, the sun can severely damage your skin if you don’t wear sunscreen, but there are other things like sand and salt water that we expose our skin to in the summer that can also be dangerous for our skin.
But there’s good news! There are a handful of plants you can grow in your very own garden that can help you properly take care of your skin this summer. So if you have a bit of a green thumb and want to have great skin, be sure to add these plants to your garden!
LAVENDER
Lavender is great for your skin while also being very easy to grow. When added to creams it can act as an anti-inflammatory and can help the skin heal. It also has sedative properties so it can help you fall asleep on those hot nights. There are plenty of recipes for lavender based skin cream online, so just do a little googling and find one that sounds right for you.
THYME
Thyme has for years been used medicinally. Thyme tinctures can be great for healing acne, and it’s also great for rashes or sunburns. It’s also packed with antioxidants that can help slow down the aging process and keep your skin looking healthy and glowing.
LADY’S MANTLE
Similar to thyme, lady’s mantle has been used medicinally since the middle ages. It is loaded with antioxidants, tannins, salicylic acid, phytosterols, essential oils, and even Vitamin C. The antioxidants specifically can reduce the free radicals in your body that lead to cell damage like premature aging. While the salicylic acid it contains naturally can do wonders for acne, bug bites, sunburns, and rashes.
ROSES
They aren’t just for Valentine’s Day and apologies, folks. Roses are actually a great skincare tool. They can moisturize your skin and can help blemishes heal. They even have anti-inflammatory properties! Plus there are a bunch of different varieties and colors or roses. So they’re great for any garden.
ROSEMARY
Like many other plants on this list, Rosemary can help moisturize your skin. But it is also very helpful in promoting collagen development and skin elasticity. It is jam-packed with the kinds of minerals your skin craves after a long day in the sun. You can at rosemary to cleanser, use it in an oil infuser, or simply just dilute it in water.
ECHINACEA
Echinacea is beautiful flowers that would look great in any garden. But it’s great for your skin as well. It can reduce inflammation in the skin, combat acne, and speed up your skin’s healing process. It’s also been shown to help hydrate your skin and even reduce oxidative stress. Simply add it to homemade creams to start reaping the benefits.
SPEEDWELL
Speedwell is a gorgeous flower that is packed with vitamins, tannins, and an iridoid glycoside known as “aucubin” that has been proven to have anti-inflammatory properties. Speedwell extract has also been used to produce various eczema creams. So it’s great for treating rashes, chafing, or even full-on cuts.
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Pool Maintenance Tips for Texas Homeowners

Maintaining a pool in Texas comes with unique challenges. The state’s scorching summers, fluctuating temperatures, and occasional stormy weather mean pool care requires consistent attention and planning. A neglected pool isn’t just unpleasant to swim in; it can lead to costly repairs down the line. Whether you’re a new pool owner or someone looking to improve their upkeep routine, this guide will help you ensure your pool stays clean, safe, and inviting all year long.
The Importance of Pool Maintenance
A well-maintained swimming pool is more than just a backyard luxury. It provides a refreshing escape from Texas heat while adding value to your property. However, the state’s high temperatures and frequent use mean proper care is essential to prevent algae growth, damaged equipment, and sky-high energy costs. By investing time or accessing reliable pool services, you can avoid bigger headaches later.
Common Pool Maintenance Challenges in Texas
- High Temperatures
- Hard Water
- Storms and Debris
With these challenges in mind, here’s a quick maintenance checklist.
Weekly Pool Maintenance Checklist
1. Test and Balance Chemicals
Proper water chemistry is the foundation of a clean, safe pool. Use reliable pool testing kits weekly to check:
- Chlorine Levels (2-4 ppm): Maintain these levels to kill bacteria and keep your water sanitized.
- pH Balance (7.2-7.8): This prevents skin and eye irritation and helps chlorine work effectively.
- Alkalinity (80-120 ppm): Stabilizes the pH to avoid drastic fluctuations.
With Texas’ heat, chlorine tends to evaporate quickly, so adjust chemical levels more often during summer months.
2. Skim, Brush, and Vacuum
The Texas wind can blow plenty of debris into your pool. Combat this by:
- Using a pool skimmer daily to remove leaves, bugs, and other surface debris.
- Brushing pool walls and tiles weekly to prevent algae buildup, especially in hard-to-reach areas.
- Vacuuming the pool floor weekly for dirt and sediment removal. Consider investing in an automatic pool vacuum for convenience.
3. Clean the Pool Filter
A clogged filter struggles to maintain water circulation and cleanliness. Pool filters in Texas should be checked and cleaned regularly:
- Rinse out cartridge filters every 2-3 weeks.
- Backwash sand filters monthly or as needed.
- Inspect and clean the pump basket weekly.
If you notice murky water or slow circulation, cleaning your filter system promptly can make a huge difference.
4. Monitor the Water Level
Texas heat can cause significant water evaporation, so it’s crucial to monitor and maintain the water level. The waterline should sit at the midpoint of your pool skimmer for optimal performance. Refill with fresh water as needed, and don’t forget to adjust the chemicals afterward to compensate for dilution.
5. Schedule Professional Pool Services
While DIY maintenance is essential, professional upkeep can save you time and energy. Local pool services in Texas provide expertise in:
- Tackling stubborn algae problems.
- Inspecting and repairing pool equipment, such as pumps and heaters.
- Seasonal services, like pool openings and closings.
Professional help ensures your pool remains in peak condition year-round.
Additional Tips for Texas Pool Owners
Cover Your Pool
Invest in a pool cover to protect against debris and evaporation when your pool isn’t in use. Consider solar covers for added energy efficiency.
Address Hard Water Issues
Combat calcium buildup by using specific chemicals or a water softener system. Check water hardness monthly to avoid scaling on tiles and equipment.
Heat Protection for Equipment
Keep your pool equipment, such as pumps and heaters, shaded or housed in a protective cover. Prolonged exposure to the Texas sun can lead to premature wear and tear.
Keep Your Pool in Top Shape Year-Round
With regular attention and the help of pool services, maintaining a beautiful, functional pool in Texas is easier than it seems. From balancing your chemicals and cleaning filters to addressing the challenges of hard water, a little effort goes a long way in ensuring you have a safe and inviting oasis right in your backyard.
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How to Keep Your Pet From Licking Their Stitches

Surgery can be a stressful experience—not just for your pet, but for you too. One of the biggest challenges after your furry friend has had surgery is ensuring they don’t lick or chew their stitches. Doing so can lead to infections, reopened wounds, and prolonged recovery times. Thankfully, there are simple and effective steps you can take to prevent this behavior and help your pet recover safely and comfortably.
Why Do Pets Lick Their Stitches?
Pets naturally lick wounds in an attempt to clean and soothe the area. Unfortunately, this instinctive behavior does more harm than good when it comes to post-surgery stitches. Saliva contains bacteria, and excessive licking can damage the healing tissue, leading to complications like infections or even the need for additional surgeries.
Top Methods to Stop Your Pet From Licking Stitches
Use an E-Collar (The Cone of Shame)
The Elizabethan collar, or “E-collar,” is a tried-and-true solution for keeping pets away from their stitches. These plastic cones may not be the most stylish accessory, but they create a physical barrier that prevents your pet from reaching the stitches with their mouth or paws.
Try an Inflatable Recovery Collar
Inflatable recovery collars are a more comfortable alternative to traditional E-collars. They function similarly by blocking access to the surgical site but are softer and less cumbersome. This option is especially good for less active pets who may find the E-collar overwhelming.
Cover the Wound
If the surgical site is on a limb or an easily covered part of your pet’s body, you can try using a post-surgery recovery suit, shirt, or bandage. These garments act as a protective barrier between their mouth and the stitches while offering added comfort. They are particularly great for pets who struggle with wearing collars.
Keep Your Pet Occupied
Bored or anxious pets are more likely to lick their stitches. Keeping their mind engaged is a great way to distract them from their discomfort. Provide chew toys, puzzle feeders, and other activities to divert their attention away from the surgical site.
Administer Safe Anti-Licking Sprays
Anti-lick sprays or bitter-tasting deterrents are another option to prevent licking. These sprays are designed to be safe for pets but leave an unpleasant taste that discourages licking or chewing.
Monitor Your Pet
Supervision is a crucial part of wound care, especially during the first few days after surgery. Keep an eye on your pet to ensure they’re not tempted to lick their stitches when the cone is off (e.g., during mealtimes).
Speak With Your Vet
If you’ve tried multiple solutions and your pet is still intent on licking their stitches, consult your veterinarian. They may adjust your pet’s pain medication, recommend surgical staples, or suggest a different recovery plan that suits your pet’s needs.
Help Your Pet Heal Comfortably
Managing your pet’s post-surgery recovery can feel overwhelming, but by taking steps to stop them from licking their stitches, you’re giving them the best chance to heal quickly and safely. From E-collars to recovery suits, the methods above will not only protect your pet but also give you peace of mind during their recovery.
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Why Corporate Signage Matters for New Business Locations

Securing a new business location is an incredible achievement, but it’s only the first step in building a successful presence. One key element that often gets overlooked is corporate signage. More than just a marker for your physical space, it’s a vital tool for attracting customers, building brand recognition, and establishing a professional image.
This article explores why corporate signage is a must-have for new business locations and how it can set your brand up for success.
First Impressions Matter
Your signage is often the first point of contact for potential customers. Whether they’re passing by on foot or in a vehicle, your corporate signage helps them form an immediate opinion about your business.
Clear, well-designed signs convey professionalism and trustworthiness, while poor or non-existent signage can leave customers confused or unimpressed. Investing in high-quality signage pays off by ensuring that your first impression is a good one.
Data That Supports This
According to a study by FedEx, 68% of consumers believe that signage reflects the quality of a business’s products or services. Additionally, 76% of customers have entered a store solely based on its signage.
Boosting Brand Awareness
Strong signage is about more than just visibility. It’s also a key branding tool. Consistent use of your brand’s logo, colors, and typography across signage helps reinforce your identity.
For instance, think of the golden arches of McDonald’s or Target’s instantly recognizable red bullseye. Good signage doesn’t just tell people where you are—it embeds your business into their memory.
Pro Tip
For new business locations, ensure your signage aligns with your overall branding strategy. Partnering with design experts can help you create cohesive, effective visuals.
Improved Customer Navigation
Corporate signage isn’t just about attracting attention; it’s also about guiding customers. Clear directional signs make your location easy to find, especially in high-traffic or complex areas like shopping centers or business parks. Similarly, interior signage can direct people to specific products, services, or areas within your space.
Properly placed wayfinding signs can reduce frustration and improve the customer experience. It’s a practical way to show your audience that you value their time and convenience.
Standing Out in New Markets
When establishing your presence in a new location, competition can be fierce. Effective corporate signage can give you a competitive edge, making it easier to stand out in the crowd.
For instance, illuminated signage works wonderfully for businesses operating in bustling urban areas or to catch attention after dark. Unique, creative designs can also draw the eye, enticing passersby to take a closer look.
Following Regulations and Compliance
Municipal and zoning laws often dictate the size, placement, and type of signage businesses can use. Non-compliance can lead to fines or the removal of your signage altogether.
Getting it right the first time by understanding and adhering to local regulations not only protects your investment but also demonstrates your professionalism within the community.
A Powerful ROI
Corporate signage is far from an expense; it’s an investment with a proven return. It works around the clock to advertise your business, making it one of the most cost-effective marketing tools available.
According to research by the International Sign Association (ISA), businesses with good signage report increased sales and foot traffic, sometimes by as much as 10% or more.
Modern Innovations in Corporate Signage
Advancements in digital signage offer new possibilities for businesses looking to make a mark. For example, dynamic LED displays or touchscreen directories can transform your corporate signage into an interactive experience. These tech-savvy solutions not only grab attention but also engage customers on a whole new level.
Elevate Your Business With Corporate Signage
For any business moving into a new location, corporate signage is a powerful way to establish presence, build trust, and drive traffic. A well-designed sign doesn’t just tell people where you are; it shows who you are as a brand.
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