It’s not uncommon for still, silent winter landscapes to be suddenly disrupted by distant birdcalls. Within moments, half a dozen kinds of birds appear, flitting among tree branches, climbing up trunks, hanging upside down from twigs. For just a few minutes, the birds bring life to the area with colors, sounds and movement. Then they all fly away together. These mixed flocks of birds are one of winter’s special features. If you’re aware of the activity, you may be able to observe them practically anywhere in North America, and possibly in your own backyard.
13 Alluring Modern Farmhouse Kitchens | Architectural Digest
Posted December 12, 2016
Whether you’re revamping an urban apartment or just fantasizing about a rural retreat, there’s no doubt these modern farmhouse kitchens will give you some serious motivation
Close your eyes and imagine the ideal, comfortable (and comforting), spend-all-day-baking kitchen. The one that reminds you of being a kid. What comes to mind? We’d be willing to bet it’s got at least a bit of a rustic country vibe. When it comes to kitchens, it’s hard to top the pleasure of an artful mash-up of distressed cabinetry, antique dressers, whimsical finishes, and reclaimed wood. That’s not to say any of the 13 stunners here fall short on state-of-the-art appliances and contemporary amenities. Call it modern farmhouse—or just call it the best of both worlds. Peruse these stylish spaces from the AD archives to find inspiration for your next renovation.
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Declutter Your Way to a More Organized, Intentional Home
On a scale of 1 to 5, how much do you need to declutter? Dorothy Breininger’s clutter scale is here to help.
Although I have always been organized, there were two significant moments in my life that taught me how to manage clutter.
The first was when I returned from a backpacking trip around the world. Having visited homes in many developing nations, I no longer wanted to have such excess in my own home. My possessions were organized, but I had too many of them for my taste.
After I unpacked from my journey, I began a thorough review of my stuff. I started upstairs, removing unnecessary items floor by floor. By the time I reached the basement, I had enough stuff to set up a second apartment.
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What Your Houseplants Need to Make It Through Winter
Winter doldrums, be gone — with just a little love and care, your plants can thrive despite the chill.
It isn’t just you — your houseplants really do look worse in winter. Blame it on dry central-heated air, shorter days, changing light patterns, and cold drafts — and the fact that some plants go nearly dormant in winter anyway, even in their own habitat.
These obstacles make houseplants more vulnerable to problems like over watering, poor drainage, and pests than ever before, but don’t let it bring you down. Instead of counting down the days until spring comes — or your plant dies on its own — follow these guidelines to keep your plants healthy all season long.
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Quick & Budget-Friendly DIY Fixes | Realtor.com VIDEO
On the Market: A Tiny Cabin in the Woods | BostonMagazine.com
Thanks to Madeline Bilis for writing about our Cavendish Listing for BostonMagazine.com
On the Market: A Tiny Cabin in the Woods
Head north after the holidays for some much-needed R&R.
By Madeline Bilis | Home & Property | December 21, 2016, 9:50 a.m.
Aside from its wintry charm, this tiny cabin in the woods of Vermont offers a bit of history. The one-bedroom overlooks the Twenty Mile Stream, named for an encampment of British troops during the Revolutionary War. The encampment, which was 20 miles from Charlestown, N.H., was located on a military road that led to Ticonderoga, N.Y.
It’s the gurgling stream and surrounding 30 acres of land on the property that make the cabin a gem. The back deck boasts views of the stream, as well as a spacious backyard. The place is less than five miles from Okemo Mountain Resort and several lakes. Plus, 30 acres for $149,000 doesn’t exactly break the bank.
Click link to read article! http://www.bostonmagazine.com/property/blog/2016/12/21/tiny-cabin-in-woods-otm/
Click this link for more info about this property! http://homes-for-sale.kelleyrealestate.com/idx/details/listing/b027/4611044/3100-Twenty-Mile-Stream-Road-Cavendish-VT-05142
Holiday Tips for Less Stress, More Fun | HGTV
By: Stacy Gilliam
As festive and joyous as the holidays are, preparing for the brightest season of the year can drive us up the wall. We often feel more than our fair share of pressure. We have to find the “right” gift for a long list of loved ones, decorate as grand (if not grander) than our neighbors, and throw the greatest dinner ever.
Breathe. You don’t have to do any of this. It’s possible to enjoy the holidays without giving yourself a migraine. Our seasonal experts offer their top tips for helping you celebrate the season with a minimum of stress.
Click link to read more: http://www.hgtv.com/design/decorating/design-101/holiday-tips-for-less-stress-more-fun
How to Decorate a Christmas Tree: 20 Inspiring Ideas | HGTV
By: Allie Holcomb | HGTV
COLOR PALETTES TO TRY:
Prefab Housing: What It Really Is and Why You Should Care
By Melissa Dittmann Tracey, REALTOR® Magazine
Prefab housing is shaking up the architecture world, touting attention-getting designs that are giving factory-built housing a new reputation. Manufacturers are also adding in greater abilities for home buyers to customize these homes, despite sections of them being mass produced in a factory setting. Known for faster build times, prefab housing is making more in the building and real estate industry to take notice too. They’re eyeing prefab housing as the answer to adding more inventories of housing in markets that desperately need them. And with the ease, in some cases, of designing homes right from the Internet, your new-home buyers may especially be intrigued about their growing options with prefab.
5 Features That Make a Home Great for Entertaining
By Kerrie Kelly on 16 Nov 2016
You love hosting friends and family, but is your home designed for it?
The holidays are right around the corner, which means the next couple of months are prime time for celebrating with family and friends.
No matter the size of your home, introducing just a few easy elements can transform it into an entertaining haven.
From warm mood lighting to intimate seating, making your home comfortable and inviting will create a memorable experience for guests and loved ones.
Here are five key features that make a home ideal for entertaining.