
Emily grew up in a household where there was always a summer garden, and a room being renovated. This influence followed her into adulthood as she has worked in various trades for more than a decade, specializing in tile and trim carpentry. She owns and runs MLE Renovations and has over 15 years of professional renovation and landscaping experience.
Emily has a Bachelor's degree in English Literature from the University of Guelph, a Masters in Creative Writing from Humber College, and a Journalism diploma from Conestoga College, so writing about DIY projects is her dream job! She’s particularly interested in green design, re-purposing items, and creating environmentally-friendly outdoor landscapes. She always has a project in mind. Next on the list: creating a rain garden on the front lawn, and turning her garage into a working office and guest suite.
Emily lives just southwest of Toronto, but grew up in Chicago, and has family across Canada and the United States. She currently works in a Lowes garden center and has an orange tabby cat who helps her decide where plants should go - without getting his paws dirty.
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How to Apply for a Building Permit
This is often the most important step homeowners ignore when doing renovations....
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Surprise! These 8 Edible Weeds are Free Food
These fast growing weeds are also healthy, delicious herbs....
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10 Houseplants that Need Hardly Any Water
If you forget for a few days, these hardy guys will be ok....
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7 Houseplant Pests and How to Stop Them
Identify and attack these plant eating invaders....
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7 Must-Do Projects Around the House in February
Beat the February Blues with these must-do projects....
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How to Use Every Part of a Pumpkin
From stem to seeds, get the absolute most out of this fruit....
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Cleaning Tips for Common Appliances
Your appliances need a little love....
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Minimalist Cleaning Kit: What 5 Things Do You Actually Need?
Tired of plastic spray bottles taking up space in your cabinets? You only really need 5 product...
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How to Propagate Pineapples, Avocados, and Citrus Trees
With patience, you can grow a special garden from scraps....
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Flowers to Plant for an Early Spring Bloom
Already dreaming about spring color?...
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Green Cleaning Hacks
Eliminate toxins in your home with these eco-friendly ideas....
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What Can I Recycle?
When it comes to recycling many Americans fall short of goals to keep unnecessary items out of...
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Retrofits for Passive Heating
Upgrade your home to keep more heat from the sun....
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What Goes Into Converting a Car to Electric?
The upfront cost will eventually lead to major savings....
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6 DIY Projects Under $100
You don't need to break the bank to make long-lasting upgrades to your home....
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Beginners Guide to Van Life
Could living on the road be right for you?...
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What Models of Van are the Best to Live In?
Picking the right one is crucial for your long term comfort....
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Drought Resistant Landscaping
Frustrated by dry spells and browning gardens? Think local....
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8 Ways to Fight the Climate Crisis With Your Garden
Help protect the natural world with these simple tips....
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Are Air Purifying Plants a Myth?
Most homes are too porous for plants to matter much....