2017 Color of the Year

The 2017 Pantone Color of the Year is "Greenery" - a yellow-green shade that brings the beauty of nature in.

Greenery is a color that can be used in all seasons and pairs well as a neutral.  For example, Pantone put together several palettes that can be used both indoor and out.



Aren't ready to take the plunge and pull out the paint brushes?

Incorporate Greenery by using pillows, rugs, window treatments or accent chairs.

Selling In the Winter

Despite the above average temperatures it still is January here in the South.  If you need to sell your home, the dead grass, bare trees and dark evenings may have you concerned.  There is good news though!  Here are a few tips to help you sell quickly so you can move on to your dream home!

- Price Competitively:  Look at comparables and make a decision based on what has sold within the last 3 months.

- Curb Appeal: Brighten up your home's exterior with some winter friendly plants and landscaping.

- Declutter: Make sure any seasonal decorations are put away, remove too many personal items and create a clean, neutral palette in the home.

- Paint: If your home needs a new color scheme - choose a neutral such as an off-white to make the home feel brighter in the dark winter months.

- Interior Touches: Make sure your home is well lit and warm! Add a cozy blanket on the couch.  Focus on the rooms that you spend the most time in - kitchen and master bath especially.

Don't worry! There are buyers in the winter and now is the time to sell before it gets too competitive in the Spring.

Snowy Weather Planning

The South is often a target of sarcasm when it comes to preparing for potential winter weather. And though there may or may not be actual snowflakes - it is always wise to be prepared for weather events of any kind. Including snow!

So how should you prepare?

Here are a few practical ways:

- Prevent pipes from bursting by wrapping exposed pipe with insulation or newspaper.
- Allow faucets to drip a little during extreme cold to prevent freezing
- Bring pets indoors and cover plants
- Limit travel when roadways may be icy
- Have emergency supplies for power outages such as candles, matches, blankets
- Fully charge phones or other electronic devices
- Never use an outdoor heating device or generator in an indoor space
- Have bottled water and canned goods in your pantry
- In case of loss of heat, have blankets and layered clothing easily available

The best thing to do is plan for a cozy day at home - off the roads and away from harm.

Enjoy the winter weather responsibly and safely!

Working Out at Home

One of the most common New Years Resolutions is to lose weight and get in shape after the Holiday splurges of cake, cookies and extravagant dinners!

You can do this without buying an expensive gym membership or even clearing out your office to make a home gym.

With just a few pieces of equipment you can effectively and efficiently work out at home.

1. Resistance Bands

2. Workout Mat (Yoga Mat)

3. Jump Rope

4. Adjustable Dumbbells

5. Kettle Ball

Store your equipment in an ottoman or with some dedicated shelves.  For hidden space stick it under the bed.

If you're looking for what to do with your equipment simply put on a YouTube video or go to the many fitness channels available on Roku or Apple TV.

What are your fitness goals for this year?

Quick Christmas Treats!

Merry Christmas!  The shopping, get-togethers, travel, and holiday parties have arrived. With only a few days to go it may feel overwhelming - but no fear! We have quick festive treats you can put together without ever turning on an oven.

So relax and enjoy this wonderful time of year!

Take regular brownies and make them festive with green icing, sprinkles and candy cane accents!

For a sweet treat that's healthy too - use grapes, bananas, strawberries and marshmallows!

Snowmen liven up any party with donuts, mini chocolate chips and candy corn 

Roll up cranberrie, feta cheese and onion in a tortilla for a tangy treat

Gift Ideas for Homeowners

Looking to shop for the new homeowners in your life? There are great ideas everywhere!  Finish off your Christmas shopping with this list of homeowner gift ideas.

1.  A Welcome Mat - Spruce up the entrance of their new home

2.  Return Address Stamp - A thoughtful way for them to send out "We've Moved" letters

3. Personalized Cutting Board - Personalize a common kitchen need - cutting boards!

4.  Garden Basket - Include necessities like work gloves, hand tools and watering can

5.  Throw Blanket - Nothing cozies up a new home like throw blankets - seasonal patterns welcome

6.  Homeowners Manual - Full of useful information on common warranty issues

7.  Basic Tool Set - Screwdrivers, a hammer, nails and pliers

8.  House Plant - Something low maintenance would be best

9.  Christmas Ornament - New homeowner ornament for the tree

10.  Movie Basket - Help them enjoy their new home with popcorn, a movie and favorite candy snacks

Acts of Holiday Kindness

Christmas is a magical time of year for many - full of visits with family, gifts, favorite meals and memories.  For some, however, it's a time of need, want and sadness. There are many ways to share your blessings this holiday season. You may just find that giving back is the best gift you give all year!

The Salvation Army - We all know the familiar sound of the bells and the sight of the red kettles. The money donated to The Salvation Army goes to supporting the homeless, hurting and hungry all year long.  They also have an Angel Tree program where you can adopt a local child in need and provide clothing and gifts for Christmas.

Toys for Tots - A program run by the U.S. Marines, Toys for Tots collects toys for underprivileged children and distributes them in the community where they are collected. To find a drop off location for your donations visit HERE

St. Jude Children's Hospital - During the Holiday season, St. Jude Children's Hospital makes a push for donations to support their continued efforts at fighting childhood illness and disease. There are many ways to donate and even Holiday themed merchandise to purchase. Click HERE to find out more.

Disaster Relief - The recent wildfires in Tennessee have hit many in the Southeast hard as the locations of Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge are treasured vacation destinations for many.  Financial donations are most needed and can be given in many ways including through the Red Cross HERE