Home Maintenance • July 1, 2022

July Home Maintenance Checklist

by Ellen Kirchdoerfer

The July Home Maintenance Checklist is a little shorter as we start dealing with the heat of summer. Check off these items quickly and head for the lake!

July Home Maintenance Checklist

Let’s get started on this month’s checklist…

Check Furnace Filters / Change If Needed
Test Carbon Monoxide & Smoke Detectors
Run Water & flush Toilets in Unused Spaces
Check Water Softener & Add Salt
Vacuum Refrigerator Coils
Clean Garbage Disposal
Treat Septic Tank
Clean Range Hood & Filter

This month we are looking at some of the unused areas of your home. It is not unusual to have a basement bathroom or sink that does not see much activity. Set aside some time this month to check these unused areas by flushing the toilet and running water to make sure leaks haven’t developed.

While thinking about water, check the water softener for salt. Avoid those hard water stains in and on appliances by maintaining an adequate level of salt in the softener. For more tips to keep your water softener running at its best, check out these Water Softener Maintenance: 7 Tips on How to Prolong Your Water Softener’s Life.

Just in case you missed June, you can find it here.

So there you have it, Cape County! A few tasks to keep your home running smoothly all year long.

Lifestyle • Outdoors • June 21, 2022

Indoor Activities Around Cape County

by Ellen Kirchdoerfer

There are many reasons to stay indoors from time to time. Rainy weather, too cold outside, too hot outside…the list goes on and on. When this is the case, here are some indoor activities around Cape County to enjoy the day.

Indoor Activities Around Cape County

Learning Activities

Cape Girardeau Conservation Center is located in Cape Girardeau North County Park. This is a great place to learn more about the history of Southeast Missouri, learn with hands-on exhibits, and enjoy the aquariums. There are also several outdoor trails to explore or fishing holes on the grounds to enjoy if you are able to get outdoors for a little while. For more information about Cape Girardeau Conservation Center, click here.
Discovery Playhouse has many exhibits for children of all ages to explore and enjoy. Discovery Playhouse is easy to find in Downtown Cape Girardeau. Several area businesses have created working exhibits for children to have fun and learn in a safe environment. Some activities include a water garden, grocery store, fire truck, art studio, bank, and so much more. Discovery Playhouse is a fun way for children to spend time indoors. Click here for more information.

Burn Off Energy

Ultimate Air Trampoline Park located in Cape Girardeau is the perfect place to burn energy indoors. All ages can enjoy this indoor trampoline park. Check out specials they are offering on the website at https://ultimateaircape.com/.
Willow Grove Skating Rink is located in Chaffee, MO. Enjoy hours of fun on skates by joining in the games or free-skate time with your friends. For more information, check out their Facebook page here.

Visit a Museum

There are several types of museums located in and around Cape County. Spend some time indoors learning about Southeast Missouri history and culture at any of these local museums:

Crisp Museum is located on the campus of Southeast Missouri State University. The Crisp Museum features art exhibits from talented local artists. Learn more here.
The Glenn House. Go back in time when exploring this Cape Girardeau historic home. There are many ways to enjoy this site. Click here to find out more.
Cape River Heritage Museum. Learn more about the heritage of our area by visiting the exhibits located in the historical building. Click here for more information.
The National Stars & Stripes Museum is located in Bloomfield, Missouri. Here you will find over 7,000 square feet of exhibits and kids programs. Plan your visit by visiting their website.
American Tractor Museum. Southeast Missouri has a deep agricultural background. This museum is a collection of equipment that makes up much of that history. Click here to learn more about this unique museum exhibit.

Other Activities

Still looking for ideas for indoor activities around Cape County? Consider a movie at Marcus Theaters. Test your luck at Century Casino. See what’s happening at the ShowMe Center. So many things to do around Cape County even if the weather is less than desirable outside.

Still not sure how to spend the day? Another option is to knock out a couple of maintenance chores around the house. Don’t forget to involve the kids. It’s never too early to start learning the importance of home maintenance. For some ideas to keep your home functioning at its best, visit our Home Maintenance Checklist blog.

Home Maintenance • May 27, 2022

June Home Maintenance Checklist

by Ellen Kirchdoerfer

Welcome Summer! Summertime brings a lot more outdoor time and vacations. I want to get through the June Home Maintenance Checklist as quickly as possible to enjoy some time off.

June Home Maintenance Checklist

Let’s get started on this month’s checklist…

Check Furnace Filters / Change If Needed
Remove Lint From Dryer Exhaust
Check Washing Machine Hoses
Power Wash Decks/Patios/Driveways
Power Wash Exterior as needed
Deep Clean Garage
Inspect For Plumbing Leaks
Check Dishwasher Hoses
Clean Garbage Disposal
Treat Septic Tank
Clean Range Hood & Filter

In June, we are starting spring cleaning by power washing around the home to get ready to invite friends and family over for a barbeque. A friend shared with me the perfect exterior house wash recipe which is included here. This wash is very effective at removing the grime and mildew with minimal effort. If you are not a DIYer, we have several house wash companies in the area to choose from.

Don’t forget to clean the dryer exhaust. Lint builds up in the exhaust which can become a real fire hazard. Take the time to give yourself peace of mind knowing that is one less hazard to think about. These helpful instructions will make this task easier.

Just in case you missed May, you can find it here.

So there you have it, Cape County! A few May tasks to keep your home running smoothly all year long.

Events • Outdoors • May 27, 2022

Memorial Day Weekend Around Cape County

by Ellen Kirchdoerfer

Hey there, Cape County! Join me this weekend as we honor all those who gave their all for the freedom of our country this Memorial Day Weekend around Cape County.

Forever Grateful! 🙏

Have some extra time on your hands over the long holiday weekend? Here are some events you may want to consider:

Memorial Day Weekend Around Cape County

Memorial Day Weekend at Fort D Historic Site

Join local re-enactors as they honor veterans from the past and present. Activities start Saturday, May 28th, and run through Monday, May 30th, 9:00 am to 3:00 pm each day. Tour the renovated fort and learn from the re-enactors as they recreate history at this historic site. For more information, click here.

Avenue of Flags

Twenty-five flags will be added to the Avenue of Flags this weekend. Visit Cape County Park North in Cape Girardeau between 8:00 am Monday and 6:00 pm Tuesday to witness this beautiful display.

The Murph

Compete in The Murph at Healthpoint Fitness in Jackson on Monday. Complete a 1-mile run, 100 pull-ups, 200 push-ups, and 300 air squats followed by another 1-mile run. The Murph is in honor of Navy Lt. Michael Murphy who died in Afghanistan in 2005. Get more information here.

Veterans Park, Sikeston

Retired U.S. Air Force Maj. Gen. Cassie Strom will be speaking at Veterans Park in Sikeston on Monday beginning at 10:30 am.

Missouri’s National Veterans Memorial, Perryville

Monday at 2:00 pm, the Honor Guard will honor veterans who gave their all by presenting the colors and laying a wreath at the memorial. Click here.

Do you have more ideas on how to pay respect this Memorial Day Weekend around Cape County? Drop a comment below.

Looking for a treat following the ceremonies? Visit My Daddy’s Cheesecake for a wide variety of options. Click here for more information.

Home Maintenance • May 2, 2022

May Home Maintenance Checklist

by Ellen Kirchdoerfer

I get excited each year as the flowers start blooming outside. The May Home Maintenance Checklist moves outdoors to start preparing the yard for summer while enjoying the May flowers.

May Home Maintenance Checklist

Let’s get started on this month’s checklist…

Check Furnace Filters / Change If Needed
Test Carbon Monoxide / Smoke Detectors
Test Garage Door Auto-Reverse
Pump & Inspect Septic Tank (every 3-5 years)
Oil Garage Door Tracks
Trim Trees, Bushes & Shrubs
Fertilize Lawn & Treat Weeds
Mulch Around Trees
Clean Garbage Disposal
Treat Septic Tank
Clean Range Hood & Filter

Early May is a good time to focus on a little annual yard work. Trimming trees, bushes and shrubs will prepare them for the summer growing season. While trimming the trees, add a little mulch to help the soil accumulate more nutrients allowing the tree to grow faster. Mulch also helps the overall aesthetics and makes the grass a little easier to mow. Too much mulch can harm the tree so limit it to 2-3 inches.

Once the May Home Checklist is complete, here are a few more things to consider doing around the house so you can enjoy your summer outdoors. Bob Villa’s “Must Do” Projects for May. Click here.

Just in case you missed April, you can find it here.

So there you have it, Cape County! A few May tasks to keep your home running smoothly all year long.

Home Maintenance • April 1, 2022

April Home Maintenance Checklist

by Ellen Kirchdoerfer

Hello April! The April Home Maintenance Checklist covers some of the areas to keep an eye on as the spring showers start falling and little critters start crawling.

April Home Maintenance Checklist

Let’s get started on this month’s checklist…

Check Furnace Filters / Change If Needed
Clean Range Hood & Filter
Run Water & Flush Toilets in Unused Spaces
Check Toilet Shut-off Values
Check Water Softener & Add Salt
Remove Dead Landscaping Plants & Leaves
Clean Garbage Disposal
Treat Septic Tank
Clean Windows & Screens
Check for Signs of Ants and Other Insects
Clean Gutters & Downspouts

It’s that time of year! The little creatures start crawling. Call your pest control provider to check for signs of ants and other insects. While they are inspecting around your home, they will spray to create a barrier between indoors and outdoors to stop the insects from coming in. No one wants to see insects inside!

Spring showers are more frequent in April. Keep the rain draining away from your home by cleaning the gutters and downspouts if needed. A gutter full of leaves and debris can cause the gutter to overflow allowing water to puddle near the foundation. That water can seep through the walls if it sits there too long. Keep the inside dry by draining the water away. Here are some ways to clean your gutters including some tips that do not include crawling up ladders. Click here.

Just in case you missed March, you can find it here.

So there you have it, Cape County! A few April tasks to keep your home running smoothly all year long.

Home Maintenance • March 1, 2022

March Home Maintenance Checklist

by Ellen Kirchdoerfer

Spring is here! I love Spring as the trees start to bud and the grass is turning green again. Everything is coming to life! The March Home Maintenance Checklist will get your home ready for the change in seasons.

It’s time to move outdoors to enjoy the spring weather!

March Home Maintenance Checklist

Let’s get started on this month’s checklist…

Check Furnace Filters / Change If Needed
Test Carbon Monoxide / Smoke Detectors
Clean Range Hood & Filter
Clean Garbage Disposal
Inspect Roofing for Damage
Service A/C Unit
Flush Hot Water Heater
Treat Septic Tank
Spring Deep Clean Living Area

As the seasons change, it’s the perfect time to have your HVAC provider service the air conditioning unit. No one wants to have their air conditioner stop working in the heat of summer! A regular service call as seasons change will keep your unit running as efficiently as possible. While the provider is there, ask them to change out the furnace filter also.

Flushing the hot water heater helps to drain the mineral sediments that can cause it to run less efficiently. Not sure how to do this? Here are some instructions to follow to keep your hot water heater performing its best. Click here.

Don’t forget to test the carbon monoxide / smoke detectors this month. Replace the batteries to ensure they are in good working order. An ounce of prevention can keep your family safe in the event there is an unfortunate emergency.

Just in case you missed February, you can find it here.

So there you have it, Cape County! A few March tasks to keep your home running smoothly all year long.

Restaurants • February 9, 2022

Best Pizza in Cape County

by Ellen Kirchdoerfer

Pizza is a great food choice for many occasions whether it is game day or a quick family gathering. We are fortunate to have several delicious choices for the best pizza in Cape County!

When our children were younger, we celebrated each Friday evening with Pizza Night. Our children always looked forward to this night as a time of good food, games, and tv. A chance to relax and enjoy being together without any outside stress. That is until one of the kids spilled marinara sauce across the family room carpet. Fortunately, it all cleaned up well and the pizza nights continued.

What is your favorite way to enjoy pizza with family and friends?

Best Pizza in Cape County

Everyone has their own favorite pizza restaurant. One with just the right seasoning, crust, or cheese. Here’s where you can find some of the best pizza in Cape County.

TJ’s Burgers, Wings & Pizza – The short drive to Fruitland is well worth the trip! TJ’s menu offers a variety of food options and pizza dishes you will love. There is a full menu of speciality pizzas to choose from, or build your own favorites.
Rosati’s – In Cape Girardeau’s Town Plaza, this is an easy location to get in and out to enjoy pizza, calzone and pasta. There is even a gluten-free crust option.
Pagliai’s Pizza & Pasta – Located near Southeast Missouri State University, Pagliai’s has been a crowd pleaser in Cape County for years. They have many tasty food combos to try and don’t forget to order Fitz’s soda to go with your favorite pizza.
Imo’s – Imo’s is another long time favorite in Cape County. Enjoy a pizza, sandwich or salad with family and friends. Their gooey Provel® cheese is a crowd pleaser!
Marco’s Pizza – A full variety of pizza flavors to try. Want to go crustless? Build your own pizza bowl and leave the crust behind.

Did we miss your favorite? Let us know where do you go for your favorite pizza in a comment below.

If you aren’t in the mood for pizza, that’s okay. Here are a few more dining options:

Selling A Home • February 8, 2022

Selling Your Home During The Winter Months

by Ellen Kirchdoerfer

Why should you consider selling your home during the winter months?

I understand your concern. It’s cold outside and we all want to stay inside. Because of that, buying or selling during the winter may be the last thing you want to think about.

Selling Your Home During The Winter Months

Here are 5 reasons why you should consider selling your home during the winter months:

Inventory Is Low. Most sellers will wait until spring when the weather is nicer to list their homes. That means there are fewer homes on the market during the winter months. With fewer homes on the market, your home can receive more attention and possibly sell quicker than waiting for spring.
Show Off Your Home’s Winter Features. Do you have a fireplace or hot tub you enjoy using during the winter? Maybe your home has a mud room which is the perfect place to shed those winter coats. Selling your home during the winter months gives you the opportunity to highlight these winter features.
Real Estate Agents Are More Available. Since there are fewer homes on the market and fewer buyers looking for homes during the winter months, real estate agents have more time to dedicate to showing your home.
Home Sells Close Quicker. Once again, there are normally fewer transactions going on during the winter months. This means that lenders, title companies, appraisers, and all the other vendors involved in a home transaction are more likely to be available to take care of you.
Winter Offers Serious Buyers. Not everyone that looks at your home will be serious buyers. In the Spring, we are all looking for something to do and a chance to get outdoors. That’s not the case during the colder winter months. People that are willing to get out during the winter months are more likely to be serious buyers.

So there you have it. My 5 reasons why you should consider selling your home during the winter months.

Are you thinking about a move? Get started by getting an instant home valuation below.

Are you ready to sell your home? Maximize your selling price with low-cost updates. Learn more here.

Home Maintenance • February 1, 2022

February Home Maintenance Checklist

by Ellen Kirchdoerfer

Spring is just around the corner! By the time February rolls around, I’m ready for spring which starts March 1 on my calendar. The February Home Maintenance Checklist is a short one that leaves time to enjoy the late-season snowfalls.

Complete a couple of tasks each week or finish the entire list at once. It’s up to you. Either way, there will be plenty of time to enjoy family time and your favorite winter sport.

February Home Maintenance Checklist

Let’s get started on this month’s checklist…

Check Furnace Filters / Change If Needed
Check Caulking Around Showers & Bathtubs
Test Garage Door Auto-Reverse
Clean Range Hood & Filter
Clean Garbage Disposal
Treat Septic Tank
Clean & Vacuum Curtains

Checking the caulking around showers and bathtubs is a small task that could save many headaches in the future. A broken caulk line could result in a slow leak around the shower or tub. Those slow leaks can cause damage to the walls and floors around it or even damage to a ceiling below. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound in cure!

Just in case you missed January, you can find it here.

So there you have it, Cape County! A few February tasks to keep your home running smoothly all year long.