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THE SUDS PRESS
A World Without Suds
!Picture your life in its completeness; the 60-hour workweek, the kids, the boss, the staff, the health,
the wealth, and all the stuff in-between. This is what many describe life to be in today’s world. Hectic, frantic, stressed, pulled, pushed, spinning, and dizzy are a few of the words that come to mind in the life of the person who is striving to be the best a t everything. It is a description most of our clients understand. Social media has us believing in YOLO (you only live once) at the same time making us not want to experience FOMO (fear of missing out) all while we ‘Keep Up With The Joneses’ (or the Kardashians). In addition to our daily tasks we also must fit in the cooking, cleaning, and other household duties to make sure our home is running smoothly.
What is your opportunity cost? Is it family? Work? Relationships? Business? Self? Social Life?
The value of a housekeeper is often overlooked and swept to the side. However, during these critical times, this is where Suds Domestic Services (SUDS) comes in and rescues you from your hectic schedule and provides convenience and comfort to your life. SUDS relieves you of the burden and strains of household tasks and cuts down your endless to-do list. With all that you do and have to do, who has an extra 10 hours to scrub and clean?
Suds Domestic Services understands the value of your family, time, and work. SUDS gives you the freedom by allowing you to take back your time and energy to spend it in the best ways you see fit – living life to the fullest with no regrets and continue to create the amazing experiences you deserve. We ask you take the challenge and live a SUDS life.
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November 2013
A Pat on the back and a Buddy by your side with a sprinkle of Carol in between
SUDS Domestic Services cannot say enough wonderful things about the great customers who come into our lives. We appreciate and love every single one of you. We thank you for using and believing in what we
offer and value when you tell others of the services you have received. Suds Domestic Services will continue to provide excellent and exceptional work. It is because of our great customers we have an outstanding staff who will always go above and beyond the task that is given. We would like to take a moment and introduce you to three people who have the client/staff relationship that makes it a dream to be welcomed into your homes.
Buddy and his wife Pat are two of our most beloved customers. I met Buddy 4 years ago when he personally wanted to interview the owner of the cleaning company who was going to clean his home. When I pulled up to his cabin-like wood house, Buddy and his fourlegged companion, Sammie, greeted me. I was lucky to meet two great characters. I instantly felt a bond with Buddy because of his great zest for life. He was one of the oldest living liver transplant patients in the country who was not on immunosuppressant and coincidentally his home is one of the oldest houses in Miami-Dade County built in 1909 without any nails. I knew at that moment I wanted him as a client, and I got him!
His wife, Pat, was an added bonus and Buddy’s blessing in disguise. A woman of a few words who was the rock and stability in the relationship by making sure everything was in sudsdomestic.com
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its place. She was the love of his life, the woman of his dreams, and the one in the background who took care of everything.
Their love story was one for the romance books. They were married on Halloween – a treat more than a trick. It was their favorite time of the year, and they would spare no expense in decorating the home with all things Halloween including a Bride and Groom of Frankenstein. It was true and pure unconditional love you are lucky to experience at least once in your lifetime.
Last year, Buddy was experiencing additional difficulty with his health due to a car accident. He needed several operations. We spoke about my ideas of writing a blog and featuring him as my ‘customer of the month’. We talked about using me to tell his life story to the world. It will be our version of Tuesdays with Morrie.
The last time I saw my friend was when he was on his way to the doctor. He said he was not feeling well be he still looked handsome as ever, with his Fedora, jacket, and cane, getting into the waiting cab. My ‘Tuesdays with Buddy’ would have to wait until he got better. We both could not wait to begin videotaping and to memorialize his story.
During his stay at the hospital, I spoke to Pat a couple of times and she informed me Buddy took a turn for the worse but he was destined to come home. When he finally came home, I could not wait to see my friend. I was clueless in what to bring him (flowers, food, edible arrangements?). I was 5 minutes away when I decided to call Pat and find out what to bring. She told me Buddy passed away that morning.
I never got the chance to share his amazing story the way we had planned. People will not have the opportunity to meet an amazing, interesting, and great person like Buddy who forever impacted my life and the lives of my loved ones including Carol Lemonius.
Carol is not just an employee but also an extended member of my family as well as Buddy and Pat’s. Carol is the type of person many clients wish they could clone and is often described as a soft-spoken woman who is pretty on the outside and just as beautiful on the inside. She is known as the kind of person who adds value to one’s life.
Buddy and Pat trusted Carol wholeheartedly. She became the family member who maintained a healthy environment in their home. When Carol became pregnant with her second child, the roles reversed a bit for Buddy and Carol. He began putting her needs in front of the house tasks. He made sure she ate well to keep up strength so she can continue her duties. He would prepare her favorite lunch (shrimp) and made it clear to her she needed to sit and eat. She was
grateful for the love, kindness, and generosity Buddy and Pat displayed to her over the years.
Recently, we learned Pat has put up their enchanted home for sale. She is set to begin the next phase of her life. She takes with her the wonderful memories she and Buddy have shared. None of us could have ever imagined the impact we played in each other’s life when an ad was answered to clean a house.
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TO BE GREEN OR NOT TO BE GREEN? THAT IS THE QUESTION (SUDSPEREAN QUOTE)
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As we ask that the fundamental question, "Is it really Green?" SUDS brings you along as we delve deeper into green cleaning products. Green is the new black. It seems nowadays every product is labeled “green and ecofriendly”. Many who selfproclaim to be green products are not even “light” green. Don’t be misguided by overzealous GREEN advertisers into buying green cleaning products that are no more than a big load of “dirty laundry”.
The recent trend of green products has now become the new symbol in leading a healthy lifestyle. The problem we face with “old” cleaning
agents is the damage it does to our health and the environment. For example, chlorine bleach products have been known to cause respiratory problems with adults, children, and pets. Not to mention, when released in the water supply its reaction can create toxins and dioxins that are linked to cancer and low sperm count. Also, there are chlorine byproducts that can wreak havoc on wildlife by causing mutations, sterility and even extinction of certain species. According to Beach (1998), "the ozone depletion directly related to global warming, all of which are directly related to chlorine bleach." WOW! Who knew something we have been using for years could cause such harm? However, just like anything, it also has its positive uses and causes most of which are already known. But education is key and proper use in moderation is even more important.
Green products are promoted to be healthier and safer for the environment but it takes more than slapping on the "green label" to make that claim. As a matter of fact, there are some cleaning products on the market claiming you can actually drink or eat them. I have even had someone demonstrate that to me. Let's think along these lines and look at some basic foods or ingredients found in your pantry, which can double as cleaning products for those days when SUDS is not around. For a green cleaning appointment, click here.
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Vinegar:
• Use equals parts of water and vinegar to clean windows.
• Mix 1⁄2 cup of olive oil, 1⁄2 cup of vinegar, and 2 cups of warm water and it can be used to clean wood paneling.
• Deodorize – 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 tablespoon of white distilled vinegar, 1 cup of water, and a few drops of eucalyptus oil makes a great spray to freshen the air. (I personally love this)
Salt: • Mix salt with a dab of dish soap to clean stained cups.
• Mix salt and soda water to wipe out and deodorize the inside of your fridge. This prevents you from using chemicals around your food.
• Mix salt with hot water and pour down the kitchen sink to keep grease from building up.
Lemons:
• Use lemon and salt to clean discolored brass. Always do a small test spot before starting and be careful with antiques.
• Lemon juice is great for cleaning cutting boards and helps kill germs.
• Pouring a gallon of hot water with a 1⁄2 cup of lemon juice down your garbage disposal will help sanitize it.
Olive Oil:
• Use olive oil to remove paint and other sticky substances.
• Use it to polish wood.
• It can also be used to polish metal.
Club Soda:
• Use it to water your indoor and outdoor plants.
• Removes grease stains. Pour on stain and scrub gently.
• Soak your diamonds, emeralds, and rubies for a bright sheen. An overnight soak will get the job done.
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Eucalyptus Oil:
• Spray eucalyptus oil on your mattress and sheets. It is a deterrent for dust mites.
• Spot clean stains on carpets.
• Use as a natural spray deodorizer.
These are just a few GREEN tips that we wanted to share with you! Why spend double the money on “green” cleaning products when you can use what you have in your own kitchen? We do encourage everyone to live a Greener lifestyle.
References: Beach, Emily. "The Effects of Chlorine Bleach on the Environment." Livestrong.com. N.p., 24 Aug. 2010. Web.
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SUDS CATALOGUE OF SERVICES Maid Services (Residential) Weekly, Bi-weekly and Monthly Move-In /Out Cleaning Services One-time Cleaning Services Janitorial Services (Commercial) Offices / Warehouses Buildings Interior Maintenance Grounds Maintenance Construction Cleaning Rough and Final Special Event Cleaning Services Pre, During and Post Companion Services Domestic Placement/Labor Staffing Services Hotels (Room Attendants) Construction General Janitorial Labor
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Coupon expires January 11, 2014
Clip coupon and book by 12/31/13 to receive 20% off your next residential cleaning 6
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Kids & Teen Corner
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You Are Never Too Big For The Clean-Up Song
The “Clean-Up” song has stayed with me since my son and daughter were in PRE-K. I may not sing it aloud but even now, I sometimes hum the tune silently or sing the rock or reggae version in my head while cleaning. This was the one way to get me and my kids to move and take cleaning action until they became unforgiving teenagers. The point is you must do something to keep them interested in cleaning as they are moving, talking, or singing. Make cleaning a fun activity by cranking up the music and splitting the tasks so each child will feel they are part of the contribution. It can be challenging knowing what each child is capable of, so we added a list that is age appropriate. (Screaming and threatening kids does not work – who knew?)
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Ages 2-3 This age group will love to help you around the house. It makes them feel independent and “grownup”.
Some chores they can do: Help make the bed. Pick up toys and books. Help feed the pets.
Ages 4-5
4 year-olds and 5 year-olds will love the one-on-one time with adults. Preschool kids are easily motivated to help.
Their chores can include:
• Clearing and setting the table.
• Putting away the groceries.
• Helping to prepare and to cook the food.
Ages 6-8
You will begin to see the excitement for chores start to fade. Parents –keeping a list of completed responsibilities will help your child to stay enthused to continue working independently.
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Chores they are capable of are:
busy schedules with lots of
responsibilities at a young age. Be aware and sensitive of this. Make sure your teenagers are not overwhelmed but schedule and help plan their activities fittingly.
This group is capable of:
• Laundry.
• Preparing grocery lists.
•Vacuuming.
• Taking out the trash.
• Folding and putting away their laundry.
Ages 9-12
These groups of children are beginning to find themselves busy with friends and after- school extracurricular activities. Make sure they are informed with what you expect from them. Stick to a schedule they can add a little of their input and have them abide by it.
Some chores include: Learning to wash the dishes/load and unload the dishwasher.
• Preparing meals.
Remember children mature differently and at their own pace and each one is completely different from the other so don’t compare them. Starting off with a training period will help them learn what is expected from “them”- and will teach them the ins and outs. “Clean-up, clean-up, everybody everywhere, clean-up, clean- up everybody do your share.” The Barney Clean-up Song!”
Click here to schedule a cleaning and/or organization appointment.
Help wash the car. Learn to run the washer and dryer.
Age 13-18
Some teenagers have
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THE SUDS COMMUNITY PEOPLE AND HAPPENINGS The Camillus House by Commissioner Patrick Fiore
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The Camillus House is the largest provider of homeless services in the state of Florida.
Many of our clients come to us with little to no education. We are able to provide them opportunities that will help them on the road to self-sufficiency such as job placement, skills assessments, resume building, and other employment guidance.
I have been instrumental in working with many employers and potential employers in the South Dade area in giving a helping hand to those who are down on their luck. I
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would like to acknowledge the pleasure it has been to work with Suds Domestic Services (SUDS). Ms. Noelle Jackson and I have partnered to help those individuals who are the most in need.
Since 2013, SUDS hired eight of our clients/residents on a part-time basis in construction cleaning positions. This act has allowed these individuals to gain employment, give them a sense of selfworth, and be part of something they can take pride in.
All of this good work has transpired over a relatively short period of time. As a representative of Camillus House, we look forward to continuing this partnership in the spirit of helping the less fortunate amongst us. For more information on the Camillus House, click here.
The SUDS Cares Program We care; we really do. We don’t just care with our words; we care with our actions and it shows. We understand how important it is to your family as they age to maintain some independence and Suds Senior Care can help them do just that. We will assist your older family members in staying in their homes that they are accustomed to and have enjoyed and treasured over the years. SUDS provides a range of services including companionship, meal preparation, light housekeeping, medication sudsdomestic.com
reminders, shopping, errands and everything that you’d do for your loved one, and more. Whether you live several states away or near, we give you peace of mind knowing that your loved one is taken care of.
The SUDS Cares Program also gives back to the community and we have chosen to provide FREE cleaning services to our elderly and terminally ill persons in our community. We only ask that you nominate someone in need from your community. The services are awarded
around the special times of the year when we know it will make a difference; such as, Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year.
For more information on our Companion Service or to nominate your senior or terminally sick persons, please submit your request here with the subject line:
SUDS Companion Service
SUDS Cares for Seniors
SUDS Cares for the sick
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Featured Clients
! JULIAN JOHNSTON ! With his disarming good looks and Australian accent, who wouldn’t want Julian as their personal realtor? (I may be a bit biased - ;-)) However, I am NOT alone in my admiration; when it comes to the luxury real estate market in Miami, Julian Johnston is a prominent figure among clients and colleagues. He sets himself apart from other realtors by offering foreign language translations, high-end resolution photography, and promoting his clients’ properties in Miami’s luxury publications. Apart from those qualities already mentioned and obvious, he is also extremely professional, a person of integrity, and loyalty that is why most of his clients are repeat clients and once you have met him, you too will become a fan of Julian Johnston. Julian Johnston has worked with Suds Domestic
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Services over the past 5 years. SUDS has provided services to his clients ranging from move-in / move-out cleanings to daily hotel style maid service for his high-end rentals. Julian demands and requires the highest quality of service for his clients and expects SUDS to deliver this quality service each and every time.
real estate world with the connections in place, to find the home of your dreams, or get your property sold. Let Julian be your guide in exploring the wealth of luxury Miami Beach real estate has to offer including all the Miami Beach islands – Fisher Island, the six Venetian Islands, Palm Island, Star Island, La Gorce Island, Allison Island, Indian Creek, Hibiscus Island and the Sunset Islands –all giving you a breadth of exclusive waterfront Miami real estate. For more information, please visit his website at www.miawaterfront.com or call him at 305-502-3985.
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Everyone has heard of Echo and if they haven’t then they should. Echo makes us nostalgic and reminiscent of the pre 2008 era, when everything was over-the-top and full of luxury and opulence. Then, we were ALL forced to take a break to re-group and re-think and out of this period it seems that what has blossomed is another era of luxury.
Property Markets Group (PMG) is a company with insight and vision, bringing new ideas, cutting edge design and financial acumen to the South Florida Real Estate Market with perfect timing. With units starting from $2M, Echo is in good company with the likes of Regalia, 1000 Museum and more of the same scheduled to grace the ever changing Miami Landscape. SUDS Domestic Services, LLC, is proud to have the opportunity to provide janitorial services to such an amazing Client. We pride ourselves in keeping their showrooms and sales offices in pristine condition for ALL to see and marvel. We know that the success of Echo gently reflects as the success of SUDS. Visit them at echobrickell.com and/or echoaventura.com. 
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SUDS Commercial THE TOUGHER SIDE OF SUDS We have a tougher, rougher side to us that only a few of you may know and now we want everyone to know about our the commercial services we offer. Apart from the janitorial services, we will change your light bulbs, do the touch-up painting, changing out AC filters, provide exterior grounds maintenance and other light maintenance services. In addition, you can call on us after the construction or remodeling, and we will make your new or renovated home or building sparkle. Our aim is to make you look good. These are just some of the commercial services SUDS offers: •office janitorial and maintenance services •grounds clean-up and maintenance •post construction cleaning (Rough and Final) – (Single Family and Tract or Condo Projects) •All-in-one Building Maintenance Services (Condos, Office Buildings, Facilities, etc.) • event cleaning (pre, during and post) To request an estimate or for more information on Suds Commercial Services please email us at info@sudsdomestic.com with “Commercial Work” in the subject line.
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SUDS Holiday Servers
HOLIDAY PARTY BLUES? LET SUDS HELP YOU ENTERTAIN IN STYLE! Do you want to really enjoy your Holiday party this year? Do you want to be the one having fun and be the social butterfly, mingling with your family and friends? Of course you do! This is all possible when you have SUDS Event Services take the stress and hosting out of your holiday celebration! The only way to have your party/event so you can enjoy it too, is to have professional staff dedicated to the preparation of the event, welcoming and catering to your guests drink and food needs as well as clearing the unwanted glasses, napkins and plates; let’s not mention bathroom detail and the clean-up of any unfortunate spills. Then, keep us a little longer to put your home/office back in order, so the next afternoon, when you awake completely refreshed, you know it was worth every penny and you and your party are a success and the talk of the town. Not to mention, it was easy! You could do this every year! Reasonable rates! Professional Staff! Book now for the Holidays before it is too late! We work on Thanksgiving and Christmas Days! Send your request for service to info@sudsdomestic.com with “Let’s Party 2013” in the subject line.
Calendar Events • Chanukah / Hanukkah November 28th
• Christmas Day December25th
• Thanksgiving -November 28th
• Kwanzaa - December 26th
• Last day of Chanukah December 5th
• New Year’s Eve - December31st
• Christmas Eve -December 24th
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Advertisers
• Click here for 10% off to 1st time customers
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• Editor: Jennifer Peets
• email: jenniferpeets@yahoo.com sudsdomestic.com
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