Greetings!
As the Holiday season approaches, may you enjoy the excitement of not only the holiday but the preparation as well! Anticipation is half the fun!
Jim Maust
Owner
|
Secure Your Home
|
|
Many people travel over the holiday season, and, unfortunately, break-ins do occur. These tips will help keep your home secure while you're away.
Create the Illusion that you're home: Use
timers on lights, radios and televisions
Ask
neighbors to put trash cans out on trash day
Leave
drapes and shades open
Arrange for mail & newspaper delivery
to stop
Prevent easy access:
Lock
all doors, windows and garage doors
Install
deadbolt locks
Trim
trees and hedges
Replace burned-out yard lights
Manage the risk:
Tell a trusted individual that you are going on vacation
Ask
them to watch your house
Leave
a house key & a number where you can be reached
Security Systems:  NBFAA
recommends investing in a home security system.
Modified from National Burglar &
Fire Alarm Association's website
|
|
Holiday Decorating Ideas for Every
Budget |
|
Candles, Candles Everywhere -
Soft glowing light is complementary to you and your guests.
Haul out the Holly! Fill
metallic vases with bouquets of fresh flowers and holly. Or choose beautifully shaped
topiaries covered with pepper berries. Or drape your dining room chandelier
with a pine garland or holly.
Ornaments aren't just made to
be placed on your holiday tree! Try displaying some on a coffee table in an oversized
bowl. You can even use round glass balls as place cards, write each
guest's name on the ornament and set them around the dining table.
Change your window treatment - Spruce up
tie backs by adding holly, berries or even a sprig or two of evergreen.
Fruits and vegetables can be
festive! For example, spray paint walnuts and gourds in silver or gold and display them
in a holiday themed basket. Or simply fill a large crystal bowl with red and
green apples!
For more ideas like these, contact Renae White with Decorating Den.
|
Home for the Holidays:
Shall we gather in the Kitchen?
|
|
Think back over all your memories of past holidays. What do you remember? Family, friends, presents... food?
When I think of December, I think of kitchens. Yes, that's right. While my family and friends do gather around the fireplace or a festive tree, we most often meet in the kitchen!
Coffee over breakfast, late-night snacks, or preparing the holiday feast. This holiday season, make a mental note of how many times you find yourself in the kitchen. And if you realize you do not love slaving over your ceramic-top stove for the perfect dinner...get it catered or have a potluck!
Call us if it's time to upgrade your kitchen. Updated appliances, a functional layout or new countertops can make the kitchen more inviting. 540-434-7927.
Trisha Blosser, Office & Marketing Manager
|
