4. Add shutters to your windows. Now, you don’t have to buy those expensive premade ones that everyone else has, you can make simple ones yourself. You can use plywood and edge it in wood trim, then paint, or just hang a few vertical 1x2’s 4 inches apart to form a rectangular shape alongside your window, indicating shutters. You may be able to find much of this wood in scrap piles. Just make sure pieces are not warped. Now paint with exterior trim paint, and watch charm go up! Be sure to use galvanized screws or nails to build and hang them so they won’t rust.

5. Finally, add some personal touches to your entry, to make your home more welcoming. Hand paint a wood plaque from craft store with your family name or a favorite quote and hang it beside your front door. Add a wreath or a swag to your entry door. You can make one easily from a grapevine or straw wreath and add your own touches…some garden tools, silk flowers, small wood plaques with family member’s names, seashells…whatever represents your tastes. Fill a planter with flowers or shade plants and place it right by your door to add life, add a chair or bench if you have room. If you have a table and a covered porch, don’t be afraid to bring out candles, throw pillows, and even a throw rug to create your porch “room”! Just remember to use your creativity, add your personal touch, and use that elbow grease, and soon people will stop when they pass your home impressed, by your creativity!

So what is most precious gift to give our children? The answer lies within following quote:

“We are always too busy for our children; we never give them time or interest they deserve. We lavish gifts upon them; but most precious gift, our personal association, which means so much to them, we give grudgingly.” Mark Twain (1835 - 1910)

Our “TIME” is single most important gift to give our children!

Give your child gift of time and truly learn about your child. Toys, clothes and chocolate bars can be replaced, but your time can never be replaced. Spend time with your child everyday and you will see pleasure they derive from your quality attention. Children grow up too quickly so enjoy them, get to know them and don’t be a parent who has regrets after your children have grown up.

Stop playing serious and seriously play!