Highland Lakes South

For your Home

To Fix or Not to Fix

When it comes to home improvements, most of us would opt to have a professional handle the job. However, we all know that by eliminating the labor expense, we can often cut a project's cost in half and save some money. So we are often forced to "do it ourselves." While there are some homeowners that have made do-it-yourself into a second career, others dread even the thought of home repair. No matter what kind of homeowner you are, there are many things to consider before you actually roll up your sleeves.

Research the task at hand. There are countless "how-to" books available at the library or bookstore to suit every repair need for your home. From unclogging drains to renovating the basement, you should research your job before attempting the repair or improvement.

Be realistic about your abilities. Do not take on work that you know you will not be able to finish or may end up looking poorly. Avoid jobs that are dangerous, particularly difficult or require a high degree of skill unless you are fully competent at the job. Some jobs, such as electrical work, plumbing or roofing, are not worth the risk. This is your home and you do not what to pay for your mistakes - literally!

Have all the necessary tools. Before you start on a project, be sure you have all the materials and tools necessary to complete the job. It is also very important that you know how to operate and use the tools required. And keep in mind that if you have to purchase additional tools, it will still be cheaper then hiring labor.

Schedule the time to complete the job. In the beginning all repair or improvement jobs seem like a daunting task. A professional could most likely complete the job quicker, but you probably wouldn't be too far behind if you did it yourself. However, spare time is a valuable luxury these days so factor that into your equation.

Have a deadline. Some home improvement or repair jobs require urgency, while others can be placed on the bottom of your "to-do" list. Either way, make sure you have weighed all your alternatives and set a completion deadline. You do not want your home repair urgency to turn into an emergency, nor to you want the task to be on your "to-do" list forever.


There are definite benefits to hiring a professional to handle a repair from start to finish. It takes research and commitment in becoming a do-it-yourselfer and making it worth your while. But in the end you can take pride in what you have accomplished - and you will have saved a bit of money!

Recipe of the Month

Blueberry Muffins

Ingredients:
* 3 cups flour
* 2 cups sugar
* 1 tablespoon baking powder
* 1 stick butter or margarine
* 2 eggs
* 1 cup milk
* 1 teaspoon vanilla
* 1 15-ounce can blueberries, drained
* 2 tablespoons butter, melted



Preheat oven to 350° F. Mix dry ingredients and then mix in butter or margarine until mix is in crumbs. Set aside 1 cup crumb mixture for topping. To rest of mixture add eggs, milk and vanilla. Add berries; fold in gently. Pour in muffin cups. Sprinkle with topping then drizzle with butter. Bake for 20-30 minutes. Makes 20 muffins. This can also be made as a coffee cake. Prepare exactly as above except bake in 9" x 13" pan for 30 minutes.

Finding the Best Veterinarian

Many people consider their pets to be as important as any human member of their family. That is why it is important to find a vet before an emergency occurs. If your pet should get sick, a veterinarian with whom you feel comfortable and who is comfortable dealing with your pet will make the situation less stressful. Here are a few tips on how to find the perfect veterinarian:


Ask your friends and family members to refer you to a veterinarian. One of the best ways to find someone is through word of mouth. Groomers, pet supply stores or a local humane society is also a good place to get a recommendation. If all else fails, then you can look in the Yellow Pages under veterinarians for a doctor in your area.

Visit the veterinarian for an introductory appointment. Make sure the facility is clean, well-lit and odor-free. The veterinarian and his or her staff should all be polite, efficient and have the ability to relate to you as well as your pet.

Make sure the veterinarian offers emergency or after-hours service. If your pet was to be "hospitalized" overnight then ask who will observe your pet and the specific hours they will be there. It is uncommon for a pet to remain unobserved for 14 hours or more.

Find out the billing procedures of the veterinarian. Taking your pet for a routine check-up can become quiet costly. Before you make an official appointment ask for general pricing guidelines, if the vet expects full payment immediately, if credit cards are accepted and if there is an appointment cancellation charge.

Inquire if the veterinarian has a specialty. Like human doctors, vets have evolved into highly specialized practitioners with the capabilities to diagnose and treat their patients. It is important to find a doctor that works regularly with animals like your own.

Don't be afraid to ask questions. It is not a bad thing to ask a lot of questions because it only demonstrates that you are a caring and emotionally-involved pet owner. Feel free to inquire where the veterinarian went to school, how long he or she has been practicing, what equipment is used, what type of procedures are practiced, etc.


These tips should help lead you in the right direction of finding the best veterinarian for you and your pet. Remember, if you are unhappy after your first visit with your vet, you can always switch practitioners. The best love and care for your pet is the ultimate goal!