Snowzilla and the TalkLocal Knights

Sunday, February 28th, 2016

(This story is for National Tell a Fairy Tale Day. We hope you enjoy it and it inspires you to tell some fairy tales of your own.)

By Krystal Moore

Once upon a time, in a land not-so-far away, the good people of Homeville were enjoying their winter. It had been a strange one. Rather than the usual frostbiting wind that forced the people to wear heavy coats, the weather had been rather warm. While it was a concern for some, many people took the warmth for what it was – a chance to be outside and enjoy themselves. Certainly things would be well this winter.

But then…it came.

Without warning, the people awoke to a fearsome roar. Gazing through their frosted windows, they all watched in horror as a grand, bone-chilling beast came through the city. The monster roared thunderously as it stormed through the city, covering all in its path in a mass of snow and ice.

It was a beast that none believed they would see for another year. A monster that no one could defeat and all feared.

It was…the dreaded Snowzilla!

As people ran to their homes, seeking shelter, Snowzilla ravaged the city, leaving nothing but destruction in its wake. The monster’s rampage was swift but brutal. In a mere day, it had managed to uproot the lives of all the people before leaving to spread chaos elsewhere.

While the people were glad that Snowzilla had gone, it didn’t change the fact that they were still left with its aftermath. Many people were trapped in their homes, and while they were able to ask for help, it still seemed too much to handle.

Who would be able to save these poor people from the dread that Snowzilla had brought upon them?

Just as all seemed lost, there was the sound of fanfare. People who were capable left their home as they saw a crowd of knights coming forward on their fearsome steeds.

The people stared in awe as all of the knights stopped in front of them. Who were they? What did they want?

One knight stood in front of the others, their powerful voice booming over the crowd. “Good people! We understand that Snowzilla has rampaged through your great city! Fear not!” The knight raised their shield, manifesting their kingdom’s crest for all to see. “We are knights from the kingdom of TalkLocal! We are here to assist you!”

No one dared to move. They had never heard of this kingdom and now that it had come right after Snowzilla’s rampage, what were they meant to think?

The knights simply stood there, waiting for someone to come forth first. You see, they would not make the first move. Although sent to Homeville to help the people of the village, the knights could not act without the direct request of each individual. Thus, they waited, giving the people time to see that they were interested in assisting them.

After what seemed like an eternity, an older man came forth. He shuffled slowly towards the knights, using a cane to help support himself.

His voice was low but he spoke clearly, “Good knights, I am capable of walking from my home but there is still treacherous snow in my driveway. I am unable to remove it on my own. Can you assist me?”

One knight came forward, helmet covering his eyes but not hiding the large smile he had as he rode towards the man. “Good sir, I shall assist you. Please return to your home and leave this concern to me.”

“Oh, thank you so much, gracious knight.”

When the old man was finished, a younger woman came forward, a bit hesitant as she asked, “Snowzilla destroyed my pipes. Froze them over until they burst. What am I meant to do?”

Another knight came forward, holding a pipe in her hand as she smiled. “Worry not, ma’am. I shall return your plumbing to its former glory.”

Slowly but surely, more people came forward, each with a concern that needed to be addressed, and with each person, there was a knight who was able to solve their problem. With enough time, the knights of TalkLocal had assisted the people until they were able to resume their normal lives.

“Let’s give thanks to the great knights!”

“Cheers for the grand kingdom of TalkLocal!”

“TalkLocal! TalkLocal! TalkLocal!”

The first knight stepped forward once again, raising their hand and the people went quiet. “Good people! We’re glad we could assist you! Unfortunately, the horrible Snowzilla has spread more chaos, and we must go and assist its other victims But always remember, if you ever require our assistance again…” All of the knights raised their shields, the pride of their kingdom a beacon of hope. “…TalkLocal will be here!”

And with that, the knights rode off towards their next quest, the cheers of the people sending them off.

The End

Tags: burst pipe, damaged roof, snow, snow storm, snowpocalypse
Posted in Seva Team, talklocal | No Comments »

Home Remedy for Toothaches

Tuesday, February 9th, 2016

Toothaches can bring even the strongest person to their knees. The tingling, aching, frustrating feeling of a toothache can disrupt your entire day. We try to prevent it by using special toothpastes, such as Sensodyne, but that provides little to no short-term relief. Sure, there’s Orajel, but here are some natural alternatives if you want to make some yourself.

Salt water. Add a spoonful of salt to a glass of warm water. Stir the mixture until the salt dissolves. Swish the mixture in your mouth, focusing on the area of the affected tooth. Do this for 5 minutes then spit out the salt water.

Salt & Pepper. Yes, the two things sitting on your dining room table right now can help alleviate your toothache. Combine ¼ teaspoon of salt and ¼ teaspoon of pepper with a small amount of water to make a paste. Apply the paste to your tooth and let it sit for approximately 5 minutes. Remove the paste by rinsing with warm water.

Garlic. Make some garlic paste by smashing 3 cloves of garlic with 1 teaspoon of water. After you’ve made a smooth paste, apply a small dab directly to the afflicting tooth. The antimicrobial properties of the garlic should help alleviate the pain. Meanwhile, mouthwash should freshen your breath afterwards.

Asafoetida & Lemon Juice. Mix equal parts of asafoetida powder and lemon juice, about a teaspoon each, to make a paste. Then, apply the paste to the affected tooth, leave on for 5-10 minutes before rinsing it out with warm water.

Clove oil. Place 1 drop of clove oil on the affected tooth. If you don’t have clove oil at home or can’t find it in the store, you can make a paste from cloves or clove powder and coconut oil. Apply the paste to the affected tooth, let it sit for 5-10 minutes before rinsing your mouth with warm water.

Peppermint oil. If you want to numb the area, add a drop of peppermint oil to the affected area.

These homemade remedies work to help alleviate pain and discomfort associated with a toothache. Remember, toothaches are preventable. If you eat a lot of carbs and sugars, you may want to reduce your intake. They are known to wear down your enamel. Though these home remedies are meant to help, we still recommend you visit a dentist to ensure there is no further issue. Go on to TalkLocal and we’ll connect you to one ASAP.

Tags: cavity, home remedy, homemade remedy, tooth pain, toothache, turmeric
Posted in Dentists | No Comments »

Clean Out Your Computer and Make It Run Like New

Monday, February 8th, 2016

Your computer was so great when you first got it. It ran like it was could win first place in a marathon. But now? Now, it’s become the titular tortoise from “The Tortoise and the Hare,” taking the lesson “slow and steady wins the race” a bit too far. Well, it needs to turn back into the hare, so you can use it to its full potential. Here are some tips to help clean out your computer to make it speedy again.

1. Uninstall programs: Take a look in your programs and settings menu. There are probably several on the list that you don’t even remember downloading, and now they’re sticking around for nothing. If you don’t need them, uninstall them.

2. Upload files: We have a tendency to take the photos and documents we’ve downloaded from the internet or our cameras and just leave them on the computer. If you want to keep them, upload them onto a flash drive or external hard drive. That way, you’ll have them for safekeeping before deleting them from your computer.

3. Update your virus software: Viruses are the bane of a computer’s existence. Just when you think you’ve taken care of them, they come back up. Make sure you have anti-virus software and that it’s up to date. Also, remember to do a routine virus check.

4. Physically clean it out: Your computer might be slow because it’s full of dust bunnies, blocking up the vents. So, shut your computer down, unplug it, and let it cool down for 30 minutes. Then, take a can of compressed air and use it to clean out the computer’s vents and keyboard of residual dust and crumbs.

5. Ask an expert: If your computer is still rebelling against you despite everything you’ve done to help it, it’s come to the point where you should ask an expert opinion whether it can be saved. Call TalkLocal so we can find you a computer specialist.

With these tips, your computer should be picking up speed. If there are any other issues that you want to take care of while you’re on a roll, check out our computer repair blog page and get going.

Tags: clean computer, computer, hard drive
Posted in Computer Repair, talklocal | No Comments »

Re-energize Yourself: Inspire Your Heart with Art Day

Sunday, January 31st, 2016

Art is a universal language that touches the soul. It has the ability to help heal wounds, revive old memories, and connect people across place and time. And, with the chill keeping you indoors, it’s a great time to express your creativity. After all, today is Inspire Your Heart with Art Day, a holiday for self renewal through artistic expression and appreciation. So, take a pause from the monotony of your daily routine, stop simply going through the motions, and rediscover your passions.

If you’re looking to get inspired, then here are some things you can do.

Visit a museum. Nothing really compares to getting up close and personal with a piece of art. If you’ve never really been into art and museums, go into it with a different attitude. When looking at a piece, think why does this piece appeal to me? What am I seeing? What is the artist trying to convey to me? One fun thing to do is to try to name a piece before looking at its title.

Listen to music. As one of the oldest forms of therapy, music is known to be a refuge during difficult times. If you feel like you’ve been in a rat race and are anxious about everything, try calming acoustic music without lyrics. If you feel like you’ve hit a slump and don’t have a lot of energy, try some upbeat music, such as techno and hip hop to get your blood moving.

Decorate your home. Take some of what you’ve seen in the world and put it in your home. Your home is your biggest blank canvas. Don’t let it be boring and uninspiring. Throw some paint on the walls. Get some statement-making furniture. Turn your backyard into Van Gogh’s Starry Night. Do whatever it is you have to do get and stay inspired. Because why be inspired for just one day when you can be inspired for a lifetime? And, if you need help bringing your vision to reality, let TalkLocal find you the right local contractor to turn your idea into a masterpiece.

After so many years of juggling responsibilities and trying to get ahead in the rat race, it’s easy to become jaded and lose that child-like wonder that used to color your world. So, have fun with your imagination today and rediscover the creativity and beauty that’s so important for living an inspired and fulfilling life.

Tags: art, museums, music, paintings
Posted in Holiday | No Comments »

Bubble Wrap Appreciation Day: Ten New Ways to Use Bubble Wrap

Monday, January 25th, 2016

It’s Bubble Wrap Appreciation Day and we know what you’re thinking: why in the world would anyone celebrate bubble wrap? Well, bubble wrap has been around for 60 years, and over those 60 years, its use has expanded to more than just shipping packaging. Besides giving your kids a simple (if noisy) distraction, here are ten other unique uses for your leftover bubble wrap.

Hair Rollers. Bubble wrap can be a beauty product. Rolled up bubble wrap can be used to curl hair just like flexi rods. And since there’s no rod, we bet they’re more comfortable to sleep in. Check out this tutorial for super bouncy spiral curls made using bubble wrap.

Art. Bubble wrap is art. New York artist, Bradley Hart, has made a career out of recreating famous paintings by injecting paint into the tiny air pockets of bubble wrap. The process is very tedious and time-consuming; it takes about 150 hours to complete a single recreation but it looks spectacular.

Cake. No, bubble wrap isn’t edible, but it can be used when making a cake look great. In this tutorial, the chocolate cake wrapping is given dimension and texture when the chocolate is poured over the bubble wrap, which acts like a mold. Here’s a video; see for yourself.

Window Insulation. Bubble wrap was originally marketed as insulation before being used as shipping packaging. Tape bubble wrap to your windowpanes to prevent the cold air from penetrating into your home.

Toilet Insulation. Bubble wrap can be used for sweating toilets. Yep, you heard us right, sweating toilets. If you find that your toilet is sweating after you hop in the shower, consider lining the tank of your toilet with bubble wrap. It’ll stop the condensation.

Pipe Insulation. Burst pipes in the winter are an all too common problem plaguing homeowners. Wrap bubble wrap around your pipes to help prevent them from freezing. Again, the insulation properties of bubble wrap help to keep the pipes from freezing over.

Flower Flotation. If you’re into designing floral arrangements, then this one’s for you. Cut a piece of bubble wrap that’s slightly smaller than the base of your flower. Snip a small hole in it, just big enough for the stem to fit through. Slip the stem through the hole and you’re done. Now just place the flower in water and it should float. Here’s a photo tutorial to walk you through it.

Children’s Craft Projects. Bubble wrap can be used in a plethora of craft projects for children, such as sensory play, construction paper substitute, and pretend corn. Check out our Bubble Wrap Pinterest Board for more ideas.

Joint Therapy. If someone you love has weak or arthritic hands, bubble wrap may help to strengthen hands. Try popping the bubbles for a few minutes a day to build up your hands’ joint and muscle strength.

Stress Reliever. And as always, bubble wrap works amazingly as a stress reliever. If you often find yourself getting anxious while driving or hate sitting in gridlocked rush hour traffic, then wrap it around your steering wheel for a convenient way to relieve stress.

If household chores are stressing you and bubble wrap doesn’t help, give TalkLocal a call. We’re always glad to help!

Tags: bubble wrap
Posted in Holiday | No Comments »

Granny Pod: Multi-Family and Senior Living Solution

Wednesday, January 13th, 2016

As baby boomers begin to retire, what will happen to them? Where will they live? Retirement villages, nursing homes, or their own homes? What does a child do when their aging parent can no longer live independently? “Move them in,” you say, but what happens if there’s no space for their parent in their home? Well, that’s where the granny pod comes in — granny flat if you’re Australian. Of course, I personally prefer the term “auxiliary dwelling units for the elder gentlewoman or man of exquisite taste and resourcefulness”.

What’s a “granny pod,” you ask? It’s basically a tiny home but much cooler (and safer). They’re “tiny home”-like structures that can be placed in your backyard. Most contain a kitchenette, a bedroom that also functions as a common area, and a bathroom. It’s like a deluxe master suite right in your backyard.

What makes a granny pod different than a tiny home? Well, for one thing, they have a cooler name. They’re also equipped with a lot of high end medical technology. The MedCottage, for example, boasts additional features, such as a virtual companion, a lift, video system that monitors at ankle level (no granny peep show here), pressurized ventilation, and the floor is specially cushioned in case of falls. Basically, in comparison to the tiny house, it’s the cousin at the family reunion who always has the latest gadgets.

Sounds great and all, but what’s the catch? Well, there are a few restrictions. (You didn’t think it would be that easy, did you?) For one thing, these auxiliary dwelling units can only legally house one person. Also, there are sometimes zoning law restrictions that prevent people from getting granny pods. So, always check to see if you’re permitted to have one in your backyard.

Oooh, I’m interested! How much does it cost? They cost roughly $125,000, give or take a few thousand. Before you freak out, some companies will buy back your granny pod when it’s no longer needed (approximately $40,000). Also, the average cost of an assisted living facility is $42,000 a year. At those rates, it practically pays for itself.

So basically, we say that the granny pod is the perfect solution to keeping mom or dad close and letting her or him maintain their independence. If you need to get your lawn in order so you can move mom or dad in, give Talklocal a call and we’ll connect you with a landscaper in no time.

Tags: granny pod, med cottage, mother in law suite, senior citizen
Posted in Landscapers, Uncategorized | No Comments »

Houseplant Appreciation Day: What To Do When Talking Isn’t Working

Sunday, January 10th, 2016

You’re relaxing in your living room, enjoying the warmth of your heater. You give the room a quick once over and your eyes land on one of your houseplants. You water it, give it sunlight, even talk to it, yet it still looks listless and worse for wear. Why? Well, plants are finicky creatures that can’t tell you when something is bothering them. Luckily, today is Houseplant Appreciation Day and you’re determined to diagnose the problem and solve it. After all, what better way to show your plants just how much you appreciate them? So, here are five things to consider when trying to perk up your plant.

1. Consider A Different Pot: As your plant continues to grow, it may be cramped in the pot you first bought it so it may be time to upsize. If you do, consider your plant’s next home. Maybe you want to switch to a nonporous ceramic pot to retain more moisture in the soil. If it needs a new pot, make sure that it has a way to drain so the roots don’t get waterlogged; saucers are a good way to hold the water your plant needs to drain out.

2. Improper Sun Exposure: Your plants may be in a place where they can get sunlight but make sure it’s the right amount. If your plants’ leaves are sickly and colorless then they’re getting too much light. If the leaves are turning yellow and new leaves are growing small, then they’re getting too little light. Take a look outside the window and take note of anything that may be enhancing or blocking the sunlight.

3. Improper Watering: Over-watering is one of the most common reasons plants end up dying. Is your plant wilting? Are the leaves turning yellow, even though you’ve been watering it? Then you should lower your watering schedule. Are you not watering as much and the leaves are browning and wrinkling? Then you’ll want to give it more water. You can also test by sticking your finger about an inch or two into the soil and seeing how wet it is, or you can purchase a moisture meter.

4. Washing Them: Have you been washing your plant’s leaves? You should. If you don’t, not only do they get all dusty and gross-looking, but the dirt makes the plant unable to photosynthesize at full capacity. To clean your plant’s leaves, use lukewarm water and a soft cloth for larger smooth leaves. For smaller leaves or leaves you don’t want to touch, you can use a spray bottle or sink sprayer.

5. Watch Out for Pests: Even inside plants can be attacked by bugs. So, when watering your plants, inspect their leaves closely for any pests or their eggs. You can detract these pests when you’re washing the leaves by using a soap-insecticide mixture with the water. If you see any concerns with a single plant, isolate that plant from others until the issue is resolved.

And while you’re watching out for all these things, your plants should be able to live nice and healthy. Just remember to get some help if you need it. Whether it’s help with how to properly take care of your plants or even buying another plant that will go great with them, just “leaf” it to TalkLocal. *ba-dum-tshh*

Tags: gardening, greenery, houseplants
Posted in Holiday, talklocal | No Comments »

Bubble Bath Day: The Best Hot Tubs For Your Budget

Friday, January 8th, 2016

Oh the joy of bubble baths! When we were young, we avoided baths like the plague. Now, bubble baths are our tranquil safe havens. They bring us comfort after a long, hard day. They renew our energy and give us peace. They’re our great escape. If you’re looking to branch out and escape from the typical bubble bath, then you should consider purchasing a hot tub, especially for Bubble Bath Day. We’ve tracked down the best hot tubs for every budget based on price, jets, and occupancy number. We’re sure to have something for you. So, run your bath water, add some bubbles, relax, and contemplate your life with a hot tub.

Budget Friendly: Coleman Lay-Z Spa Inflatable Tub

For less than $500, this inflatable tub is the best in its price range. It gives you that luxury feeling without the price tag. In lieu of jets, there are bubbles to give you the spa-like feel. The Lay-Z Spa is easy to set up. It’s inflatable, which means it’s easier to store or move around if the need should arise. All in all, the Coleman Lay-Z Spa Inflatable Tub gets the job done!

The Best of Both Worlds: Canadian Spa Company Toronto

This whirlpool tub is a great fit for those who want the look and amenities of a top-notch jacuzzi but are budget conscious. This jacuzzi boasts 44 jets and seats 5 to 6 adults. That’s just enough jets and friends for a spa party! The hot tub also includes built-in speakers, LED lights, and even aromatherapy. You get all of this for just under $6,000, which is a bargain when you think about all the spa parties you’ll have in your backyard.

Splurge: Jacuzzi J-495

This hot tub is known as the “designer spacious entertainer” and for good reason. This top of the line model sports 62 jets, heats to a 104 degrees Fahrenheit, and holds 8-9 adults, which is great for all the friends you can invite over. This jacuzzi has 9 different types of jets, but what else would you expect from the brand that started a movement? Priced at over $12,000, this is definitely an investment so check with your local real estate agent about your neighborhood property value. In many cases, a hot tub will increase your property value.

So, whether you have an unlimited budget or the idea of a hot tub is a splurge in and of itself, this list has something for everyone. If you’re interested in getting a more permanent version, then call us at TalkLocal.

Tags: bubble bath, bubble bath day, hot tub, Jacuzzi
Posted in Holiday, Plumbers, Uncategorized | No Comments »

Get Your Couch Ready For Cuddle Up Day

Wednesday, January 6th, 2016

It’s finally getting cold outside, which means it’s optimal weather for Cuddle Up Day. Winter is the best time of year to snuggle up to your significant other, pet, pillow or, if all else fails, a bottle of wine. Cuddling is an excellent way to show someone or something just how much you care. Whether you’re all cuddled up on the couch or the recliner, make sure your furniture is in pristine cuddle condition. Nothing’s fun about uncomfortable cuddling! So if you find yourself in the unfortunate position of having to cuddle on a cracked leather couch, these DIY leather repairs will ensure that your favorite cuddle space is in tip top shape for Cuddle Up Day!

The Cat Scratch

So, your cat has decided that if you will not cuddle with them, then you will not cuddle at all. To treat the cat-scratch affected area, simply use hair trimmers or scissors and sandpaper to remove the peeling leather, leaving a smooth surface. Then, rub a leather cleaner on the surface to blend things in. Be sure to test on a small area first! It won’t look perfect, but it’ll look a lot better than it did originally. Check out this video for a step by step tutorial.

The Worn and Torn

This one’s been with you from the beginning, and you just can’t give it up. It was there for you before just about every major life event you’ve had since birth. IT SHOWS. If this leather couch has some serious rips and cracks, then it’s best to just order a leather repair kit, such as this one.

The Belly Up Bicast

So, your leather couch is a little threadbare. It’s seen better days, but you’re still not ready to part with it just yet. In order to save your couch and keep it intact for a little longer, purchase some Leather Studio paint and get to work. Remove any excess leather sticking up. Next, apply as many coats as necessary, usually 3-5, to the worn area. Allow each coat to dry before applying another. That’s it! You’re finished! This quick fix works best on small areas.

But if you find that your couch is in need of more TLC, give TalkLocal a call and we’ll connect you with an upholstery specialist near you. Now, go cuddle up!

P.S. this also works great for the impromptu cuddle sessions in the car.

Tags: cracked leather, cuddle up day, leather repair
Posted in Furniture Upholstery, Holiday | No Comments »

Kwanzaa Gift Guide

Monday, December 21st, 2015

Happy Kwanzaa everyone! Kwanzaa is the time of year when we gather around family and friends and celebrate African-American culture. It’s a time to reflect over the past and look forward to the future. In the spirit of Kwanzaa and what it stands for, it is customary to exchange gifts on the final night of the week long holiday. Kwanzaa encourages homemade gifts. It’s hard enough trying to buy the right gift, let alone making one. Don’t fret, we’ve handcrafted the perfect Kwanzaa gift guide for you!

Musical drums/rain maker

This gift is perfect for the little musician in your life. Children will enjoy making music with their new instruments, and the more children at your celebration the better. Celebrate the spirit of kuumba (creativity) and ask them to perform as a band for the karamu (feast).

Homemade bath salts/scrubs

Bath salts and scrubs are the perfect gifts for activists, workaholics, and anyone who is striving to define themselves through the essence of kujichagulia (self-determination). After a long, exhausting day, they’ll be so grateful to just sit, soak, and scrub away the day’s stresses.

Fabric clock

Make your loved one a fabric clock so they’ll always be on time. Show your commitment to ujamaa (cooperative economics) by taking it a step further and supporting a black-owned business that sells African print fabrics. *Use the leftover fabric to make hand warmers

“Open when…” cards

The “Open when…” cards are a sweet, sentimental gift for anyone. They’re little cards that you make for people to open when [insert feeling]. Here are some possible topics. When their imani (faith) starts to fade, these cards will help.

Nuts and bolts chess set

This chess set is perfect for the (aspiring) intellectual in your crew! Ujima (collective work/ responsibility) is a necessary part in educating our children. Teach them (or let them teach you) with this chess set.

Picture frame tray

A picture frame tray is a wonderful present for anyone. It sends the message of umoja (unity). Fill the tray with pictures of family, friends, and community; it’ll remind the recipient about the importance of umoja.

Terrarium Necklace

This necklace is great symbol for nia (purpose). Like the constantly developing plant, we must also strive to develop our communities to be great. If a live plant doesn’t seem practical, then check out this one made with faux greenery.

For more information about Kwanzaa, check out its official website here. And remember, if you need something taken care of around the home so you can enjoy the time with your family, give TalkLocal a ring.

Tags: holiday, kwanzaa
Posted in Holiday | No Comments »

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