Easy Zone Cleaning: the FlyLady Method for Busy People
Learn the FlyLady zone cleaning system for busy people: Divide your home into five zones, clean one weekly, and enjoy an always-tidy space without the stress.
Easy Home & Garden
Why Keeping Your House Clean Matters: The Best Advice I Ever Got
True confession: I used to HATE cleaning my house. Like, would-rather-organize-my-tax-receipts kind of hate. Sure, regular cleaning was something I did. But it seemed like a waste of time – and I resented it. After all, I had better things to do than clean a messy home again and again and again. I mean, we’ve…
How to Decorate A Lake House Without Breaking the Bank
Decorate your lake house with budget-friendly ideas. Create a serene retreat without breaking the bank, while achieving stunning lake house decor.
How to Tackle Cleaning a Messy House: A Step-by-Step Guide for Busy People
Does your house looking like a tornado hit? You’re not alone. If you’re wondering how to tackle cleaning a messy house when you’re already juggling work deadlines and side hustles – and maybe trying to remember if you fed the cat today – you’re in the right place. The truth? Every home gets messy –…
How to Keep Deer out of the Garden All Year (with Minimal Effort)
When Randy and I moved to our wooded acres on Balsam Lake, I was so excited about all the gardening possibilities. I couldn’t wait to share my “garden oasis” with the woodland wildlife. Keeping deer out of the garden was the furthest thing from my mind. Then reality hit. Those cute deer? Complete garden destroyers….
7 Easy Full-Sun, Deer Resistant Perennials for Your Northwoods Garden
One of the biggest gripes of Northwoods gardening is having to share outdoor space with the local wildlife. Because while deer are beautiful from a distance, they can quickly turn your carefully planned garden into their personal buffet! If you enjoyed my article on deer-resistant shade plants, you’ll be happy to know there are plenty…
New Website Direction: A Simple, Work-From-Home Lifestyle
When I first envisioned Northwoods Oasis, I wanted to highlight this beautiful area that Randy and I now call home. After moving from a big city to the small town of Birchwood, Wisconsin, we were in awe. The lakes, the resorts, the endless trails, and—most of all—the friendly, hardworking people made this place feel special….
13 Best Deer Resistant Shade Plants for Your Northwoods Garden
Tired of your garden plants being eaten by deer? Here are 13 of the best deer resistant shade plants for your Midwest perennial garden.
Easy Homemade Insect Repellent: Dog and Kid Safe!
When it comes to keeping insect pests at bay, there are plenty of natural options to choose from. We’ve given just a few!
The Best Gardening Tools for Seniors: Ergonomic & Safe [2025]
In this article, we’re highlighting some of the best gardening tools for seniors today. Safe, smart and ergonomic, these tools get the job done.
Composting Facts: 10 Easy Steps for Beginners at Home
Composting is a fantastic way to reduce your carbon footprint and save money on your trash bill. It’s also great for your garden! If you’ve never composted before, you probably have questions. Where do you start? What can you compost? Never fear, we’re here to help. In this article, we’ll give you all the composting…
Can Swimming Pool Salt Be Used in a Water Softener?
Salt is an important part of water treatment, but did you know that there is a difference between pool salt and water softener salt? While pool salt is great for pool water, if you’re using it in your water softener, you could be doing more harm than good. Whether pool salt, rock salt, table salt…
The Best Stainless Steel Gauge for A Kitchen Sink
Your kitchen sink is one of the most important fixtures in your home. It’s where you prepare food, wash dishes, and clean up messes. If you’re looking for a durable, easy-to-clean sink, then stainless steel is a great option. And it’s important to choose the best stainless steel sink for your needs. But not all…
Potting Soil vs Ground Soil: The Best for Your Garden
Can you put potting soil in the ground? In this article, we’ll explain the difference between potting soil and ground soil, why they’re unique, and how to choose between them for your perfect garden.
Modern Small House Design: Best Ideas Under 1500 SF
Dreaming of the perfect small home that’s stylish, functional and spacious? Look no further than today’s modern, small house designs for some great ideas.
How to Plan a Low Maintenance Garden with Perennials
If you’re thinking about adding a perennial garden to your yard, there are a few things you need to know before you get started.
In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about planning a low maintenance perennial garden you’ll love. We’ll also give you some tips on choosing the right plants and caring for your garden.
11 Guest Room Essentials for the Ultimate Hospitality
When it comes to creating the ultimate guest room, there are some guest room essentials to always include. With the right decor, fixtures, and furnishings, you can create a relaxing space for your guests without breaking the bank.
Buying a Lake Lot? 14 Questions for Your Dream Property
So you’re buying a lake lot! (Or at least you’re thinking of buying a lake lot.) Congratulations! For many of us, having property near a lake is a lifelong dream. But before you run out and buy waterfront property, there are some important things to consider. Buying lake property is a big decision. And while…
The #1 Best Hummingbird Feeder Ever
Maybe I’m jumping the gun, but when it hit 32 degrees yesterday, my thoughts turned to hummingbirds. Specifically – making sure my hummingbird feeders are clean and ready for the hummers’ spring return. Hummingbirds aren’t fussy about their feeders. But having tried umpteen different brands over the years, I’ve developed a few “must-have” features. In…