Articles Written By: Kevin Fawley

PetSmart Is Now Offering Contactless Shopping

Shopping safely at PetSmart couldn’t be easier right now. The store has implemented a seamless curbside pickup process to make sure your pup or cat has everything they need. Here’s how it works: start by filling your virtual basket with all of the essentials. Then select curbside pickup at your local Everett store when you check out. In an hour or two, you should be notified that your items are ready. Pull right up to the curb in front of the store, check in via the PetSmart app, and then wait for an employee to load everything directly into your trunk.

The store is fully stocked with everything your four-legged friend could possibly want or need, so it shouldn’t be difficult to find what you’re looking for. From pet food and treats to pet gates, beds, and feeding bowls, it’s all ready and waiting at your local PetSmart.

How to Make Your Apartment Feel Like a Summer Oasis

Summer has arrived! That means fresh, local food at the farmers’ market, warm walks in the park, and maybe even a picnic or two. It also means you should start thinking about freshening up the decor in your apartment. Here are a few simple decorating ideas to help you welcome summer into your abode.

  1. Fresh citrus fruits and herbs galore. Love the fresh produce that pops up locally every summer? You can actually incorporate it into your decor. For instance, a cute planter full of fresh basil or mint would make the perfect centerpiece for your dining room table. A bowl filled with lemons and limes would also make a colorful statement!

  2. Printed pillows. One of the easiest things to change up at home are your throw pillows. For summer, consider going with bright, bold patterns in the shades you associate with summer. Yellow chevron; orange checks; bright green gingham. You can also play around with nature prints—maybe lemons to match the bowl on your table!

  3. Nature-inspired materials. Take summer as an opportunity to bring different textures into your space. Maybe a jute rug, a few pieces of wicker furniture, or even just some new houseplants.

  4. A framed map. Dreaming of all the places you’ll be traveling to next summer? For now, satisfy your wanderlust with a physical representation of your travel plans. Frame a map of your favorite vacation destination and hang it in the living room or dining room as a reminder of the fun times to come!

  5. Nautical or beachy accents. In place of your seaside vacation this year, spruce up your space with natural objects and nautical-themed decor like seashells, coral, or throw pillows in lobster or anchor motifs.

How to Start a Summer Herb Garden Indoors

If you love to cook with fresh herbs, there’s a way to do it without running to the store all the time. Simply start your own garden. You don’t need any outdoor space to do it—a kitchen windowsill and a few containers will do the trick. Here’s how to get started.

  • Find a sunny spot. First things first: figure out where you want the herbs to put down roots. Most herbs prefer ample amounts of sunshine, so try to find a spot in your apartment that can accommodate their thirst for the sun.
  • Pick your plants. While most herbs are relatively easy to grow, some do better indoors than others. For a container garden, basic herbs like mint, chives, parsley, and basil are among the best options. But your selection should depend on your preferences, too. If you rarely cook with basil, don’t bother wasting prime windowsill space on it!
  • Choose your containers. No need to run out for planters! DIY containers for your herb garden using items you have around the house. Upcycle empty cans by removing the labels and filling them with potting soil, or try mason jars instead. Even mugs will work! And feel free to decorate your chosen containers with whatever art supplies you have on hand to make your garden a bit more aesthetically pleasing.
  • Water and harvest appropriately. When you start your own herb garden, it’s crucial to water each plant just enough, but not too much. You can generally figure out when herbs need more water by simply sticking your finger in the soil. If it feels dry, add enough water to make it moist. You should also do your best to pluck herbs at their peak freshness, which varies from one plant to the next. Check online to find out the best time to “harvest” a specific herb.

How to Grow Herbs Indoors [Bonnie Plants]
50 Cheap and Easy DIY Herb Garden Ideas [Prudent Penny Pincher] 
How Often Should You Water Herbs? Find Out More About it! [Herbs Within]