It's a good idea to have someone visit your home while you're away on vacation, especially if your insurance policy requires it. Insurance companies may require home visits to reduce the risk of loss or damage, as someone checking on your home can help prevent potential hazards or deter burglars. Here are a few reasons why you should consider having someone visit your home for insurance purposes:

Maintaining Your Insurance Coverage: Some insurance policies require that someone visit your home periodically while you're away. Failure to comply with this requirement may result in your insurance policy being voided or your claims being denied.

Preventing Damage or Loss: Home visits can help identify potential hazards or issues that could lead to damage or loss, such as a water leak or a faulty electrical outlet. By catching these issues early, you can take steps to prevent or minimize damage.

Deter Burglars: Burglars are less likely to target a home if they know that someone is checking on it regularly. A home visit can give the appearance that someone is still living in the home, making it a less appealing target for burglars.

Peace of Mind: Knowing that someone is checking on your home can provide you with the peace of mind you need to enjoy your vacation. You won't have to worry about potential issues or damage to your home while you're away.

If you don't have a trusted friend or family member who can visit your home, you can hire a professional home-sitting service. These services can provide you with regular updates and can take care of tasks such as bringing in your mail or watering your plants.

So what have we learned today? Having someone visit your home while you're away can be beneficial for insurance purposes; if your insurance policy requires it, it's important to comply with this requirement to maintain your coverage. Even if it's not required, a home visit can give you peace of mind and help prevent potential hazards or damage to your home.

As one of the ultimate perks of this house sitting gig, I have the absolute pleasure of looking after a lot of cats.  I love them all, and have four of my own fur babies to take care of when I'm not out and about caring for others.  Without cats, my world would be a whole lot less interesting.  Here are six fun cat facts which only add to their general awesomeness.

1. First up, and as all cat owner's know, cats can rotate their ears 180 degrees, which allows them to pick up sounds from all directions (is that a can of tuna being opened, purr chance?). This is a unique characteristic of cats and helps them to locate the source of a sound quickly and effectively. The outer ear, or pinna, is connected to the head by a flexible muscle, which allows the cat to rotate the ear and focus on specific sounds. In our house, simply watching our cats' ears can be a source of entertainment for hours.
2. A cat can jump up to six times its own body length in a single leap. Humans can't. The muscles in their hind legs are larger in proportion to their body size compared to other animals, and they have a unique ankle joint that allows for greater flexibility and range of motion. This combination of strength and flexibility is a remarkable adaptation that has evolved over thousands of years. It is essential for their survival, both in the wild and in domestic environments, and it allows them to explore their surroundings, escape danger, and catch prey with ease.
3. Cats have a unique ability to drink liquids without getting their whiskers wet (unlike my Dad). When cats drink, they form a shape with their tongue that is similar to a scoop or a ladle. They then dip the tip of their tongue into the liquid, drawing it into their mouth. As they do this, they form a column of liquid that stays together and doesn't spread out, which helps to prevent their whiskers from getting wet. Additionally, cats also have a flexible jaw that allows them to adjust the position of their mouth as they drink. This helps to keep their whiskers at a safe distance from the liquid, reducing the chance of getting them wet. Dry, clean whiskers are essential for their health and well-being.
4. The average cat sleeps for 16 hours a day. Cats sleep for a variety of reasons, including to conserve energy, recover from physical exertion, and regulate their body temperature. Unlike humans, who typically sleep in one long stretch, cats sleep in multiple short bursts throughout the day and night. This pattern of sleep allows cats to remain alert and vigilant, even while resting. Additionally, sleep plays an important role in a cat's overall health and well-being, allowing them to stay healthy and energetic.
   
5. Cats have five toes on their front paws and four toes on their back paws. Unlike dogs, who have only four toes on their front paws, cats have a "thumb" on their front paws that is known as a dewclaw. This extra toe is not as well-developed as the other toes and is not used for walking, but it is still important for balance and hunting. Polydactyl cats, also known as "mitten cats," are cats that have more than the standard number of toes on their paws. These cats have anywhere from six to eight toes on each paw, with some having an extra toe or two on both their front and hind paws, which give the cats a wider stance and a stronger grip, which can make them better hunters or climbers. The polydactyl gene is a dominant gene, which means that if a cat has it, there is a good chance that its offspring will also be polydactyl. This gene has been present in cats for centuries, and polydactyl cats can be found all over the world. Some people believe that polydactyl cats are more intelligent or playful than other cats, although there is no scientific evidence to support this.
   
6. Cats have a third eyelid, also known as a nictitating membrane, that helps protect their eyes from dust and debris. When a cat is feeling relaxed or sleepy, the third eyelid is typically not visible. However, if a cat is feeling threatened or is experiencing eye discomfort, the third eyelid will quickly move across the eye to protect it. This rapid movement is controlled by a muscle located near the eye and can occur in a fraction of a second. The third eyelid is not just a protective mechanism, but it also serves to keep the eye moist and lubricated. The membrane contains a gland that produces a special type of tear that helps to protect and soothe the eye, and the membrane itself helps to distribute this tear evenly across the eye. In some cases, a cat's third eyelid may become visible even when the cat is not experiencing any stress or discomfort. This can be a sign of an underlying health problem, such as an eye infection or injury, and it is important to have the cat evaluated by a veterinarian if this occurs.

When it comes to house sitting, trust and communication are key to a successful relationship between homeowners and sitters. A house sitter is essentially a temporary caretaker of someone's home, and it's important for both parties to feel confident and comfortable with one another in order for the arrangement to work smoothly. In this blog post, I'll discuss the importance of trust and communication in house sitting relationships and offer some tips on how to foster these key elements.

Trust
Trust is essential when it comes to house sitting. Homeowners need to trust that their house sitter will take good care of their home and their belongings, while house sitters need to trust that the homeowner will provide accurate information about their home and any responsibilities they may have while there.

To build trust, it's important for both parties to be transparent and honest about their expectations. Homeowners should provide clear instructions and guidelines for the house sitter, while sitters should ask questions to ensure they fully understand what is expected of them. Additionally, it's helpful for both parties to exchange references and conduct background checks, if necessary, to further build trust and increase confidence in one another.

I use an agreement to establish clear boundaries.  Agreements are not about mistrust, they are about clear communication.

Communication
Open and effective communication is also crucial in house sitting relationships. This includes clear and concise instructions, regular updates and check-ins, and prompt resolution of any issues that may arise.

Homeowners should provide the house sitter with all the information they need about their home and its systems, as well as any emergency contacts. House sitters should keep the homeowner informed of any issues or concerns they may have during their stay, and should be responsive to any communications from the homeowner.

It's also important for both parties to establish clear lines of communication before the house sitting arrangement begins, and to ensure that everyone is comfortable with the method of communication being used (e.g. email, text, phone, etc.).

Maintaining Trust and Communication
To maintain trust and communication, it's important to establish a positive and respectful relationship from the start. This includes being reliable, respectful, and professional in all interactions. Additionally, it's helpful for both parties to establish clear expectations for the house sitting arrangement, including schedules, responsibilities, and any specific requests or needs.

It's also a good idea for homeowners to check in with their house sitter regularly to ensure everything is going smoothly and to offer support or answer any questions they may have. Regular communication helps to build trust and reinforces the positive relationship between the homeowner and house sitter.

Winter can be a harsh season, especially for your plumbing. When temperatures drop, the water inside pipes can freeze and cause them to burst. This not only leads to costly repairs but also a potential disaster in your home. In this article, we'll explore the science behind frozen pipes and what you can do to prevent them.

Why Pipes Freeze

Pipes freeze when the temperature drops below the freezing point of water, which is 32°F (0°C). As the water inside the pipes cools, it begins to freeze, expanding and putting pressure on the pipes. If the water continues to freeze, it can cause the pipes to burst, resulting in a leak.

Why Pipes Burst

The pressure from the frozen water is the main reason pipes burst. As the water inside the pipes expands, it places a great deal of pressure on the pipes, which are not designed to withstand the pressure. If the pressure becomes too great, the pipes will eventually burst, resulting in a leak.

Factors That Contribute to Frozen Pipes

There are several factors that can contribute to frozen pipes, including:

• Insufficient Insulation: If your pipes are not properly insulated, they are more likely to freeze when temperatures drop. Insulation helps keep the heat inside the pipes, preventing the water from freezing.
• Exposure to Cold Air: Pipes that are exposed to cold air are more likely to freeze than pipes that are protected. If your pipes are located near a window or an exterior wall, they may be exposed to cold air, making them more susceptible to freezing.
• Poor Ventilation: Poor ventilation can cause your home to become colder, which can result in frozen pipes. Make sure your home is well-ventilated to prevent the temperature from dropping too low.
• Lack of Heat: If your home is not being heated adequately, the pipes may freeze. Make sure your heating system is functioning properly and that your home is adequately heated to prevent pipes from freezing.

Preventing Frozen Pipes

The best way to prevent pipes from freezing is to keep your home at a consistent, warm temperature. Here are some steps you can take to prevent pipes from freezing:

• Insulate Your Pipes: Make sure your pipes are properly insulated to prevent heat from escaping. You can use foam insulation or fiberglass insulation to keep the heat inside the pipes.
• Seal Gaps and Cracks: Seal any gaps or cracks in your home to prevent cold air from entering. This will help keep your home at a consistent temperature and prevent pipes from freezing.
• Leave Your Heat On: If you're going to be away from your home for an extended period, make sure you leave the heat on. This will help prevent pipes from freezing.
• Open Cabinet Doors: If your pipes are located in a cabinet, make sure you leave the cabinet doors open. This will allow warm air to circulate around the pipes and prevent them from freezing.
• Install a Heating Tape: You can install a heating tape on your pipes to prevent them from freezing. Heating tapes are designed to keep pipes warm, even in the coldest temperatures.

​Frozen pipes can be a major problem during the winter months, but there are steps you can take to prevent them. By insulating your pipes, sealing gaps and cracks, leaving your heat on, opening cabinet doors, and installing a heating tape, you can help prevent pipes from freezing and keep your home safe. If you have any concerns about your pipes, it's best to reach out to a licensed plumber for advice and assistance.

It's also important to have adequate home insurance coverage in case of any damage caused by frozen pipes. Make sure you review your policy and understand what is covered, so you can have peace of mind knowing that you are protected.

Preventing frozen pipes is crucial for protecting your home and avoiding costly repairs. By taking a few simple steps, you can ensure that your pipes are protected during the winter months. If you have any questions or concerns, don't hesitate to reach out to a professional for assistance.

​As a small business owner, you have to wear many hats, but one of the most critical is that of administrator. While it may not be the most glamorous aspect of running a business, small business administration is essential to the success and longevity of your company. In this article, I'll explore the importance of small business administration - it's certainly something I've learned a lot more about as time has gone on.

Proper Record Keeping
Proper record keeping is the foundation of it all. Whether you're tracking expenses, managing invoices, or keeping track of customer information, accurate and organized records are essential to the success of your business. By keeping up-to-date and organized records, you'll be better equipped to make informed decisions and respond to any challenges that arise. An auditor will be far more onside if there is a solid paper trial of transactions.

Financial Management
From budgeting to forecasting, you need to have a solid understanding of your financials in order to make smart decisions for your business. By staying on top of your finances, you'll be able to identify areas for improvement, manage your cash flow, and ensure the long-term viability of your business. Is started out trying to use spreadsheets, and it quickly became obvious that was not the way to go. So I purchased a Xero account and haven't looked back. I do enjoy the financials, I must admit ...

Effective Communication
Whether you're communicating with employees, customers, or suppliers, clear and concise communication is essential to the success of your business. By staying on top of your communication, you'll be able to foster positive relationships and ensure that everyone is on the same page. Be yourself, but stay professional.

Compliance with Regulations
From tax laws to labor laws, there are a multitude of regulations that you need to be aware of and comply with in order to run your business legally and ethically. By staying informed and up-to-date with the latest regulations, you'll be able to avoid costly penalties and maintain a positive reputation. In addition, it helps your trustworthiness if you have a privacy statement.  Take a look at mine to get an idea.

It may not be the most exciting aspect of running a business, but admin is essential to the success and longevity of your company. By staying on top of your record keeping, finances, communication, and compliance with regulations, you'll be able to run a successful and sustainable business for years to come.