What better time to embrace the outdoors than right now and even into the winter? Here are 6 tips for ensuring a wonderful hike through Flagstaff during the cooler seasons.

Tip 1: Stay Hydrated

Because Flagstaff is known for cool, snowy days, it can be easy to skimp on the water. But remember, Flagstaff is still the desert. The air is dry, and you'll lose moisture quicker than you'd think. Pack plenty of water.

Tip 2: Wear Layers

Before you leave your Flagstaff apartments, be sure to layer up with clothes you can easily remove and tie around your waist, if needed. Different people warm up at different rates. It's best to be prepared to lose some layers along the way.

Tip 3: Know Your Altitude Tolerance

If you just moved to Flagstaff from a place with lower elevation, you'll want to acclimate for a few weeks before undertaking a strenuous hike. Altitude sickness, shortness of breath and decreased circulation can all affect a newcomer to the area. 

Tip 4: Hike With Another

It's true. There is safety in numbers. Especially if you're planning to tackle an intense climb, don't go by yourself. If you slip and fall, there'd be no one to get you help. Keep safe.

Tip 5: Protect Yourself From Snow Sunburns

Many people don't consider the reflection of the sun off the snow when hiking. You can get sunburned on the underside of your nose and chin. Either use sunblock or cover any areas exposed to the sun's reflection. 

Tip 6: Wear Protective Eyewear

Snow Blindness is when your eyes are overexposed to the sun's rays. Because sunlight reflects off snow, you can't help but be overloaded. Wear solid eyewear to protect your vision. 

Flagstaff Apartments

When you're properly prepared for the elements, hiking in Flagstaff can be such fun! If you enjoy exploring the mountains and are looking for a great place to live, check us out at University Square. 

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Choose Your Blooms 

Use a variety of stems, and don't overcrowd one type of flower. You can have your favorite bloom stand out in the arrangement by having more of them, but it shouldn't have more than two or three stems more than the rest of your choices. The flowers should be as fresh as possible, and they should be clipped at 45°. Use cool water in a clean vase for best results. Remove any leaves that may be submerged in the water (or risk bacteria growth), and let the flowers sit for an hour or so after you cut them. 

Use the Greenery First 

The greenery you're using should make the shape of your flower arrangement. When it comes to the exact shape of your arrangement, you'll need to follow their twists and turns for inspiration. You can't fight their natural patterns, but you can arrange and rearrange to find something that works for you and still fits for the stems too. Once you do that, you can then add the main flower into your greens. Set one low, and one high to create some depth and dimension. You can then add your secondary flowers to fill any gaps. Any fillers (baby's breath, hyacinth, etc.) should be last so they're less likely to be trampled by the more substantial flowers. 

Spring flowers are what you make of them, and so are Flagstaff apartments. Your home is a place to let your personal tastes shine, and nowhere understands that more than University Square. Let us show you around our community when you call us today. 

The post How to Make a Spring Flower Arrangement appeared first on University Square Apartments Blog.

Guest List

Everyone's super busy during the holiday season, so plan the date and time of your get together well in advance. Decide who you will invite. Will your guests be family, friends, neighbors, colleagues, or a mix of all of the above? Consider how much space you have and what type of atmosphere you're striving to create when determining who to invite. Send out invitations or simply invite people via phone or email.

The Food Feast

Of course, the centerpiece of your holiday dinner gathering is the food. As much time as possible before the event, decide what you will serve. Include main dishes like turkey, beef, and/or fish. Also add to the menu, side dishes like rice, potatoes, vegetables and fruit. Don't forget desserts like pies, cakes and cookies. Find out ahead of time whether any of your guests have special dietary requirements such as gluten- or dairy-free or vegetarian. Serve food that will meet everyone's dietary needs. Consider having a potluck-style get together by inviting guests to bring side dishes to share.

Ambiance and Mood

Decide what type of tone and style you want to set, whether that's low-key or a bit more upbeat. You can plan decorations and background music based on that. Make sure you have plenty of serving dishes, silverware, plates and glasses for everyone who will attend your holiday dinner.

You'll need a place to call home as the spot for your holiday dinner. If you're looking for apartments in Flagstaff that are ideal for hosting special get togethers, call our office today to see which floor plans are still available.

The post How to Host a Holiday Dinner in Your Apartment appeared first on University Square Apartments Blog.

Horror Movie Night

Download a couple of creepy films, either old classics or newer horror screamers and spend a weekend night clutching pillows to hide behind. Pop some popcorn and open some drinks and you'll be set to scream the night away.

Hiking

Now that you've settled into campus, why not spend a day exploring your new neighborhood? Lace on some walking shoes, grab a backpack and plan to spend the day finding out what your community has to offer.

Community Spooks

Check the local paper for fun community spooky activity. Who's got the scariest haunted house around? Are there haunted hay rides or haunted horse trails? Grab some friends and spend an evening scaring yourself with the local offerings.

Volunteer

Make yourself feel good by doing good! Look for local senior centers, food banks or other charitable organizations and offer your services a couple of weekends a month. You may end up building houses for the homeless or serving Thanksgiving dinner to a crowd of adorable kids. Whatever the group, you'll get a great feeling inside by helping those who need a helping hand.

Get Active!

Get active on campus to have fun while doing something meaningful. Is there a cause that means a lot to you? Whether it's helping with shelter dogs or advocating for a political party, doing something meaningful is one of the best ways to spend your free time.

We've got a vibrant and active community at University Square. Call our office to see how well you'd like living here.

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