Buying A Home That Can Grow With Your Family

If you are a first time homeowner, or are purchasing a home after a major life change such as marriage or having children, what should you consider to be sure your new home can grow with your changing family?  The time and effort that go into purchasing and decorating a new home, not to mention finding it in the first place, means that you’ll want to ensure that your home will be right for you and your family for years to come.  So what should you look for in your new home so that it will give you enjoyment and be functional both now and in the future?

Size

Though a cute two-bedroom home may be right for a newlywed couple, this type of space will likely soon be outgrown if there are any children in your future or if you and your spouse like to entertain.  You will also want to consider the number of bathrooms and the facilities in them.  Having only one toilet or shower can certainly put stress on a growing family.

Features

Special features of a home, such as a finished basement, central air, and a large yard can make your home a more functional and enjoyable space, especially if you have or are considering starting a family in the near future.  You may also want to consider the age of the home you purchase and its features or appliances, as this may lead to future costs that may put stress on your financial situation at a time when one spouse may be at home caring for the children.

Location

Location is also an important consideration when choosing a home that can grow with your family.  Choosing a safe neighborhood is always an important point when selecting a family home, but you will also want to consider the proximity of good schools, community centers, and shopping.  Also, facilities such as parks and libraries can make a neighborhood truly a great place for families.  You may also want to consider the demographics of the area in which you are purchasing in order to be sure it is a match with your values.

As the old adage goes, home is where the heart is, and choosing a family home that is right for your family can really make all the difference in having a happy, fulfilling, and safe family life.

 

Planning The Perfect Easter Egg Hunt

Searching for hidden treasures and tasty sweets is the biggest part of Easter for young children.  Only Christmas morning comes with more anticipation that the morning of Easter; knowing that there will be a fun treasure hunt ending with a basket full of goodies will get any child excited.  Setting up a great Easter egg hunt is easy, whether you want to hold it indoors or out.

An Indoor Hunt

If the weather is bad and makes an outdoor hunt impossible, hide your Easter eggs around the house.  Be careful if you have pets—chocolate is unhealthy for dogs and cats.  Hide sweet treats out of your pets’ reach or keep your pets out of the room where the treats are hidden.

Be creative with your hiding places—put Easter treats in surprise places such as the pocket of your child’s robe.  Sneak into their room and place surprises on their pillow so they wake up and start the fun right away!  Wrapped treats can be hidden in planters or inside shoes and slippers.  The thrill of the hunt is the important part—don’t make it too easy!

Outdoor Eggs

If you live in a place where the weather allows for an outdoor Easter egg hunt, you have plenty of choices as to where you can hide your eggs.  Bear in mind, though, that local animals may run off with your treats if you hide them too far ahead of time.  Plastic eggs in bright colors that snap together to protect treats are a great way to keep them safe and hidden in your yard.

For extra fun, plan a multi-family Easter egg hunt in a local park.  You will have more space in which to create an exciting hunt!  Set up a picnic lunch to enjoy together after all of the eggs have been found.

Chocolate and treats aren’t the only fun Easter egg hunt ideas.  Try hiding small toys inside the plastic eggs, like stickers and temporary tattoos.  Kids will love discovering a new surprise in each egg.  Plan your hunt at mid-morning if you are going outside, giving the day some time to warm up a bit.  This will also place you right about lunch time when the hunt is over—and everyone will be ready for a delicious Easter meal.