BBQ season is here. Day-long pool days, family, friends, cold beer, and rosé. While everyone is getting ready to come over,  you have a list of things to take care of and can use all the help you can get to make everything look effortless, enjoyable, and delicious.

Here are some simple things to remember:

1. Bluetooth Speaker (and charger): Music is crucial to the success of every party and you want to make sure the music - just like the burgers - never runs out.
2. Food List: It may sound crazy, but be as detailed as possible. You don't want to pause halfway through the party to go get more jalapeños at the store. 
3. Garbage Bags: Believe it or not, this is an item many people forget to replenish before the big day.  #BagIt #Recycle
4. Ice, Ice, Ice (baby): How many times have you been on the way to a party and have gotten a call from the host asking to bring more ice. So now that it's your party, make sure to have as much ice as possible - and a friend you can call for more just in case.
5. Seats: Texas' Springs and Summers can be very hot. Make sure you have half the amount of chairs as people. You want them to seat (in the shade), but you also want them to dance and enjoy themselves.
6. Say No to Bugs: Mosquito repellent is another must. Make sure you have some for everyone, and if possible, chemical-free mosquito repellant for the kids.
7. Games: Outdoor games and board games; from Monopoly, to dominos, and playing cards. Be ready for the party to last longer than planned and keep your guests entertained.
8. Lights: Set the mood. String lights are cheap, easy to put up, and can set a magical mood once the sun goes down.

​Last, but definitely not least. Try a new recipe. Here is one from Tip Hero: Bacon-Wrapped Pineapple Burger Recipe.

At Metro-Flow Plumbing we wake up early and are available 24/7 to give our customers the best of us. To do this successfully, we need to stay energized and keep a positive attitude. If you're struggling with your energy, here are some tips that may help you:

1. Music: Wake up to your favorite music. This is a great way to not only wake up, but to also get in a great mood.
2. Drink Water: Drink a glass of water when you wake up. This will help your body wake up and give you energy. Make sure you stay hydrated throughout the day. This will help keep your energy levels up.
3. Reduce Your Sugar Intake: The key to keeping your energy up is to keep your blood sugar balanced so energy is constant. Eat grains instead of sugar. Grains provide a slow and steady release of fuel.
4. Have a Snack: Enjoy a power snack that combines protein, a little fat, and some fiber - like peanut butter on a whole-wheat cracker, or some yogurt with a handful of nuts.
5. Go for a Walk and Stretch: Get up, stretch, and go for a walk - even if it's a quick one. This will help your body wake up and get a boost of energy.
6. Sleep: We know it can be hard, but try to get at least 7 to 9 hours of sleep. This will help your body rest and spike your energy levels.

Discover more ways to increase your energy, here.

You're thinking about putting your house on the market and you want to make sure you fix the right things to help it sell; but you don't want to spend too much money? We understand and have done some research of our own.

Here are 10 tips to help you sell your house: 

1. Patch holes and cracks in walls and ceilings.
2. Fix all broken appliances and HVAC systems.
3. Repair leaky faucets.
4. Replace worn or stained carpeting. 
5. Repaint dark or marred walls with neutral paint (not white).
6. Replace broken windows.
7.  Repair the roof.
8. Change out any dated light fixtures and ceiling fans. 
9. Replace old drapes and window coverings.
10. Fix code violations.

​To review the full article, visit The Balance, here.