Uptown Fullerton Apartment Homes

The Best Ways to Celebrate the Holidays in Fullerton, CA!

Tue, 21 Nov 2023 22:48:46 GMT

With wreaths on every door and holiday lights adorning the streets, it truly is the most wonderful time of the year in Fullerton, CA! With its mild winters, Fullerton is the place to be for the holidays this year! There’s no need to worry about shoveling the driveway or dressing up in snow gear. Rather, you can truly focus on celebrating the holidays, both inside and outside!

Whether you’re a long-time resident or just visiting, Fullerton, CA, is sure to make for a festive holiday season. Here are just a few of the festive, fun-filled holiday activities taking place in the Fullerton area this year!

Activities

California really goes all out for the holidays! The variety of activities is sure to please everyone. Check out the list below for some of our favorite holiday activities in the Fullerton, CA, area!

Holidays at the Disneyland Resort : The holiday season is a magical time, so why not spend some time at the Magic Kingdom? The holiday-themed events, experiences, and eats kick off November 10 and run through January 7, so there’s plenty of time to see the park decorated for the season and take in the sights, sounds, and smells of some special events, including the Festival of Holidays, which pays tribute to multicultural food, music, and traditions.

Knott’s Merry Farm : Knott’s Berry Farm may already be a favorite destination for you and your loved ones, but during the holiday season, it just gets better! From November 17 to January 7, “Knott’s Merry Farm” takes over the whole park, filling it with holiday lights, decor, food, treats, activities, and more. Knott’s Berry Farm is always fun for the whole family, and during the holiday season, it is even more memorable and magical! Check out this teaser video for a sneak peek of Knott’s Merry Farm!

Winter Fest OC : Just because you live in sunny Southern California doesn’t mean your family should be deprived of a super fun winter experience. If you feel the same way, then Orange County has just the extravaganza you’re looking for. This year’s Winter Fest runs from November 24 through January 7 and features over 1 million glorious lights, enough holiday decor to drive one giddy, a cornucopia of thrilling activities, a snow play area, a 150-foot tubing slide, a carnival, a holiday market, and plenty of food. Whew! Any Grinch’s heart would grow three sizes just typing that previous sentence!

New this year is the North Pole Journey, a one-of-a-kind winterland experience where wide-eyed participants learn exactly how to become an elf. Winter Fest OC will be chilling at the OC Fair and Event Center in Costa Mesa. Tickets can be purchased here .

Shows and Performances

What better way to get into the holiday spirit than with a holiday concert? Luckily for us, Fullerton has plenty of holiday shows this year for everyone to enjoy! Be sure to check out one of the shows from this list to really dive into the holiday spirit!

Santa Claus Conquers the Martians : Watching the same old Christmas plays year after year can get tiring. But have you ever heard of Santa Claus Conquers the Martians, which is back for its 17th straight year? This wacky sci-fi film adapted for the stage is sure to be a performance that will get your whole family excited! Head on over to the Maverick Theater in Fullerton sometime between November 18 and December 23 to watch a play you’ll never forget!

Holiday Concert on the Pier : What better way to get into the holiday spirit than enjoying a fun concert while donating to those in need? Head on over to Redondo Beach to enjoy a free afternoon full of holiday music and the spirit of giving. Simply bring an unwrapped new children’s toy to donate to a child in need and you will be entered in a giveaway to win prizes! This is the perfect way to celebrate the holidays while truly embracing the spirit of giving. It all goes down on December 9 from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m.

Holiday Series at the Chance Theater : It isn’t a real holiday season without your favorite shows, stories, and movies! This year, two special shows make up the Holiday Series at the Chance Theater in Anaheim: The Secret Garden, the Musical (November 24–December 23) and Fancy Nancy Splendiferous Christmas (December 1–23). Combine the magic of the holidays with the wonder of a live theater performance for a night of guaranteed fun for the whole family. Check out the theater’s website for information on purchasing tickets!

Shopping

Looking for truly unique gifts for your loved ones this year? Well then, you’ve come to the right place! Fullerton is rich with unique stores and small businesses that have just what you’re looking for. Keep reading to learn about some of the unique and best stores that Fullerton has to offer!

Stitch + Feather : Do you have a special lady in your life? Then this boutique is the perfect place to shop! Full of not only trendy clothing and accessories but also things like makeup bags, mugs, coffee tables, and scented candles, this shop can be hard to resist! Located in Downtown Fullerton, be sure to stop by and pick out a gift for all the special women in your life.

The Brick Basement : Tired of the same old cookie-cutter gifts? Head on over to The Brick Basement in Downtown Fullerton to find a gift for your loved ones that’s truly unique! Choose from a wide variety of handmade decor, jewelry, tea sets, handbags, furniture, and more from 25 different vendors. This antique mall in downtown Fullerton is truly the perfect place for finding a unique gift!

The Wonder Emporium : This toy store is the perfect place to shop for your kids this holiday season! Located only 15 minutes away from Fullerton in La Habra, this store sells toys for everyone from infants on up! Here, you can find things like board games, stuffed animals, arts and crafts, educational toys, and more. The extensive collection is sure to have something to make every kid happy!

Opportunities to Share

It’s sad to think about how many people won’t get to celebrate the holidays this year due to a lack of resources. If you have the time and ability, consider donating to those less fortunate than yourself. This experience will not only be heartwarming for them, but it is sure to put a smile on your face as well as you lean into the spirit of giving!

OneOC : Did you know that the state of California alone has more than 161,000 homeless residents ? That number isn’t pretty, but there’s still hope! By volunteering with OneOC, you can help those in need throughout Orange County. There are many opportunities available to help throughout the holidays and beyond. Click this link to find the right opportunity for you to help share the Christmas spirit with those in need this year.

Grandma’s House of Hope : Getting involved with this nonprofit organization in Orange County is the perfect way to give back to your community! The organization gives free meals to those in need and is looking for volunteers to prepare and deliver these meals. Whether you’re a great cook or not, this is a great way for you to help feed the hungry and get involved in your community!

Safe Celebration

Everyone loves a good winter-scented candle this time of year. But did you know that each year, up to 7,400 fires are started because of household candles? Yikes! That doesn’t mean you should throw out your candles completely, but you should be sure to be extra careful when lighting candles in your apartment. Battery-powered candles might be a good alternative, giving you the same ambiance without the added danger. If you do decide to light real candles, be sure to never leave them unattended!

Another fire hazard to be aware of is live Christmas trees. If you opt for a live tree over a fake one, make sure you keep your tree watered so it doesn’t dry out. Dry pine needles are extra flammable! Also, be sure to keep all open flames away from the branches, and make sure you turn all lights off when you’re not at home. Stay safe and enjoy the holidays!

With so much to do and see, Fullerton, CA, has everything you need to make the season bright. From all of us at Uptown Fullerton Apartments in Fullerton, CA, Happy Holidays!

Friendsgiving Week Extravaganza!

Mon, 20 Nov 2023 15:00:01 GMT

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Welcome, dear neighbors, to the Friendsgiving Week Extravaganza! We're thrilled to present a calendar packed with exciting events designed to bring our community together in the spirit of gratitude and friendship. From indulging in delicious treats to bonding over shared interests, this week is all about creating lasting memories with those who make our community special.

Monday, 11/13: Cozy Cocoa Kickoff

Location: Leasing Office | Time: All Day

To start the week on a sweet note, we kicked things off with a Hot Cocoa Bar in the leasing office. Residents gathered to enjoy a warm cup of cocoa, complete with an array of toppings and festive decorations. It was the perfect way to ease into the Friendsgiving spirit and warm our hearts as the temperatures outside began to drop.

Tuesday, 11/14: Tantalizing Taco Tuesday

Location: Leasing Office | Time: 4 PM to 6 PM

Tuesdays are for tacos, and we celebrated with a mouthwatering Taco Tuesday! The leasing office transformed into a fiesta, with residents coming together to savor delicious tacos, share stories, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. It was a fantastic opportunity for everyone to spice up their week and connect with their fellow neighbors.

Wednesday, 11/15: Wine O'Clock Wednesday

Location: Leasing Office | Time: 5 PM to 7 PM

Hump day got a delightful upgrade with Wine O'Clock Wednesday. Residents gathered to unwind, share laughter, and savor a selection of fine wines. The leasing office became a cozy setting for mingling, creating a perfect midweek break to relax and connect with friends, old and new.

Thursday, 11/16: Pie Day Extravaganza

Location: Leasing Office | Time: All Day

Who could resist a slice of pie? Thursday was Pie Day, and our leasing office was transformed into a pie haven with a variety of flavors to suit every taste. From classic apple to decadent pecan, residents indulged in a slice (or two!) and shared their favorite pie stories. It was a delightful treat for the taste buds and a great way to build a sense of community.

Saturday, 11/18: Furry Friends Meetup

Location: Community Dog Park | Time: 2 PM to 5 PM

For our furry friends and their owners, Saturday brought a Furry Friends Meetup at the community dog park. Neighbors gathered to let their dogs frolic and play, fostering a sense of community among pet owners. Laughter, wagging tails, and shared stories made this event a tail-wagging success.

Sunday, 11/19: Football Sunday Fun

Location: Leasing Office | Time: 1:30 PM to 3:30 PM

Closing out the week on a high note, we invite you to join us for Football Sunday Fun. Grab your favorite team gear and head to the leasing office for snacks, camaraderie, and, of course, football. It's the perfect way to cap off Friendsgiving Week and revel in the joy of community spirit.

As we reflect on the wonderful week we've shared, let's carry the spirit of Friendsgiving forward, building connections and making every day an opportunity to celebrate the warmth and togetherness that make our community truly special. Happy Friendsgiving, neighbors!

The Most Delicious Taco Spots in Fullerton, CA

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The Best Ways to Celebrate the Holidays in Fullerton, CA!

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Three Tips for Making Apartment Living with Pets Easy

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 20:46:00 GMT

The COVID-19 pandemic has sparked an increase in pet ownership, especially for apartment renters. According to a recent survey of 22,000 apartment and student-housing renters , 20 percent of non-pet owners planned to get a pet in 2021, and 26 percent of those who already had a pet planned to get another!

Are you planning on living with pets in an apartment? Here are three tips to make apartment living with pets easy.

1. Find the Right Apartment

First things first: You need to find a pet-friendly apartment complex. If you are looking for apartments that allow pets in Fullerton, California, we’ve got you covered. Uptown Fullerton Apartment Homes is a pet-friendly apartment community; we allow a variety of pets, including hamsters, guinea pigs, reptiles, birds, cats, and dogs up to 50 pounds. Other pets can be approved by management. In addition, we have a dog park and pet waste stations throughout the property, making it easy to play with your pets and clean up after them.

2. Organize, Organize, Organize

Being organized makes life easier, especially when caring for pets in limited space. Your pets might have a lot of food, supplies, and toys, so take some time to find a place for these things in your apartment. Keep the supplies in storage bins, store the food and snacks in air-tight containers, and put away toys that don’t need to be lying around.

Of course, you should also make room for your pets. Dogs often need to have their “ safe space ,” where they can be alone and rest, whether that is a crate, a dog bed, or a corner of the apartment. Cats prefer to be up high , so consider getting them a cat tower to play and rest on. Whatever your pets’ needs are, be sure to designate spaces for them.

3. Decorate Carefully

To make sure your pets stay safe and your apartment stays tidy, it’s essential to keep your pets in mind as you decorate . That means avoiding decorating with things that might break easily, using washable or stain-resistant fabrics, and not leaving things out that are harmful to pets, such as certain plants or items with chemicals.

These simple steps will make living in pet-friendly apartments with your pets so much easier. If you are still searching for apartments that allow pets, contact Uptown Fullerton today. We would be thrilled to welcome you and your pets!

Fullerton Spotlight: Fullerton Arboretum

Mon, 23 Aug 2021 18:57:00 GMT

Did you know that spending time in nature is good for you? Not only do you get the benefits of fresh air and vitamin D, but, according to ThriveGlobal , “Exposure to green space is associated with reduced symptoms of depression, anxiety, and ADHD; lower levels of inflammation and blood pressure; and improved immune system.” If a hike isn’t quite your speed, we’ve got a much easier day trip in mind for you:

A botanical collection of more than 4,000 plant species from around the world, the Fullerton Arboretum strives to provide visitors with the opportunity to learn about the plant world but also develop an appreciation for it through education and activities. Here’s some info on the history, accreditation, and offerings of this world-famous feature.

A Budding History

The original concept for the Fullerton Arboretum began on the California State College campus in 1970 when faculty, students, and staff began discussing the idea of developing a 26-acre parcel of land that was showing signs of decline. Fast forward to 1972 after the college became California State University, Fullerton . After lobbying from Fullerton residents, university trustees considered developing the first botanical garden of its kind on California university grounds. It was also at this time that an Arboretum Society was formed and began fundraising for the project.

In 1977, a formal groundbreaking was held following years of increasing public and university support, and two years later, a ribbon-cutting ceremony took place, though the grounds were already open to the public.

A new visitors center was constructed in 2004, containing classrooms, a museum, and a community-use pavilion, requiring the relocation of the nursery, plant propagation area, and other features.

Accreditation and Accolades

The ArbNet Accreditation Program defines a set of standards for the arboretum community and includes four levels of accreditation under the criteria of development, capacity, and professionalism. The Fullerton Arboretum was granted ArbNet’s level four accreditation in 2017, becoming one of 28 arboreta in the world to do so. This was due in part to its work as part of California State University on research, engaging with other institutions, and its extensive plant life collection and database.

Education and Events

The Fullerton Arboretum offers multiple educational classes , including composting, nature photography, and yoga in the garden. Fees for the classes go directly back into the arboretum’s educational programs, helping them to grow and develop. An Environmental Education Program for students in grades three through seven also offers hands-on experience for elementary-age students, and unlike other classes, is provided free of charge thanks to grant funding.

With so many beautiful plants waiting for you, the Fullerton Arboretum is just what you need to reap the benefits of nature. And if you’re looking for your own place to plant roots and grow, the experts at Uptown Fullerton Apartment Homes may be able to help. Contact us for more information today!

Best Summer Activities to Do in Fullerton, California

Thu, 29 Jul 2021 19:44:00 GMT

Do you find yourself in Fullerton in summer looking to make some lasting memories? It’s the perfect place for a good and varied time. OrangeCounty.net describes Fullerton as “a city of contrasts, having neither succumbed to urbanization nor retained its rural status.” As such, the city offers a wealth of summertime fun, either in Fullerton itself or a short drive away.

Are you looking for summer activities in Fullerton? Here are some of our favorite summer activities in Fullerton.

Farmers Markets

Fullerton is home to two weekly farmers markets.

Beaches

Fullerton doesn’t have its own beaches, but it’s a short drive to some of the best sandy coastline California has to offer. Some of our nearby favorites include the following:

Trails

If you’re interested in getting some exercise with your summer activities in Fullerton, you’re in luck: The city has a variety of trail systems for beginners and more advanced hikers and mountain bikers.

Outdoor Movies and Concerts

This summer in Orange County, the OC Parks Summer Concert Series and Sunset Cinema Film Series are back! From June 18 to September 10, there will be 10 free concerts and 13 free movie showings. The concerts will be on Thursdays at 5:00 p.m., with the music beginning at 6:00 p.m. The movie nights will be on Fridays at 6:00 p.m., with the movie beginning at sundown. Visit the website to see a schedule of the events.

If you’re looking for something to do, Fullerton offers a wealth of summertime fun, either inside the city itself or a short drive away. Whether you’re heading to farmers markets, enjoying a day at the beach, hiking on some of the city’s miles of trails, and attending outdoor movies and concerts, or something else entirely, you’re sure to enjoy your time here. If all that is enough to make you consider making Fullerton your new home, give us a call: Uptown Fullerton Apartment Homes offers one- and two-bedroom apartments for rent in Fullerton, California.

Don’t Miss Out on This Easy Way to Increase Your Credit Score

Tue, 22 Jun 2021 16:24:00 GMT

Looking to increase your credit score? Don’t worry—you don’t have to take out and then meticulously pay back a loan. You can just pay rent online!

It may sound too simple, but check this out: In 2017, TransUnion studied 12,000 renters who reported their rent payments to credit bureaus over the course of a year. The study found that renters’ scores rose an average of 16 points within six months, and the benefit was greatest for those who started with a credit score below 620.

So try paying your rent online and see what it does to your credit score. When you pay online,

your payments are reported, it shows credit bureaus what they are looking for, and it can combine with credit card payments to increase your score even more. Here’s how.

Get Your Payments Reported

How does paying your rent lead to improving your credit score?

“Simply paying your rent will not help you build credit,” says Bev O’Shea at NerdWallet. “But reporting your rent payments can help you build credit—especially if you are new to credit or do not have a lot of experience using it.”

That’s one of the reasons we at Uptown Fullerton offer an online rental payment system that reports information to the credit bureaus. Credit bureaus receive a record of your on-time rental payments, which contributes to your good credit.

Show Credit Bureaus What They Are Looking For

If you’re wondering how rental payments factor into a credit score, keep reading. First, let’s talk about what goes into a credit score in general. For one example, Experian determines credit scores through the following elements :

When you pay rent online, those payments become part of your payment history. As you pay on time and in full and continue to do so, that contributes to your score, too.

Use a Credit Card Specifically for Rental Payments

Here’s a great tip: “Open a credit card and use it to pay your rent . . . then pay your credit card balance in full each month,” says LaToya Irby, credit expert for The Balance. “The timely credit card payments will help boost your credit score.”

You may have seen people use a credit card exclusively to pay for gas so they can get rewards points, and this is a similar principle: paying your rent with a credit card just for the credit boost! You don’t have to pay your rent with a credit card, but it can increase your credit score in combination with the benefits of paying your rent online.

Increase your credit score by paying your rent online through the resident portal . You’ll get your payments reported and look good to the credit bureaus. And if you use a credit card exclusively for rent, you may see even more of a boost. Best wishes in your journey towards the best credit score of your life!

Moving to Fullerton? Consider the Eco-Friendly Apartments at Uptown Fullerton

Thu, 27 May 2021 21:29:00 GMT

Every year in the United States, we waste 1.7 trillion gallons of water. Washing dishes, showering, flushing toilets, washing clothes, and watering yards are everyday household activities that use significant amounts of water. Currently, 3.6 billion people live in areas where the clean water supply is scarce. Southern California is one of the many areas that can face severe droughts.

Here at Uptown Fullerton Apartment Homes , we want to do all we can to protect the environment and promote sustainable living by preserving water and reducing unnecessary waste. Here are some ways to live eco-friendly at the Uptown Fullerton Apartment Homes.

Reduce Water Consumption

Since Fullerton is prone to droughts, we do all we can to use water sparingly. Our property has eco-friendly, drought-tolerant landscaping, which means we use plants, such as succulents, that don’t require much water. We also installed a drip irrigation system and replaced some grass and mulch areas with beautiful stone. This allows us to save thousands of gallons of water each year!

Indoors, we live eco-friendly by saving on water with our advanced plumbing system. Standard toilets use about 3.5 gallons of water each time they flush, but not ours! We have low-flow toilets , which use up to 20 percent less water. Each low-flow toilet can save up to 13,000 gallons of water each year.

Reduce Paper and Plastic

We go paperless at Uptown Fullerton Apartment Homes by making everything—rent payments, service requests, applications, and notices—online. Not only is this convenient for our residents, but it eliminates the need for unnecessary paper waste.

In our community, we strive to provide quality services to help make your life as a resident a little easier. Visit our new resident portal to pay your rent online, enter a maintenance service request, browse our calendar for upcoming activities, and much more!

In addition to going paperless, we have a water bottle refill station on the property, encouraging residents to be eco-friendly, and significantly reducing the waste from plastic water bottles.

Recycle

One of the best ways to be eco-friendly is to recycle. We have recycling bins around our property, and we encourage our residents to recycle in their homes. Recyclable items include plastic bottles and containers, empty cans, paper, and flattened cardboard. Food, liquid, plastic bags, plastic wrap, or cups with wax or plastic coating are not recyclable.

Here in Fullerton, you can take your recycling to Fullerton Recycling . This small change in habit can make a big difference for our planet.

We’re Excited to Announce Organic Waste Recycling!

Organic waste recycling will be coming soon to our local community, and we can’t wait to participate! This initiative will help keep millions of pounds of food waste out of landfills and turn them into compost and renewable natural gas. You can learn more about organic waste recycling here . We’ll keep you up to date as this program expands throughout the state.

We want to do everything we can to take care of the environment and practice eco-friendly habits. If you are looking for an apartment complex that cares as much about the earth as you do, Uptown Fullerton Apartment Homes is the perfect place for you!

AMC Holds Memorial Tree Planting to Honor the Lives of Three Outstanding Employees

Fri, 21 May 2021 03:30:00 GMT

On Thursday, April 22, three AMC properties held memorial tree planting services to celebrate the lives of three beloved and outstanding employees: Salvador Saenz (Serena Vista Apartments in Fountain Valley), Efren Diaz (Countrywood Apartments in Redlands), and Tuesday Beard (Lakewood Manor Apartments in Lakewood).

Salvador was an incredible individual. For 12 years, he came to work with a positive attitude and a smile on his face. He was always willing to lend a helping hand. From carrying our residents’ groceries to assisting them with their needs, Salvador lived a life of excellence and kindness.

Efren graced our company with his friendly personality, contagious smile, and strong values. His dedication to our residents shone through his actions and words. He was considered the heart and soul of every job because he had no enemies—only brothers, sisters, and friends—and he was an example to us all.

Tuesday Beard was a talented, kind, and dedicated woman loved by every member of her team at Lakewood. After she was hired as a leasing consultant in December of 2017, she quickly gained the recognition she deserved for her hard work and dedication to the community when she won Leasing Consultant of the Year for 2018.

These individuals have positively impacted the lives of so many VIPs across several AMC properties. We are honored to have known and worked alongside them. The beautiful trees we planted are reminders of the amazing legacy they left with us. May we cherish their memory always. Thank you, Salvador, Efren, and Tuesday, for your wonderful examples and kind spirits.

The post AMC Holds Memorial Tree Planting to Honor the Lives of Three Outstanding Employees appeared first on Uptown Fullerton Apartment Homes .

Looking for Apartments to Rent in Fullerton? You’ve Come to the Right Place

Wed, 05 May 2021 19:24:00 GMT

As summer approaches, excitement begins to build for beach days and amusement park trips. Especially when you know that Disneyland is scheduled to open in April and Knott’s Berry Farm is scheduled to open in May . But who wants to have to drive all the way to these exciting destinations when you can live just down the road from them? Fullerton’s close proximity to the beach, Disneyland, and Knott’s Berry Farm makes it the perfect place to live!

If you are looking for apartments for rent in Fullerton, then Uptown Fullerton Apartments might be the perfect place for you! Here’s why.

Excellent Amenities

Our amenities are focused on you and your family. We want our residents to love their time at home, which is why we offer a wide range of amenities for you to enjoy. Here are just a few of our most popular amenities:

These amenities are meant to provide you and your family with a fun and exciting time. Our residents love having fun things to do on our property and nearby. When it comes to apartments in Fullerton, you couldn’t ask for a better spot!

Pet-Friendly

One of the qualities we’re the proudest of is that we’re pet-friendly! We at Fullerton Apartments love your animals just as much as you do and provide two dog parks and the ability for you to keep your furry friends in your apartment with you. We know how much joy these little creatures bring to your life, and we wouldn’t have it any other way!

It’s hard to imagine a better place to live than Fullerton, California. And as far as apartments go, Uptown Fullerton is a pretty hard option to beat! With our entertaining amenities and pet-friendly atmosphere, Uptown Fullerton cares about you and making sure you have a wonderful place to live! Reach out today to see what apartments are available for you.

How to Achieve Your Goals

Mon, 15 Mar 2021 20:28:00 GMT

There’s a lot more to accomplishing your goals than simply writing them down and wishing them into existence. Not only do you have to put effort every day into achieving your goals, but you also have to make sure that they are achievable in the first place. Setting goals can be very beneficial to your mental health, productivity, and overall satisfaction in life.

However, we know it can be difficult to get started. Here are a few tips to help you set goals that you can actually achieve.

Define Your Expectations and Priorities

To achieve goals, you first need to create a few that you actually want to achieve. Start your goal-setting process by sitting down with yourself and thinking about what you most want to accomplish in your life. What is something you have always wanted to do? What can you do to make that happen?

By setting goals that you’re passionate about, even when you face roadblocks or find yourself unmotivated, your desire to succeed will help you keep going without giving up. The more your priorities align with your goals , the better.

Break Down Your Goals (Be Specific!)

Once you’ve decided on a goal that you’re passionate about, it’s time to break it down into actionable steps that you can take every day. Not only will this make working towards your goal more manageable, but it will also help ensure that everyday tasks won’t overshadow your long-term goals.

For example, if your long-term goal is to write a book, decide on small steps you can take to keep yourself motivated and working through the process. You could decide to write a page a day, sit down at your desk and write anything that comes to your mind for 15 minutes, or write a few hundred words a day. Play around with your process until you find something that works best for you.

Focus on Progress Instead of Perfection

It can be easy to expect too much from yourself and think you have to get everything right from the beginning. However, true success comes from progress rather than perfection . Not only does perfection not exist, but it can actually keep you from getting anything done, as the fear of failure causes you to procrastinate.

If you find yourself frozen in fear of failing, learn to take a break and recharge instead of procrastinating or giving up. Remind yourself that you are capable of great things, and do anything you can to work towards your goal, even if it’s just spending 15 minutes thinking about how you can reconfigure the steps you should take.

Your goals don’t have to be just ideas you daydream about and never achieve; they can become a reality. With these three things in mind, you will be set to do anything you set your mind to.

Supporting Local Restaurants in Fullerton

Mon, 22 Feb 2021 22:48:00 GMT

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, local businesses have struggled to make the profit they need to survive. With more people staying in and learning to cook from home, restaurants have been particularly affected by social distancing measures and stay-at-home orders. It is more imperative than ever for us to give some extra love to our favorite local restaurants. Their survival during this tough time is up to us.

Luckily, supporting local restaurants definitely doesn’t feel like a chore, especially when they are as delicious as our favorite places in Fullerton. Here are three of the best restaurants near Uptown Fullerton and how you can support them.

Order Some Food to Go

One of the best ways to support local restaurants while still maintaining social distancing is to order takeout. Restaurants have been working hard to ensure safety methods by enforcing masks and social distancing. You don’t have to put yourself at risk to enjoy a delicious meal with your roommates.

Our favorite Mexican restaurant in Fullerton, Pancho’s , is mouthwatering. Their street tacos will have you wanting more in no time, especially when paired with their guacamole or Mexican pizza appetizers. We love this place so much that we recommend it to anyone who asks.

Purchase Gift Cards

Another great way to support local restaurants is to purchase gift cards. Purchasing gift cards is especially helpful for the restaurants because it supports them up front. Plus, giving your loved ones gift cards is a great way to remind them you love and support them during a difficult time.

You can all bond with us over how delicious Summit House Restaurant is when you give your loved ones gift cards to enjoy. Not only is the food at Summit House incredible, but they have also outlined an entire COVID-19 prevention plan to keep their employees and customers safe. They care about the community, so we should do what we can to give back to them too.

Order Delivery

Many restaurants also offer convenient delivery options. Services like DoorDash and Grubhub make ordering online easy and effective for customers who don’t want to leave home to enjoy some delicious food.

Our favorite breakfast place in Fullerton is Eggspresso , which offers amazing avocado toast and creamy and rich coffee. They offer delivery through DoorDash and a convenient online ordering service that makes it easy to pick up a yummy breakfast to start your day off right. Whether you decide to order delivery or pick up your order, you won’t regret trying Eggspresso.

Supporting local restaurants is one of the best ways we can give back to our community during the COVID-19 pandemic. At Uptown Fullerton, we’re lucky to have so many delicious options available to us only a short drive away. If you end up trying any of our three suggestions, let us know! We’d love to hear from you.

Everything You Need to Know about Our Pet Policies at Uptown Fullerton

Thu, 24 Dec 2020 18:17:00 GMT

Pets are wonderful, and we all seem to realize it! According to the 2019–2020 National Pet Owners Survey conducted by the American Pet Products Association (APPA), 67 percent of US households own a pet, which amounts to about 85 million families. Clearly, Americans love our furry friends, and it’s easy to see why. Not only are they cute and cuddly, but pet ownership has been connected to countless health benefits as well.

At Uptown Fullerton, we provide pet-friendly apartments because we know how important they can be to the overall well-being of our residents. Keep reading to learn more about the pet-friendly policies we have in place to keep your furry friends happy and safe.

Our Pet-Friendly Amenities

First, let’s get into the amenities we provide for your pets. We are happy to offer a beautiful dog park and garden pathways for you and your pets to get the fresh air and exercise you need. To make this even easier for you, we have easily accessible Pet Waste Stations located throughout the property so you can get the uninterrupted quality time you crave. Our location is also ideal for a walk to and around Craig Regional Park , which is less than a mile away. So whether you keep to the community or want to broaden your horizons, there’s plenty of space to keep your pet active and happy.

Pet Policy Reminders

We know how important it is to create fair, pet-friendly policies. They help keep our pets safe while ensuring our residents feel respected and looked after. To that end, we ask that all dogs be kept on a leash when entering or exiting your apartment, as well as in the courtyards, parking structure, and grounds.

Our Pet Waste Stations are located conveniently throughout the property, so we ask that you be considerate of your neighbors and always pick up after your pet. This will further ensure your own enjoyment as well! Lastly, we request that you make sure your pet is registered with the office so we can provide you with any further care.

Pets of All Shapes and Sizes

Uptown Fullerton has a maximum pet weight limit of 50 pounds. We also have breed restrictions due to size and behavior traits. We are pleased to say that cats are welcome. The same goes for hamsters, guinea pigs, reptiles, birds, and other small pets, as long as they are caged and kept in a sanitary condition. Additional pets must be approved by management, and only authorized pets are allowed on the premises. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact us. We are more than happy to address them.

At Uptown Fullerton, we strive to provide a happy and well-balanced environment. This is why we are so pleased to provide you with pet-friendly policies and amenities to keep your pets happy and safe. We know your pets would love life in our community!

Keep Festivities Running Smoothly with Holiday Appliance Checkups

Fri, 13 Nov 2020 22:53:00 GMT

It’s the holiday season, bedecked with visions of intimate family gatherings and delicious meals. What we don’t want to see are problems with our most essential kitchen appliances. While you are making your holiday list and checking it twice, be sure to schedule a holiday appliance checkup to ensure your refrigerator, oven, and dishwasher are ready when you are. Here’s how.

Refrigerator

There’s nothing festive about a refrigerator that isn’t keeping its cool. According to the FDA , your fridge should maintain a temperature at or below 40 degrees Fahrenheit to keep food safe. Also, schedule time to clear out the entire fridge, then wipe down the shelves, walls, and drawers with a cleaning solution. We like to combine one tablespoon of baking soda with one quart of warm water. If possible, roll the refrigerator away from the wall to check the cords and tubing and vacuum away dust and dirt.

Stove Top/Oven

Whether it’s popping in a pan of weeknight macaroni and cheese or preparing the holiday feast, your oven and stovetop collect plenty of gunk (also known as microbes in more formal circles), which can contaminate your food. As part of your holiday appliances checkup, experts suggest wiping down your stove top daily and cleaning your oven every three months.

Dishwasher
Simple preventive appliance maintenance tips will keep your dishwasher smelling fresh and running efficiently. For an easy cleaning solution, add a dishwasher-safe cup of white vinegar, positioned upright on the top rack, then run the hot cycle. This will eliminate those pesky odors. Then, be sure to regularly remove the food particles collecting in the basket at the base.

Reach Out to Our Maintenance Crew

At Uptown Fullerton Apartments , we want your holiday celebrations to be as magical and memory-filled as you envision. To help ensure that seasonal magic, our on-site management and 24-hour maintenance teams are ready to help if you are having any sort of problems with your appliances. If you have discovered that your garbage disposal or a stove burner has quit working, simply visi t Uptown Fullerton’s Resident Portal and su bmit a work order. Our team will schedule a time for the repair, getting you back on track to holiday happiness.

Alleviate the additional stress of a broken appliance with simple holiday appliance checkups. Be sure to reach out to our maintenance team as soon as repairs are needed. The entire staff here at Uptown Fullerton Apartments sincerely wants your holiday wishes to come true this year!

Here Are Three Good Reasons Why You Should Rent

Tue, 27 Oct 2020 20:02:00 GMT

If you find yourself looking to rent an apartment, you are not alone! Over one million people are living in rented homes, apartments, and other properties around the country.

Renting is different for everyone, but everyone can benefit from renting instead of buying for a variety of reasons. If you are looking for a new place to live, here are three reasons why you should rent instead of buying.

You won’t pay for property maintenance and repairs.

Whether you choose an apartment or a townhome, it’s good to know that you’re taken care of— that someone else is responsible for making repairs . For example, at Uptown Fullerton Apartment Homes , our knowledgeable and friendly staff are trained and certified to make repairs. When you report that something is broken or in need of attention, our team will schedule a repair, ensuring that your home stays in tip-top shape. That’s much preferable to making a trip to the hardware store, isn’t it?

You can rebuild your financial history.

It’s been a challenging time for many of us. Unfortunately, financial hardship has been common among Americans. The good news is that more landlords are reporting rental payments that can improve your credit score.

“It’s increasingly common for credit reporting agencies to include positive rental history in consumer credit reports,” explains Christine DiGangi at credit.com. “Even in cases where your rent payments won’t get reported, the rent-credit relationship is important to consider.” Christina points out that we need good credit to rent an apartment, and paying rent on time can help you build better credit.

You’ll enjoy flexible living arrangements.

If your circumstances make it difficult to make a long-term commitment to a living situation, renting an apartment is a wise choice. Maybe you would like to check out a new community to see if you like it before you purchase a home, or perhaps your job requires you to relocate your family for a temporary stay. There are plenty of rental property options for any situation.

Here’s some exciting news: While we aren’t eager to say goodbye at Uptown Fullerton Apartment Homes, we do want to be sure that you are taken care of wherever you go. That’s why we instated our loyalty bonus: If you move from Uptown Fullerton Apartment Homes to another AMC property or vice versa, we’ll give you $250 to help you hit the ground running.

With a difference in costs, less responsibility, and more freedom, it’s easy to see why more and more people are choosing to rent. At Uptown Fullerton Apartment Homes, we want to make coming home the best part of your day; give us a visit and see for yourself why you should rent.

Three Fall Foods to Pick Up at Your Local Farmers Market

Sun, 20 Sep 2020 23:39:00 GMT

What comes to mind when you think of fall? Crunchy leaves? Hay rides? How about crisp apples, cider, and mountains of squash and pumpkins? That’s especially true in California, which produces more than 200 types of crops and beats out the rest of the states in farm income .

With fall finally in swing in California, fruit stands and farmers markets are going to start looking a little different. Now’s a great time to hit up a farmers market in Fullerton for some fresh fall foods. Here are some of the fall staples you should look out for at your local farmers market.

Produce

The first thing you picture when you think of a farmers market is likely the produce, and for good reason. California grows at least 90 percent of the artichokes, garlic, celery, kiwis, and plums in the US. With fall upon us, expect to start seeing an abundance of hearty greens (collard greens, spinach, and cabbage), root vegetables (carrots, turnips, rutabagas, and beets), and sturdy winter squash. October is also the end of corn’s peak season , so get it while you can!

And of course, apples. Lots and lots of apples.

Baked Goods

Not only will you find fall foods fresh from the fields and orchards, but you’ll find foods fresh from the oven. Fruit pies, cinnamon rolls, pretzels, bagels, cookies, cupcakes, and brownies are just some of the baked foods you’ll likely see at the local farmers market ! And with apples being in abundance, expect to see plenty of apple-based treats. As the weather cools down, a warm pastry will hit the spot!

Condiments, Sauces, and Canned Goods

“Fresh” is the key word when it comes to the fall foods at the farmers market, but many of the goods for sale can be enjoyed for months after purchase. Handmade jams, condiments, salsas, and sauces are sure to delight, as are the canned fruits and vegetables made using locally grown produce.

California autumns produce more than fun and entertainment; they also yield plenty of delicious food to enjoy! So go ahead: Explore fall foods at the farmers market as the season begins! Whether you go to the nearby Fullerton Certified Farmers Market , Thacker Berry Farms , or somewhere out of the city, you’re sure to find delicious tastes of fall.a

The Top Reason to Pay Your Rent Online

Wed, 19 Aug 2020 19:42:00 GMT

If you’re looking for ways to build your credit score, we have some great news: Paying rent online can do just that! In 2017, TransUnion studied 12,000 renters who reported their rent payments to credit bureaus over the period of a year. The study found that within six months, the credit scores of the renters improved by 16 points on average. The renters who saw the biggest improvements had beginning credit scores of below 620.

If you’d like to see a similar increase to your credit score, try paying your rent online. Doing so makes sure your rent payments are reported, gives credit bureaus valuable information, and can combine with credit card payments for more score gains. Read on for more information.

Makes Sure Your Rent Payments are Reported

“Simply paying your rent will not help you build credit,” says Bev O’Shea at NerdWallet. “But reporting your rent payments can help you build credit–especially if you are new to credit or do not have a lot of experience using it.”

So how can you be sure that your payments are reported to the credit bureaus? At Uptown Fullerton , we utilize an online rental payment system that does just that! From us, the credit bureaus receive a record of your on-time rental payments, which contribute to your good credit. In order to opt in for the credit reporting, follow these steps:

Gives Credit Bureaus Valuable Information

What actually goes into a credit score, and does paying rent online contribute? Experian, for example, determines credit scores through the following elements :

When you choose to pay rent online, those payments become part of your payment history. As you pay on time and in full each month, that valuable information becomes part of your score, too.

Combines with Credit Card Payments for More Score Gains

To add even more gains to your score, consider using a credit card every time you pay your rent online. “Open a credit card and use it to pay your rent . . . then pay your credit card balance in full each month,” says LaToya Irby, credit expert for The Balance. “The timely credit card payments will help boost your credit score.” You don’t have to pay your rent online with a credit card, but it can be a nice little boost to your credit score in conjunction with the benefits of paying your rent online.

Give your credit score a boost by paying your rent online through the resident portal . As you do so, you’ll make sure your rent payments are reported, giving them the valuable information they need. Plus, if you choose to pay rent with a credit card, you may see additional gains to your score! Happy credit-score-boosting!

Nearby Dog Beaches Your Pup Will Love This Summer

Thu, 23 Jul 2020 20:48:00 GMT

Are you and your pup feeling a little cooped up? It’s nothing a little California beach time won’t fix! There are some great dog beaches near Fullerton that will accommodate you and your furry friend so you can both soak up the sun! Here are some great options to check out:

Corona Del Mar State Beach

This beautiful beach in Newport is the perfect place to bring your dog to enjoy the beach, waves, and sunshine. Visit Corona Del Mar State Beach any time before 10 a.m. or after 4:30 p.m. to be within the designated pet hours. There’s plenty to do there with your dog! Go on a walk together, watch the sunrise or sunset, or enjoy some safe swimming thanks to the jetties. Dogs do need to be on a leash (six feet or less) at all times.

Main Beach Park, Laguna Beach

Main Beach Park in Laguna Beach is another dog-friendly beach. Dogs are welcome all year long, but during summertime (specifically June 15 to September 10), dog hours are before 9 a.m. and after 6 p.m. During the rest of the year, dogs can stop by at any time of day. Dogs always need to be on a leash when at Laguna Beach.

Huntington Dog Beach

U.S. News & World Report named Huntington Dog Beach as one of the “Best Dog-Friendly Beaches in the U.S.” This 1.5-mile beach is situated between Seapoint Avenue and 21st Street along the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH). There aren’t any pet hour restrictions here either—enjoy the beach year-round from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. Also, have a great time with your dog at some unique annual events such as Surf City Surf Dog Competition and Corgi Beach Day !

There are plenty of great options for dog beaches near Fullerton! So, get out of quarantine with your favorite furball and explore California’s exquisite dog beaches! It might just be the perfect way to recharge yourself (and your pup) during these stressful times.

Clean Up the Beach for a Fun, Memorable Day!

Thu, 09 Jul 2020 22:27:00 GMT

Consider the magnitude of this statement by explorer Jacques Cousteau: “The very survival of the human species depends upon the maintenance of an ocean clean and alive, spreading all around the world. The ocean is our planet’s life belt .”

Here at Uptown Fullerton Apartments, we take our beaches seriously and want to do our part to keep them healthy and beautiful! Each summer, our AMC family and friends join together for a beach and park cleanup in Fullerton or surrounding cities. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, things will look a little different this year.

On July 25, we’re asking everyone to head down to their favorite beach or park and conduct their own beach cleanup with their immediate household. If we all do our part, collectively, we’ll make a big impact on the health of our world. Plus, being outdoors with those closest to us will make for a fun and memorable day!

Additional Benefits of Keeping our Beaches Clean

Whether you clean up nearby Ted Craig Regional or Mountain View Parks or take a trip to Seal or Sunset Beaches, you’re making the world a healthier and more beautiful place. As an added bonus, it makes for a pretty great workout—both physically and emotionally.

“There is satisfaction to say, ‘I removed ten pounds of trash from my beach,’” says Kara Lavender Law, a research oceanography professor. “Even if it’s only ten pounds, that’s ten pounds that isn’t going to go into the open ocean.”

Beyond protecting wildlife, “clean beaches provide economic benefit to local communities in the form of tourism dollars,” says Laura Parker at National Geographic . “In southern California, researchers calculated that in Orange County alone that potential could translate into $46 million in just one summer.”

What You’ll Need on July 25

Now that you’ve saved the date, it’s time to gather supplies for the beach and park cleanup in Fullerton !

Don’t forget to stay hydrated by bringing along your reusable water bottle! Also, a few protein-packed snacks can help fuel your energy for the day!

Play it Safe

WIth COVID-19 considerations, you may wish to limit your group to those within your immediate household. If you do decide to invite other friends and family members to your cleanup, keep this advice from the CDC in mind: “When guests arrive, minimize gestures that promote close contact. For example, don’t shake hands, do elbow bumps, or give hugs. Instead wave and verbally greet them.” In keeping with California’s mask mandate , wear your mask when social distancing of six feet is not possible.

Cleaning up beaches and parks really makes a difference and is a fun and memorable summer activity. So join us for our beach and park cleanup in Fullerton on July 25 or anytime during the month of July! Tag Uptown Fullerton Apartments in your photos and use the hashtags #AMCcleanup and #livehappy. We can’t wait to see the difference you make to our beaches and parks in this beautiful state!

Use These 4 Mobile Apps to Stay Mentally Fit

Tue, 30 Jun 2020 21:15:00 GMT

We all practice self-care in different ways. For some, self-care means going for a run in Craig Regional Park. For others, it means chowing down on good food or taking a soak with a bath bomb. Whatever self-care looks like for you, consider adding a mental health regimen to that definition. You can easily boost your mental fitness by incorporating one or more of these four mobile apps to your daily schedule.

1. Headspace keeps you centered.

We’ve all had moments where we start to feel overwhelmed and just need to take a break. When that happens, it’s easy to zone out and scroll through Facebook or play a mindless smartphone game. Why not instead take three minutes to clear your mind and calm your spirit? Headspace helps you do just that. The app features guided meditations that begin at just one minute in length but can go up. You can even select a focus for your meditation depending on whatever you’re going through at the moment. Whether you’re feeling anxious or just need help waking up, Headspace has meditations for you. Try it out for free on Android or iOS .

2. Down Dog keeps you flexible.

Were you meaning to get into yoga before quarantine hit? After all, you’ve heard about the health benefits. According to Harvard Health, the scientific study of yoga has shown that “ mental and physical health are not just closely allied, but are essentially equivalent .” Well, don’t you fret; the studios may be closed, but you can practice yoga in the comfort of your own home, socially distanced and comfortable. Down Dog offers both free content as well as in-app purchases and welcomes users of all skill levels. Once on the app, you can customize your yoga practices and follow guided videos or simply practice to the sound of calming background audio tracks. From the simple to the advanced, Down Dog has you covered .

3. Myfitnesspal keeps you balanced.

Our mental and physical health are tied together. But that’s not just limited to how you exercise—it includes how you eat. If you need a little help making sure your diet is balanced and doing your body and mind good, check out myfitnesspal . The app also includes features to help you establish and stick to exercise routines.

4. OLIO keeps you social and resourceful.

Isolation has been rough on all of us. If you’re looking for a way to be social without breaking state instructions, OLIO can help. The app allows users to connect with their immediate community to share food and other household items. What may be taking up space in your pantry could be a tremendous blessing to others in need. Put that unwanted food or excess toiletries to use where they’re needed most.

Your mental fitness is just as important as your physical health. If you’re struggling to find ways to improve your mental health, give one of these four apps a try. You’re sure to see improvement in your overall sense of well-being and happiness.

3 Things to Avoid at the Beach This Summer

Wed, 17 Jun 2020 03:29:00 GMT

Ready for some time at the beach? Who isn’t? But before venturing out to any of California’s beautiful beaches, keep in mind that this is a unique summer season. Check this list , which is regularly updated, to see which beaches are currently open. Also, with our need to socially distance these days, here are three things to avoid at the beach this summer:

1. Crowds

Our California beaches are beautiful, relaxing places enjoyed by many. This means that things can become crowded, especially at our more well-known destinations, such as Huntington and Newport Beaches—also some of Uptown Fullerton’s closest ones! Current guidelines direct you to stay at least six feet apart from people living outside your immediate household . Masks are required at some beaches, so do your research on the current guidelines so you can come prepared. Also, consider going to one of California’s lesser-known beaches —again, check this list to see if the beach of your choice is open .

2. Beach Sports

If you’re used to playing volleyball or frisbee with other beach-goers, you may want to reconsider—unless you all live within the same household. We are still learning about the transmission of COVID-19 , so it’s safest to avoid these group sports. Instead, engage in beach activities that don’t require direct contact with others such as walking, surfing, or swimming. There’s plenty you can do to still enjoy the beach while also helping to slow the spread of the disease.

3. Food-Sharing

Bringing food to share at the beach, like a bag of potato chips or trail mix, is part of the experience! But, with COVID-19, you may want to cut down on this practice for a bit, as germs spread quickly by mouth . That’s not to say you can’t still bring food to share. Just do a little prep-work ahead of time and have each person’s portion individually wrapped. If you need ideas for the perfect foods to bring to the beach, check out this list . And enjoy your beach picnic!

Even though this summer is a little different than we expected, we can still have a great time enjoying California’s beautiful beaches and weather. By avoiding crowds, beach sports, and food-sharing, you’ll be doing your part to promote good health within your family and California!

Five Tips for Preserving Clean Air in Your Apartment

Fri, 29 May 2020 18:39:00 GMT

How clean is the air inside your home? According to the EPA, indoor air pollution is in the top five environmental dangers . The EPA estimates that indoor air can have nearly five times the amount of pollutants as outdoor air—and some homes may face up to 100 times more!

In honor of National Clean Air Month, here are five ways you can improve the air quality in your apartment.

1. Open the Windows

Opening your windows and doors is a great way to let some clean air in! Even just a few minutes can circulate enough fresh air to not only cut down on the contaminants in your air but also help you cut back on cooling costs.

5. Reduce VOCs

Did you know that many furniture items and cleaning supplies can create pollutants in the air in your apartment? These pollutants are called volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and are linked to both mild and serious health complications. Selecting high-quality furniture and textiles manufactured with natural ingredients (that declare low VOC levels) help to reduce your exposure to these VOCs. In addition, consider making your own natural cleaning products . They are safe, clean well, and both your health and wallet will thank you!

3. Run an Air Purifier

An air purifier is another great way to improve your air quality . Air purifiers help to sanitize allergens and toxins from the air. Certain versions also filter particles out of the air. If you use an air purifier, make sure it is large enough to reach all of the air in the room it’s in. You may need multiple units in your home or a larger unit to benefit your entire apartment and provide clean air.

4. Diffuse Essential Oils

It may be time to purchase a diffuser! Diffusers can help clean your apartment air as essential oils have been shown to hinder the growth bacteria in the air . Along with having fresh air, you’ll also be able to enjoy the other benefits of essential oils, like stress reduction and pleasant scents .

5. Keep Houseplants

You may want to consider adding some houseplants that clean air to your apartment’s decor. A number of houseplants have been shown to effectively remove toxins —like formaldehyde and benzene—from the air. Pick a plant variety that will thrive in the natural light conditions that are present in your home, and be aware that certain plants could be harmful to pets and children. Do your research and be selective based on your circumstances!

Cleaner air is the beginning to a healthier you! By implementing these five steps, you can enjoy cleaner air this month and all year long!

The Negative Effects of Sun Exposure

Thu, 28 May 2020 19:06:00 GMT

That lovely summer suntan has definitely become iconic of beauty in popular culture. But don’t go running for the beach without preparation. Despite its desirable look, each time the sun bronzes your skin, it’s actually a sign of damage . Here are some of the negative effects of sun exposure, and why you should prioritize sunscreen when heading out for summer fun:

1. Premature Skin Aging

Fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots—oh my! If you’re seeing these effects years before you think you ought to, sun exposure may be to blame. The UV rays can really speed up your skin’s aging process , as well as adding extra pigments (freckles and age spots) or unwanted textures (tough and leathery) to your skin.

2. Sunburns

Getting a sunburn is a pain—literally! After a fun day in the sun, it’s such a disappointment to find your skin turning red on you. Plus, you’ll often deal with peeling, maybe even blistering, and (of course) the unwanted swimsuit lines that make you wear your regret, sometimes for the rest of the season. Sunburns are also a sign that you’ve had an intense amount of sun exposure. Each sunburn raises your chances of skin cancer , and sunburns early in life seem to be a greater predictor of the cancer risk.

3. Skin Cancer

When the sun is shining down on you, it is exposing you to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. These UV rays have the power to actually change (or mutate) the genetic material in your cells . These mutations are what ultimately lead to skin cancer. This is a very serious condition that, if not treated early enough, can be deadly. Fortunately, skin cancer is also the most preventable type of cancer if you limit direct sun exposure.

Be mindful of how much sun exposure you are getting and weigh the benefits of bronzed skin with the risks of long-term effects. With aging skin, sunburn, and skin cancer all on the table, we would all do well to protect ourselves. Minimize your risks of these outcomes by wearing sunscreen proudly, reapplying often, wearing sun-protective clothing, and seeking shade whenever you can.

5 Tips for Preserving Clean Air in Your Apartment

Thu, 28 May 2020 05:50:00 GMT

According to the EPA, indoor air pollution is in the top five environmental dangers . The EPA estimates that indoor air can have nearly five times the amount of pollutants as outdoor air—and some homes may face up to 100 times more!

In honor of National Clean Air Month, here are five ways you can improve the air quality in your apartment.

1. Open the Windows

5. Reduce VOCs

3. Run an Air Purifier

4. Diffuse Essential Oils

5. Keep Houseplants

Cleaner air is the beginning to a healthier you! By implementing these five steps, you can enjoy cleaner air this month and all year long!

5 Ways to Stay Sane When Working at Home with Kids

Wed, 29 Apr 2020 22:02:00 GMT

As a parent, sanity is a double-edged sword; you need to address your needs and the needs of your children to make it through any lockdown while maintaining a happy, healthy, and productive home. The task is even more difficult when you’ve still got eight hours of remote work to get in every day. Here are five secrets to keeping kids busy while working from home.

1. Humor them.

They love you—they just need to feel included in your office setup. If your kids are old enough to entertain themselves with coloring books or Play-Doh, give them their own corner or pillow-fort “cubicle.” You can even set up a tiny desk for them to get their “work” done while you focus on yours.

2. Stick to a schedule.

If your kids are at home for school closures, you need to fill the vacuum of school structure with your own. They’re used to lunch, recess, storytime, and naptime at certain times each day. Replicate that at home whenever possible, or create your own day plan and commit to it. (“No snacks right now; we’re coloring first.”)

3. Set up a canteen.

If you provide your kids with a reward system, they’ll have no problem adopting it—provided your rewards are something they’d really want. That can mean snacks and treats in the pantry, video game time, to Netflix time, or even the Wi-Fi password. Assign these rewards to tasks like chores, good deeds, and take-home assignments from school. If you’re feeling really adventurous, you can even involve fake currency like board game tokens or Monopoly money.

4. Choose a breakroom.

Your office had a break room; your home needs one as well. It can be your breakfast nook, a chair by the window, or your apartment terrace. Even just escaping to your bedroom (no kids allowed) and locking the door for 10 minutes can do wonders to mentally reset before diving back into work.

5. Dress for success.

No need to put on full tux and tails, but putting on pants is always a good start to a productive day working from home. Dressing in business casual sends a message to your little ones that you may be home, but you’re still at work. It also provides that subtle psychological jumpstart for yourself to kick off the workday like any other.

Working from home takes discipline. But so does parenting. Working from home with kids can work if you let it. If you establish a system that keeps everyone at home happy and productive, that precious sanity will soon follow.

5 Tips to Help You Adjust to Working From Home

Thu, 23 Apr 2020 05:02:00 GMT

If you’ve recently found yourself transitioning from in-office work to remote work, you are not alone! As you are navigating these new working conditions, here are five tips to help you to adjust to working from home:

1. Get to know your tools.

There are so many great tools to help you work remotely right now. Many are even offering free or discounted services during the coronavirus pandemic. Now is the time to test these premium tools while they are affordable. You may find that some aren’t worth your future money, while others are worth every penny. You may even find new ways of using these services once you’re back in the office. Here’s a list of five premium services for remote work that you can try for free to get you started.

2. Set realistic expectations and reach out.

If you’re just now getting acquainted with remote work, you may be experiencing increased productivity—or the exact opposite. Be aware that eight hours in an office doesn’t equate to eight hours locked in a room by yourself in terms of work output. Try to gauge your workday in terms of accomplishments instead of hours while also being honest with your employer about this. Figure out realistic expectations for yourself and be open with your team. There’s a good chance they’re going through similar challenges—they’ll probably have some good ideas to help you adapt.

3. Maintain balance in your non-work life.

When you change your whole work routine from in-office to remote work, you’re switching up more than your work life. It can impact all of your other routines as well. Examine your former in-office day-to-day routine and compare it with your new schedule. How have your work hours changed? Have those changes altered your sleep schedule? Do you eat more or less nutritious food now that you are home? Identify which changes are good (keep those) and which ones are detrimental to your health or productivity (revise those). Keep evaluating and adjusting your routine until your work and non-work routines feel balanced to you.

4. Let your space dictate the activity.

When you are doing so many different activities (think working, eating, exercising, and sleeping) in a single space, it can be exhausting. It generates a lot of clutter and mental disorganization, which can be stressful. By designating a separate space for each activity, you’ll have to physically get up and move to the next task. Plus, you won’t have to spend the time to clean up one activity to move to the next. For example, if you work at a desk instead of at the kitchen table, all of your work tools stay tidy on the desk instead of being sprawled all over the house. Designated physical spaces for each activity will automatically keep your space—and head—focused on the task at hand.

5. Be patient.

Change is hard for most people. Transplanting your entire work routine from the office to your apartment is a HUGE change. Accept that there’s going to be a learning curve. You may have some pretty frustrating situations to work through, but don’t discount the potential for this change to bring real benefits into your life either. Ease into it and see how it goes. Try to embrace this as a learning opportunity and see how your unique personality and talents complement or contrast this new working style. Take a deep breath, and be open to new possibilities.

Take heart! This is a great opportunity to explore this new setting and to see how your work-self enjoys it. With the right combination of tools, expectations, balance, space, and patience, you’ll be set up to succeed!

Looking for the Recipe to Healthy and Happy Living? Try Being More Kind.

Thu, 26 Mar 2020 23:18:00 GMT

Kindness. We just can’t get enough of it. Millions of us click on viral posts of random acts online: people proudly post images of the exorbitant tip left to an unsuspecting waitress or videos of a rescue team saving a horse from drowning. Even today’s workplaces are exploring the emotional effects of kind acts among coworkers.

“Office culture can be cutthroat and competitive, leading to hurtful criticism, lack of collaboration, and miscommunication,” says Dr. Pragya Agarwal . “However, now we are increasingly talking about wellbeing in the workplace, and bringing an authentic quality to our work, being gentle with ourselves, and with others around us.”

Research shows kindness and well-being are closely linked. Although the benefits to the recipients of kind acts are evident, science is uncovering connections between kindness and one’s health and overall happiness.

If you need an incentive to take the high road when you interact with people, here are four healthy and happy rewards for choosing kindness.

1. Improves Heart Health

There’s a reason why kind people are known for having big hearts—literally. According to Dr. David R. Hamilton , the emotional reaction to acts of kindness release the hormone oxytocin.

“Oxytocin causes the release of a chemical called nitric oxide in blood vessels, which dilates (expands) the blood vessels,” explains Hamilton. “This reduces blood pressure and therefore oxytocin is known as a ‘cardioprotective’ hormone because it protects the heart (by lowering blood pressure).” So it seems science proves that having a heart is actually good for it, too.

How can you reap these heart-health benefits? Plenty of studies have shown that social support is associated with better health, including cardiovascular health. So get out there in the community, make friends with your neighbors, and see how it benefits your heart—emotionally and physically.

2. Reduces the Risk of Depression

A study headed by Stephen Post of Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine found that when we share our time, resources, and other selfless acts, everything from life satisfaction to self-realization and physical health is significantly improved. Mortality is delayed, depression is reduced, and wellbeing and good fortune are increased.

At Cedars-Sinai , scientists are studying the links between kindness and increased dopamine levels. As dopamine is known for elevating feelings of euphoria, research is focused on the effects dopamine has on mental health.

“Mindfulness-based therapy is becoming increasingly popular for treating depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions,” say doctors at Cedars-Sinai. “The therapy is built on mindfulness meditation, documenting your gratitude, and acts of kindness. People being treated in a mindfulness-based therapy program incorporate acts of kindness into their daily routines.”

Essentially, practicing kindness increases your dopamine levels, which ultimately helps improve your overall happiness and health.

3. Reduces Anxiety

In a study published by the University of British Columbia Study , a test group comprised of highly anxious individuals performed at least six acts of kindness a week. After one month, there was a significant increase in positive moods and relationship satisfaction, as well as a decrease in social avoidance in socially anxious individuals. The act itself didn’t need to be big to be effective. Kind acts took larger forms like donating to a favorite charity and small gestures such as putting a quarter in a stranger’s parking meter that was about to expire.

“We found that any kind act appeared to have the same benefit, even small gestures like opening a door for someone or saying ‘thanks’ to the bus driver,” says Dr. Lynn Alden, who led the study. “Kindness didn’t need to involve money or time-consuming efforts, although some of our participants did do such things. Kindness didn’t even need to be ‘face to face.’”

In other words, it isn’t the size of the act that promotes happy feelings but the act itself. When anxiety creeps in, try being more kind. Doing so can help reduce your anxious feelings and replace them with positive ones.

4. May Extend Your Lifespan

Some experts believe one of the keys to a long life is our social network. “What we call loneliness—the feeling that you have no one to turn to, that no one understands you—is a form of stress,” explains Health.com writer Ray Hainer . “And if it becomes chronic, it can wreak havoc on your blood vessels and heart.” With heart disease being the number one killer among Americans, the connection between improved heart health and avoiding stress contributes to a longer life.

Socializing with purpose also has healthy effects. “People who volunteer tend to experience fewer aches and pains,” writes Christine Carter in her book Raising Happiness; In Pursuit of Joyful Kids and Happier Parents. “People 55 and older who volunteer for two or more organizations have an impressive 44% lower likelihood of dying early, and that’s after sifting out every other contributing factor, including physical health, exercise, gender, habits like smoking, marital status and many more. This is a stronger effect than exercising four times a week or going to church.”

Looking for a new strategy for better health and happiness? Try kindness. Studies show that performing kind acts have a positive effect on everything from reducing depression and anxiety to longevity. “We all seek a path to happiness,” says Dr. Waguih William IsHak, a professor of psychiatry at Cedars-Sinai . “Practicing kindness toward others is one we know works.”

The Surprisingly Wonderful Benefits of Rental Living

Tue, 25 Feb 2020 20:36:00 GMT

If you are considering moving into an apartment, you are not alone. Experts estimate there are just over 43 million renter-occupied housing units in the US. And while renters are renting for a variety of reasons, there are some common perks that renters enjoy.

Here are four of the most common benefits of rental living.

1. Location, location, location

Sometimes, the easiest way to live close to the communities you frequent isn’t to buy property, but to rent. “Renters can live virtually anywhere—a tiny apartment in Greenwich Village or a townhouse in Queens,” says professor of economics Teresa Ghilarducci . “Homeowners are more restricted to neighborhoods they can afford.”

There are certainly times when paying rent over is more expensive than paying a mortgage. For example, many renters will see their lease increase the moment their contract is up for renewal. But in some cases, experts say there are financial advantages to renting in desired locations rather than trying to buy property. “If you live in a market where you can rent an apartment for substantially less per month than you could own a home, you can invest the difference,” explains David Weliver , founder of Money Under 30. “The difference doesn’t have to be huge.”

Weliver presented an example like this: If you compare $1,000 rent per month versus a $1,300 mortgage payment on a comparable home, that generates $3,600 each year that you can save or invest. “And, unlike home equity, those savings are liquid,” added Weliver. “You can use them to build an emergency fund, pay down student loan debt, or fund a retirement account. None of which you can do with home equity.”

2. Awesome amenities

Most of us haven’t included installing an in-ground pool on our to-do list. But that doesn’t mean we wouldn’t enjoy having access to recreational amenities like a swimming pool, a fitness center, or tennis courts. And today’s rental properties are offering even more options to entice would-be renters.

Some of the more popular features include onsite laundry facilities or a washer and dryer within the unit. Many offer cable or satellite television and free Wi-Fi. Others offer fully-furnished units. And as a person just starting out on their own, having options for these types of services can help the transition to apartment living.

3. Flexible career options

The workplace model is changing, with more employees at varying job levels working from their homes. Experts estimate that almost half of the US workforce works remotely. But that also means employees are more mobile. And that is where the convenience of renting a home or apartment works well. Renting gives workers the freedom to move more frequently than they could otherwise. Additionally, some apartment communities offer amenities for workers. In some of our communities, for example, we offer dedicated workspaces, perfect for individuals who work remotely.

Have job, will travel. That’s an effective way to set the pace for job promotion or move to a better job opportunity should the need arise. “You need to be able to credibly leave a job to be well treated by employers,” says Ghilarducci . “Mobile workers can move for a pay raise or to make a career move.”

4. A sense of community

There are varying degrees of socializing among renters. You can be as social or reclusive as you choose; the fact remains that you are sharing common space with other people. Whether it’s the parking lot, the pool area, or the fitness center, apartment living offers a unique opportunity to befriend your neighbors.

“Apartment buildings draw an array of residents and visitors. Your neighbors, their families, their friends, their delivery people, and anyone offering an at-home service will pass through your shared entryway. Your children will learn to share a space with these people—and perhaps even open the door for them,” says Natalie Saaris , writing for Zillow. “While living in an apartment may deprive you of the privacy of a standalone home, the feeling of community may more than compensate for the loss.”

Whether your apartment is a temporary arrangement or a permanent decision, the benefits of apartment living offer pleasant and financially strategic opportunities for you.

Reasons Why Setting Goals is a Good Thing

Fri, 24 Jan 2020 14:50:00 GMT

Don’t let New Year’s resolution failure fool you. Setting goals is a good thing.

Let’s talk about goals.

Wait! Not New Year’s resolutions. I mean regular, everyday goal setting; those goals that you can (and should) start at any time. Although around 80 percent of us fail to achieve our New Year’s resolutions, setting a goal—a SMART goal—will make you feel better. And in some cases, literally.

A SMART goal is a task based on something Specific, Meaningful, Achievable, Realistic, and Timely. And while resolutions may bite the dust two months after we set them in place, the truth is that almost half of us (40 to 45 percent) continue to make goals for ourselves each year.

We, as humans, struggle with following through on New Year’s resolutions. But the practice of continually setting goals is a good thing. Here are six reasons why.

Do you know how it feels to merely coast through life, where you find yourself simply reacting to things? When you target your energies into achieving a specific goal, you are forcing action.

“ Goal setting helps you align focus with behavior because you get feedback on your progress,” says Forbes contributor Jeff Boss . “The actions you take—or avoid—offer clues about your values, beliefs, challenges, strengths and weaknesses which allow you to course correct as necessary and reset your goal achievement strategy (and subsequently, your focus).”

Goals that truly make an impact are those that are specific and follow a timeline toward completion. For example, instead of making a goal to be thinner, a well-thought-out goal will include a series of smaller goals that encourage weight loss and are arranged over a month, a year, or two even years.

“ Think of your goal as the destination. Now think of each step you take toward that goal as a smaller yet attainable step to get you there,” explains Dave Richards , a performance and leadership coach. “If your goal is to launch a business someday, your smaller steps would include defining your products or services or getting funds to start up.”

There is no better feeling than one of accomplishment. And when you set attainable goals, your success at achieving those goals is an incredible boost to your self-esteem. Keep in mind the operative word here is “attainable.”

“By setting goals and achieving them, you send a signal to your brain that you are successful which builds confidence and pride in yourself and that helps build your self-esteem,” says Jennifer Silvershein . “We all love to feel accomplished and meeting or exceeding your goals does just that.”

By setting up a primary goal, which is your main objective, and secondary goals, which are the stepping stones that move you toward your primary goal, Silvershein believes “you can set yourself up for success with the right mindset and the right tools.”

This process of identifying a primary goal that’s supported by secondary goals boosts your self-image. But it can also stave off mild forms of depression. “ Setting goals and targets can sometimes help when a person is feeling demotivated,” reports Jayne Leonard . “However, it is important to make sure that goals are achievable, specific, and realistic.”

For instance, a goal to no longer be depressed may not be all that successful as a stand-alone goal. But setting a goal that is proven to help treat minor forms of depression, such as to eat two servings of fruits and vegetables every day or exercise daily, makes reducing or eliminating depression an added benefit to your primary goal, which may be losing twenty pounds. This brings us to the next benefit: your health.

Of Inc.com’s ten top New Year’s resolutions of 2019, five dealt with improving our health. So while we may not always follow through on those resolutions, they are certainly on our minds. In fact, out of the 2,000 people surveyed, 71 percent of them wanted to eat healthier in the coming year. Sixty-five percent of those surveyed planned to exercise more, and over half (54 percent) hoped to lose weight. Whether you are a fan of New Year’s resolutions or not, making conscious goals about lifestyle changes will have a positive impact on your overall health.

“Staying engaged in life as you age is essential for your health,” say experts at Harvard Health . “Goals should revolve around a purpose in your life: What matters to you now? What is important?” Once again, setting up a SMART goal will help connect your goals with a meaningful outcome within a specified amount of time. And when it comes to goals about your health, the end result feels great.

Let’s consider for a moment what the process of setting goals is doing. According to research by goal-setting theorists Edwin Locke and Gary Latham, goals not only affect behavior and work performance, but they also ignite a desire to put forth a higher and more persistent effort. And because with every action there’s a reaction, people around you are impacted by your efforts.

For example, if your goals are to be more productive and efficient at work and to manage your time better, you’ll likely return home sooner. Depending on what goals you’ve made regarding your habits at home, your family will benefit from the time you are able to spend with them. Perhaps you’ve made a goal to be more patient or a better listener. Those efforts impact others.

You will likely see similar positive effects if you have a goal to volunteer in your child’s school every month or plant a vegetable garden and share your harvest with neighbors. And as the cycle of goal-setting continues, you’ll be motivated to set more goals because of the positive feedback you receive from those who’ve benefited from your efforts. See? Win-win.

Don’t let the bad publicity surrounding resolutions fool you. Setting goals is a good thing. Nothing else is more effective and empowering than setting goals that improve your health, quality of life, focus, and contributions to the things you care about most. So let’s hear it for the new year and make it a goal to ensure it’s the best one ever.

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With so much to do and see, Fullerton, CA, has everything you need to make the season bright. From all of us at Uptown Fullerton Apartments in Fullerton, CA, Happy Holidays!

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