Neighborly Notes

Persuading presentations

Carol — Thu, 16 May 2013 11:00:01 +0000

We’ve all been there: you’re at a community board meeting, and nothing’s getting done. You want to get things moving and make your voice heard, but you can’t seem to get a word in edgewise. Try reforming the structure of your meetings and approaching your issues from a different perspective to make your association’s get together more about quality than quarreling. Put it on the list Meeting agendas are designed to encourage a proactive approach to neighborhood issues. Working with your association to get your topic on the agenda is essential to helping the meeting flow smoothly, and making sure there aren’t any unexpected surprises or extensions due to poor planning. Know the rules, and stick to them As obvious as this may sound, one of the keys to making sure you’re heard in board meetings is to work toward proper procedure. Meeting codes of conduct, such as Robert’s Rules of Order, allow for individuals to take the floor and speak to their issues. Simplicity is Power Make your points succinct, relatable and easy to understand. Nothing’s worse than complicating a meeting with an already full agenda with extensive verbiage and long rants. Understand that your neighbor is your audience, and speak accordingly. If you need to show anything visually, use the simplest graphics you can manage to make sure your message is heard loud and clear. By helping your board meeting run smoothly, understanding your audience, and driving your message home, you can turn a stressful situation into a fantastic chance for honest dialogue, for the betterment of everyone involved. What are your tips for making the most of your board meetings?

A passion for popsicles

Carol — Wed, 15 May 2013 11:00:38 +0000

Are you feeling hot, hot, hot? Cool off with these do-it-yourself popsicle recipes that are trendy, colorful and fun to eat! But don’t worry, we’ve included some fun adult-beverage themed recipes for you too!

For the kids

S’more Samoas: Still hanging on to a box of Samoas Girl Scout Cookies? Turn those cookies into delicious popsicles with this recipe from ivillage.com!
Peaches-N-Cream Dream Pops: This Popsicle recipe is ideal for the lactose intolerant person in your family. The yogurt tastes just like ice cream and can be combined with any fruit you choose!
Rainbow Pudding Pops: Layer colored pudding in your Popsicle mold for a rainbow pop that is out of this world! These are also great for a color-themed birthday party!
Nutella Fudgesicle: Add Nutella and chocolate milk together for a creamy homemade fudgesicle that has just a hint of hazelnut!

For the big kids (21 and over please!)

Bittersweet Chocolate-Bourbon Pops: What could be better than frozen chocolate and bourbon on a hot summer day? This recipe combines the sweet memory of Fudgesicles with the stout taste of bourbon for a homemade sweet and stout frozen treat.
Watermelon Rum Popsicles: Have some leftover watermelon from your picnic this weekend? Turn those watermelon wedges into tasty watermelon rum pops with just an ounce of simple sugar and two ounces of Bacardi Watermelon Rum!
Mimosa Popsicle: Sandwich a layer of fresh strawberries and orange juice (strawberry layer) between two layers of champagne and orange juice (orange layer) for a layered treat that tastes just like a fresh mimosa!

What is your favorite homemade popsicle recipe?

5 Fun Activities to Keep Your Family Active

Carol — Mon, 13 May 2013 11:00:26 +0000

Now that school’s out for summer, do you know how to keep your kids active? Michelle Obama’s fitness campaign Let’s Move recommends at least 60 minutes of physical activity a day for children. Instead of letting them spend them time in front of the TV, check out these healthy activities to keep you and your children moving this summer

Sign up for the Color Run: The Color Run is a 5K walk/run where participants are doused in fun colors. Be sure to sign up early, because spaces fill quickly!
Take a family walk after dinner: Not only is this a great way to digest, but also to continue conversations your family started at dinner. Fido will also appreciate the exercise!
Take yoga classes: Many studios now offer yoga for the pint-size enthusiasts, as well as classes your whole family can take together.
Play with toys that encourage physical activity: Instead of giving your kiddos video games, how about things like kites, sports balls and other fun outdoor accessories? Not only will these keep them moving, but will also help foster relationships with other kids in your neighborhood.
Sign up for a day camp: Foundations like the YMCA and local churches, as well as community centers, offer day camps for children at little to no cost. Find out about the camps in your neighborhood — it’s a great way to keep your kids active in the summer, as well as learn new things and make new friends.

What does your family plan to do this summer to keep active?

Which Floor is Right for You?

Carol — Thu, 09 May 2013 11:00:15 +0000

From the cost effective to the cosmetic, there are tons of different flooring options for your home. Not sure which one is right for you? We did the research on the some of the most popular options. Hardwood: While hardwood is nice, it’s one of the most expensive flooring options. But don’t let the price be a deterrent — hardwood floors will last a lifetime. It’s easy to clean, but does have to be refinished (a job that must be done professionally) every five years or so. Bamboo: This kind of flooring is perfect for the budget conscious consumer who likes the look of hardwood floors. Bamboo floors are considered “green” — they are a renewable resource. While bamboo offers many of the characteristics of hardwood floors, it is not as resistant and can easily dent and scratch. Cork: When most people think of cork, they think of boards for notes and wine bottles, not an option for flooring. Cork flooring has been a popular choice because of its sound absorbing properties, cushiony feel and “green” characteristics. But if you’re a lover of high-heels or pets, beware: this flooring material can tear and indent easily. Laminate: Laminate flooring is popular in rooms where the floor is frequently exposed to water (think kitchens or bathrooms). It comes in a wide variety of styles and patterns as well as prices. Do-it-yourselfers can easily install this flooring option on their own. And although laminate is easy to clean, it can make rooms cold in the winter. Carpet: Your options with carpet are endless. There are different lengths, styles, patterns and colors that look great in any home. Rooms with carpet stay cool in the summer and warm in the winter, as carpet stabilizes the temperature. This option is the best for people who do not have pets or allergies as it can easily be stained and needs to be regularly cleaned by a professional. Carpet that is well cared for can last up to 10 years. What types of flooring do you have in your house?

You Time in 30 or 120 minutes.

Carol — Wed, 08 May 2013 11:00:36 +0000

With summer on the rise and busy camp schedules looming, make sure you make time for you, regardless of how much time you may have. Here’s a list of fun “You Time,” activities to get you started.

30 minutes or less?

Take a walk around the block. The fresh air and sunlight will instantly brighten your mood as well as your cheeks.
Meditate. With the weather warming up, now is the perfect time to create some “you time” within nature. Find a quiet spot on your patio or beneath a shady tree and take 10 minutes to just focus on you. It doesn’t have to be a long stretch. Just spend a few minutes breathing deeply, taking in the sounds around you and relax.
Go tech-free. Being tethered to technology can become more stressful than we realize. Take 30 minutes and turn off the cell phones, laptops, ipads and TV, and spend some quality time in quiet. The bonus is peace.
Bake something. Baking is sometimes the best therapy. Take a look at that recipe book that’s been sitting on your counter for years. Pick out your favorite sweet treat and bake away.
Read a book. Find a quiet room and a cozy corner, and curl up with the latest bestseller for a relaxing break from the day’s activities.

2 hours or less?

Hit the gym. Try out that Zumba or Pilates class you have been promising yourself to try. You will not only feel better immediately, but your body will thank you later!
Take yourself to the movies. When was the last time you saw something at the theater that wasn’t animated or G-rated?
Take a spa break. Grab your best girlfriends and spend the afternoon treating yourselves. Besides, they probably need a break too. Get a manicure, pedicure, facial or just go all out and get a massage.
Go on a mini-adventure. Check out that museum you have been meaning to visit or take a tour of the botanical gardens.

What do you do to de-stress?

Bike Safety Week

Carol — Mon, 06 May 2013 11:00:22 +0000

Summer is typically filled with bike riding — it’s a healthy, fun way for children to interact with their friends and introduce physical activity into their daily lives. But did you know that children account for more than half of bike-related injuries in the United States? It may have been a while since you’ve reviewed bike safety with your kids, but Bike Safety Week (the third week in May) is the perfect time to brush up on their biking skills. Here are a few reminders to help keep you and your family are safe this summer while you are out cruising on your bikes:

Make sure your bike is in tip-top shape. Check the tire and brake pressure, look for rust on the chain and make sure everything (including your bell!) is in working order.
Refresh your kids on biking hand signals. These are especially useful in congested areas — it’ll let those around you know where you’re going!
Check your family’s helmets. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has a thorough guide here.
Remind your family on how to be safe around cars. Not only does this include hand signals, but also staying on the sidewalk when you can and checking alleys before you ride past them.

What other tips do you think are important for bike safety month?

Healthy Mother’s Day Brunch

Carol — Thu, 02 May 2013 11:00:20 +0000

This Mother’s Day, you don’t have to let a healthy lifestyle get in the way of a great brunch with mom. Here are five great brunch recipes that keep you on track, but taste just as great as their calorie-dense counterparts.

Lighter Eggs Benedict

Skip the two sticks of butter traditionally used in this dish. By choosing a whole wheat English muffin, lean ham and a lighter hollandaise sauce, you can enjoy a delicious brunch without sacrificing taste.

Zucchini Frittata

You can’t go wrong with an Italian omelet for brunch. This recipe calls for five large eggs, but substitute three of them for egg whites for a bigger impact on calories. This is a great way to get in a serving a veggies, too.

Pineapple Upside Down Muffins

These muffins are just as healthy as they are delicious. They’ve got fruit and veggies hidden under their deceptively sweet topping, providing excellent nutrition and taste that is too good to be true.

Blueberry Ricotta Pancakes

Blueberries. Pancakes. Ricotta cheese. How can you go wrong with ingredients like these? By using whole wheat flour, part-skim ricotta and fresh blueberries, you won’t sacrifice texture for healthy eating.

Whole Wheat Crepes

This recipe from food.com calls for wheat flour and skim milk, but you won’t know it’s light when you top your crepes with fresh fruit, whipped cream or a chocolate hazelnut spread.

How do you plan to stay on track this Mother’s Day?

Update Your Bathroom — Fast

Carol — Wed, 01 May 2013 11:00:29 +0000

Are you throwing a party and want a bathroom update to impress your guests, or is it just time for a new look? You don’t have to spend a lot of money and time on bathroom renovations. Updating simple cosmetic pieces of your bathroom can give you a fresh perspective. Here are three easy changes that can be done in a day or less.

Replace fixtures.

Faucets, knobs, towel racks, showerheads and light fixtures can all influence the feel of your bathroom. If changing hardware is intimidating, Home Depot has a great tutorial video on how to install a faucet. Choosing modern fixtures can turn your bathroom or powder room into an elegant and refined space.

Paint.

Whether you go with a dramatic red or an airy blue, the color of your bathroom sets the tone for the entire space. Light blue or sea foam green is great for a beach theme. Or you might choose a modern gray and then choose accessories in a contrasting color. Sherwin Williams recommends using a semi-gloss finish that will withstand constant moisture.

Accessorize.

Accessories are key to creating the look you want, and they’re easy to change when you want a new look. Arrange flowers and candles next to the sink. Hang a new shower curtain with funky shower curtain hangers. If you have a window in your bathroom, hang curtains in the accent color of your choice. And don’t leave artwork for the living room — hang art and photos to bring life to your washroom. SAS Interiors offers some layout plans for creating a photo display. What updates have you done to your bathroom? From now until May 30, “like” Associa’s Facebook page for a chance to win a $50 gift card to Sherwin Williams.

Anything But Pies – April is National Pecan Month!

Carol — Thu, 25 Apr 2013 11:00:34 +0000

Pecans can curb hunger as a healthy snack or add a savory crunch to your favorite dessert, but what else can you do with these nifty little nuts? In celebration of National Pecan Month, check out these around the house, craft and recipe uses for pecans!

For Practical Living

Pecan shells for mulch— Did you know that pecan shells make a great compost or mulch for your garden? My favorite tip is to add an inch of pecan shell atop a potted plant to help retain an even level of moisture.

For flavor in a smoker — Add a handful of pecan shells to your coals when smoking meat. Whether you soak them or dry them, these little shells produce a big nutty flavor!

Furniture Scratches — Depending on the color of your wood furniture, a pecan or a walnut is a quick and easy way to fill in scratches. Crack open a pecan or walnut and rub it on the scratch and the essential oils will fill it in and reduce the appearance of the blemish.

For Arts and Crafts

Painted Pecans — Painted pecans make great filler for vases, or centerpiece for your table. You can also paint pecans and turn those plain brown nuts into festive Easter eggs, mini watermelons — even penguins!

Pecan Wreath — For a quick and easy wreath, hot glue pecans to a wreath form. You can add paint and holiday decorations or even sprays of berries or flowers for a colorful touch.

For Cooking

Cream cheese and olive Pecan Bites — Sandwich a yummy blend of cream cheese, chives and olives between two pecans for a nutty appetizer!

Fettuccine with Zucchini and Pecans —Toasted pecans, fresh zucchini and Italian blends of garlic, asiago cheese and hot cooked fettuccine make this entrée a culinary experience you just have to try!

Apple-Pear Salad with Maple-Pecan Bacon — This sweet and savory salad is the perfect blend of fruit, nuts, cheese and bacon.Serve with balsamic vinaigrette for a unique flavor.

Do you have a specific recipe or craft you like to do with pecans? Tell us about it!

Monogram Madness

Carol — Wed, 24 Apr 2013 11:00:53 +0000

Monograms are all the rage these days, and people are customizing everything from their office supplies to their keys to their jewelry. Creating monogrammed masterpieces doesn’t have to be expensive. There are so many online monogram options that you can put a personal stamp on pretty much anything in your home — and some are even free! Here are some suggestions on where to start.

Office supplies. You can colorize your office supplies by monogramming almost everything, from your laptop bag to your mouse pad to your desk calendars. This site is one of my favorites for finding that perfect monogrammed gift for co-workers.
Tech accessories. This free print from For Chic Sake is the perfect size to wrap around your USB cell phone charger. Add a personalized label to your laptop charger, or jazz up a scratched-up, old cell phone case with a monogram sticker.
Jewelry & Accessories. Custom craft sites like Etsy are crawling with monogrammed jewelry and accessories. You can get anything from acrylic key chains to gold bracelets, to stud earrings and infinity scarves personalized with your initials or name.
Home Décor.You can add a monogram to every part of your house, from the kid’s rooms to the front door with these fun and totally unique crafts.
- Monogram Initial Frame. Using an old frame from the thrift shop and a wooden letter from the craft store, add some fashionable designs and some paint and voila!, you have this stylish monogram for your home.
- Repurposed wood Monogram sign — In need of a pallet project? Well look no further than this easy craft that will dazzle any porch or living room!
- Monogram Wreath — Perfect indoors or out, this wreath is a great way to give your home some personalized attention.

Our Favorite Online Monogram Freebies

Wedding Chicks Custom Monogram Freebie

For Chic Sake Online Printables

DIY Monogrammed Wallpaper for your smartphone

What types of monograms do you have in your house?