LINTHICUM, MD, September 1, 2020— NFM Lending is pleased to honor retired Navy SEAL, Ray “Cash” Care, as the NFM Salute for September 2020.
Care is no stranger to adversity; it is a force that has shaped him his entire life. When Care was just eleven years old, his father was murdered. As a teenager, Care struggled with substance abuse, anger, and emotional pain. “I did a self-reflection drill at 19 and realized I was turning into the man that was murdered… Right then and there [was] one of the first of what I call ‘gut checks’ in my life. Those pinnacle moments where I said now is the time to change me. And that’s what I did.” His life changed forever when he joined the Navy in 1992 and learned about Navy SEALs. Looking for a challenge, Care became determined to become one.
Care achieved his goal of becoming a SEAL in 1995. Out of the 138 people in his class, only 16 completed the training. Care recalls the hardest moment of BUD training being the 50-meter breath hold. “I can’t lie. I was scared. I was watching people pass out, black out. My turn to go, I went, I failed the first time. They get you out of the water and they literally let you just go do it again…Sometimes you have to step up or step off. [It] was one of those gut checks. And here I am, obviously you know the result. Once you accomplish something like that in your life, the mindset that you have is ‘I can do anything’. That was one of the pinnacle moments in my life when I said, ‘Nothing can stop me.’”
From there, his military career took him on multiple tours of duty and overseas missions as a member of SEAL Delivery Vehicle Team Two (SDV-2). He survived a mortar attack during one mission in Iraq, which he describes as being “one of the most traumatic/inspirational” days of his life. The SEALs gave Care an unbreakable community and emboldened him to fight through fear and pain. After 12 years of serving in the Navy, Care left the SEALs in 2004 to work on assignment for the CIA, which he did for 14 years.
Care has not slowed down since re-entering civilian life. He founded CONQUER, a leadership and team-building training program. Using the skills and techniques he learned in the military, Care helps people improve their physical fitness and mental endurance. Other programs he is involved in include LTD Project, which gives businesses the tools to work more efficiently, and The Project, a 75-hour bootcamp intensive. He also cohosts a podcast called The Overcome and Conquer Show, where he interviews inspiring individuals who have overcome challenges in their lives. Care lives in Virginia Beach, VA with his wife Tricia and their daughter Nyla. Their son, Michael, is following his father’s military tradition and currently serves in the U.S. Air Force.
According to Care, being a SEAL is all about attitude, and believes anyone can harness that same mentality to improve their lives. “Family, fitness, finance and faith; my four F-bombs to success. I put family at the top and I put faith at the bottom. Faith is the foundation of everything. Faith is not religion. You wanna be successful, it starts with you. Believe in yourself. Get up every morning like you won the lottery and attack life,” says Care.
NFM Salute is an initiative in which one military member or Veteran is chosen each month to be honored as the “Salute of the Month.” Salutes are chosen from nominations on the NFM Salute website, www.nfmsalute.com. The “Salute of the Month” will be featured on the website with a biography and information about his or her service, and NFM Lending will donate to a military or Veteran non-profit in the Salute’s name.
NFM Lending is proud to donate $2,500 to Gary Sinise Foundation on behalf of Care. NFM looks forward to the opportunity to continue to honor military and Veterans through the NFM Salute initiative.
About NFM Lending
NFM Lending is a mortgage lending company currently licensed in 41 states in the U.S. The company was founded in Baltimore, Maryland in 1998. NFM Lending and its family of companies includes Main Street Home Loans, BluPrint Home Loans, and Freedmont Mortgage Group. They attribute their success in the mortgage industry to their steadfast commitment to customers and the community. NFM Lending has firmly planted itself in the home loan marketplace as “America’s Common Sense Residential Mortgage Lender.™” For more information about NFM Lending, visit www.nfmlending.com, like our Facebook page, or follow us on Instagram.
LINTHICUM, MD, August 24, 2020 — NFM Lending is pleased to announce the opening of a new branch in Lynnwood, WA. The branch is located at 3400 188th Street SW, Suite 400, Lynnwood, WA 98037 and will be led by Branch Manager, Oleg Tkach. The NFM Lending branch will focus on expanding NFM’s flexible and powerful lending platform throughout the greater Seattle area to better serve community families with exceptional customer service. NFM Lending offers Conventional, FHA, VA, USDA, FNMA, Jumbo, and many other loan options to fit every borrower’s need.
“Every once in a while, someone comes along that changes the game,” said David Silverman, Founder/CEO of NFM Lending. “Oleg Tkach is that guy. He’s a superstar with a work ethic that is unmatched. Yes, he’s one of the biggest producers in the country and a coach who gets pleasure in seeing others achieve, but he’s also coachable. You can tell by the way he encourages the sharing of ideas. He’s a collaborator who cares about helping people and organizations reach their maximum potential. This also applies to the care and service Oleg gives his clients; He always listens and strives to put them in the best position for financial success. NFM is very fortunate to have him join our family and we look forward to a long and successful relationship together.”
The branch’s goal is to continue to provide the same commitment and dedication to borrowers, ranging from first time homebuyers to seasoned buyers looking for their next home, a second home, or investment properties.
For more information, please contact:
Oleg Tkach
Branch Manager
NMLS# 90937
425-478-7676
oleg@nfmlending.com
www.nfmlending.com/oleg
NFM Lending is a mortgage lending company currently licensed in 41 states in the U.S. The company was founded in Baltimore, Maryland in 1998. NFM Lending and its family of companies includes Main Street Home Loans, BluPrint Home Loans, and Freedmont Mortgage Group. They attribute their success in the mortgage industry to their steadfast commitment to customers and the community. NFM Lending has firmly planted itself in the home loan marketplace as “America’s Common Sense Residential Mortgage Lender.™” For more information about NFM Lending, visit www.nfmlending.com, like our Facebook page, or follow us on Instagram.
NFM Lending announced today they will make a $60,000 donation to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital as part of its new “Chipping Away at Childhood Cancer” program, an initiative with PGA Golfer Tom Lewis. NFM, who is a corporate sponsor of Lewis, committed $2,500 to St. Jude for every birdie Mr. Lewis made in the World Golf Championships-FedEx St. Jude Invitational held July 30 – August 2, 2020 at TPC Southwind in Memphis, TN. Lewis made 24 birdies, the most of any golfer in the tournament, on his way to a 2nd place finish.
NFM Lending’s CEO, David Silverman, has been a big supporter of St. Jude and its mission for many years. “St. Jude has been a charitable focus for me since 2012,” said Silverman. “Their transparency on how donations are used to treat and cure children with cancer is unparalleled. I had the opportunity to tour St. Jude and it is inspiring and humbling. NFM is grateful to support this worthy cause.”
Mr. Silverman announced that the donation to St. Jude is just the beginning of a new level of support and partnership NFM will have with St. Jude. The “Chipping Away at Childhood Cancer” program will follow Lewis on the PGA Tour, and NFM will continue to donate money for every birdie and eagle he makes throughout the year. If he wins any of the PGA events, NFM Lending will make an additional donation of $100,000.
The new program is part of NFM’s C.A.R.E.S. initiative which focuses on the success of the family unit and the right of all people to have a safe, secure, and healthy place to live and grow.
To read about the groundbreaking research and holistic treatment of childhood cancer and other life-threatening diseases being performed by St. Jude and to make your own donation, please go to https://www.stjude.org/.
LINTHICUM, MD, August 3, 2020— NFM Lending is pleased to honor Colonel Kevin Sellers, USAF, Retired, as the NFM Salute for August 2020.
COL Sellers served in the Air Force from 1995 to 2020. His distinguished military career began after he graduated from the United States Air Force Academy and was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant. The early years of his profession had him stationed at Elgin and Tinker Air Force Base, where he made lifelong connections with his fellow Airmen. He was stationed to Karshi-Khanabad Air Force Base in Uzbekistan in 2003 to assist with Operation ENDURING FREEDOM as an Executive Officer.
From 2011 to 2012, COL Sellers acted as DCMA-Iraq Deputy Group Commander and assisted with the peaceful transition of power to Iraqi locals. He played an integral role in safely withdrawing troops and contractors from Iraq during Operation NEW DAWN. He achieved the rank of Colonel in 2016.
His most recent position was Chief, C-5M Super Galaxy Division, Mobility and Training Aircraft Directorate, at Air Force Life Cycle Management Center at Robins Air Force Base, GA. In this role, COL Sellers provided integrated logistical support for the 52 C-5M aircraft and oversaw 220 personnel. As the manager of the Division’s $3.1B annual budget, he helped formulate strategies for the modernization and modification of the C-5 aircraft.
Ever since he was at the Air Force Academy, COL Sellers sought to challenge himself. His professional achievements have shown he stayed true to his personal goal, and it also extended into the classroom. Even with a full-time career in the military, COL Sellers continued to advance his education and earned his MBA in 2000 and Juris Doctor in 2005 from Oklahoma City University.
COL Sellers retired from the Air Force in May 2020 after 25 years of service. As someone who has committed himself to the military, COL Sellers has advice for anyone interested in pursuing the same career.
“I would tell them to enjoy their service and continue to seek opportunities,” he says. “There are so many opportunities for personal and professional improvement. There are opportunities to do great in your career field, and then at certain points in your career, to branch out and do different things. So it’s important to really understand the mechanics of those opportunities and the processes for taking advantage of all that the military has to offer.”
During his career, COL Sellers has been awarded 10 awards and distinctions, including the Bronze Star Medal, the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, the Air Force Commendation Medal with four oak leaf clusters, Iraq Campaign Medal with service star, and the Nuclear Deterrence Operations Service Medal.
COL Sellers resides in Grapevine, TX with his wife, Angela. He is the proud father of Tyler, Brookelyn, Kylee, and Adilyn, and grandfather of Lilith. Tyler is following in his father’s military footsteps by serving as an Army Staff Sergeant, currently on his second deployment. Now that he is retired, COL Sellers looks forward to reconnecting with friends and family and getting to enjoy “lake life”.
NFM Salute is an initiative in which one military member or Veteran is chosen each month to be honored as the “Salute of the Month.” Salutes are chosen from nominations on the NFM Salute website, www.nfmsalute.com. The “Salute of the Month” will be featured on the website with a biography and information about his or her service, and NFM Lending will donate to a military or Veteran non-profit in the Salute’s name.
NFM Lending is proud to donate $2,500 to Gary Sinise Foundation on behalf of COL Sellers. NFM looks forward to the opportunity to continue to honor military and Veterans through the NFM Salute initiative.
About NFM Lending
NFM Lending is a mortgage lending company currently licensed in 41 states in the U.S. The company was founded in Baltimore, Maryland in 1998. NFM Lending and its family of companies includes Main Street Home Loans, BluPrint Home Loans, and Freedmont Mortgage Group. They attribute their success in the mortgage industry to their steadfast commitment to customers and the community. NFM Lending has firmly planted itself in the home loan marketplace as “America’s Common Sense Residential Mortgage Lender.™” For more information about NFM Lending, visit www.nfmlending.com, like our Facebook page, or follow us on Instagram.
During the peak of summer, you might do whatever it takes to stay cool. Before you run to turn your thermostat down in the peak of summer, keep in mind the monetary cost to keeping your home’s temperature regulated. Saving money and energy go hand in hand, and you can do both by being strategic about how you cool your home. We’re sharing some helpful tips so you’ll know how to save money and energy during the summer.
Cool Down
Instead of immediately turning to your AC for relief, turn on your ceiling fan to help circulate air. Using fans can help you feel up to 8 degrees cooler without the need to lower your thermostat. Make sure it’s spinning counterclockwise so that air is blowing down on you. Don’t waste energy, so be sure to turn it off when you leave the room.
The hottest time of the day is generally between 4 and 6 p.m. During this period, try reducing the amount of sunlight coming into your home by adjusting your curtains and blinds accordingly. In the evening, consider having your windows open while you sleep. Additionally, check the windows themselves for any air leaks. You can re-caulk or add weather stripping to prevent unwanted airflow to and from your home.
Thermostat
Another sensible way to help keep your energy bill down is to keep the thermostat at a higher temperature when you aren’t home. There’s no use for your house to be cool when there’s no one to enjoy it. When you’re inside, make it a goal to keep the thermostat set at 78°F. The closer your home’s temperature is to outside conditions, the more you will save on your energy. Try keeping the temperature as high possible without sacrificing your comfort. You shouldn’t be sweating in your house, but you don’t need to blast the AC, either. By keeping your thermostat 7°-10° back from its normal setting, you can save up to 10% a year on heating and cooling.
If you don’t already own one, consider switching to a programmable thermostat to have more control over your home’s temperature. This can help you save energy and money in the long run because it’s more precise than traditional thermostats; you can even automate its settings to your family’s schedule!
Air Conditioner
Servicing the air conditioner itself is integral to making your cooling system run optimally. Every few weeks, check on your air conditioner’s filter to see if it needs replacing. When there is an excessive amount of dirt in the filter, it takes more energy to push the air through it. Your HVAC system should also be serviced yearly to ensure it’s working properly. When your AC is running effectively, you’re on your way to saving money.
Off-Peak Hours
Regardless of where you live, there is a peak energy period throughout the day. More people are using energy, and rates are higher during those times. Though the ranges vary by location, season, and utility company, off-peak energy times are typically early morning and evening. If you’re able to, limit using heat generating appliances like the oven, washing machine, dryer, and dishwasher during the slower times.
Resisting the urge to turn down your cooling units might seem counterintuitive at first. Rest assured, you might not even notice the difference in the air temperature, but you’ll be able to see the difference on your energy bill. Understanding what household actions use the most energy and how to minimize your usage will help you keep utility costs down.
If you have any questions about the home buying process, contact one of our licensed Mortgage Loan Originators. If you are ready to buy a home, click here to get started!
Summer has officially begun, and there are so many ways to enjoy it! Even if you’re staying close to home, you can still create magical memories with your loved ones. Life can seem to slow down during the summer, but that doesn’t mean you should let down your guard when it comes to staying safe. Here are 5 summer safety tips to keep in mind this season.
Summer is the season for breaking out the grill! Even though it’s a versatile cooking appliance, it’s definitely not a toy. In fact, July sees the highest number of grill fires. If you have a charcoal or gas grill, always use it outdoors. Toxic fumes can’t dissipate when cooking indoors or in a garage and can start a fire. Always place your grill on a flat, fire-proof surface that’s at least 10 feet away from your home. Depending on your setup, even grilling on a deck might not always be a wise idea. If you choose to do so, avoid grilling on upper-floor decks or ones made of flammable material. Remember: it’s important to always place your grill in an area where fumes can escape.
Be wary of low hanging tree branches when you set up your station, as they could catch on fire. If you have a lot of food to cook, you might be tempted to fit as much of it on at once as possible. It’s important not to overcrowd the grill, because too much grease and sauce dripping on the coals can spark into a burst of flame. You might not think cleaning is an important part of grilling, but it can help you cook more safely. Before you cook any food, give it a good scrub to remove grease and food particles from the surface. Washing the grill after each use will help you prevent a flare up and make for tastier food. It’s also a good idea to have a fire extinguisher nearby just in case things go up in flames.
A day at the pool is the perfect opportunity to create new summer memories! While you’re having fun splashing around, be mindful of your surroundings so you can remember pool days for all the right reasons. Some residential pools may not be deep enough to dive into safely; anything less than 8 feet deep is unsafe. In general, you should never dive into water where you cannot clearly see the bottom or know how deep it is. Showing off a back-flip is not worth a life-threatening injury, so save your Olympic-esque moves for an Olympic-sized pool.
Your mother knew what she was talking about when she warned you about running by the pool. Pool patios are usually made of concrete or stone tiles and can be slippery when wet, so it’s better to stick to walking when getting in and out of the water. If you have your own pool, make sure to clean and maintain it regularly so the water is sanitary for swimming.
Gathering around a roaring fire isn’t just for the colder months —many homeowners enjoy connecting with their families around a fire pit during the summertime. Fire pits are typically fueled by either gas or wood; the former is a good choice if you don’t want the hassle of needing wood. Regardless of the type, your fire pit should be situated on a flat, non-flammable surface at least 10-20 feet away from your home. Be aware of vegetation above and around the fire zone, as smoke or flying sparks could ignite something. If it hasn’t rained in a little while, it’s not a bad idea to water the surrounding area to avoid catching dry grass or trees on fire.
You should never leave a fire unattended. This goes double if you have children or pets around, as their curiosity or clumsiness can turn into chaos very fast. For wood burning fire pits, you’ll need to take special precautions. You might think using lighter fluid or gasoline is an easy way to get your fire going, but avoid using a fire accelerant to jump-start the flames. Instead, use a barbecue lighter to ignite small pieces of wood and carefully stoke the flames, gradually adding larger pieces of wood. Use untreated hardwoods like oak and maple in your fire when possible. Softwoods such as cedar and pine will also work, though they won’t burn as long and can be more prone to “spitting”. When you’re done enjoying the fire, extinguish it properly before returning inside.
Trampolines aren’t just for summer, but don’t be surprised if they get more use during the warmer months. After all, what better time is there to get outside for some fun exercise? Jumping on a trampoline is exhilarating for both children and adults, but safety should always come first when it comes to these bouncy contraptions. Your trampoline should be positioned on a flat, open, and grassy area to minimize injury. Avoid surfaces like concrete, as jumps will not be absorbed as well and can result in painful landings if there is a misstep.
It can be difficult to control your movements while airborne, so having a net around your trampoline is a sensible idea. Remember to always keep an eye on your trampoline’s tarp and coils. If there are frays, punctures, holes, or worn areas on the mat, it’s best to replace it. If you see the metal components of the trampoline (such as the coils and frame) rusting or not holding their shape, you should replace those, too. Just as a trampoline can make you feel limitless, it’s crucial to understand its limits. A sturdy trampoline and net can only do so much, so always be conscious of how you’re interacting with it.
On a hot summer day, an air conditioner feels like a godsend. It’s tempting to want to have your AC run continuously or on the highest setting, but doing so puts more wear on your appliance and could increase the likelihood of it overheating. The harder your air conditioning is working, the faster it will wear out. Besides being selective about how you use your AC, changing the filters in your home can reduce the risk of it failing. When the filters are dirty, it causes the machine to work harder pumping in air. Additionally, the air being circulated in your home will have more contaminants. You may need to change your filter more often if you have pets that shed or live in an area with high air pollution levels.
Wherever your air conditioner is on your property, keep the perimeter around it clear of any combustible items. Another potential danger of using your AC stems from when the wiring is damaged. If you unknowingly operate it when the wires are in disrepair, it could spark a fire. To make sure that everything is working correctly, have an HVAC professional check your system at least once a year, especially before the start of summer or winter. Like many components of your home, regular maintenance will help prolong the life and safety of your house.
Like air conditioners, your fridge can get overworked and overheated. Refrigerators tend to use more energy in the summer, so it’s beneficial to help reduce its stress whenever possible. Try to minimize the time you spend with the door open; slight increases in temperature in your fridge will cause it to use more energy to get back to a cooler climate. Take a minute or two every few months to make sure the seal and gaskets are in place. If you notice air leaks around the door, get them repaired quickly to protect your food and your refrigerator’s health.
When you’re busy savoring your summer, remember that staying safe and being a responsible homeowner is equally important as having fun. Operating these units properly and maintaining them will help you ensure that your summer will be memorable in the best way possible.
If you have any questions about the home buying process, contact one of our licensed Mortgage Loan Originators. If you are ready to buy a home, click here to get started!
As a homeowner, you’ve probably fantasized about having your own pool. As the days grow hotter and summer arrives, you’ll probably be daydreaming of sitting poolside in your own backyard even more. Having your own pool might seem like paradise, but it’s not that simple. Before you dive headfirst into planning where to put lounge chairs, you should be aware of the real costs of owning a pool.
For most people, installing a swimming pool can’t be done on a whim as it can be a costly venture. Inground pools are the more popular option, however, they are much more expensive with average installation costs of about $51,000. Above-ground pools are much more cost-friendly at about $2,250, but do have limitations (such as size and depth). Ultimately, the cost of installing a pool will be determined by several factors, such as size, materials used, build location, and whether you add any special features, like a waterfall or slide. You need to check with your local zoning authorities and HOA before you start any construction. In the case of home improvements, it’s better to ask and receive permission than not and learn you’re in violation of code.
As a pool owner, be prepared to become somewhat of a chemist. To keep the pool sanitized, you should regularly test the water’s chemical balance and adjust as needed. It’s best to test pH and chlorine levels 2-3 times a week, and alkalinity once a week. Pool chemicals will be a recurring cost for the life the pool; expect to buy this necessity more frequently if the pool is used a lot. A good rule of thumb is that when your pool is being used consistently, the more work you will need to put in to maintain it.
Even if you anticipate your pool only being used during the warmer months, a pool is a year-long responsibility. If you live in an area that experiences snow and cold weather, you need to take the appropriate steps to winterize your pool. This includes partially draining, cleaning, chemically treating, and covering your pool before frost arrives. When you’re ready to use the pool again, you have to go through the same process in reverse. If you want a pool but would rather avoid the daily upkeep of caring for one, you can hire a someone to clean and service it. Depending on how often you schedule cleaning appointments, a contractor can cost anywhere from $70-200 a month. For some people, it pays to have someone else maintain their pool; be sure to factor this into your pool budget if you want to go this route.
Some of the monetary costs associated with owning a pool are more indirect. For example, your home insurance rates may increase due to greater liability. This applies whether you have an in-ground or above ground pool. Owning a pool can increase your monthly utility statement, especially if your pool is in-ground. When pools have pumps or temperature regulators, their energy usage will be reflected on your electricity bill. Your water bill won’t likely see a significant increase each month, but it’s best to top the water level off if it dips lower than the skimmer.
At the end of the day, you have the freedom to do whatever you want to customize your house. If you believe adding a pool to your home will enrich your life and have the means to do so, go for it! It takes time, effort, and money to properly maintain a pool, but it can all be worth it when you’re able to stay cool in the summertime.
If you have any questions about the home buying process, contact one of our licensed Mortgage Loan Originators. If you are ready to buy a home, click here to get started!
LINTHICUM, MD, June 10, 2020 — NFM Lending is pleased to announce the opening of a new branch in Lynnwood, WA. The branch is located at 3400 188th Street SW, Suite 400, Lynnwood, WA 98037 and will be led by Branch Manager, Jeff Miltenberger. The NFM Lending branch will focus on expanding NFM’s flexible and powerful lending platform throughout the greater Seattle area to better serve community families with exceptional customer service. NFM Lending offers Conventional, FHA, VA, USDA, FNMA, Jumbo, and many other loan options to fit every borrower’s need.
“I am incredibly excited to be welcomed into the NFM family,” said Miltenberger. “To my clients and partners- I thank you for your trust and I want you to know that I have made this move with you in mind. Ultimately, NFM’s approach to the loan process aligns with what I believe will best serve you into the future. I look forward to working with you for the first, second, or 15th time!”
The branch’s goal is to continue to provide the same commitment and dedication to borrowers, ranging from first time homebuyers to seasoned buyers looking for their next home, a second home, or investment properties.
“Jeff brings the kind of experience, leadership and consistency that few in the mortgage business can match,” said Greg Sher, Chief Business Development Officer. “In an industry that’s seen its fair share of tumult over the past 2+ decades, Jeff has always found a way to rise above the challenges during his long and successful career. The NFM Lending family feels very fortunate to be working with someone of Jeff’s caliber.”
The Miltenberger Team is currently seeking qualified Mortgage Loan Originators for full and part-time positions.
For more information, please contact:
Jeff Miltenberger
Branch Manager
NMLS# 108278
206-295-8455
jeffm@nfmlending.com
www.nfmlending.com/jmiltenberger
NFM Lending is a mortgage lending company currently licensed in 41 states in the U.S. The company was founded in Baltimore, Maryland in 1998. NFM Lending and its family of companies includes Main Street Home Loans, BluPrint Home Loans, and Freedmont Mortgage Group. They attribute their success in the mortgage industry to their steadfast commitment to customers and the community. NFM Lending has firmly planted itself in the home loan marketplace as “America’s Common Sense Residential Mortgage Lender.™” For more information about NFM Lending, visit www.nfmlending.com, like our Facebook page, or follow us on Instagram.
Celebrate National Gardening Week by adding some new plants to your garden or start growing one! With so many planting possibilities, how do you know which ones are okay to cultivate when you’re also a pet parent? It’s not always easy to know the toxicity profiles of various plants if you’ve never grown a garden or had a yard of your own before. Much like small children, pets will often try to eat anything that looks tasty. Your animals don’t know what’s safe to eat and what isn’t, and if they’re curious, they may think your geraniums are worth a nibble. Of course, not every plant is safe for your furry friend to ingest. If your pet is prone to getting into your plants, you may want to add plant species to your garden that won’t get them sick. Here are some common pet-safe (and not-so-safe) plants for your yard.
Basil
This versatile herb is easy to care for whether you’re growing from seed or transplanting from another container. The leaves give off a pleasant herbal scent that also is a deterrent for mosquitoes. Basil makes a great addition if you’re starting an herb garden!
Boston Fern
Who doesn’t love a leafy fern? Ferns are a classic plant to put in your yard; they love indirect light and moist areas. If you see withered and yellow fronds, trim them off so the leaves can regenerate. With the right environment and care, your fern can expand to appear full and bush-like.
Crepe Myrtle
This tree comes in a variety of colors and blooms each spring. Crepe myrtles love sun and can become great shade bearers when in season. Before they bloom, prune the branches in early spring to promote strong stems and bountiful blooms.
Dill
Plant some dill to add a feathery element to your garden and harvest it to flavor your food. If you trim the leaves throughout the spring and summer, your dill plant will produce for the rest of the season. Dill is safe for dogs, cats, and humans to eat, so this is the perfect addition to your yard!
Grape Hyacinth
Grape hyacinths are short-growing perennials whose florets resemble a grape cluster. They might even look good enough to eat, especially if you’re a curious animal. Grape hyacinths can thrive in sun or shade and can be effective as groundcover. Fortunately, these “grapes” won’t hurt your pet if they try to eat one.
Marigolds
Bring cheer to your garden by planting some marigolds! This annual plant is related to the sunflower and features stunning orange and yellow flowers that can make your garden extra special. They’re hardy plants and tend to thrive in very sunny areas.
Spider Plant
Don’t let the name scare you –the spider plant is a hardy plant with long, narrow leaves. Due to its effective air filtering qualities, it is also a popular houseplant. Whether you plant this indoors or outdoors, it is safe if your pet decides to taste it.
Zinnia
Zinnias are annuals that grow tall and come in a rainbow of colors. Be sure to plant them in a sunny spot –you might even see a butterfly land on one! Once the flower blooms and has withered, cut it away so that new flowers can grow.
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera plants are a wonderful succulent to grow if your environment permits it. Not only does aloe give your garden visual interest, the gel inside its spiky leaves provides cool and soothing relief. It can even be prepared for human consumption, but keep your pets away from it.
Azalea
From pinks, purples, reds, and everything in between, a few azaleas in your garden can make it seem like a paradise. This perennial shrub explodes with colorful blossoms each spring; consider planting some along your property for a natural “fence”. Since the azalea is in the rhododendron family, your pet should avoid ingesting rhododendrons, too.
Chrysanthemum
This fall favorite is a perennial that blooms anywhere from September to the first frost of the season. Be sure to space out “mums” when you plant them to avoid root problems. Before the weather gets cold, scatter mulch around the plant’s base to protect the roots from frost.
Daffodils
Fragrant and sunny, daffodils are a spring favorite for many people. They’re among the first flowers to bloom after colder weather has passed, greeting the world with flashes of yellow, orange, or even pink. Take extra precaution if your pet is prone to digging up your flowers, as the bulb is the most toxic part of the plant.
Geranium
Geraniums are a quintessential plant to place at the front steps of your home for some curb appeal. Many people put them in pots for a charming aesthetic and to facilitate winterizing, but they can also be planted in the ground. If planted outdoors, geraniums can bloom from the summer to early fall.
Iris
Plant some of these elegant beauties for gorgeous color schemes during early summer. Irises need to be put in well-drained soil; they are susceptible to root rot if their soil is too wet. It’s best to plant them during late summer to early fall to ensure blooms next season.
Tomato plant
Tomatoes look juicy and delicious hanging on the vine, and your pet might agree with you by trying to eat one. Though it can be all right for a cat or dog to have small pieces of tomato occasionally, they need to be kept away from unripe tomatoes. Along with the plant’s leaves and stem, unripe tomatoes contain a toxin called solanine that causes stomach pain and slowed heart rate, among other issues.
Tulips
Tulips are another timeless springtime floral. Horticultural advancements have produced numerous hybrids, so there is sure to be a variety to suit your tastes. Plant them in an area with full sun with well-draining soil. Since they are bulb plants, your pet should be kept away from tulips.
Of course, your cats and dogs should generally be discouraged from eating plants, but you can have more peace of mind knowing the ones in your garden aren’t toxic. If you do notice that your pet has eaten a plant, you should check to see what they have eaten and about how much. When in doubt, call your veterinarian for reassurance and further instruction. If you’re concerned that your pet will get into your garden, always do your research before planting something new. Adding more pet-friendly plants to your yard is a win for you and your pet; you can beautify your garden and add curb appeal while helping your pet wander your yard safely.
If you have any questions about the home buying process, contact one of our licensed Mortgage Loan Originators. If you are ready to buy a home, click here to get started!
LINTHICUM, MD, June 1, 2020— NFM Lending is pleased to honor Staff Sergeant Jeremy Katzenberger as the NFM Salute for June 2020.
Katzenberger enlisted in the U.S. Army in October 2004. He completed training at Fort Benning, GA as an infantryman, and later was assigned to their Ranger Assessment and Selection Program. Upon graduation of the program, Katzenberger was assigned to Company B, 1st Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment. He served as a rifleman, automatic rifleman, team leader and Ranger squad leader. He was deployed eight times in support of the War on Terror; four times to Iraq and four to Afghanistan. On June 14, 2011, Katzenberger was conducting combat operations with his unit in Sharana, Paktika Province, Afghanistan, when he was attacked and killed by enemy forces. He was 26 years old.
Katzenberger’s awards and decorations include: Non-commissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon, Army Service Ribbon, the Ranger Tab, Expert Infantryman Badge, Combat Infantryman Badge, the Parachutist Badge, Air Medal, Army Achievement Medal with one oak leaf cluster, Army Commendation Medal with two oak leaf clusters, Army Good Conduct Medal with one loop, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal with two Campaign Stars, Iraq Campaign Medal with three Campaign Stars, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, and Overseas Service Ribbon with numeral 2.
Katzenberger met his wife, Colleen, during sophomore year of high school while lifeguarding in their hometown of Weatherby Lake, MO. Their son, Everett, was only four months old when Katzenberger was deployed for the final time.
Discussing why Katzenberger chose to join the Army, Colleen explained, “We actually didn’t start dating until our first year of college. Jeremy decided after that [year] the school route wasn’t for him yet. So, he made the very selfless decision to enlist in the military with a Ranger contract. We stayed together in that. I often like to talk about how I got to watch this 16-year-old boy that life-guarded become this amazing warrior and selfless man that served our country.”
She also touched on the impact of becoming a Gold Star wife and how life has been for her now nine-year-old son.
“I always tell people that I think grief is big and it’s powerful and you don’t ever get rid of it. Watching and raising a son by myself that always so desperately wants to know who his dad was, it means a lot to have people like [NFM] that are always willing to tell my story and Jeremy’s story and honor that, because it means a lot to that nine-year-old boy who looks just like his dad. He’s doing really well. I think there is a certain amount of beauty in watching a young child really grasp the idea that his dad died fighting for our country and I can’t help but think Jeremy is really, really proud of Everett.”
NFM Salute is an initiative in which one military member or Veteran is chosen each month to be honored as the “Salute of the Month.” Salutes are chosen from nominations on the NFM Salute website, www.nfmsalute.com. The “Salute of the Month” will be featured on the website with a biography and information about his or her service, and NFM Lending will donate to a military or Veteran non-profit in the Salute’s name.
NFM Lending is proud to donate $2,500 to The Gary Sinise Foundation on behalf of Katzenberger and his family. NFM looks forward to the opportunity to continue to honor military and Veterans through the NFM Salute initiative.
NFM Lending is a mortgage lending company currently licensed in 41 states in the U.S. The company was founded in Baltimore, Maryland in 1998. NFM Lending and its family of companies includes Main Street Home Loans, BluPrint Home Loans, and Freedmont Mortgage Group. They attribute their success in the mortgage industry to their steadfast commitment to customers and the community. NFM Lending has firmly planted itself in the home loan marketplace as “America’s Common Sense Residential Mortgage Lender.™” For more information about NFM Lending, visit www.nfmlending.com, like our Facebook page, or follow us on Instagram.