As much fun as the summer can be, we all know that there are many of us out there who long for fall instead. The sunny weather is great, but the punishing heat wears out its welcome quickly. For many of us, that welcome is worn out before July 1st! Now that fall is just on the horizon, it’s time to start planning on some fun fall-only activities to enjoy on your own, or with friends and family. In today’s article, we’re going to do just that. We will showcase some fun fall activities that you can use to help fill in the gaps in your fall schedule. Let us know if we missed any of your favorites!

Visit A Local Play Farm

Idaho is lucky in many ways, the best of which is that we have so much rich farmland and lots of amazing farm families in and around our community. There are tons of great touring farms in and around Boise that you can enjoy this fall. The most well known and amenity rich being Lowe Family Farmstead in Kuna. We recommend checking out the corn maze, pumpkin patch (buy some while you’re there!), the gemstone mining, apple blasters, and so much more! They have lots of other things to do and enjoy for kids of all ages. 

Explore The Farmer’s Market

Speaking of farms, The Boise Farmers Market is always a great place to visit, but in the fall, they have the very best fall and winter exclusives like apples, pumpkins, squash, and so much more. It’s a great way to support local businesses and family farms in and around Idaho. This is a great family friendly activity that the whole family can enjoy. Let the kids pick out some new and exciting things to try and maybe try to craft a meal together using only ingredients from the market. 

Apple Picking

If you’d rather skip the market and go directly to the farm for your produce, then this is the activity for you! Apple picking is a great family friendly activity that will get everyone involved. Candy Apple Orchard, Tyler's Rocky Point Orchard, and Williams Fruit Ranch, are all great places to try.  

See Boise Through A Bike Tour

The fall is a great time to take a leisurely tour by bike through the city. With the temperature outside getting colder, you can bike for a long time without fear of overheating. Now, there are some more 21+ bike tours around Boise that are definitely fun, like Pedals And Pints, we’re talking about an all-ages type of bike tour that includes a nice historical lecture as you go so that you can learn more about this great city and its history. For that, try Boise Bicycle Tours.

Conclusion

We hope that this article about fall festivals and family friendly activities was useful to you. If you want to make a purchase, schedule one of our window covering experts for a FREE estimate and more information by calling the office at 208-888-1056. If you have any questions about purchasing some awesome exterior solar shades or commercial blind or window covering work, or any other window covering related issue, we would love to hear from you. Contact us today to get started.

When it's time to get the kids back to school each year, you know your life is going to get a little bit busier. And, you can't spell “busy” without the word “bus.” Which is exactly what we’re going to be talking about in today’s article: bus safety and etiquette for parents and kids. Let us know in the comments or on social media if you have some additional tips or ideas for bus safety! 

As A Driver

During the school year, if you have to drive to work each morning, you will most likely encounter several school buses on their way to pick up kids for school. Here are a few safety tip reminders to help you and the people around you stay safe on the road.

• Do not pass a stopped bus with its stop sign extended, even if there is another lane of traffic
• Drive with caution when you are nearing a bus stop because kids may be rushing to catch a bus and may not see you or be paying attention to your car
• Watch for crosswalks during the school year
• Slow down and obey all speed laws in or around school zones
• Don’t follow a school bus too closely. They have limited visibility of cars that are directly behind them
• Be prepared to stop at all railroad crossings if you are behind a bus

Waiting For The Bus To Arrive

If you drop your kids off or wait with them at the bus stop, then here are some safety tips for you.

• Make sure your kids stay at least three big steps back from the curb at all times, until the bus comes
• Dress your kids in high visibility shoes, or backpack tape, or clothing in general to help them stay visible along roads and as they get to and from the bus stop
• Kids must avoid roughhousing or playing with balls or throwing objects like frisbees at the bus stop
• Don’t approach the bus until it has fully stopped and traffic around the bus has stopped. The bus driver will usually open the door and motion to the children when it is safe to board 
• Tell your children not to talk to strangers who approach the bus stop or accept rides from anyone who isn’t their regularly scheduled bus and driver
• Make sure your kids’ shoes are snuggly tied and their backpacks are closed and secured to help prevent your child from tripping over their laces and dropping something from their backpack and running back in the road to go retrieve it

Conclusion

We hope that this article about bus stop safety and education was useful to you. If you want to make a purchase, schedule one of our window covering experts for a FREE estimate and more information by calling the office at 208-888-1056. If you have any questions about purchasing some awesome exterior solar shades or commercial blind or window covering work, or any other window covering related issue, we would love to hear from you. Contact us today to get started.

While the heat waves of summer rage on, staying cool in your home becomes a part time or even a full time job! Yes, you may have air conditioning, but that only goes so far. It is but one aspect of the extensive array of things that you must have in place in order to actually compete with the heat. In today's article, we're going to cover some ways in which you can use some of our fantastic window covering products like shades and blinds and curtains to help ensure that your home stays cool and looks “cool” at the same time. If you have some heat-beating ideas or solutions of your own, please don’t hesitate to share them in the comments or on our social media pages. We can’t wait to hear from you!

Help Your AC Work Better: Increase Energy Efficiency With Indoor Window Coverings

While your AC unit may be working at peak efficiency, it may still not be able to keep up with the relentless heat outdoors. Help your unit out by making the inside of your home naturally cooler with some energy efficient and money-saving blinds and shades. While your home’s walls provide a ton of protection and insulation from the outside elements, your home’s windows are a weak spot when it comes to protecting you from the heat. Using some of our excellent suite of window covering products can help you shore up the weak spot while also making your home look and feel more beautiful. 

Honeycomb Shades

• These shades are perfect for helping your home keep cool this summer because they provide an extra layer of insulation between your windows and the inside of your home. They trap the warm air in their pockets and keep it near the window instead of letting it circulate around the room.
• They also help to block sunlight, to a degree, from entering your home and warming up your carpet and furniture by exposure to direct sunlight

Roller Shades

• These shades are a perfect marriage between the aesthetics of a cozy set of blinds with the functionality of blackout curtains. They are made with hearty UV reflective materials that help to block harsh light, harmful UV rays, and other sources of the sun’s heat from entering your home. They can also be rigged to a motor for the ultimate home automation experience.

Exterior Shades, Umbrellas, And Pergolas 

There comes a point in every summer season when you just are a bit tired of being cooped up indoors during the heat. We understand! That is why we offer a stunning array of outdoor exterior shades, umbrellas, and other products that can help you turn your back porch into a virtual extra living room. Check out our full selection here to see what configuration is right for your home and budget.

Conclusion

We hope that this article about the ways in which our products can help you beat the heat was useful to you. If you want to make a purchase, schedule one of our window covering experts for a FREE estimate and more information by calling the office at 208-888-1056. If you have any questions about purchasing some awesome exterior solar shades or commercial blind or window covering work, or any other window covering related issue, we would love to hear from you. Contact us today to get started.

When you think of parents supporting your efforts, you typically think of them attending your basketball games or t-ball games as a kid, but you don’t usually think of them supporting you as you grow your business or further your career goals. The reality is that having supportive parents can help you in all aspects of your adult life from your career, to your relationships, to your overall health and wellness. In today’s blog, we’re going to explore some of the ways in which parents are the silent and not so slight supporters in our lives. Celebrate National Parent’s Day with us this July 28th as we honor and reflect upon all the great things that our parents have provided for us.

Build Your Confidence

As professionals and business owners, we all know that making the sale or making your voice heard in a crowded boardroom takes a certain amount of confidence. Some people come by that naturally while others need a little boost. That’s where parents come in. They can help to give you the encouragement and positive reinforcement that will help you feel secure and determined in your professional decisions. 

Provide A Sounding Board

Your parents know that you can get frustrated at times. While there is no single solution that will help you become unfrustrated right away, they can provide an ear to listen to and help you verbally work out your problems and frustrations. Sometimes, just being able to vent to a 3rd party who will provide a non-judgemental attitude is all the help you need to work through the toughest of situations.

Positive Reinforcement

Your parents can help you by celebrating your wins and your professional achievements no matter how big or small. This will help boost your overall confidence and morale. Jump for joy!

Help With Connections Or Other Resources

Parents are adults and professionals too! Often enough, they will have professional contacts and friends in the industry that they can leverage to help promote or strengthen your business. Go to them for their professional advice or business contacts from time to time. You may be surprised at who they know that could be a valuable asset to your career aspirations!

Passing Along Financial Wisdom

Our parents have definitely seen a thing or two when it comes to financial literacy. Even if they have never taken a formal class in it, they are probably very financially literate and wise. Let them pass that wisdom down to you so that you can get a head start in the world of finance and managing your money. Ask them if they have any budgeting tips, stock investment ideas, or even recommendations for a good local financial planner that can help tie everything together. 

Conclusion

We hope that this article about the amazing impact of our parents was useful to you. If you want to make a purchase, schedule one of our window covering experts for a FREE estimate and more information by calling the office at 208-888-1056. If you have any questions about purchasing some awesome exterior solar shades or commercial blind or window covering work, or any other window covering related issue, we would love to hear from you. Contact us today to get started.

According to Merriam-Webster's Dictionary, glamping is "outdoor camping with amenities and comforts (such as beds, electricity, and access to indoor plumbing) not usually used when camping." For those of us who don't like the idea of sleeping on hard, uneven ground, or finding a bathroom in the bushes, this is our idea of camping. The Treasure Valley (and all of Idaho) has some of the best outdoor views and adventures in the world. If you are wanting to experience all Idaho has to offer but camping doesn’t sound like much fun, give glamping a try!

Now that we sorta know what glamping is, here is what you need to prepare for “roughing it” in style, according to the noblecamper.com:

Blankets and Pillows: Cozy bedding is a must for those chilly nights under the stars.

Air Mattress: Say goodbye to thin sleeping pads and hello to plush air mattresses for a good night’s sleep.

String Lights: Add some ambiance to your glamping site with fairy lights.

Hammock: Lounge in style and enjoy the great outdoors.

Coffee Maker: Because no morning is complete without a cup of joe.

Camping Chairs: Relax by the fire or take in the view from a comfy chair.

Glamping Tent: Opt for a spacious, well-equipped tent that combines comfort and style.

Glamping is all about enjoying nature without sacrificing creature comforts! 

Now, where to glamp? Anywhere really but rumor has it that in Idaho, Ponderosa State Park is pretty ideal.

Popular among families due to its close proximity to the town of McCall (you can eat at any of the great restaurants or hit the grocery store in a matter of minutes) is Ponderosa State Park. Situated on a thousand-acre peninsula that extends into Payette Lake, the park boasts stunning mountain views. Here’s what you can expect:

There are 173 campsites, including full-hookup, electric, and companion sites. Some sites even have yurts. The park also has nine deluxe cabins (with lake views). 

Explore the park by hiking or biking; the trails are gorgeous! Enjoy some beach time and cool off in the chilly but beautiful lake.  Again, there is something for everyone, which makes this a very popular camping destination.

Nearby is Tamarack.  The ultimate kind of glamping may be not camping at all! Reserve a “cabin” in the area surrounding the central area (which has prime outdoor enthusiast shopping and great restaurants). Why did we put “cabin” in quotes? Because these cabins aren’t rustic, they are plush and most include hot tubs. 

So while you’re out and about this summer, don’t sweat the details. If you’re escaping a renovation, building your dream kitchen, let us give you your dream window treatments. If you are in the market for some new and updated window treatments, we are here to help. If you want to learn more, schedule one of our window covering experts for a FREE estimate and more information by calling the office at 208-888-1056. If you have any questions about purchasing some awesome exterior solar shades or commercial blind or window coverings, or any other window covering related issue, we would love to hear from you. Contact us today to get started.

With Father's Day just around the corner, it's time to consider how best to celebrate the dad-figures in your life. With so many wonderful things to do in the Treasure Valley it can be tough to pick which thing to do! Here at Blind Appeal, we've put on our thinking caps to help you with this brainstorming process, and we've come up with a few ideas. No matter how you decide to celebrate Father's Day this year we hope you have a wonderful time with the father, husband, or father figure in your life.

Backyard BBQ

We know, this sounds like a cliche idea, but here’s how you can spruce it up: buy dad a new hammock or other type of outdoor reclining chair.  If you can swing it, buy him a new grill, too!

Dig up his favorite barbeque recipes, and cook for him (unless he insists on being the grill master).  Fix his favorite sides, let him relax and enjoy a beer or two (or a lemonade, whatever is preferred). Take some burden off yourself and order his favorite dessert from a bakery a few days ahead of time, then relax with him once dinner is done and reminisce about your favorite fatherly memories. 

Plant Him a Garden

Construct or buy a garden box, and plant dad’s favorite veggies.  Does he have an affinity for certain peppers? What does he like most in his salad?  What herbs does he use to marinate with? Plan a trip to your local nursery and plant everything the evening before or morning of Father’s Day (when it’s cool so you and the plants don’t wilt).  If he’s the gardening type, include him in the activity, and if he is not, maybe plan to do upkeep as a summer-long Father’s Day gift. 

Let Him Take Off for the Afternoon

Sometimes parent figures find a gift in solitude, especially if they are still working the daily grind.  Does dad like to fish?  Give him a giftcard to his favorite sporting goods store a day or two before Father’s Day so he can pick out a new pole or other equipment and hit the river for the afternoon. Buy him a season-long membership to a golf club.  Find him a book by his favorite author and a giftcard to his favorite coffee shop.  

Sometimes a day away helps put wind back in the sails of any burnt-out adult. 

And -- while it is grilling season -- keep us in mind when you build or design your dream kitchen! If you are in the market for some new and updated window treatments, we are here to help. If you want to learn more, schedule one of our window covering experts for a FREE estimate and more information by calling the office at 208-888-1056. If you have any questions about purchasing some awesome exterior solar shades or commercial blind or window coverings, or any other window covering related issue, we would love to hear from you. Contact us today to get started. 

Whether you’re celebrating a new graduate or the commencement of summer, the Treasure Valley offers a lot of ways to bring loved ones together to have fun. We have compiled a few local spots for local and out-of-towner to try! If you would rather stay home and celebrate with a backyard BBQ consider updating your exterior shades or patio furniture from Blind Appeal. We have an incredible showroom for you to check out our 2024 collection. Stop by and see us anytime!

Staycation ideas to try out!

Idaho Botanical Gardens: one of Boise’s most gorgeous stops is its Botanical Gardens. The Gardens offer an impressive amount of landscapes and plants within a small amount of grounds.  The Gardens are also the home of Outlaw Field which brings in some of the most amazing musicians the music business has to offer. 

Basque Block: Per capita, Boise has the most people of Basque lineage, aside from Spain Basque country. This rich culture has given our city a richer culture with its art, food, dance and overall heritage.  With that, downtown Boise has the Basque Block with restaurants, historic boarding houses and a Basque Museum. Be transported into a fusion of cultures by visiting this wonderful corner of the City of Trees.

Birds of Prey: This site is also on the outskirts but in more  rugged terrain. With beautiful views and fierce birds, this non-profit is the headquarters for the Peregrine Fund and the home of various raptors. The Center offers a lot to learn along with stunning views-- overall, an amazing experience. 

Bear Valley Rafting: From the end of April through the beginning of September, Bear Valley Rafting has experienced guides who lead half-day and full-day adventures through the Main Payette, South Fork Payette and North Fork Payette. With stunning scenery and exhilarating rapids the Payette River is something to experience. Just about an hour outside of Boise Bear Valley Rafting is situated in sweet Banks, Idaho. If thrill is part of your bleisure, don’t miss this experience. 
 
Discovery Center of Idaho: The Discovery Center is a family-friendly option with rotating exhibitions, a Classics Collection, which showcases hands-on activities, and also offers classes and camps. Just on the edge of downtown, DCI is a local favorite, bringing science, technology, engineering, math and art together, creating a memorable experience for all ages.

Wahooz: Wahooz Family Fun Center is located in Meridian, Idaho just outside of Boise, along I-84.  Wahooz offers indoor and outdoor entertainment including bumper-cars, bumper boats, laser tag, miniature golf,  bowling, an arcade and more: year-round fun for all ages.

Top Golf: Also just off the interstate in Meridian, Idaho is Top Golf, a venue that keeps gold enthusiasts happy all year long, offering climate-controlled hitting bays, and even miniature golf for a more light-hearted putting experience. Top golf even has an in-house sports bar and restaurant for those who would like to take a break and take in sports of multiple types on their multiple televisions. 

Whatever your form of recreation, Boise and its surrounding areas have it all.  For more information, take a gander at visitboise.com, which provides more information about the City of Trees and its pleasant amenities. 

AND as you plan to have out of out of town company, not only out and about, but in your own home for the celebrations, consider contacting us so we can literally help you brighten up your house: If you want to learn more about all of the options we offer, schedule one of our window covering experts for a FREE estimate and more information by calling the office at 208-888-1056.

Motherhood can mean many things; in its essence it gives credence to those who gave birth to children, but it can extend beyond that, honoring those women who nurtured and raised us, whether they be a biological presence, extended family, adoptive mom, stepmom, or chosen mom.  In any case, Mother’s Day honors the women in our lives who cared for and nurtured us, taught us and sacrificed for us, and there are many ways to honor these worthy figures.

First things first: what does mom/your mom figure actually like? You may like the sports bar around the corner, or a day of golfing. And she might, too! But maybe-- maybe-- she prefers something more like brunch, or hiking, or even a day by herself. In any case, take a moment (or a few) to consider what best serves mom (or the mother of your children) and go in that direction.

While going out to eat is a classic choice, restaurants tend to get crowded. So if this is how you choose to celebrate, be sure to book reservations at mom’s favorite place days ahead!

There are, however, plenty of other delightful outdoor activities you can enjoy with Mom. 

Plan a simple picnic with homemade treats. Divvy up the responsibilities—someone can make potato salad, while another brings the main course, then find an open and empty park with tables or bring a blanket. Enjoy your meal surrounded by nature.

Here are other outdoor Mother’s Day activities, should weather permit.

• After the picnic, consider going on a hike or a leisurely walk to explore the outdoors.

Backyard Barbecue:

• Host a backyard barbecue right at home. It’s like a picnic, but with the convenience of staying in your own space.
• Set up a grill, prepare delicious food, and enjoy the fresh air. Plus, you’ll have access to facilities if needed.
• This option is perfect for homebodies who prefer a cozy outdoor experience.

Bring the Indoors Outside:

• If Mom enjoys reading, take her to a park where she can read under a tree.
• Experiment with an outdoor movie projector and screen to watch her favorite film under the stars.

Gardening Together:

• If your mom has a green thumb, help her start or cultivate a garden. It’s a rewarding and eco-friendly activity.
• Research the last average spring frost date in her area to avoid planting too early.
• Choose the right plants for her location and climate, and spend quality time nurturing the garden together.

Hiking or Camping:

• Explore the great outdoors with a scenic hike or a camping trip. Breathing fresh air and enjoying nature is invigorating.
• Pack essentials, choose a beautiful trail, and embark on an adventure together.
• If camping, set up a cozy campfire and share stories under the starry sky.

Visit the Idaho Botanical Gardens:

• Take Mom to our beautiful  local botanical garden, located off Warm Springs Avenue in Boise. May is a wonderful time to admire vibrant flowers, lush greenery, and serene landscapes.
• Capture the beauty with photos to remember the day.

Lastly, we want to recognize the single moms who may not be getting all the attention they deserve.  Props to them and their hard work. Single moms, you may have kids old enough to treat you to breakfast in bed, or a day out.  But if not, consider a gathering of other single mom friends. Treat yourselves well.  No matter what, honor yourself well and know that your work is honored.

In all, moms and mother-figures are special! Special shoutout to the wonderful moms at Blind Appeal. Thank you for all you do!

The snow on the mountains is melting, flowers are just starting to bloom, and the trees are beginning to fill with color; it is officially gardening season! Have you decided that this is the year that you finally see how green your thumb is? Seeing all the plants at the stores and you want to join in on the fun? Then you are ready to start a garden! This blog is focused on getting you started on the right foot so that your plants can take root. Good luck in the dirt this year! 

Start Small 

Begin with a few easy-to-grow plants to gain confidence and experience before expanding. Tomatoes and peppers are great for this and provide a crop that you are sure to enjoy. Short-growth span plants like radishes and lettuces grow quickly and will get you into the fun of gardening quickly.

Understand Your Garden

No two plots of land are the same. Familiarize yourself with the sunlight, soil type, and climate of your garden to make informed planting decisions. There are a ton of great apps you can use to calculate your sunlight so you know what to plant that will thrive the most.

Invest in Quality Tools 

Purchase essential gardening tools like a trowel, pruners, and gloves to make your gardening tasks easier. It really is a game-changer to have a good set of gardening gloves. We recommend scouring local thrift shops, you can usually find great gardening tools there for a fraction of the price! 

Water Wisely

Learn the water requirements of your plants and avoid overwatering or underwatering. Your soil type also influences how much water you will need. We recommend getting some good compost from your gardening store. Good compost will feed your soil and help retain water for hungry roots. 

Learn From Others 

Seek advice from experienced gardeners, join gardening communities, and read gardening books to enhance your knowledge. The gardening community is open and very supportive, from your nextdoor neighbor to an online expert, you are sure to find support and community when talking about plants, especially here in the Treasure Valley.

It is important to remember as you start your gardening journey that it is not just about the produce you produce. No matter how successful you are in your first year, your garden will only get better with time. Your soil will improve as well as your techniques and plant choices. The most important thing is that gardening is good for your soul! Gardening has been shown to lighten mood and lower levels of stress and anxiety. It's very gratifying to plant, tend, harvest and share your own food. Routines provide structure to our day and are linked to improved mental health. Gardening routines, like watering and weeding, can create a soothing rhythm to ease stress.

Remember, gardening is a rewarding journey that requires patience and practice. Enjoy the process and learn from both successes and failures! While you are outside gardening you may notice that your windows can use a little TLC as well. If you want to learn more about all of the options we offer, schedule one of our window covering experts for a FREE estimate and more information by calling the office at 208-888-1056.

April is Child Abuse Prevention Month in the United States. The purpose of Child Abuse Prevention Month is to raise awareness about child abuse, promote child safety, and provide resources for families and communities to prevent child abuse and neglect. During this month, various organizations, agencies, and individuals work together to educate the public about the signs of child abuse, how to report it, and ways to support children and families in need. 

Child Abuse Awareness involves informing individuals and communities about the different forms of child abuse, including physical, emotional, sexual, and neglect. It aims to educate people on how to recognize the signs of abuse, understand the impact it can have on children, and encourage reporting to prevent further harm. Here at Blind Appeal, we wanted to share information on this important cause.

Importance of Child Abuse Prevention and Awareness

Protecting Vulnerable Children: Child abuse prevention and awareness efforts are crucial in safeguarding children who may be experiencing abuse or neglect. By educating the public and raising awareness, more people can identify signs of abuse and take action to protect children.

Providing Support: These initiatives help to provide support to children who have experienced abuse, offering them resources, counseling, and services to help them heal and recover from trauma.

Empowering Communities: By promoting awareness and prevention, communities can come together to create a safe environment for children, support families in crisis, and work towards preventing future cases of child abuse.

Encouraging Reporting: Child Abuse Prevention Month encourages individuals to report suspected cases of child abuse to the appropriate authorities, ensuring that children receive the protection and support they need.

Education and Training: These campaigns provide valuable information and training on how to prevent child abuse, promote positive parenting practices, and create safe environments for children to thrive.

Policy and Legislation: Increased awareness can lead to changes in policies and laws that protect children and hold perpetrators of child abuse accountable.

Breaking the Cycle: By addressing the root causes of child abuse and neglect, we can help break the cycle of abuse and create a future where all children can grow up in a safe and nurturing environment.

It is a sobering reality that children and families in our Treasure Valley community are facing the horrors of child abuse. There are several different organizations within the state that work to address this troubling issue, providing many ways for community members to give and support the good work that they do. If you or someone you know needs help or more information about this issue we encourage them to reach out to an organization like the Idaho Network of Children’s Advocacy Centers. 

Child Abuse Prevention Month and ongoing awareness efforts play a crucial role in advocating for the well-being of children, promoting safe environments, and fostering a society where every child is valued, protected, and supported. We hope that this blog has raised your awareness about this issue and inspired you to share the information with those in your community.