Check out our June newsletter!
www.HuskeysPaint.com | (828) 214-7100 | June 2025
Sylva, NC · Buncombe County, NC · Jackson County, NC · Swain County, NC · Haywood County, NC · Macon County, NC · Transylvania, NC
Planting the Seeds for a Better Life GARDENING FOR HEALTH AND HAPPINESS
My drive to get outside kicks into high gear this time of year, so I make as much time as possible for outdoor activities. Something about the longer days and abundant sunshine boosts my energy and makes me feel like a kid on summer break again. I enjoy many warm-weather activities, but if I had to pick one that always improves my mood, keeps me moving, and gives me a sense of accomplishment, it would be gardening. It provides real, measurable benefits that help us live longer, healthier lives. Here are just a few. Improves Your Physical Health You may not think of gardening as a workout, but there’s more activity involved than you’d expect. Digging, pruning, weeding, and hauling engage muscles and can help strengthen your heart. Gardening also requires you to bend, kneel, and reach, which keeps your arms and legs limber and helps improve flexibility. Gardening even has immune-boosting benefits. It might be surprising, but playing
in the dirt exposes us to beneficial bacteria that help strengthen our immune systems. Exposure to sunlight also naturally increases vitamin D levels, which provides immune system support. Vitamin D even reduces inflammation, a contributing factor in various chronic diseases. Enhances Your Mental Well-Being If you’re looking for a natural way to boost your mood, gardening could be the answer. The simple act of caring for plants and watching your hard work pay off is gratifying. Studies show that gardening increases levels of serotonin and dopamine, two neurotransmitters associated with happiness and reward. Moreover, being surrounded by plants and nature has been shown to reduce anxiety and depression. Promotes Social and Emotional Stability The benefits of gardening go beyond physical and mental health — it can also promote social and community bonds. Whether growing fresh vegetables at home with family, sharing tips with a neighbor, or tending to a bed in a community garden, gardening can be a collaborative project that strengthens connections with those around you. Many people also find joy and fulfillment in teaching others how to garden and appreciate the hard work of growing food. Along with social benefits, gardening provides a sense of purpose. Watching a plant grow from seed and harvesting vegetables you’ve nurtured for months is very satisfying. Many gardeners also say caring for plants helps them feel
more mindful and grounded in daily life. Gardening is a great reminder that growth in all things takes time. Sows the Seeds for a Longer Life It’s amazing how a seemingly simple activity can do so much for our health and happiness. If you’ve never been a gardener, I encourage you to try it to experience all these benefits yourself. Whether you have a sprawling backyard or a small balcony with just enough room for a few potted plants, it’s never too late to get your hands in the dirt and plant some seeds. There may even be a community garden in your area that can offer support and guidance to help you get started. A little fresh air, the satisfaction of nurturing something, and the joy of seeing your hard work bloom before your eyes are all simple pleasures that add years to your life and life to your years.
— Trent Huskey
(828) 214-7100
www.HuskeysPaint.com
• 1
Backyard Projects to Spark Young Imagination Playtime Gets a Boost
Are you ready to turn your backyard into
Ages 3–5 Toddlers ages 3–5 start using their imaginations to create, build, and pretend. You can inspire their inner architect, chef, survivalist, or artist by creating outdoor spaces that encourage their creativity to shine. Give them opportunities to draw or paint by making a chalk art wall where they can use washable chalk to doodle on a special spot in the sunshine. A playhouse or homemade fort allows them to create their own little world. You could set up a tent or build an outdoor fort from PVC pipe and canvas, or you can leave the construction work up to them by setting out oversized foam building blocks they can use to create their own play structure. Ages 6–12 By the time kids reach 6, they’re starting to step into who they are and developing better coordination. This is a time for them to keep building their problem-solving skills, teamwork, and understanding of structured games. A backyard playset with swings, tunnels, and slides will help them burn off energy and keep them physically active. If you have a sturdy tree in your yard, a treehouse is a special place for them to experience nature and a little independence. If you want something less permanent, create a sports “field” with temporary grass, chalk, paint, and cones.
the ultimate adventure zone for your little ones? Whether your kids are budding explorers, curious scientists, or future Olympians, a backyard project awaits to transform their playtime into a new level of fun. From toddler-size treasures to preteen- approved hangouts, we’ve got you covered with ideas for every age group that will let their imaginations thrive. Ages 0–2 For children 2 and under, the world is brand-new, and they are learning about everything. As you design a backyard play zone for them, focus on engaging their developing senses with sights, sounds, and textures. DIY sandboxes or water tables allow them to practice hand-eye coordination and expose them to the feel of water or sand. Both can be built inexpensively and are safe tools for them to explore their motor skills by digging, scooping, or splashing. A LITTLE BALCONY GOES A LONG WAY Big Ideas for Small Outdoor Spaces Your tiny terrace or pint-size patio doesn’t have to be small in style if you follow the rule of three to make a significant impact with smart seating, lush greenery, and mood-setting lighting. Turn your outdoor space into balcony bliss with cozy furniture
like an armchair or nesting seats to save space. Choose furniture that complements your lifestyle, like an outdoor workstation for the remote worker or a table and chairs for the coffee lover. Add life to your balcony with potted plants, mini vegetable gardens, and climber plants like dramatic ivy to green your valuable vertical space.
Colorful planter boxes with vibrant flowers can elevate your lofty curb appeal. Create a warm glow with candles, lanterns, or twinkling LED lights. Don’t forget personal touches, like a bright rug or quirky statue, because even the tiniest balcony should feel like a grand getaway.
2 •
www.HuskeysPaint.com
(828) 214-7100
Summer is in full bloom, and so are this year’s biggest gardening trends! Whether you’re a natural green thumb or just trying to keep a cactus alive, the hottest landscaping fads are here to help you grow your garden game to new heights. From living fences to bold colors and textures, we’ve got the dirt on what’s blossoming in popularity this season. Ready to branch out and dig into the latest gardening trends? Let’s get growing! Living Fences Do you want to add privacy to your space without sacrificing style or the environment? Living fences made of decorative hedges give your home a cozy cottage feel — private but attractive. Plants are an excellent way to enclose your space, beautify your yard, and support local wildlife while creating your oasis. Unlike solid walls, eye-catching hedges don’t stop the eye or disrupt the overall aesthetic of your outdoor space. Nostalgia Gardening Travel back to a more sentimental time with nostalgia gardening. This style is about honoring the past and capturing the gardens’ smells, sights, and feels from our childhood memories. Fill the space with fragrant, familiar flowers like the roses grandma always grew or lilacs that remind you of peaceful afternoons. Cozy touches like stepping stones and wooden benches can give your yard a feeling of timeless comfort, inviting you to slow down and appreciate the little things. It’s about designing a space that feels like a warm hug from the past, where every bloom tells a story, and every corner holds a special place in your heart. Bold Colors and Textures Dare to go big and bright this year with plants that feature bold colors and unique textures or shapes. Look for non-conventional local plants to blend different leaf shapes and sizes to create a dynamic landscape. Don’t be afraid to highlight flowers in big bursts of reds, purples, and blues to bring a buzz of energy to your home. If you have wanted to experiment with strange plants or unusual varieties, now is the perfect time to let your imagination blossom. Think spiky succulents, tropical foliage, or unexpected patterns to make your yard a masterpiece. Get Your Garden Blooming! Check Out These Bold Trends
Adventure Barefoot Father Gemini
Hiking Juneteenth Park Picnic
Pride Sandals Sunburn Volunteer
Teriyaki Beef Skewers
INGREDIENTS
Inspired by AllRecipes.com
• • • • • •
1 1/2 cups light brown sugar
1 cup soy sauce
1/2 cup pineapple juice (optional)
1/2 cup water
1/4 cup vegetable oil
3 large garlic cloves, chopped
• 4 lbs boneless round steak, cut into 1/4-inch-thick slices • Bamboo skewers soaked in water
DIRECTIONS
1. In a large bowl, whisk brown sugar, soy sauce, pineapple juice, water, vegetable oil, and garlic together. Drop beef slices into the mixture and stir to coat. 2. Cover bowl with plastic wrap and marinate in a refrigerator for 24 hours. 3. Remove beef from marinade, shaking to remove excess liquid. 4. Thread beef slices on skewers in a zig-zag pattern. 5. Preheat grill to medium heat and lightly oil the grate. 6. Cook beef skewers for about 3 minutes per side until the meat is cooked through.
(828) 214-7100
www.HuskeysPaint.com
• 3
PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID BOISE, ID PERMIT 411
P.O. Box 261, Whittier, NC 28789
Clean - Courteous Painters - You Can Trust!
INSIDE THIS EDITION
Dig Into Gardening’s Surprising Benefits
p.1
Transform Your Yard Into a Play Paradise The Rule of 3 for Perfect Patios The Hottest Landscaping Fads This Season Teriyaki Beef Skewers
p.2
p.3
Family-Friendly Tips for Theme Park Success
p.4
A FAMILY GUIDE TO THEME PARK FUN THRIVE IN THE THRILLS
Going to a theme park is one of the most memorable ways to spend a family vacation. Theme parks are full of excitement, but they can also be overwhelming — especially with young kids in tow. The right game plan can turn a day of long lines and potential meltdowns into a fun, memorable adventure. Plan smart, play hard. Rather than simply packing up and heading to the park, take some time to research and plan your trip. Look into show schedules and ride restrictions, such as height limits, ahead of time so you can plan your day. Many parks also have mobile apps to track wait times and order food. Visit the most popular attractions early before the crowds swell. Visiting on weekdays or during off-peak seasons also helps avoid long lines to maximize your family’s fun. Remember snacks, drinks, and sun protection. Theme park restaurants can be expensive and busy. If you plan to dine in the park, make reservations to avoid wasting precious time in long lines. If allowed, pack your own lunch to save time and money. It’s also wise to carry reusable water bottles to keep the family hydrated without breaking the bank on expensive bottled water.
If visiting a park during summer, don’t forget the sun protection. Sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, and breathable clothing are a must when walking all day in the heat. Taking a few minutes for a midday break in a shaded area or at an indoor show will help the family recharge for the rest of the visit. Keep expectations flexible and fun. Even with careful planning, things won’t always work out like you hope —
expect ride closures, long lines, and cranky kids. Creating a list of backup attractions or activities can help you easily pivot if Plan A doesn’t work out. And don’t try to see everything in one visit. Trying to hit every ride can backfire and make the trip miserable. Often, the best memories happen in unexpected moments. A little structure mixed with flexibility can lead to a lot of fun and ensure your family’s theme park adventure is about making memories rather than managing stress.
4 •
www.HuskeysPaint.com
(828) 214-7100
Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4Made with FlippingBook Ebook Creator