Spring Cleaning in Eco-Friendly Ways

Wellness has never been more important than it is today. Living in a tidy and organized home can have a major impact on your emotional and physical health. We have all spent 2020 cooped up at home and many of us have probably let things slip. Let’s make 2021 a fresh start with a great spring cleaning in your 803 Corday Apartment.

The Mental Health Benefits of a Clean Home

There are clear and measurable mental health benefits of a clean home. A clean home relieves stress. Recent studies have shown that people who regularly spend time cleaning their homes are more relaxed and happier than people that don’t. Clean homes boost productivity. Experts agree that keeping your home organized with everything in its place has a significant impact on personal productivity. Clean homes can help you stay active. Studies show that people who spend time cleaning their homes exercise more often than people that don’t.

Ways to Go Green with Your Cleaning Process

Most of us want a clean home without contributing unnecessarily to climate change, so it’s very important that we follow green practices during our spring cleaning. The good news is that there are several easy tips you can follow to do just that. First, since many products are not safe for kids or pets, make sure you are using basic safety when storing and handling cleaning products. With that out of the way, it’s important to target green cleaning products. Baking soda is great as a gritty base for scrubbing. Vinegar is great as a disinfectant and for loosening dirt. Lemon juice is also a powerful disinfectant and it’s excellent with grease. As a pro tip, you can use all three together. Adding lemon or vinegar activates baking soda with a mild acid to really improve its cleaning power.

Local Stores for Cleaning Material or Cleaning Services for Hire

Things are starting to open up in Naperville in 2021! Target and Walmart are chock full of great cleaning materials. Need a hand with your spring cleaning? Check out Two Maids Naperville and their 5 Star Reviews. They are a solid local cleaning service.

Spring 2021 is going to be all about a fresh start, which starts with a clean home. Having a clean home will really help with your mental and emotional health. This year, you can have one without hurting the environment and visiting your local stores will help them get off to a strong start, too. Have a great time making that clean, orderly, and organized house a reality this year!

Tips and Tricks to Stay Warm and Cozy in Your 803 Corday Apartment

Winter can be difficult. However, with a little planning and preparation, you can make winter 2021 the best winter ever!  The weather can be tough, it can be hard to stay warm, and the features of your apartment can make a real difference. Here are some tips and tricks to stay warm and cozy in your 803 Corday Apartment. 

Winter Weather in Naperville

Winter 2021 is expected to be mostly mild for much of the United States. This winter you can expect highs at about 30 degrees Fahrenheit and lows down to 15 degrees Fahrenheit. Snow is typically not more than 7.6 inches on average although there may be about 3.4 inches of rain during the year. This year, it is likely to be wetter than in the past. 

Winter weather can be harsh on the body, inside and out. Make sure to stay hydrated as your skin and your body tend to be dryer in cold weather exacerbated by the use of a heater. Drinking plenty of water will help and if your skin gets dry, then use lotion regularly to help keep your skin hydrated, too. 

Great Ways to Stay Warm

When it does get cold, you can stay warm without having to turn up the heat. Your parents were right, so make sure to dress in layers. It’s easy to add a cute sweater or jacket over a long sleeve top and an under shirt. Wearing thick socks or slippers around the house will help keep you comfy. A great cup of soup will fill you up and warm you up. A hot cup of coffee or cocoa will also help you to keep warm. A lot of us suffer from dry air, so consider using a humidifier when you do feel the need to turn on the heater. 

Apartment Features for Comfort

Where you live can really have an impact on how you live. This winter your apartment can keep you safe, warm, and comfortable. 803 Corday has some stand-out features including the fire pit, fitness center, and clubhouse to keep you warm and healthy. Check out 803 Corday’s amenities page for more information. It’s the perfect place for you this winter.

We all know 2020 was a tough year and we are looking forward to a great 2021. This winter can be your best winter ever. You can make the most of it by preparing for the weather, planning to stay warm, and picking the right apartment. Make this your best winter ever!   

New Year, New Possibilities

It’s time to say goodbye to 2020 and say hello to 2021! With some planning, a little work, and a great attitude this can be your best year ever. Check out these can’t miss ideas to make the most out of 2021. This is a new year with new possibilities at the 803 Corday Apartments.

Personal Goals to Set for the Year

Every year we tend to focus on what we can do better and that certainly is true for 2021. The New Year is a time for goal setting, for doing new things, and for making sure we improve the important things. Here are some of our favorite goals for 2021. First, learn a new skill, what could be better than investing in yourself? Money is always a challenge, so be sure to create a monthly budget.

Perhaps it’s time to stop streaming shows and movies and start reading more, so try to read 12 new books this year. Start the day off right by creating and sticking to a new morning routine. Many of us probably picked up some bad habits in 2020, so be sure to eliminate one.

We have all been separated by COVID-19, so be sure to spend less time online and more time reconnecting to friends and family. For the adventurers, travel to a new place and start a travel journal. No matter what you choose, make sure to focus on a goal that makes this version of you the best version ever! For many of us, celebrating the holidays this year will probably have to be done at home.

Apartment/Home Goals 

There are so many ways to get your apartment ready for the New Year. We all know it’s important to make a good first impression and this year that’s truer than ever. Time to throw out the old and bring in the new. Get rid of the clutter and organize your workspaces. Since you may still be working at home or your children may still be attending school from home, then it’s time to reorganize the areas around your home to help with productivity.

Organizing your living spaces and workspaces can help you to destress and we could all definitely use less stress in the new year. Take the time to clean out what you no longer use and keep only what you need. Less is more in 2021. You don’t need the stress from clutter and disorganization. Get rid of what you don’t need and keep your life and living areas simple. A clean and organized home can help you stay healthy, make it easier to clean, and help you to find what you need when you need it. 

2021 Apartment Décor Trends

With a new year, you may want to redecorate your apartment. Start with a theme. 2021 will be all about a basic modern style driven by a return to minimalism. Next, make sure the new year is bright with maximized light in your living space. 2021 will see a dominance of lighter woods combined with darker color accents. Make sure to choose design elements that elevate your own style whether that’s casual, formal, elegant, or even rustic.

A new year probably means some great new shopping. Although most shopping will likely be done online this year, you will have more options than ever. Sometimes you need to actually get out and look for yourself. Plus, most of the malls will be sure to have some new and fun things to do. If you need to pick up new decorations or gear for your great new habits, visit Mainstreet Promenade or Naperville Crossings. They are open and sure to help you make 2021 your best year ever.

Celebrate the Holidays in 2020

The holiday season is going to be fantastic in 2020, if a little different. Sure, it’s 2020, so we need to social distance and wear masks to help us stay safe, but we can still have a healthy dose of holiday cheer. Check out these can’t miss ideas to make the holiday season a hit in 2020. Celebrate the holidays at 803 Corday at Naperville.

How to Decorate Your Apartment for the Holidays

There are so many ways to get your apartment ready for holidays. We all know it’s important to make a good first impression. Most of us will keep party goers at a safe distance this year. Start with a theme. First, choose a color to get everyone in the mood for the holiday season. While red and green are some favorite traditional colors, other festive colors include gold and silver. This year, bright colors like purple, teal, white, and blue are also going to be very popular. Next, add in some holiday icons like snowmen, snowflakes, elves, or stars. Finally, keep in mind the atmosphere you have in mind. Make sure to choose minimalistic elements for your casual, formal, elegant, or even rustic themes. Make sure that you don’t forget the lights! 

How to get into the Holiday Spirit

For many of us, celebrating the holidays this year will probably have to be done at home. Luckily, there are plenty of ways to get into the holiday spirit at home. Start setting the mood by baking or joining a cookie exchange. Make sure to have some seasonal comforts around your apartment like apple cider or hot chocolate. Music is a great way to get into any mood, so play some holiday favorites (Alexa and Apple both have fantastic holiday playlists). Gather with your family, in a safe way of course, to watch favorite movies or TV shows. And, as always, the best way to get into the spirit is to give back. Sadly, we all know that this year has more need than ever. 

Holiday Events Near Your Apartment

What is the season without shopping? Most shopping will be done online this year and you have more options than ever. Sometimes, you need to actually get out and look for yourself. Plus, most of the malls will be sure to have some safe and fun things to do. If you need to find that last minute gift, pick up wine or a dessert for a dinner party. Need to get out? Visit Mainstreet Promenade or Naperville Crossings, which are open and can provide some holiday cheer.

Social distancing will definitely make the holiday season different this year, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be fun and safe for everyone. Curbside and at-home delivery make it easier than ever to get the decorations, supplies, food, or gifts that you need to make the season a hit. Don’t be afraid to get creative with some seasonal inspiring at-home celebration ideas. Celebrate the holidays at home. 

Halloween in Naperville

Halloween is going to be fantastic in 2020, if a little different. Halloween is on a Saturday, there will be a full moon, and people want to celebrate. Sure it’s 2020, so we need to social distance, wear masks of a different sort to help us stay safe, but we can still have a spooky great time. Check out these can’t miss ideas to make Halloween 2020 a hit. 803 Corday at Naperville is the right place to celebrate. 

How to Decorate Your Apartment

There are so many ways to get your apartment ready for Halloween. We all know it’s important to make a good first impression and this year that’s even truer as most of us will keep trick-or-treaters at a safe distance. Set the stage. Carve creepy pumpkins with stencils and easily available templates. Decorate doors with cut-outs of ghosts, goblins, witches, and more.  Make sure the neighbors can see some colorful creatures by combining monster cut-outs and contact paper on the windows. For the inside, fairy lights, felt spiders, and glow in the dark skeletons are always hit. It’s the little things that really set the mood. Try the mirror hidden message trick, get some scotch tape and spell out a scary message on your mirror, allow the tape to set and remove. Then run some hot water to reveal hidden messages to your guests.

How to Celebrate at Home

For many of us, celebrating Halloween this year will probably have to be done at home. Luckily, there are plenty of ways to raise goosebumps at home. Start by setting the mood with Halloween baking and some apple cider. Carving pumpkins is always a hit, so each person can get involved in making their ideas come to life. What’s Halloween without costumes? Make sure to get everyone dressed up and set up a video conferencing call with friends and family so everyone can share the scares. Set up a baby monitor on the porch, so you can have fun interacting with trick-or-treaters. Treats can be in the form of an outdoor haunted house or a video performance through your windows instead of the typical eatable delights. Movie marathons are great since you can choose movies appropriate to any age group or audience (from Goonies to Friday the 13th, there is something for everyone) and those can be shared from the comfort of your own apartment through a number of popular streaming services (Netflix Party, KAST, YouTube, Discord, Facebook, and more). 

Halloween Hotspots in Naperville

Luckily, stores are open in Naperville, so you can get what you need for Halloween. If you need costume, makeup, and decorations, there is a Spirit Halloween store open this year. The City of Naperville has many suggestions for Halloween this year, too, to stay safe this year. The Illinois Department of Health also has suggestions for how families can stay safe this year and what they are able to do to celebrate the holiday.

Social distancing will definitely make Halloween different this year, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be a fun and safe holiday for everyone. Curbside and at-home delivery make it easier than ever to get the decorations, supplies, and costumes you need to make Halloween a hit. Don’t be afraid to get creative with some seasonal inspiring at-home celebration ideas.

Helpful Tips for Returning to School

Heading Back to School 

Parents have very different concerns this year for getting their children ready for going back to school. Instruction varies from state to state, county to county, or district to district. Students may find themselves learning virtually, in-person, or a combination of the two. Regardless of how the instruction is delivered, students still need to study and complete homework at home, they still need school supplies, and they may benefit from finding various places to study to keep them engaged. Whatever method of instructional delivery your child receives, here are some tips and tricks to get your child ready for the new school year. 

How to Study and Complete Homework at Home

Organization, a structured schedule, and a productive workspace are essential to the success in studying and completing homework. In schools, students have regular schedules that align with instruction and learning. They need the same consistency at home. Help your child create a consistent schedule at home if they have to go to school virtually, one they can post above their work areas (desk and chair with ample lighting). Make a grid with the days of the week and list the blocks of time to make it easy for your child to follow (if your child’s school or classroom has a specific schedule, then follow that schedule and add homework time to the end prior to dinner). Color code the schedule to help your child remember the blocks of time to complete each subject.

Don’t Forget Breaks

Don’t forget that breaks are important. Children who attend middle school and high school have classes that are about 45-50 minutes long. Subjects are broken down even shorter for elementary aged students, so make sure that your child gets ample breaks each hour.

Homework Time

Complete homework right after school after a nutritional break. Also, make sure to add time for getting home and settling down. Homework times vary, typically growing based on the student’s grade level. A kindergarten student may finish homework in 10-20 minutes, whereas a high school senior in five Advanced Placement classes may need several hours.

Workplaces are Important

Regardless of the age, each student needs a structured workplace with clear expectations of when the work should be completed. Give children consistent structure and expectations right from the beginning. They will learn to continue with those study habits. Make sure the workplace is free of distractions. The materials need to be readily available. Young children work best in an open area with parent support, such as the kitchen table. As they grow older, then they may benefit from having their own desk and chair for the tablet or computer issued by the school and their school supplies in their desk drawers or a crate so they can easily store their textbooks, notebooks, and supplies. Let’s discuss how school supplies can help children in their studies. 

The Best School Supplies

Whether your child is going back to school in the classroom or virtual environment, there are basic school supplies that children need to promote their success and organization. Depending upon their grade levels, different types of paper can help them practice and improve their writing. Younger children in grades PreK-grade 1 need lined paper to learn how to write. Whereas older elementary school-aged children can use wide-ruled notebook paper and middle school or high school aged students typically prefer college-ruled notebook paper. Children in grades 2-high school benefit from using a binder with divider tabs (pockets are an option to help when hole-punchers are not readily available). Younger children tend to use smaller binders (1-1.5 inches) and as children age, then they need to get larger binders.

Teachers/Schools Recommend Supplies

Teachers usually have specific classroom supply lists that they prefer their students to have from types of pencils and pens to types of organizational tools. Make sure to check with your children’s teachers prior to school starting to get their recommended supply lists.

If your child is able to return to the classroom this fall, then other important supplies include a sturdy backpack, lunchbox, and pencil box/bag that can hold the pencils, crayons or colored pencils, markers, highlighters, and pens. Many schools provide a computer or tablet to each student or family, so make sure to review the instructional technology available for check-out with your child’s school especially with the need for virtual instruction or to complete their work at home during the health crisis. Educators work with families to help the students to be equipped for the new school year, When in doubt, check with your children’s teachers for the materials that would best work with their classes.

Places on Property to Study

Above all else, beware of distractions. It’s important to find a place to study that is free of distractions. Some experts will tell you that a dorm room is a terrible place to study, but a dorm room isn’t a bedroom. Bedrooms can have their pluses and minuses. If your child’s bedroom has a structured study area that is organized and free of distractions, then it can be a fine place to study. 

Places to Study at 803 Corday

As children age, they tend to want to study elsewhere and middle school, high school, and college students may want to meet with their friends to study. The 803 Corday community offers many areas that students can study on their own or in small groups. From the indoor clubhouse or outdoor areas like the patio or sundeck by the pool, students can go and find places on the campus that give them quiet areas to study.

Studying outdoors can also be a lot of fun, and the sun and fresh air can help students stay alert and motivated. They can also study on their own private patio or balcony. If you need to put together a project, then the business center may have what you need. The fitness center may be a fun place to read plus reading when working out on the exercise bike or treadmill is a great way to stay fit for both the mind and body. There are areas throughout 803 Corday that are user friendly for study groups and studying outside the home. 

Studying in the Community

In the community, parks, the local library, and even the local coffee shop are great places to study, and 803 Corday is just miles away from downtown Naperville and Riverwalk. Beware of distractions. Balancing the work and play helps to keep children interested and inspired.

The New Normal

Going back to school especially in a year with so many changes and unknowns can be stressful, but it doesn’t have to be difficult. The basics are the same, children still need school supplies, a structured schedule, and an organized place to study. Parents are their support, offering them the praise and help as situations arise. With the health crisis, parents may be their teachers. Normalize the situation and help them understand why in a positive way. Remember, you were their teachers for their first five years before they started school and even after. You keep them safe, keep them engaged, and keep them happy. This school year can be just as normal as any other if you help them through it.

Ice Cream Vacation- 803 Corday

During summer we all have our ways of keeping cool. Some go take a dip in a nice pool. Some may sit under a nice tree at the park or on private patio. For us, we like to indulge in the frozen oasis known as Ice Cream. The treat being divvied up by parlors and restaurants for decades now has been successfully satisfying patrons with its sweet taste and rich textures with ease. Although times have changed, the enjoyment has not however what has changed is well…ice cream itself. 

Get Your Ice Cream Education 

For the love of ice cream, we have decided to give a little education on the transition of ice cream. Yes we know its summer but we love ice cream so much we’ll call this a fun learn. Ice cream , as popular as it is, has had a couple renovations throughout the years which have increased its notoriety.  From fruity based Sorbet, to creamy Italian-esque Gelato , ice cream has made itself available to an expanded audience blowing all other frozen treats out of the water! For more on these popular ice cream types click here. 

CURATE

Being an ice cream chef sounds like a dream. Curating delicious creations with mouthwatering flavors like chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry have got to be one of the best ways to spend your day especially after seeing the smiling faces and excited from customers. Well by following a short process known as The 2 Ingredient Method, you will be well on your way to a delicious ice cream creation of your own. 

LOCAL CREAM

Finding ice cream locally is a plus because it lets you know that you can find some of your favorite types  and not have to travel too far from home. Kilwins Chocolates & Ice Cream offers traditional ice cream and specialty desserts you are sure to love.  If you’re looking to try a delicious rolled creation, stop by Munchies Rolled Ice Cream. Featuring classic and creative flavors with choice toppings you’ll be guaranteed to leave satisfied. 

 

Now that the summer vibes are coming through strong its time to get in alignment with all things according to the season. Be sure to treat yourself to some delicious ice cream this July in celebration of National Ice Cream Month!

Redecorate Your Apartments in Naperville

trending decor at naperville apartments

If you’re like most of us, you’ve probably spent a great majority of this year at home. We’ve all adapted to this new way of life, but that doesn’t mean that at times, it isn’t rather monotonous. To cope, it’s important to keep yourself stimulated and busy. Here’s a great idea for you to do just that: redo your apartments in Naperville. Not only will it keep your creative juices flowing and your mind occupied, but you’ll get to have the feeling of a new environment to work and quarantine in that feels more refreshing.

Here are some ways to make use of new décor for your apartment:

1.            Mix up the Vibe- It’s important to come up with a theme, or at least the ambiance of what you’d like your apartment to have. When you’re home, is your goal to feel relaxed, energized, or both? If you want to feel relaxed, use more neutral earth tones, and get things like succulents and incense (if your building allows this) to feel as though you’re more grounded. If you want to feel more energized, bring in some color and use either a citrus-type or spicy kind of air diffuser so that your senses are awakened.

2.            Put Up Some Accents- People underestimate the power of little accessories in your home that can truly give it some character. If you’re drawing a blank on this one, think about getting the following things: a wall clock, a movie poster, a record player, a decorative candle, pillows for your couch, and more if you go to the home section of Amazon.com. It’s very important that you do all your shopping online!

3.            Think About New Furniture- Right now is a great time to shop for new furniture online or on different apps, like OfferUp, where people are trying to get rid of quality things in order to get more money. Add a new chair or desk to your apartment in order to accentuate the new vibe you’re going for.

This concludes how to redo your Naperville apartments. If you have additional tips, please share in the comments below.

How to Make Working From Home Work for You

Working Remotely, Work From Home, Working From Home, Remote Work, Home Office

Has your employer made the switch to a remote workplace recently? Having to work from home can be hard to handle initially, but having a gameplan can help! Here are some ways you can maximize your time while working remotely here at 803 Corday!

 

Set Aside a Home Office Space

 

The environment you work in can affect your motivation to stay on task. Instead of falling for the trap of working from your bed, it’s best to set aside space for a home office. Move your workstation away from your bedroom so as not to disturb your sleep cycle. Try setting up shop by a window for gorgeous views of Naperville nature, or even on your private balcony for a breath of fresh air! Here are some more suggestions on how to organize your home office. 

 

Stick to a Set Schedule While Working From Home

 

Losing track of time without a punch-in clock to guide you is common. To make sure you’re staying on track with your goals, you’ll need to make your own remote work schedule. Wake up at the same time every day, and stop work at the same time as well. You can curate the times according to your night owl or early bird preferences! And to feel more put together, be sure to get dressed for work every day too. Check out this list for more tips on making a new work from home schedule.

 

Take the Time to Rest From Remote Work

 

With more free time in the day, you may feel tempted to fill up your work schedule with even more work to stay occupied. Don’t forget that you’re human! Taking breaks when they’re needed will help refresh your mind and body. Try doing some strengthening yoga poses in between bite-size tasks. Really enjoy your full lunch hour. Rest your eyes from the harsh light of your computer screen using the 20-20-20 rule. With regular breaks, your remote work will come easily.

 

With the right mindset and plan, working from home can work for you! How are you planning on tackling the new home office routine? Let us know in the comments!

 

Getting Involved While Living in Naperville

online community, social networking, community resources

As a new resident of 803 Corday, you’ve also become a new resident of the great city of Naperville, IL. The vibrant, rich community of Naperville is driven by the people who live and work here. As we gather together indoors, you can still support your new neighborhood from the comfort of your apartment. Here are some ways you can get involved while living in Naperville!

 

Locate Your Local Library in Naperville

 

One of the most underrated public resources in any town is the local library. Libraries offer a quiet place to read, study, and work at no cost, regardless of your stature. These important structures and the people who run them deserve support. The Naperville Public Library system has three locations, and conveniently offers expansive online resources on their website as well! Click here for access to a wide variety of e-books, movies, magazines, kids’ entertainment and so much more. 

 

Order Food Delivery in Naperville From a Local Restaurant

 

The culture of Naperville is also shaped by the mom and pop restaurants that line the city’s streets. Local eateries put income into the pockets of families while diversifying your palate! Sara’s Grill & Eastern Cuisine is just one restaurant that’s worthy of your attention. Featuring delicious and authentic Indian entrees, Sara’s is sure to spice up your life. Click here to start your Doordash order for food delivery in Naperville!

 

Read Local News in Naperville

 

Being an active citizen means knowing what’s happening in your neighborhood. That starts with staying posted to the local news in Naperville! More often than not, the local paper or journal is the only place to get regionally specific coverage. Plus, local news knows its audience more than mainstream media, making its coverage more relatable and relevant to your life. Positively Naperville offers daily digital coverage on their website, as well as a monthly print subscription. Check them out and stay informed!

 

Your involvement as a citizen, whether you’re out and about or here at home, will positively shape your experiences while living in Naperville. How are you planning on giving back to the community? Let us know in the comments!