1. 7 THINGS: LIVE A BETTER LIFE AT HOME Prepared by Arman E. Manlalangit (aemanlalangit@yahoo.com)

2. Living the good life isn’t always buying the most expensive furniture, eating exotic food, or jet setting around the world. In many ways, the good life starts at home. Here’s how you can upgrade your lifestyle in a sustainable, economics ways:

3. BE PREPARED Peace of mind is hard to come by, but you should always feel safe at home. Have a toolbox handy, already filled with tools that you know how to use and have used before. Keep an emergency kit in a dry , accessible place. Those fridge magnets are useful for posting emergency telephone numbers where your kids can see them. Schedule regular check-ups for electrical outlets, pipes and stoves. 1

4. DON’T BE A NEAT FREAK While , a certain level of orderliness is important, cleaning up after everyone will eventually drive your housemates crazy. The solution? Always have thrash cans in strategic locations (where people tend to get lazy) such as by the couch that fronts the TV, by the kitchen counter, and in the garage. Letting others learn how to clean up after themselves. 2

5. SURROUND THE AREA WITH PRETTY Who cares if it doesn’t match the rest of your home? If something inspires you, like a piece of furniture, artworks, or centerpiece, showcase it in your living room. Decorate with fresh flowers, or even aromatic fruits like oranges and apples to uplift your spirit. 3

6. PRACTICE THE PRINCIPLE OF LESS IS MORE Whether you are shopping for home décor or downsizing the contents of your overflowing closet, always remember that less is more. Stock up on classic pieces –your definition of classic – and know your style. This will take guesswork out of designing your space or dressing up everyday. 4

7. DON’T LIVE IN FEAR It can’t hurt to be mindful of myths and old wives tales, but don’t let them cramp your style. So go ahead, chop away on a wooden board, pour orange juice in a ceramic pitcher, use regular soap instead of antibacterial –get your facts straight and you’ll never have to live in fear again. 5

8. INDULGE A LITTLE Take longer baths, read a book while sipping hot chocolate, play in the rain ( in the privacy of your backyard, of course), try every cliched simple indulgence you can think of, at least once. 6

9. STOCK UP ON HEALTHY STUFF Be conscious of what you buy so that you don’t end up with nothing but junk food to snack on at home. Make a commitment to cook healthy and start by stocking up on healthy, easy recipes that you can whip up on weekends with your family. Invite your friends over for dinner and make healthy eating a social event that everyone can look forward to. 7