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Kwanzaa: What is it and How is it Celebrated?

Kwanzaa is an African-American cultural observance that falls in the month of December. In the United States, it was created by Maulana Karenga in 1966 as an alternative to Christmas and Hanukkah, but more representative of African-American culture and history. The first Kwanzaa celebration was held on December 26th, 1966, and continues today as a recognized holiday by African-Americans across the world. It celebrates the African harvest and key cultural values.

Happy Kwanzaa from us! Plan: B Cleaning strives to heighten cultural awareness in our community of Fishers, Indiana, and beyond. Continue reading to learn more!

About Kwanzaa

Who: Kwanzaa was coined in 1966 by Dr. Maulana Karenga as a way to bring African Americans together after the Watts Riots and tumultuous times.

What: Kwanzaa is a seven-day African American holiday that celebrates family, community, and culture. The name Kwanzaa comes from the Swahili phrase “matunda ya kwanza” which roughly translates to “first fruits of the harvest”.

When: It is typically observed from December 26 to January 1st.

Where: Since Kwanzaa is primarily an African American holiday, it is mainly celebrated in the United States and other parts of North America. However, it has been popularized and is celebrated across the world, particularly in the Caribbean and other countries where there are large numbers of descendants of Africans.

Why: Families celebrate Kwanzaa and their culture by cleaning and decorating their homes, exchanging gifts, and spending time with loved ones.

The History of Kwanzaa

On each day, one of the seven principles is honored through an activity related to its meaning. For example, on December 27th the principle of unity is celebrated with a feast, while on December 31st self-determination is honored with cleanliness rituals. It is historically significant as it encourages African Americans to appreciate and bask in their heritage or culture, regardless of where they now live. This is extra meaningful as they faced many struggles and were often discriminated against. So, it gives them an opportunity to celebrate all that they have overcome as a community, as well as motivation to continue the legacy.

What Are The Seven Principles For Living

As aforementioned, Kwanzaa is a seven-day African American holiday, and each day focuses on one of the seven key principles. The seven principles of Kwanzaa are ….

  1. Self-determination
  2. Collective work
  3. Responsibility
  4. Cooperative economics
  5. Purpose
  6. Creativity
  7. Faith.

People celebrate Kwanzaa by lighting a kinara (candle holder with seven candles), giving gifts, decorating with colors that represent the holiday (black, red, and green), and feasting. On the first day of Kwanzaa, a black candle is lit in the center of the kinara followed by three red candles on the left side and three green candles on the right side.

Cleaning and Decorating for Kwanzaa

Before Kwanzaa can begin, you need to make sure your home is clean and decorated. After all, this is a time to celebrate! Start by giving your home a good cleaning. Wash the windows, vacuum the floors, and dust everything off. Once your home is clean, you can start decorating. To celebrate Kwanzaa, many people clean their homes and decorate them with African symbols. One popular decoration is the kinara, which is a seven-branched candelabra. Each branch represents one of the seven principles of Kwanzaa. Other decorations include colorful fabrics, fruits, vegetables, and grains. Many people use red, black, and green to decorate for Kwanzaa.

These colors represent different aspects of African culture. Red represents the blood that was shed during the struggle for freedom, black represents the African people, and the green represents the growth and prosperity of Africa. You can use these colors in any way you like – whether that be through traditional decorations like candles or through more modern decorations like hanging banners or streamers.

Contact Us!

Contact Plan: B Cleaning! You do the holiday decorating, we’ll do the cleaning! If you are looking to hire a cleaning service to treat yourself or your loved ones this Kwanzaa or holiday season, you know who to call!

We recommend signing up for a one-time, weekly, biweekly, or monthly cleaning service with Plan: B Cleaning. This will give you the time to do what you love most and enjoy the holiday festivities in Fishers, Indiana. Plan: B Cleaning serves the Hamilton County area in Indiana, including Fishers, Carmel, Noblesville, Westfield, Fortville, and Geist. Call today to set up your cleaning service at (317) 572-8515 or visit our website at www.planbcleaning.com.

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8 Holiday Pop-Ups and Events Near Indianapolis

Are you looking for some fun holiday pop-ups and events near Indianapolis, Indiana? Look no further! Indianapolis has plenty of great holiday festivities to enjoy this season. From family-friendly events to adult-only nights, there is something for everyone. Here are 8 of the best holiday pop-ups and events in and around Indianapolis that you won’t want to miss!

1) Christmas Nights of Lights at the Indiana State Fairgrounds

It’s time to get into the holiday spirit with the Christmas Nights of Lights show at the Indiana State Fairgrounds! This drive-through light show is perfect for getting into the holiday spirit without leaving your car. You’ll be able to watch as 1.5 miles of synchronized lights twinkle and sparkle, creating a magical experience that’s perfect for the whole family. Plus, the show will be even more magical with holiday music playing in the background. Don’t miss this amazing experience!

2) Tinseltown

Tinseltown is the answer to all your Christmas cravings this winter! Located near Indianapolis, Indiana, Tinseltown is a pop-up Christmas event that will have you feeling merry and bright. From the moment you walk in, you’ll be welcomed by festive decorations and cheerful holiday tunes.

At Tinseltown, there’s something for everyone. If you’re looking to get into the holiday spirit, meet Santa and his elves or take part in some Christmas crafts. If you’re looking for something a little more adult, there’s an extensive Christmas cocktail menu and other winter drinks to sip on.

So if you’re looking for a unique way to celebrate the holidays this season, look no further than Tinseltown!

3) Yuletide Celebration at Hilbert Circle Theatre

There’s no better way to get into the holiday spirit than attending the Yuletide Celebration at Hilbert Circle Theatre. Emmy-nominated singer Frankie Moreno will light up the stage as he shares his piano and vocal talents with the audience. Along with members of the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra, guests will be able to enjoy a night of new holiday music as well as beloved favorites.

This event is sure to be a memorable experience for all in attendance. With the festive atmosphere and incredible music, it’s the perfect place to kick off the holiday season. The Yuletide Celebration at Hilbert Circle Theatre is an event that is not to be missed. Get your tickets today and prepare to be swept away by Frankie Moreno and the ISO’s magical performance!

4) Jingle Rails: The Great Western Adventure

Jingle Rails: The Great Western Adventure is a one-of-a-kind holiday experience that’s sure to make your spirits soar! Located at the Eiteljorg Museum in downtown Indianapolis, this amazing exhibition will transport you to a world of miniature landscapes, incredible model trains, and stunning holiday lighting.

As soon as you step into Jingle Rails, you’ll be amazed by the nine working model trains winding through the museum’s detailed landscape. You’ll be able to admire iconic Indianapolis landmarks such as Monument Circle, Union Station, and Lucas Oil Stadium in miniature form. The exhibition also contains miniature replicas of some of the nation’s most spectacular sites like Mt. Rushmore, Grand Canyon, Yosemite Falls, Old Faithful, the Las Vegas Strip, Hoover Dam, and more!

Jingle Rails: The Great Western Adventure is an unforgettable holiday experience that everyone in your family can enjoy. With its incredible combination of model trains, stunning scenery, and festive holiday lights, it truly brings the spirit of Christmas alive! So if you’re looking for something special to do in Indianapolis this holiday season, Jingle Rails: The Great Western Adventure should definitely be on your list.

5) A Merry Prairie Holiday

For those who prefer a traditional Christmas feel, the William Conner House at a Merry Prairie Holiday is a must-see. Get ready for an immersive 3D mapping display of Twas the Night Before Christmas that will light up your night. You can also hop on Kringle’s Carousel, a festive ride for all ages, or take a stroll through Reynolds lights to bask in the Christmas glow.

If you’re looking for something a bit more adventurous, then the light tunnel to Tubing Hill might be just the thing. Brave the glowing tubes and feel like you’re flying through the night sky. And, if you want to learn about holiday traditions from other parts of the world, be sure to check out the Holidays From Around The World show.

So don’t let this holiday season pass by without experiencing something new. Step out of your comfort zone and explore. We guarantee you won’t regret it!

6) A Christmas Carol at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre

Take a journey with Ebenezer Scrooge as you get into the holiday spirit at A Christmas Carol at Beef and Boards Dinner Theatre! This one-hour musical adaptation of Charles Dickens’ timeless classic follows Scrooge’s transformation from a miserly old man to one who understands the true meaning of kindness and love.

The show is filled with traditional carols, as well as three spirits from the past, present, and future that help Scrooge along his journey. As you follow the story, you’ll be treated to a delicious buffet lunch or dinner prior to all performances. So come out for a night of music, cheer, and some timeless holiday fun!

7) Winter Wonderland at the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis

This holiday season, the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis is the place to be for family-friendly fun! Make lasting memories with your loved ones during the museum’s final farewell to their beloved Jolly Days experience. Enjoy traditional favorites like Jingles the Jolly Bear and visits with Santa, who will be at the museum from Nov. 25th – Dec. 24th.

Take a thrilling journey down the Yule Slide and make it snow in the Giant Snow Globe. Meet characters from your favorite holiday stories, such as Scrooge and Mrs. Claus. Get active with some ice skating in your socks and explore the Ice Castle. Don’t forget to bring your letter to Santa and drop it off at the Letters to Santa box!

Visit the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis this holiday season and make sure you don’t miss out on this final farewell to Jolly Days. Create lasting memories with your family and friends that will stay with you for years to come.

8) Christmas at the Indianapolis Zoo

This holiday season, the Indianapolis Zoo is brimming with extra special events and activities to make your festive spirit soar. From December 1-30, they’re offering eight amazing holiday pop-ups that will add some extra cheer to your visit.

Take a trip to Santa’s Study, where you can meet Kris Kringle himself and get a selfie with the man in red. He’ll be there from 5pm until close, with Vacation Santa joining him from 3-9 pm at Flights of Fancy. Visit Mrs. Claus where you can decorate cookies alongside her each day.

At Santa’s Barn, you can see his sleigh and a few of his reindeer, and if you’re feeling adventurous, make your way through the Polar Pathway. This glittering tunnel will provide a stunning backdrop for any pictures you take!

Storytime with Sprinkles & Holly is an absolute must! Meet these new characters every night outside Cafe on the Commons and hear their festive tales. For a more hands-on experience, head over to the Penguin Encounter and observe these winter-ready birds from 6-8pm (animal and weather dependent).

If you’re looking for something even more unique, the Tinsel Tavern has holiday-themed cocktails featuring Hotel Tango spirits and wines from Daniel’s Vineyard. And last but not least, you can laugh your way through the Mirror Maze and enjoy some fun twists and turns. So grab your family or a group of friends and come check out the Indianapolis Zoo’s amazing holiday pop-ups! There’s something here for everyone to enjoy.

Let Us Handle the Cleaning Chores

You shouldn’t have to worry about cleaning chores during the holidays. Let us take care your home while you and your loved ones enjoy the holiday pop-ups and events!

With Plan: B Cleaning, you can sign up for a one-time, weekly, biweekly, or monthly cleaning service. We’ll clean while you spend time on what you enjoy most and attend holiday festivities near Indianapolis. We serve homeowners or business owners in Fishers, Carmel, Noblesville, Westfield, Fortville, and Geist in Hamilton County Indiana, call today to set up your house cleaning service at (317) 572-8515 or visit our website at www.planbcleaning.com.

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Top Ten Christmas Gift Ideas That Will Please Anybody

As you probably know, finding the perfect gift can be tough when you’re shopping for someone who seemingly has everything they need and want. To help make your shopping experience easier this holiday season and ensure your loved ones are impressed, here are ten Christmas gifts that will please anyone you give them to. Let’s take a look at each one in more detail below!

1. Give Your Time

One of the best Christmas gifts you can give is your time. Plan out a calendar of dates with special meaning to your loved one. This could be going on a walk together once a week, grabbing coffee every Tuesday morning, or having a standing date for lunch every month. Quality time is hard to come by and highly cherished. When you commit to spending time with someone else, they will know how much they mean to you. Another great idea is giving someone a day-off from their responsibilities. Plan something fun like visiting an amusement park or taking them out for dinner at their favorite restaurant. Be creative!

2. The Gift of Taste

It’s tough to go wrong with the gift of taste. You can bake something special, give a new cookbook or some fun kitchen gadgets, or even pick up a few restaurant gift cards. This gift is thoughtful for anyone and works no matter what stage of life someone is since we all have to eat! For example, for a college student or someone moving into their first apartment, they would probably really appreciate the kitchen supplies. For someone trying to get into cooking, new recipes would be key. For someone who loves your cooking, take a treat! The list goes on.

3. Boost Their Self-Esteem

Give the gift of self-esteem! This just means to give something emphasizing self care and how loved they are. Here are some ideas:

1. A personalized mug with a positive message
2. A “You’re Awesome” jar filled with encouraging notes
3. A new outfit they will feel great in
4. A book on self-care or personal development
5. A framed print or piece of art with an uplifting message

These are great Christmas gifts because they are highly customizable and also uplifting for any occasion!

4. Treat Them To A Massage

One of the best gifts you can give somebody is the gift of relaxation. A day at the spa or a massage will help them to forget their troubles and just enjoy being pampered. This is a great gift for anybody who is feeling stressed out or overwhelmed. Gift certificates are available in many different denominations and may be purchased in advance if desired. The most common locations for massages are salons, spas, gyms, chiropractors’ offices, beauty salons, resorts and hotel spas. However, many professional therapists provide this service in private homes or small office settings as well. It’s always nice to know that you’re getting the best service possible by booking with someone reputable so it’s worth taking some time to research which place would suit your loved one’s needs the best.

5. Contribute to An Experience

A great way to show you care is by contributing to an experience. Concert tickets, for example, are always a great idea. They can be used by the recipient at their convenience and provide them with an enjoyable evening out. Alternatively, if your loved one enjoys traveling, you could help save up for a trip abroad. By giving the gift of an experience, you’re sure to please anyone on your list this holiday season. By giving an experience, you will help their dreams come true and also give the gift of new memories!

6. Buy Them A Personalized Gift

A personalized gift is always a great way to show somebody that you care. It shows that you have put thought into what they would like and that you are willing to go the extra mile to make them feel special. A great place to start when looking for a personalized gift is with monogrammed items. You can find monogrammed items for almost anybody now, from clothes to jewelry to home decor. If you want to really wow them, look for a unique item that can be monogrammed with their initials, like a pair of custom-made cufflinks or a leather-bound notebook.

7. A Gift That Keeps On Giving

A subscription to a magazine, a monthly delivery of flowers, or even tickets to a show or concert series are all Christmas gifts that keep on giving long after the holiday is over. For the foodie in your life, consider treating them to a year-long subscription to a foodie box service like Blue Apron or Hello Fresh so they can experience new recipes each week. If you know someone who loves yoga, spin class or anything like that, look into ClassPass or similar subscriptions. There really is a subscription system for each person in your life to continue enjoying even after Christmas!

8. Movie Night Gift Basket

A movie night gift basket is the perfect present for anybody on your list. It’s thoughtful, personal, and something that can be enjoyed by the whole family. Plus, it’s easy to put together! Here’s what you’ll need …

– A movie or two (discs are old fashioned but loved)
– Popcorn or other favorite snacks
– Chocolate, candy, and other sweet treats
– Drinks of choice

You can also add …
– Movie related goodies like Funko Pops, legos, shirts
– Blankets and pillows to get cozy

Gift baskets are great because of how easy but customizable and useful they are!

9. Help Them Organize

Help them organize what they already have or just organize their day! Here are 8 Christmas gifts related to organization – just in time for the New Year!

1. A day planner or wall calendar
2. A set of shelves or racks
3. Plastic storage bins of various sizes
4. Hanging closet organizer
5. Under-bed storage containers
6. Stackable food storage containers
7. A laundry hamper or basket
8. Jewelry Box

10. Give the Gift of Cleaning!

Give the gift of cleaning! This one is our favorite. Gift a cleaning voucher for Plan: B Cleaning Services or schedule an appointment for your loved ones. This is a great gift as it gives the gift of time, less stress, and a clean home all in one!

Contact Us!

Contact Us! If you are looking to hire a cleaning service to treat yourself or your loved ones this holiday season, you know who to call!

We recommend signing up for a one-time, weekly, biweekly, or monthly cleaning service with Plan: B Cleaning. This will give you the time to do what you love most and enjoy the holiday festivities in Fishers, Indiana. Plan: B Cleaning serves the Hamilton County area in Indiana, including Fishers, Carmel, Noblesville, Westfield, Fortville, and Geist. Call today to set up your cleaning service at (317) 572-8515 or visit our website at www.planbcleaning.com.

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5 Tips to Get Your Holiday Home Clean and Ready for Guests

It’s the holiday season, which means that your home will be filled with family and friends. If you want to ensure that your guests are as comfortable as possible in your home, you’ll need to give it a thorough cleaning so that it’s presentable when the company arrives. Keep these five cleaning tips in mind when you’re giving your holiday home its annual deep clean.

1) Schedule time for holiday cleaning

Try scheduling some time in your week to clean. Cleaning your home before the holidays is important because it creates a welcoming environment for your guests. House cleaning services can help you with this! At Plan: B Cleaning, we offer a variety of house cleaning services, even holiday cleaning! To make sure your holiday decorations are ready to go when it’s time to deck the halls, call us today!

2) Deep clean your home

Plan B Cleaning has some tips on how you can get your home clean and ready for guests in a short amount of time. Our professional cleaners recommend starting with a deep clean of the kitchen, bathroom, bedroom, living room, and entryway. After you have done this, go back and tackle areas that are more difficult or take longer to clean – think: under the couch cushions or between the seats in your car. Cleaners at Plan B Cleaning know how important it is to be clean before company comes over and we would love to help make sure your home is as clean as possible before any festivities begin!

3) Get rid of clutter

Step one in the holiday home cleaning process is getting rid of all of the clutter. Put all of your junk into boxes labeled yard sale, keep, and donate. This way, you’ll know where everything goes without spending hours searching through boxes later. You’ll be able to make a quick trip around your home for trash, giving you plenty of time to clean up before guests arrive. Keep only what brings you joy in your home!

4) Decorate strategically

Creating an atmosphere is one of the most important parts of entertaining. Creating a welcoming environment starts with a sparkling clean home. Make your first impression when guests come over by making your home smell like cinnamon or oranges by infusing smells through candles, potpourri, and more. Incorporate greenery into your holiday decorating this year by adding real or fake plants. Use white lights that are battery-operated instead of those traditional strands that never seem to work out in the end.

Maintaining a tidy house will make it easier on you as well as for your guests during their stay. When it’s time to get up from the dinner table, use coasters under drinks and glasses on tables to avoid ring marks on wood surfaces. Store holiday decorations out of sight but in easy reach when not being used so they’re not cluttering up space. Throw any extra wrapping paper and bows in the trash after using them, or store them neatly together until next year. The best way to keep your holiday decorations organized is with handy organizers from The Container Store.

5) Have a plan for when things go wrong

Planning ahead is the key to successfully completing any task. This is especially true when it comes to holiday cleaning. What do you do if you can’t find your vacuum cleaner? Or if a family member arrives early and wants to get in the house? It’s important not only to have a plan but also to make sure that everyone in your household knows what it is. Read more about how Plan: B Cleaning can help you with these holiday tasks! You can be confident that we’ll take care of everything from vacuuming to dishes, so you don’t have to worry about a thing!

Contact Plan: B Cleaning Services

Plan: B Cleaning is a house cleaning service in Fishers, Carmel, Westfield, Broad Ripple, Fortville, Hamilton County, Indiana, and more. We provide professional cleaning services designed to make your home feel like a holiday wonderland!

Our team of professional cleaners will deep clean your home while you do the necessary holiday decorating. Then can enjoy all the festivities without worrying about what’s going on at home! We have affordable pricing plans that are based on your needs, as well as special Black Friday deals in November. Call today to set up your cleaning service at (317) 572-8515 or book online at www.planbcleaning.com.

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10 Things to Be Thankful For This Fall

Fall is one of the most beautiful times of the year, and you’ll enjoy it even more if you can muster up a few moments to be thankful for what you have. This season offers a lot of opportunities to focus on gratitude, such as pumpkin patches and corn mazes, football games and leaf peeping, getting together with family and friends, and taking in the gorgeous reds, oranges, yellows, and greens of nature around you. Here are 10 things to be thankful for this fall. Here at Plan B: Cleaning, we hope this list inspires you to slow down, and really focus on grace and gratitude!

1) Enjoying the changing of fall leaves

The leaves changing color is one of the most beautiful things about fall. Every year, it’s like Mother Nature is putting on a colorful show just for us. And it’s something we can enjoy for free! Just take a walk outside and look up. You’ll see reds, oranges, yellows, and browns all mixed together in a gorgeous display.

2) Catching up with friends and family

Friends and family are the best part of fall. There’s nothing like spending time with the people you love, whether you’re picking apples together or simply enjoying a nice meal. The cooler weather is also a great opportunity to get outside and enjoy all that nature has to offer.

Take some time to go the extra mile and show gratitude to your loved ones! Everyone loves to feel appreciated every once in a while. You can write a “thank you” note, treat them to coffee, or anything else that comes to mind!

3) Switching from summer clothes to warm sweaters

There’s nothing like the feeling of pulling on a cozy sweater after a long summer of sweltering heat. Fall fashion is so comfy and cozy – you can finally put away those light, airy summer clothes and break out the boots and scarves. Speaking of boots, there’s nothing like a good pair of fall boots to complete your outfit. Whether you’re looking for something practical to trudge through the leaves in, or something stylish to wear out on the town, there’s a boot out there for you. Just put on your favorite sweater, and bundle up with hats, scarves, and mittens if you need to. Even if you are not a fan of layers, it is a good time to appreciate the warmth of your clothes and be thankful for all that is in your closet!

4) The aroma of fall scented candles

When it comes to fall scents, there are a few that stand out. One of the most popular is the smell of pumpkin spice. This scent can be found in candles, air fresheners, and even some food and drinks. Another popular fall scent is the smell of cinnamon. This spice is often used in baking, so it’s no surprise that it’s a popular scent for candles and other home fragrance products. There are also some less traditional fall scents that are becoming more popular, like the smell of wood smoke or even tobacco. Whatever your favorite fall scent is, there’s sure to be a candle or other product that can help you enjoy it all season long! It is a good time to slow down, smell the candle, and be thankful for your sense of smell so you can enjoy unique scents this fall, as well as throughout the year!

5) The endless fall goodies

Fall is the best season for baked goods. There’s pumpkin bread, apple pie, and caramel apples. Not to mention all of the leftover Halloween candy. What’s not to love? Be appreciative of these ingredients, these treats, and whoever gets or bakes them for you!

6) Thanksgiving activities

Thanksgiving is a great time to catch up with loved ones and make new memories. From turkey and stuffing to pumpkin pie, there are so many amazing dishes to enjoy on Thanksgiving. Different families have different traditions and cuisines for this day, but we can all be thankful for this opportunity to be surrounded by good food, good friends, and family!

7) Catching up on all your favorite shows

We all know that feeling of catching up on our favorite shows. You know, when you finally have some free time and you can just sit down and chill out in front of the TV. It’s the best.

8) Football season

Speaking of TV, sports are starting back up again! Football season is just around the corner. There’s nothing like watching a good game on the couch with friends and family. Check out your favorite team’s schedule and see if you can get tickets for any games! Either way, the football, food, and friends add up to a great ambiance!

9) Winter is here soon and more holidays

After fall, we still have weather and festivities to look forward to. That is the beauty of seasons changing and time passing! Whether you celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, New Year’s Eve, and so on, it is time to be thankful for such events and their significance. Of course, this includes dressing up, eating well, and spending time with loved ones!

10) A clean home for the fall

Be thankful for your home! But, you know what would make it better? If it was cleaner! Contact us and schedule a weekly, biweekly, or monthly cleaning! We offer recurring cleaning services, as well as one-time cleaning services. Look forward to a clean home, be thankful for a clean home!

Contact Us!

Contact Us! You do the holiday decorating, we’ll do the cleaning! If you are looking to hire a cleaning service to treat yourself or your loved ones this holiday season, you know who to call!

We recommend signing up for a one-time, weekly, biweekly, or monthly cleaning service with Plan: B Cleaning. This will give you the time to do what you love most and enjoy the holiday festivities in Fishers, Indiana. Plan: B Cleaning serves the Hamilton County area in Indiana, including Fishers, Carmel, Noblesville, Westfield, Fortville, and Geist. Call today to set up your cleaning service at (317) 572-8515 or visit our website at www.planbcleaning.com.

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Diwali – The Festival of Lights: Significance & Celebrations

Diwali is an annual festival that takes place on the new moon day that follows the Hindu month of Kartik, which lands in October or November of each year. The date changes each year, based on the Hindu calendar. This South Asian holiday is also known as the festival of lights, and it celebrates one of the most significant events in Hindu mythology. However, the festivities don’t stop there. Some key elements of Diwali, nicknamed the festival of lights, include lights, sweets, colors, dances, love, and of course – cleanliness. Plan: B Cleaning wishes you and your family a Happy Diwali as we strive to embrace diversity in Fishers, Indiana, and the nearby areas we serve. Check out this blog for more information regarding the significance and celebration of Diwali, as well as more cleaning tips!

Significance of Lights

Lights are an important part of Diwali celebrations. Light is said to be a representation of good over evil. The story goes that when Lord Rama returned home from exile after defeating Ravana, the people of Ayodhya lit diyas, special lamps, and candles, to guide his way back home. Lighting lamps is also a way of welcoming Lakshmi, the goddess of prosperity, into the homes. The light of the lamp is said to chase away darkness and ignorance while bringing in the good. Often, those who celebrate Diwali decorate the inside and outside of their homes with string lights, tea lights, candles, and more. They enjoy watching fireworks in the sky, as well as hand-held sparklers together.

Significance of Colors

In India, colors have always played a significant role in culture and tradition. They are believed to represent different aspects of life. For example, white is associated with purity and cleanliness. And during Diwali, the Festival of Lights, people decorate their homes with white lights to signify the triumph of good over evil. Furthermore, they use colored powder to make mandalas and other festive shapes like flowers, peacocks, om symbols, and more. These colorful decorations are made inside the homes’ floors as well as outside, on the doorsteps and entrances!

Significance of Dance and Performances

Another important aspect of the festival is the traditional Indian dances. Talented dancers will tell the tales of Hindu mythology through their dance movements, formations, and facial expressions. They often also wear intricate costumes. And at parties, anyone can dance to have a good time! These dances are another way to express joy and happiness and to symbolize the victory of good over evil. The dance is also a way to connect with the Hindu gods and goddesses. The traditional Indian dance is an important part of the Diwali festival, and it is a beautiful way to celebrate the light, cleanliness, and good that is at the heart of the festival.

Significance of Sweets & Gifts

Sweets and gifts are a significant part of most holidays! One of the key aspects of Diwali is the giving of traditional sweets and gifts. This is a way to show your loved ones how much you care for them and to also spread the spirit of happiness and goodwill. So if you are celebrating Diwali this year, be sure to give your friends and family plenty of sweets and gifts! Sweets and gifts also play an important role in Diwali puja or worship. The giving of sweets and gifts is a way to honor the deities and express gratitude for blessings throughout the year.

Significance of Love and Unity

Diwali is a time when people come together to celebrate the triumph of good over evil and enjoy the festivities in the company of their loved ones. The festival is for gathering with family, and also a time for making new friends and reuniting with old ones. Love and unity are celebrated between families, friends, and the culture as a whole.

Significance of Cleanliness

The significance of cleanliness and newness in Diwali celebrations is twofold. First, Hindus believe that Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth and prosperity, only visits clean homes. So, in order to welcome her into their homes, Hindus clean and decorate their homes beforehand. Secondly, Hindus believe that cleanliness and newness represent a fresh start or a new beginning. Therefore, by cleaning and decorating their homes for Diwali, Hindus are hopeful that the goddess will bless them with a prosperous new year. They celebrate by cleaning and decorating and also wearing new, beautiful clothes. This cleanliness and newness is the perfect way to celebrate and ring in the Hindu new year.

If you would like to deep clean your home for the auspicious occasion of Diwali, you know who to call!

Contact Us!

Contact Us! You do the holiday decorating, we’ll do the cleaning! If you are looking to hire a cleaning service to treat yourself or your loved ones this Diwali or holiday season, you know who to call!

We recommend signing up for a one-time, weekly, biweekly, or monthly cleaning service with Plan: B Cleaning. This will give you the time to do what you love most and enjoy the holiday festivities in Fishers, Indiana. Plan: B Cleaning serves the Hamilton County area in Indiana, including Fishers, Carmel, Noblesville, Westfield, Fortville, and Geist. Call today to set up your cleaning service at (317) 572-8515 or visit our website at www.planbcleaning.com.

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8 Side Hustles to Help You Save for Your Dream Cleaning Service

If you’re like many people, you might find that it’s getting harder to afford a cleaning service with the price of groceries and gas increasing. Or it may just not be in your budget yet. But don’t worry! There are tons of side hustles that can help you build up your savings so that you have the ability to pay for your home to be cleaned by Plan: B Cleaning or your cleaning service when the time comes!

We want to help you save! We want to clean your home! Hence, we came up with this list of 8 hustles to help you save for your dream cleaning service. You can also check out our website for promotions and discounts that we run!

1) Start an Etsy Store

If you’re creative and crafty, why not start an Etsy store? You can sell handmade goods, vintage finds, and more. Plus, it’s a great way to make some extra cash to help save for your cleaning service. Here are a few tips to get started:

1) Visit the Etsy website to learn about becoming a seller.
2) Sign up for Etsy with your email address, password, and phone number
3) Upload photos of the items you plan on selling
4) Set up prices and shipping fees
5) Start posting listings with clear descriptions of what you have to offer.

If you are able to design digital products like Canva templates, greeting cards, or something similar, that would be even better to generate passive income since you would only have to design it once but could sell the PDF over and over again!

2) Research Studies and Surveys

You can participate in research studies and surveys near you for some extra cash! A great way to find such research studies is to sign up on market research and consumer research sites. College campuses nearby also have several opportunities as such.

Next, you can also opt for surveys, but these are not as large sums of cash at once. Instead, they will add up slowly. But, surveys are still a good idea as you can do them from any digitial device from any place.

3) Invest in Social Media

If you’re looking for a creative and affordable way to grow your personal brand and make some extra money, why not start with social media? With a little time and effort, you can grow your social media accounts and reach new potential customers for your small business or unique products.

You can also create user-generated content and advertisements for companies and get paid for the content you provide them! Another similar technique is going viral several times and being invited to join the creator fund. Several platforms like TikTok, YouTube, Pinterest, and even Instagram, offer bonuses for viral content and completing challenges after you have reached a certain amount of followers and engagement.

Look into these up-and-coming trends and you are likely to find something you not only can make money from, but also something you can enjoy!

4) Offer Baby Sitting & Pet Sitting

Have you ever considered offering your services as a baby or pet sitter? If you love spending time with animals and children, this could be the perfect way to make some extra money. Plus, you get to choose the days you work as well as the rate you charge. Apps like Rover are great for finding leads to pet sit and just talking with neighbors and networking will help in finding leads to babysit!

People are looking for someone they can trust and who they feel comfortable with so spend some time getting ready by becoming CPR certified. You can also look into other certifications for taking care of kids and pets! You can also offer additional services like doing arts and crafts or teaching the kid a sport while you sit. Similarly, you can agree to take the pets to a pet park or multiple walks. These extra offerings will make you stand out!

5) Sell Old Clothes

Have a garage sale, sell items online, or take them to a consignment shop. This is a great way to get rid of old clothes and things you no longer need and make some extra cash.

Doesn’t fit? Not your style anymore? Running out of room in your closet? Sell stuff online. If you’re handy with a phone camera, it’s possible to make some cash selling clothes online, too. Posting a few high-quality photos on apps like eBay, Poshmark and Mercari can net you some sales quickly! If you are able to write good, detailed descriptions, your items will sell even faster. This is a great way to make some of your money back while cleaning out!

There are many factors in play when deciding which side hustle will work best for you. If you are not very tech savvy or just don’t want to invest that kind of time, you can also just have a one day garage sale or take your clothes and accessories to a consignment shop. Some include Plato’s Closet, Uptown Cheapskate, and Kid to Kid. There are also other local alternatives. Find what works for you!

6) Neighborhood Jobs

You do not have to look too far for small tasks and jobs. Look in your neighborhood!

You can reach out to your neighbors, through a neighborhood chat or Facebook page. Most folks in Fishers, Indiana are kind and welcoming to their neighbors so do not be afraid to put yourselves out there.

If you have a lawn mower and some basic landscaping equipment, you could start your own lawn care business. This is a great way to make some extra money during the summer months. Just be sure to advertise your services in your neighborhood and online.

You can also do odd jobs for neighbors! From shoveling snow to painting fences, there are always odd jobs that need to be done around the neighborhood. You can help organize someone’s home or help them pack boxes to move out. You can go pick up groceries or kids from soccer practice. There is bound to be someone in your neighborhood who could use some extra help and would be happy to pay for it!

7) Freelance Work

There are many benefits of freelance work, including the ability to choose your own hours, work from home, and set your own rates. Plus, if you’re good at what you do, you can often make more money freelancing than you would be working a traditional 9-to-5 job. Here are eight types of freelance work that can help you save money for your dream cleaning service:

1. Freelance writing or blogging
2. Social media consulting
3. Virtual assistant services
4. Business coaching
5. Personal training
6. Online courses
7. Home organization services
8. Photography

With remote work becoming a popular option, these are great ways to make money from home, using just your laptop and your skills. Check out sites like Upwork and LinkedIn for leads!

8) Doordash, Uber, Instacart

Apps like Doordash, Uber, and Instacart are great for a side hustle. You can choose your hours and how frequently you choose to work. This is perfect for someone who likes to drive and listen to music. You can drive passengers, deliver food, and pick up groceries. You can also meet a lot of people this way and enjoy the company!

Contact Us!

Contact Us! If you are looking to hire a cleaning service for yourself and have saved up using these tips, you know who to call. Our cleaning team enjoys cleaning and making you smile – that is why it is their job!

We recommend signing up for a one-time, weekly, biweekly, or monthly cleaning service with Plan B Cleaning. This will give you the time to do what you love most and enjoy the fall festivities in Fishers, Indiana. Plan: B Cleaning serves the Hamilton County area in Indiana, including Fishers, Carmel, Noblesville, Westfield, Fortville, and Geist. Call today to set up your cleaning service at (317) 572-8515 or visit our website at www.planbcleaning.com.

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Plan Blessing: Down Syndrome Awareness Month

Do you know someone who would appreciate a free house cleaning service? If so, we’re here to show our support. Through this October (National Down Syndrome Awareness Month), our team at Plan: B Cleaning wants to show our love and support to our local community by offering free housecleaning services to families with children that have been diagnosed with Down syndrome. We believe that this will not only offer an opportunity to bless a family in need but will also provide us the opportunity to better support our local community here in Indiana.

The importance of raising down syndrome awareness

Down syndrome is one of the most common chromosomal conditions and occurs in about 1 out of every 800 births. When individuals with Down syndrome are given opportunities to live, learn and work, they can be successful contributors to society. It’s important for people to understand that this isn’t a disorder but a genetic condition that manifests differently for each person who has it. It’s often incorrectly considered a mental handicap because people don’t know how much these individuals can achieve if provided the opportunity. We want our community members to know that there are many ways we’re supporting awareness month by providing free housekeeping services for a nominee in need during October!

What is Plan: Blessing?

Plan B Cleaning dedicates itself to service the communities we provide by providing free cleanings for those who need it most. During this tough time, we want to demonstrate love and support. A clean house will not fix life’s problems, but it does have the ability to convey love and show support during a tough season. Plan Blessing includes free cleaning services for those in need in our communities. During the month of October, we provide families with a free cleaning in respect of Down Syndrome awareness. Plan Blessing is offered to all individuals who are in need of an extra hand during difficult times. Our hope is that through the power of cleanliness and hospitality, love and encouragement will shine through the difficult days.

What does the free cleaning service include?

A Plan B Clean includes a deep cleaning and light refresh, such as dusting, vacuuming, kitchen cleanup, bed making, bathroom tidy-up, and window washing. We want to serve the communities we provide services to by offering a free cleaning service during this month of down syndrome awareness. You cannot completely repair problems that have fallen on you by making your home clean. But having a spotless home can create peace of mind, and it shows love and support to someone you’re doing your best to take care of. We want to take care of you and let you take care of what matters.

Benefits of a clean home

A clean home can help relieve stress, improve your mood and increase your self-esteem. It also reduces the risk of accidents and will keep your family healthy by reducing dust mites and other harmful particles in the air. But most importantly, a clean house is a comforting place for children with developmental disorders like down syndrome to go home to after school. We want them to know that their home always welcomes them with open arms. And we want their parents to know that our team at Plan: B Clean has taken care of their house while they have been busy taking care of them.

Nominate a loved one for a free cleaning service

Nominate a loved one for a free cleaning for our Plan: Blessing this October. We want to support families and the communities we provide services to by providing them with a clean house. Plan: B Cleaning believes that the power of a clean house will not fix life’s problems but it does have an undeniable power to show love and support during a hard season. If you or anyone you know needs a little help getting their home clean, please fill out the form below and one of our team members will be in touch soon!

Help make a difference in our community

At Plan: B, we feel like it is part of our responsibility to support others in our community and make a difference. Help us make a difference today by nominating a family you know with a family member who has down syndrome. Together, we can strengthen our community and continue to look after one another. To nominate someone, please fill out the form via our www.planbcleaning.com/plan-blessing and click submit. The more nominations we receive, the more people we can bless. Thank you for being a part of our effort to support our local community.

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5 Ways to Make Cleaning More Fun

Cleaning is not always fun for everyone, and we understand that. However, it just takes a little creativity to make it feel like less of a monotonous chore. Here are five ways from Plan B Cleaning that you can use to make cleaning more fun for yourself and your loved ones. You might even find yourself starting to look forward to cleaning!

1) Listen to music

Listening to music while cleaning can help pass the time and make the task more enjoyable. If you have trouble finding music you like, try creating a cleaning playlist on Spotify or Pandora. Any positive, upbeat music will do the trick. You can also listen to podcasts or audiobooks while cleaning. So, if you’ve been waiting to listen to a new book, TedTalk, and so on – this is your chance! Put on your headphones and groove out!

2) Set a timer

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the thought of cleaning your entire home, start with just one section and use a timer. Set a timer for 15 minutes and see how much you can get done. Or, you can set one for 5 minutes, 10 minutes, and so on. The hard part is getting started, as it can be overwhelming to fit cleaning into your schedule. The timer will help you commit to cleaning and stay on task for a few minutes. You will be way more productive in much less time! Chances are, once you get started, you’ll be surprised at how much you can accomplish in such a short amount of time. And the satisfaction of seeing a clean space will motivate you to keep going.

3) Turn it into a game

You can make cleaning more fun by turning it into a game. For example, you can set a timer and see how long it takes you to clean up the kitchen. Or, you can make a game out of seeing how many items you can put away in a certain amount of time. The possibilities are endless! And, not only will you have more fun, but you’ll get the job done quicker, too. Plus, you can get your family members or roommates involved to join in and get extra competitive. Who can clean their room the fastest? Who can pick up and put away the most items? Let’s find out!

4) Set up a reward system

A great way to make cleaning more fun is to set up a reward system for yourself. For every task, you complete, give yourself a point. Once you reach a certain number of points, you can treat yourself to something you really want. You can set up different tiers of prizes and treats for yourself too, from a cup of Starbucks to a new book, or maybe even a shopping spree. This will give you something to look forward to as you clean and help motivate you to keep your space clean!

5) Be creative!

Creativity is what makes cleaning a little more fun. Here are some of our best ideas, but keep thinking and see what else you can come up with. Once you are able to find what works for you, cleaning will feel a little less like the most monotonous chore.

To summarize our tips,

  1. Set a timer to clean and follow through with it! Setting aside time in your day or week that you know you’ll be home ensures that it gets done. It doesn’t have to be a long time. As long as you are productive and consistent, it will be easier to maintain cleanliness in your home!
  2. Break cleaning into manageable tasks! If the thought of doing all three floors seems overwhelming, break it down into smaller tasks by floor.
  3. Find someone else who enjoys doing chores too! It’s always nice when there’s someone who shares your enthusiasm for organization and tidiness around the house. You can split chores by preference, too. Maybe one person always does laundry and vacuuming while the other always do dishes! Even if you may have to do a bit of convincing, it’ll be worth it!

Contact Us!

Contact Us! If you do not enjoy cleaning at all or just need a break from cleaning, we can take those chores off of your plate! Our cleaning team enjoys cleaning and making you smile – that is why it is their job!

We recommend signing up for a one-time, weekly, biweekly, or monthly cleaning service with Plan B Cleaning. This will give you the time to do what you love most and enjoy the fall festivities in Fishers, Indiana. Plan: B Cleaning serves the Hamilton County area in Indiana, including Fishers, Carmel, Noblesville, Westfield, Fortville, and Geist. Call today to set up your cleaning service at (317) 572-8515 or visit our website at www.planbcleaning.com.

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The Best Move In, Move Out Cleaning in Town

No matter where you live, moving in or out of an apartment or house can be extremely stressful, to say the least. You’ve got to figure out where you’re going to live, pack your things and move them, and then unpack everything when you get there. This process can be even more difficult if you already have a home that needs cleaning before your move-in date, but not enough time to clean it yourself.

Don’t fear, Plan B Cleaning is here! Move-in, move-out cleaning is one of our specialties. We are happy to help you and take these extra chores off of your plate as you’re preparing to move. We understand the stresses that come with moving, and do not want cleaning to be one of them!

Keep on reading to see how we make the move-in, move-out, and cleaning process effective and efficient for everyone in Hamilton county and beyond!

We are reliable.

First and foremost, we are reliable and won’t flake on you at the last minute when you need cleaning the most. We will show up and show out, ready to go. Our cleaning team will be punctual and prepared with the appropriate cleaning supplies and their biggest smiles.

We are flexible.

Moving date got changed? We are always willing to work with your schedule and offer lots of flexibility. The further in advance you are able to let us know, the more likely we are to be able to reschedule your cleaning for a more convenient time.

We are attentive.

Finally, we are attentive. Our team is repeatedly complimented and praised for their attention to detail and mindfulness. Have an important meeting or phone call? Let us know so we can wait to vacuum! Have a pet? No worries, we love puppy kisses.

Check out our checklist!

Plan: B can clean between 500 and 600 square feet of space per hour. What we clean well when we clean your home:

  • Dusting: High (ceiling areas and walls)/low (baseboards) dust-remove cobwebs; Surface dusting-all flat surfaces hand-wiped with a microfiber towel
  • Floors: Vacuum carpets: Sweep and wet mop floors hard surface floors with a ph Neutral cleaner
  • Walls: Mirrors & pictures left clean and shiny
  • Trash: Trash removed and relined with plastic bags
  • Kitchen: Disinfect and Sanitize countertop, stovetop, outside/top of the fridge, and inside microwave; Sink is disinfected and left clean; Sweep and wet mop the floors with Microfiber Mops.
  • Disinfect, sanitize and wash all showers, tubs, commodes, and sinks; Sweep and mop the floor.

When we clean your house, we want to make you happy with our best house cleaning services imaginable!

Our best house cleaning services guarantee you that when we make a mistake, we re-clean any area of your concern. That’s our promise and our guarantee. This is a comprehensive 100% House Cleaning Satisfaction Guarantee because you deserve it!

Testimonials

Check out these testimonials to back us up!

From a mom of two… “Lisa and Katana are the BEST. We started using Plan B Cleaning after having our second child and realizing we needed help with house cleaning. They pay attention to the details and do such a great job. We’ve used a few companies before for one-time cleans and have never been this happy with the results. Thank you so much for making my life a little easier!!!” – Lily Shogren

From a perfectionist… “I found Plan B to be quite prompt and thorough. The owners, Debbie and Ben, are extremely conscientious and professional; their teams are well trained. They ensure that their clients are satisfied, which is amazing since my husband and I are perfectionists! If there would ever a problem, I have every confidence that they would make it right. We trust them with our current home, and I will not hesitate to hire them for cleaning and prep our new home before and after move-in. Thanks, Plan B, for holding yourselves to higher standards! Your integrity has set your business apart in your industry.” LJH

From a loyal customer… “We have enjoyed Plan B’s house cleaning services for . . . gosh . . . I don’t know how long. 2 years, maybe? Regardless, our carpets, hardwood, cabinets, appliances, bathrooms, closets, etc have received a lot of love over that time, thanks to Plan B. When we occasionally request special attention to items that can use a little extra scrubbing, they don’t balk. Today, Tiffany and Nyhle went above and beyond by giving a little extra love to baseboards and photo frames. Plan B is our Plan A.” – Jeff Bugher

Contact Us!

Contact Us! As you’re packing boxes and moving furniture around, you may realize that your home could use a deep cleaning!

We recommend signing up for a one-time, weekly, biweekly, or monthly cleaning service with Plan B Cleaning. This will give you the time to do what you love most and enjoy the fall festivities in Fishers, Indiana. Plan: B Cleaning serves the Hamilton County area in Indiana, including Fishers, Carmel, Noblesville, Westfield, Fortville, and Geist. Call today to set up your cleaning service at (317) 572-8515 or visit our website at www.planbcleaning.com.