Home+Table Summer 2020 Issue

A FIELD GUIDE TO A METICULOUSLY CURATED LIFE

SUMMER 2020

CREATE YOUR PERFECT SPA DAY AT HOME CREATING THE PERFECT (AND FUNCTIONAL!) HOME OFFICE

GIVING BACK IN A TIME OF PANDEMIC: THE PARK AVENUE CLUB CARES FOR COMMUNITY

GREATER PHILADELPHIA AND NEW JERSEY

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CONTENTS SUMMER 2020

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H+T SUMMER 2020

06

PUBLISHER’S LETTER

08

SUMMER RECIPES

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COPING WITH COVID YESTERDAY, TODAY & TOMORROW

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CRAFTS FOR KIDS

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CREATE YOUR PERFECT SPA DAY AT HOME

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GIVING BACK IN A TIME OF PANDEMIC: THE PARK AVENUE CLUB CARES FOR COMMUNITY

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ORGANIZE YOUR ONE & ONLY (HOME!)

38

TIPS & TRICKS FOR THE HOME

42

LIGHT UP YOUR HOME

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AN OUTSIDE OASIS ALL YOUR OWN

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CREATING THE PERFECT (AND FUNCTIONAL!) HOME OFFICE

/ publisher’s.letter

Home+Table homeandtablemagazine.com

To the readers, With the current landscape and changes we have all faced in the past few months, it is no surprise that the warmer weather and summer "feel" is more than welcomed. Although our summers may look a little different, less traveling and more social distancing, there is still so much to look forward to! Between trying new recipes to refreshing your home, "staying at home" doesn't have to look anything but exciting! The team at Home + Table is here for you, and understands the challenges being faced, which is why we did our best to curate a summer live-in guide for you. Spend time with your kiddos outdoors as well as exploring new crafts that our writers have determined to be crowd-pleasers. After you accomplish your banana bread and whipped coffee, explore our new recipes and be sure to check out our beloved carrot cake recipe from a dear friend. Instead of looking wistfully out of your front door wishing you could be vacationing, look INSIDE your home to create an oasis all your own. It is our hope that this issue brings some peace to your home, some deliciousness to your tables, and a sense of accomplishment that we could all use!

Enjoy the sunshine and be safe, Elizabeth Classen Editor in Chief

Editor in Chief

Elizabeth Classen Associate Editor

Renee Lockwood Creative Director

Chris Bruno Contributing Writers & Photographers

Ashlee Barnett Elizabeth Classen Martin Demearest Stacey Hughes Renee Lockwood Mary Purcell glutenfree.followme fitmittenkitchen Advertising Opportunities

Elizabeth Classen (303) 349-8732 eclassen@homeandtablemagazine.com

Home + Table/online (ISSN 2469-7737) Vol. 5, No. 2.

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H+T

WORKSITE INTERACTIVE PRESENTS

Home+Table Get Connected!

Stay up to date on the latest Home+Table news and articles.

When looking for light, family-friendly, summer recipes, we didn’t have to look far. Safe Catch offers several varieties of tuna, including multiple species and seasoned tuna. All Safe Catch tuna are sustainable caught using Pole-And-Line or FAD-Free fishing methods. Safe Catch hand cuts sashimi-grade tuna steaks, seals them in the can and cooks them in the tuna’s natural juices.

This retains much more nutrients and flavor than conventional twice-cooked tuna that is packed in water, oil, or broth.

Safe Catch is a technology-driven seafood company seeking to revolutionize the seafood industry by offering mercury-tested, sustainable and delicious seafood. Safe Catch invented a proprietary technology to test every single tuna fish for mercury, and is the only brand to do this.

Safe Catch Elite is Paleo certified and Whole30 certified and is the official tuna of the American Pregnancy Association. Our products are NonGMO project certified, and BPA NI.

Summer Recipes

Safe Catch has some great recipes and can be found at https://safecatch.com/

Tuscan White Bean Tuna Salad Compliments of @ mysagegourmet

Ingredients: 2 (5 oz.) cans of Safe Catch tuna 1 Dozen small grape tomatoes, halved lengthwise 1-2 TBSP shallots, finely minced 2 TBSP avocado oil 1 (15 oz.) can Borlotti or Cannellini beans, rinsed and drained well 2 TBSP lemon juice 1/4 TSP tuscan Herbed Sea Salt Freshly ground pepper to taste

Instructions: 1.

Place tuna, tomatoes, shallots, avocado oil, and beans in a medium size serving bowl, stirring gently with a rubber spatula or wooden spoon.

2. Add Tuscan Herbed Salt and pepper to taste, mixing gently.

3. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Stays fresh for 24-48 hours.

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Summer Recipes

No Cook Summer Tuna Recipes Tuna Stuffed Avocados

Chili Lime Tuna Napa Cabbage Wrap

Compliments of @ glutenfree.followme

Compliments of @fitmittenkitchen

Ingredients:

Ingredients:

2 avocados

2 cans Safe Catch Chili Lime Tuna

5 oz can Safe Catch Elite chili lime seasoned tuna

Napa cabbage

2 cherry tomatoes chopped

1 cup matchstick carrots

2 slices of cucumbers chopped

1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced

1 tsp fresh cilantro chopped

1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced

1 tsp Sriracha

1 cup shredded purple cabbage

Lime

Cashew Curry Sauce Instructions:

1/2 cup creamy cashew butter

1. Cut both avocados in half, and remove seeds.

1 tbsp red curry paste

2. Carve out a bit of avocado from each avocado half to make room for the tuna.

Juice of 1 lime

3. Fill each avocado half with chili lime tuna.

Dash of salt

4. Top with chopped tomatoes and cucumbers. You can include the carved-out avocado portion with the tuna, or use for something else.

2 tbsp water, to thin as needed

5. Garnish with cilantro.

6. Drizzle Sriracha on top of tuna stuffed avocados, and squeeze a lime on them.

2 tbsp coconut aminos

Instructions: 1. Open cans of tuna, making sure not to drain the juices (this is the seasoning and flavor!) and transfer to small bowl. Mix with fork, set aside.

2. Rinse the napa cabbage and gently pull off leaves.

Pat with paper towel to dry. Set aside.

3. Make the sauce: in a small bowl combine the sauce ingredients with whisk or fork. Thin with water, 1 tablespoon at a time, as needed.

4. Assemble the wraps: gently pull apart the cabbage leaves. Add the carrots, purple cabbage, bell peppers, about 1/4 cup of tuna and end with about a tablespoon of sauce. Gently roll up the cabbage, securing with toothpick if needed.

5. Repeat with remaining ingredients until you’ve used up the tuna.

6. Dip cabbage wraps in remaining cashew curry sauce.

Enjoy!

Image via glutenfree.followme

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Summer Recipes

After Dinner Treats Carrot Cake Compliments of Mary Purcell A recipe near and dear to one of our staff members, below is her Aunt Mary’s Carrot Cake Recipe. Mary, of Verona, New Jersey, was given this recipe from her dear friend Jeannette, who passed away but is with us always in this sweet and memory-filled cake.

Ingredients: 2 Cups (unsifted) unbleached, all-purpose flour – King Arthur flour is a favorite 2½ teaspoons baking soda 2 teaspoons cinnamon 1 teaspoon regular table salt 1 cup canola oil 2 cups white sugar 3 eggs (any size)

Instructions: 1. Adjust oven rack to middle position and preheat oven to 350 degrees.

2. Baking Pans - Use two round 9 inch pans - or one 13x9. Grease the bottoms and sides of both pans with butter; then line both with parchment paper and grease the parchment paper.

3. Flour mixture: In large bowl, mix together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon and salt. In a separate bowl add the canola oil, sugar and eggs and beat thoroughly then slowly stir in the flour mixture and beat until smooth. Stir in the pineapple, carrots, coconut, walnuts and raisins and stir well. Pour mixture into greased pans.

4. Bake in pre-heated oven at 350 degrees for 50-60 minutes. To check if done, put toothpick into center of cakes. If toothpick comes out dry and clean, cakes are done. If toothpick comes out moist let the cakes bake for another 5 or 10 minutes. Test again with toothpick. When done, transfer cakes to wire rack and let cool to room temperature.

5. Frosting the cake: First frost in-between the two layers and then the side and top. In the center of the top of the cake place several whole walnuts or decorate to your liking.

Ingredients for Cream Cheese Frosting:

11/3 cups shredded sweetened coconut

Cream Cheese Frosting - Frosting can be prepared and refrigerated the day before. If prepared on the day you are baking, frosting must be refrigerated and be cold when frosting the cake.

½ cup chopped walnuts

8 ounces cream cheese

½ cup raisins (regular size, any type)

1 stick unsalted butter

1 can (8 ounces) crushed pineapple with juice 2 cups grated carrots

1 teaspoon vanilla 1 box (4 cups) confectioners sugar

Instructions: 1.

Blend the cream cheese and butter until smooth and then add the vanilla; then gradually add the confectioner’s sugar and beat until smooth.

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COPING WITH COVID

Yesterday, Today & Tomorrow

BY RENEE LOCKWOOD

In the midst of the last few trying weeks, days have seemed to drag on, but then it seems like the months are flying by. While letting yourself relax and enjoy this unanticipated time at home is important, many are struggling with feeling productive during a time when the days can run together a bit. In the current circumstances where working from home seems to be growing and becoming the new norm, new routines can be put into place. Without putting yourself through the ringer, there are plenty of ways that you can tackle projects and feel a sense of order and control over your home life and your surroundings!

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M

ost important - get rid of any guilt you feel if you aren’t knocking out all your DIY projects that have loomed over you the last several years. Each of us is coping with the world in our own way, and it is not a contest to see who can get the most done during this time at home. Even a small task a day can help regain your sense of normalcy, while allowing you to express your creativity and practice organization in your new routine.

Stream of Consciousness Daily Structure - it is very important for most of us. Structure can give the feeling of being grounded, especially in a time where it can be easy to float around aimlessly and worry or experience more boredom than we usually allow ourselves to. Structure during this period gives us back the routines we had when we were working at an office that required us to leave our homes.

As routines are, structure can be very personal. Each person has their own priorities and needs, and the need for structure is often guided by your home situation, e.g. living with yourself, living with roommates, having children around you. The best way to implement and maintain routines and structure is to encourage the concept that all should be a part of creating the structure and all should participate in maintaining the structure.

Here are some examples of how to “restructure” your Monday thru Friday so that the weekends seem like they still exist and are still something to look forward to. Weekends can still be for relaxing and taking some time off!

Make note, even if you live alone you can accomplish several of these ideas with a friend over the phone, internet or Facetime - there are so many ways to still stay connected.

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• Studies show that maintaining a sleep schedule and waking up at the same time each day can affect productivity and mood!

• Even though lately the rush to get out the door has slowed, you can still get ready for your day (even if the only person you are seeing is your pup or cat). Jump in the shower, get dressed in something comfy (not every day has to be leggings day ladies), and toss on some makeup or a new hairstyle you’ve been wanting to try. Men - throw on some cologne, tousle your hair, and put on those new shoes you’ve been waiting to break in.

• Make the bed. This can set the tone for your entire day - it says that you are up and ready to seize the day, and when you are ready to rest at the end of the night, your bed will be ready and waiting for you.

• Put together a small list of daily chores you can get in the habit of doing. Turn the music up and get a little exercise in as you do the dishes, dust, or vacuum.

• Go for a walk. Or a “twalk”! (talk to someone on the phone and walk at the same time, you get to check in on your loved ones and get some fresh air). Overwhelming amounts of people have said that going for a small walk in the morning or afternoon has immensely helped them to cope with being at home. In a time where most of us are used to the hustle and bustle of commutes, lunches at restaurants, consistent interaction with the outside world, but required to stay in much more than normal, a walk around your neighborhood can do a world of good!

• Prepare, eat, and clean up your meals with those in your household pitching in. Now more than ever is a great opportunity to embrace the “family mealtime” and even learn new recipes with your family. If you live alone, there are great free cooking classes available that you can try your hand at.

• Get in a small workout during TV time. If you’ve gotten used to keeping your television on, do a quick exercise during each commercial! Use the commercials to your advantage.

• Set aside a place in your home for where you accomplish work. While lounging on the couch in front of the TV might sound appealing, it usually is a recipe for disaster. Make your work space your own and try to stick to a schedule that you would normally follow in an office setting.

• Pick a project! Been dying to measure your living room to see what size of a new rug would fit? Is the pantry exploding with bulk buys and needs to be organized? Take this time to tackle some small projects each day and you’ll be amazed at what you can accomplish. Projects don’t have to mean cleaning! Here are some great ideas of things you can work on that will help you organize and structure your life.

• Create an emergency contact list. Include names and numbers of people that emergency personnel can contact, and include any medications you are taking. Find a place in your home to keep this handy, so that it can easily be found by emergency personnel, friends and family if needed. » Review monthly expenses and contact companies to see if any of those costs can be lowered. You may find you are paying for subscriptions to things you don’t even use! » Shred old papers, especially those with personal information on them. » Rearrange a room in your home that needs a refresh, but doesn’t require you to break the bank. » Go through your closets and drawers. Organize, discard, and donate items you don’t use or wear any longer.

• Enjoy yourself! Take your evenings to read, watch a new show on Netflix, journal - whatever way you like to unwind, make it your own. Be careful not to stay up later than normal and make it a habit - it can prove to make waking up in the mornings tough when work resumes itself.

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Crafts for Kids

BY MARTIN DEMAREST

Like many, many parents, you may be wondering how to keep your young children engaged and entertained this summer. Without the stimulation furnished by schools, day care centers, summer camps, and playdates, it can be a challenge to divert little ones from television and electronics to activities that are interactive and creative.

Think crafts!

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How to Make a Paper Bee (ages 3-5) (www.easypeasyfun.com) Of course home crafting is fun, but it also offers other real benefits for both you and your child. A recent study by Dr. Richard Rende has shown that creative interaction between parents and children produces immediate and lasting cognitive benefits. It also provides a unique bonding experience for you and your child, and creates lifelong memories.

If you’re ready to embrace the crafting experience with your kids, you may be wondering where to begin. There are hundreds of great craft ideas online. Here are a few of the best simple activities we found that use materials you probably already have at home. We’ve included links to the sites we sourced for more awesome activities.

This is a great project for preschoolers. Easy Peasy gives simple instructions for all kinds of adorable paper critters. The bumblebee was our choice, because it presents a perfect opportunity to explain how essential bees are to farming and gardening. A teachable moment!

Materials Construction paper or regular paper in various colors – including black Scissors Glue Crayons Black Marker Googly Eyes (optional)

Instructions 1) Start by making a base. You can make it as big as a full size piece of letter paper, or as small as a quarter sheet.

2) Cut a strip of yellow paper for the body, approximately 2/3rds the length of the base. You can draw the black stripes with a marker, or glue on stripes made of black paper either now or later.

3) Apply glue to one end of the yellow strip and make a paper roll.

4) Stick the paper roll on the base, leaving room at the top for a smaller roll. This is the bee’s body.

5) If you haven’t already, stick black paper stripes on the roll.

6) Make a smaller yellow paper roll, about 1/3rd the length of the body to be used as the bee’s head.

7) Stick the smaller roll on the base centered at the top of the body, perpendicular to the body. This is the head.

8) Add googly eyes or draw eyes with crayons or markers.

9) Cut a pair of wings out of white or light blue paper and glue them onto the bee’s body.

10) Cut a long triangle stinger out of black paper and stick it inside the bee’s body.

11) Cut two antennae and stick them on top of the bee’s head.

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Old Key Wind Chime (ages 3-8)

Homemade Playdough (Craft Clay) (ages 3-8)

(www.giving.innerchildfun.com)

Half the fun of this activity is the kids’ excitement and astonishment that you can actually make your own batch of Playdough by cooking with the ingredients below! There are several recipes for homemade craft clay, but without a doubt, this one is the best, and has been a go-to for parents for over 50 years.

We love this craft! It’s simple, charming, and a great example of crafty recycling. This project is fun for children of all ages, with the younger children requiring a bit more adult help and supervision. Hang it on your porch or in your garden and enjoy the magic.

Materials At least 5 old keys A piece of driftwood or a stick String or fishing line Acrylic paint (optional)

Instructions 1) (optional) Paint your keys and your stick. The keys usually require two coats of paint. Finish one side (both coats) and let it dry before flipping it over to paint the other side.

No matter what your child’s age, this clay is perfect for a variety of projects. Older children will have fun creating pinch pots or tiny animal sculptures. The clay is perfect for making ornaments using a rolling pin and your holiday cookie cutters. Be sure to poke a hole in the top of ornaments for hanging. Quick tip: ornaments should be stored in a cool, dry place. Decorate with sequins, feathers, google eyes, or any other crafty decorations you have available.

Younger kids love using cookie cutters as well. Another favorite of the little ones is making impressions in the clay. In a large plastic bowl, gather some small, unbreakable objects with interesting textures for them to experiment with.

Materials

2) Tie a piece of string to both ends of the stick for hanging.

Wooden Spoon

3) Tie a piece of string to each key

Saucepan

4) Tie the keys to the stick, making sure they are close enough to each other to chime when the wind blows them.

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Ingredients 1 cup all purpose flour 1/2 cup salt 1 teaspoon cream of tartar 1 cup water

DIY Kazoo (ages 6-8) For the brave, we’re offering this homemade musical instrument from our own childhood. Kazoos are noisy, but so much fun! Kids can play along with their favorite songs, or if you feel inspired, make several kazoos and have a family band.

1 tablespoon cooking oil 4-6 drops of food coloring (optional) Googly eyes, feathers, sequins, gems, etc. (optional)

Materials A toilet paper tube

Instructions 1) In a medium saucepan, combine the dry ingredients.

In a separate bowl, combine the water, oil and food coloring, and pour into the dry ingredients. Mix with a wooden spoon.

2) Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the dough pulls away from the sides and forms a ball. (It will be shaggy and messy looking.) This should only take a few minutes.

3) Turn out the Playdough on a lightly greased countertop. Knead until smooth. Store Playdough in a tightly covered container or Ziploc bag, and it will last for several months.

Wax paper Rubber bands Construction paper Glue Scissors Stickers, markers, ribbon, sequins, etc. (optional)

Instructions 1) Poke a small hole midway down the tube. This helps keep the wax paper membrane in place as well as keeping the instrument dry.

2) Decorate the toilet paper tube. A kazoo is a funny instrument, so encourage something fun—possibly stripes or polka dots.

3) Cut a 3 inch square piece of wax paper.

4) Secure the wax paper over one end of the tube with a rubber band.

5) Time to play! Hum or sing into the open end of the kazoo loudly enough to make the wax paper membrane vibrate.

Mobile Stand Fun Craft (6-8) (www.stylesatlife.com) This is a quick, fun project that kids can make for mom and dad. The mobile stand is made with a toilet paper roll decorated with tape. The roll is slit in the center (requires adult help) to accommodate the phone. This project isn’t suitable for the younger children as the stand calls for using push pins as feet.

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CREATE YOUR PERFECT SPA DAY AT HOME

BY MARTIN DEMAREST

Are you feeling the need for a little rest and relaxation?

For some “me time” and pampering? Here are a few ideas that will help you create a refreshing, beautifying, and inexpensive home spa day.

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Plan and Prepare Take time to plan your special at-home getaway. Be sure you have acquired the supplies ahead of time for your DIY spa refreshments and beauty treatments. Preparing in advance will make your spa time more luxurious and relaxing.

All set? Perfect! Now pick a day when you won’t be interrupted, turn off your cell phone, and indulge.

Create the Mood Set out your comfiest fresh bathrobe and slippers. Don’t forget a stack of fluffy towels. Play your favorite relaxing music. If you have a diffuser, add your favorite essential oil—we suggest lavender. If you don’t own a diffuser, light some scented candles, and place them strategically in your spa area. Fresh flowers can add a welcome touch.

Hydration Hydration is essential, but it doesn’t have to be as boring as a plastic bottle of water from the fridge! Fill a beautiful plastic pitcher with some of your favorite fresh cut fruit and maybe a few sprigs of fresh herbs. Add plenty of ice to keep your spa beverage cool and refreshing. Don’t forget, you can refill the pitcher with the same fruit up to four times. The flavor will be more mild each time, but still refreshing.

If you’re not sure what fruit combinations work best together, here are a few of our favorite infusions:

Lemon and Cucumber with a sprig of Mint

Cucumber and Strawberry

Grapefruit with a sprig of Rosemary

Strawberry, Lime and Kiwi

Raspberry with a sprig of Mint

Watermelon with a sprig of Basil

Be sure to let the fruit infuse for at least 15 minutes. The longer it rests, the stronger the flavor. Use regular water or try sparkling water for a little extra indulgence.

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Face Mask It wouldn’t be a spa day without a face mask treatment! You can purchase a wide variety of face masks from beauty supply stores and online. However, you can also create beauty treatments at home with your own select ingredients! There are any number of DIY face mask recipes. We’re sharing two we think you might enjoy.

Dr. Oz’s Aspirin and Lemon Juice Flawless Skin Home Remedy This mask is wonderfully brightening for your complexion.

The aspirin (salicylic acid) acts as a chemical peel, removing old skin cells. The lemon adds vitamin C which helps minimize sun damage.

Supplies Non-coated aspirin (coated can be used, but takes longer to dissolve) Fresh lemon juice Baking soda Water

Instructions 1) Mash 6-12 aspirin tablets and combine with freshly squeezed lemon juice.

2) Let the aspirin dissolve until it turns into a paste.

3) Apply the mask to your skin and leave it on for 10 minutes.

4)

Remove the face mask using a cotton ball and a water and baking soda solution.

Hydrating Honey Oat Face Mask Supplies ¼ cup rolled oats, ground 2 tablespoons coconut oil 1 tablespoon honey

Instructions 1) Mix ingredients together in a small bowl until consistency is smooth.

2) Put a mask on a clean face and let sit for 15 minutes.

3) Rinse off thoroughly and pat dry with a clean towel.

4) Enjoy your moisturized skin!

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Hair Masks Hair masks are just the thing for repairing damaged hair, adding shine, or stripping residue from oily hair. Again, you can purchase prepared hair mask products or have fun concocting your own. It’s so easy!

Oily Hair 1 egg white juice of 1 lemon 1 tablespoon salt

Apply your mask to damp hair using a wide-toothed comb for even distribution of your mix. It’s best to leave the mask on for about 20-30 minutes. If you have longer hair, pin it up to help control the mess, or use a shower cap which actually helps speed up the process by adding some heat. Use the time to sit and relax!

Dark Circles Under Your Eyes

Damaged Hair

Cucumber Slices

Comb 1/2 cup of plain yogurt through your hair. The milk fat will moisturize your hair while the lactic acid removes dirt and residue. So simple!

Cucumber is a natural astringent that will reduce puffiness and improve appearance. Simply place a thin cucumber slice on each eye and relax.

Dry Hair Mash until smooth, 1 ripe banana Mix in: 1 egg 5 tablespoons olive oil

It’s nearly impossible to feel refreshed and rejuvenated with dark circles under your eyes. We have a plan for that using readily available home ingredients. Treatments should be left on your eyes for at least 15 minutes for maximum results.

Potatoes We’ll bet you didn’t know that potato is anti-inflammatory!

Peel a potato, grate, and pound into a poultice (you can use the bottom of a plastic drinking glass for this), wrap in two separate gauze pads, squeeze out excess moisture and apply a poultice to each eye.

3 tablespoons honey

Teabags

3 tablespoons milk

The tannins in tea reduce swelling. Brew two teabags, cool in the refrigerator, and place on your eyes. This tried and true method is simple and effective.

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Relaxing Spa Bath

Instructions

You have so many options for your luxurious spa bath! Bath salts and bombs can provide a therapeutic and restorative finale to your spa day. They help relax stiff muscles, and can draw impurities from your skin.

Hold one or two handfuls of your bath salts under the running water as your tub fills. This will thoroughly mix the salts through the water and release the peppermint fragrance.

You can purchase an incredible variety of bath salts and bath bombs or, for recipes, go online to make your own. Creating your own bath salts and bombs can be time consuming and can take a little time to track down some of the necessary ingredients. Purchasing online is cost effective and much simpler. However, if you are totally in the DIY groove, here’s an easy recipe for peppermint bath salts.

Peppermint Bath Salts Peppermint can disinfect skin and soothe muscles. It’s a common remedy for headaches and clearing your sinuses.

Ingredients 2 cups Epsom salt 1/2 cup sea or Kosher salt 1/2 cup baking soda 15-20 drops peppermint oil

Prefer the Shower?

If you prefer to shower, or if a bathtub isn’t available, you can still create a relaxing spa experience. A variety of pretty, scented shower bombs and shower melts are available online at reasonable prices. If you’re looking for something a little different, though, you can create an aromatic spa atmosphere by hanging dried herbs from your shower head. The steam will release their soothing fragrance. Some of the best choices are eucalyptus, lavender, mint, and rosemary. Eucalyptus is our favorite, but it does require a bit of preparation. Before hanging in the shower, the leaves should be hammered or rolled over with a rolling pin to make them release their fragrance.

Whether you try one or two techniques for a “mini” spa day, or spend a full day pampering yourself, we’re betting at the end of the day, you’ll feel more rested, relaxed, and refreshed!

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GIVING BACK IN A TIME OF PANDEMIC:

THE PARK AVENUE CLUB CARES FOR COMMUNITY 26

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“We aren’t just a club, we are THEIR club.”

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T

he COVID-19 pandemic has created heroes of front-line medical providers who risk their own health to help others. At the same time there are less obvious heroes whose caring is sustaining communities of all sorts. The Park Avenue Club in Florham Park, New Jersey is a dining and social club where members and their guests build relationships in dining and social activities. This is, however, no ordinary club.

donations to the needy. As the years passed, the old barn was abandoned and destined for demolition. Exactly a century later, in 1994, several prominent individuals in the area united with 600 businesses and 2,500 caring individuals to miraculously transform the dilapidated structure and establish Park Avenue Club. It has honored the original mission of “giving back” with over $6 million in support of 13 non-profit agencies in the area.

The Park Avenue Club is a unique example for philanthropy, providing support to charitable and cultural organizations through their relationship with the Park Avenue Foundation. Park Avenue Club is committed to offering the highest level of member experience while celebrating “The Spirit of Giving” in their community.

In mid-March, COVID-19 closed restaurants around the state with significant impact on the club employees, members and the flow of funding to the non-profit agencies. True to its mission, the club leadership adapted to the catastrophic impact of the closure and developed creative ways to continue its caring support for the community.

The overall goal at Park Avenue Club is to enrich their member’s social lives, build their networks and provide them with an extension of their home or office. Park Avenue Club is redefining the meaning of private clubs by setting an example to “give back” to the community. Park Avenue Club is the only private club in the nation that benefits multiple charities and cultural organizations.

Executive Director Greg Smith, recognized that most of the restaurant workers who rely on hourly wages were suffering, having seen their incomes disappear overnight.

The club is located on the site of a program founded in 1894, by a local order of Nuns known as The Sisters of Charity, from St. Elizabeth’s. For many years they and their students helped their community through

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The management team at PAC worked to maintain employment for as many staff as possible and to help lessen the impact on its furloughed employees with acquiring unemployment, grants or even personal loans.

Additionally, Greg Smith and Jeffrey Gallo personally set up a GoFundMe campaign which raised over $16,000 to assist staff most in need. This distribution helped some staff pay their rent or mortgage, feed their

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children, and helped some soon to be parents expecting their first child.

The Park Avenue Club has sought to build a sense of community among its members. As Greg Smith, the Executive Director, wrote to his members: “Community is the core of our Club. As a Club we have always come together to help each other as well as to support the nonprofit organizations we fund.”

With its indoor restaurant and event centers shut down, finding ways to help maintain community closeness was a great challenge. Creating curbside dining experiences that demonstrated community connection, support for family and friends, while also maintaining high quality dining was the province of Executive Chef, Arnold Kruck.

Chef Kruck was on board the Park Avenue Club as sous chef at its opening in 1994 and went on to hone his craft as an award-winning chef in several outstanding restaurants in the region. His goal was to return to the Park Avenue Club, which he accomplished in 2001. For the past 19 years he has been the Executive Chef creating both informal and upscale dining. His commitment to caring both in the kitchen and in the community garnered him a number of awards including: a Boys Scouts of America “Good Scout Award”, Share Our Strength, PG Chambers School and JBWS Grand Tastings for his continued charitable work. He hosted the 2010 Dinner

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of Hope featuring top chefs in the area as well as being featured in the Bergen Record, N.J. Monthly, New 12 NJ, N.J. Savvy Living and Newark Star-Ledger.

The challenge was to create a curbside dining experience that offered dining, was family oriented, and could be customized to each member’s interests and restrictions. Maintaining continuity in the connection of members and club, Chef Kruck early on recognized that packaged meals would be needed and sourced the special containers sized for groups of 6-8 people to deliver quality food.

He created a variety of upbeat conventions such as “Taco Tuesdays” with a different variation of taco each week. Themed meals, a la carte options, and guaranteed great taste is a constant with each meal. Each member is able to receive a daily e-blast menu for lunch and dinner to enjoy at home or office. Socially distanced Club staff greet the members picking up meals and help maintain a sense of community and belonging. The result of this extraordinary effort was the demonstration of loyalty from the Club to its members and the importance the Club placed on maintaining the continuity of the relationship with their members.

The response by Club members is testament to the program’s success: One family commented “Thank you very much for last Friday’s

“lobsterfest” dinner to go. It was outstanding and helped us escape, at least for a little while, the turmoil that seems to be today’s reality.”

Another noted the personal service despite the pandemic: “I would pull up, pop the trunk of my car and Jonnie would load the order.

It gave our family some exciting and quality meals to look forward to. It always felt healthier and the club is always able to accommodate special needs.”

The caring connection at a difficult time was identified by another member family: “It also allowed us to stay connected to the club and support our local community. Each morning while having our coffee we would check the daily menu and decide if and what we were going to order that day. It was a bright spot in our new COVID routine.”

Throughout this period, the Club worked to maintain its community with reformats of Movie Night, Cigar Club and Wine Tasting Nights to virtual events connecting members with both their club and each other.

Through all these efforts, it has been clear that the careful, well-planned reopening to full function was the key to continuing funding support of the Foundation’s nonprofit organizations. To this end, Executive Director Smith and his leadership team have examined every aspect of the operations.

With a 69-page manual of operation, and intensive staff training, the Club will demonstrate caring for members and staff as it returns to functioning.

While “PAC to Go” will continue for the foreseeable future to accommodate members hesitant to move through the community, a Park Avenue Social Club Social Happy Hour on the patio will be held on June 26th. All members will receive instructions on the new safety requirements. Staff will be fully trained, and the facility will be scheduled in such a manner as to minimize contamination. A June Wine Enthusiast Club event will be held on the property, and full dining will resume on the patio around July 7th. The large space of indoor dining will require only small adjustments to ensure proper social distancing. As members return to on-site dining and social events, the community of members will come together again, staff will resume full employment, and the people whose lives are changed by the funding of the foundation will once again see support.

Not all heroes wear capes. Keeping community connections strong, helping people maintain gainful employment, and supporting the work of nonprofit agencies is the work of these unsung heroes.

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Park Avenue Club‌

Refined Elegance with a Uniquely Romantic Flair

A historical site, meticulously manicured grounds, a footbridge over a reflecting pond‌a canvas of unexpected accents creates your one-of-kind wedding in our modern events center.

Complemented by our chef-curated cuisine and signature impeccable service, your magical day awaits.

Contact us to learn more about affordable membership.

Eat . S i p. S h a re . S u pport

184 Par k Avenue , Fl or ham Par k, NJ 079 3 2 973-301-8233 par kav enueclub.c o m

Organize Your One & Only (Home!)

PERSONAL ORGANIZERS ASHLEE BARNETT AND STACEY HUGHES THE GO 2 GIRLS LA

We all want to do more with this extra time we have... but where do you start?

Organizing is a great way to relook at a space‘s purpose and help it function better! If the thought of tackling a large space seems time consuming and daunting, we propose looking at smaller projects that still can make a huge impact in your day to day life!

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Entryway

Coat Closet

Think of the specific items you always walk in the door with. The typical items we come across are keys, purse or wallet, mail, and packages. By having an organized entry routine, you save time looking for things as you race out the door!

This space is usually really accessible and often underutilized. Instead of keeping items you rarely use here, consider using the coat closet for your everyday jackets and shoes!

• Keys are the universally lost item in households. We suggest a bowl or hook for your keys to hang by the door. Make it a habit to hang your keys there right as you enter your home. If it’s just you, consider the bowl method for both your keys and wallet.

• Keep your purse or bag from floating around the house by installing a sturdy hook to hang your item up as you walk in. These hooks can give a home to many items like reusable grocery bags or even kids backpacks.

• Many of us come home to a package at our doorstep. We suggest a large basket by your entrance to put packages until you’re ready to address them. This is also where return packages can go until you’re ready to take them out.

• A mail basket is a great way to corral those loose envelopes and catalogs.

Toss items in the basket as you walk in the door. When the basket gets full, that means it’s time to go through it! We love this Classic Mail Holder by Threshold at Target.

• Begin by emptying out the entire closet. This is the best time to re-evaluate each item you take out. Donate the items you no longer need, and consider storing pieces you don’t use often someplace else.

• For hanging items, we love using thin space-saving hangers so you can maximize the space. Also sorting items by color and fabric type gives a streamlined look.

• This is a great place to store your most worn shoes. When organizing them consider a shoe shelf along the bottom of your closet. Divide the space by how many people you have in your household, and sort shoes by color and style.

• The back of the closet door can be used to store items too. We suggest this over the door utility rack from The Container Store for extra grab and go ability.

Classic Mail Holder

Utility Shoe Storage Door and Wall Rack

Target

ContainerStore.com

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Junk Drawer Every kitchen has one, and it is often the catch-all for odds and ends. It actually doesn’t take much time to clean it up and give it the categories you need.

So make it a not-so-junk drawer, that works for you and not against you!

• First things first... empty the entire drawer so you have a blank slate.

Then sort your items into piles putting similar items together.

• Your categories will emerge and tell you exactly what you need this drawer for. Oftentimes its batteries, chip clips, birthday candles amongst other various items.

• Eliminate any category that doesn’t need to be here- maybe it's excess office supplies, paperwork, or keepsakes.

• Then use separators to give your remaining items homes in your junk drawer. We like the Everything Organizers from The Container Store because of the versatile sizes.

Glass Storage Jars with Clamp Lids Worldmarket.com

Kitchen Pantry Give your pantry some needed TLC by reorganizing it! This is a great project to do over a couple chunks of time... and should be reorganized on a monthly basis to prevent expired food from taking up valuable space.

• We suggest taking the time to check all of your food and spices to eliminate expired or unwanted items.

• Now that you’re left with the food you want to keep, categorize it in broad piles on the counter. Try Snacks, Kids Snacks, Breakfast, Dinners, Grains, Pasta, or Backstock.

• Use containers such as baskets to help corral these categories. A lazy susan works great to store items like oil, vinegar and canned goods.

Everything Drawer Organizer ContainerStore.com

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• Decanting is when you take an item out of its packaging to be stored in a specific container. We like to use eco friendly glass jars such as these Glass Storage Jars with Clamp Lids from Cost Plus World Market.

Medicine Cabinet Every household has medicine cabinets, but knowing how to utilize the small space can be difficult. By making these simple changes and creating easy categories, you likely won’t have to organize it again!

• We suggest starting by separating items into piles such as cold medicine, adult medicine, children’s medicine, First aid, and vitamins.

• Use small bins to store these categories in an accessible place. We suggest labeling the bins so the categories are accessible to anyone who needs to use them.

• Now consider your medicine cabinet available to hold any liquids and easy to grab medicine pain relievers and prescriptions. We even suggest storing your toothbrush in the medicine cabinet for sanitary purposes.

• Organizing supplies doesn’t need to be expensive. We often use these holders for small items in the medicine cabinet.

Small Plastic Bathroom Cabinet Storage Bin M Design Home Decor

Jewelry Whether they’re your most prized possessions or your kiddos costume jewels, there’s a way for it to be organized. This is a project that won’t take much time at all, and will bring you joy every time you accessorize!

• To find out the best way to store your jewelry, the first thing you need to know is your inventory. Gather all your items and separate by necklaces, bracelets, earrings and rings.

• If something is broken or tangled, ask yourself if it’s worth the time or money getting it fixed before spending energy on it. It’s okay to toss or donate pieces that don’t bring you happiness.

• Once you see which items you have the most of, you can determine your best organizing solution. A large assortment may mean you need a wall organizer, while a small collection can be sorted with a vanity sorter. We like the adjustable necklace bar on this Jewelry Tree Stand from Amazon.

Jewelry Tree Stand Amazon

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TIPS & TRICKS FOR THE HOME

BY RENEE LOCKWOOD

T

here is something about being home during this “sheltering in” (Covid 19) time period and/or coming home that makes it so much more important to keep our home organized. It’s a personal thing but I find that it gives me a feeling of calmness, peace and control over my environment as well as giving me a sense of accomplishment; a job that I was able to complete from beginning to end. For some of us an uncluttered space can free our minds enabling us to become creative - or to take on a long-ignored project – without the distractions of a cluttered space/cluttered mind. I think we can then enjoy being in the moment whether it’s reading, watching shows, playing games with family or friends, etc.

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“It’s not what you think you are, it’s what you think”.

COMMUNICATING Cut down on the texting, start communicating with your friends and family who may need someone to talk to! Some fun sayings to try with your kids to get them to put the texting away and actually call their grandparents and check in on them can be “Say it – don’t spell it” “Lips, not fingertips” CREATIVE COOKING TRICKS Brown Sugar – If your brown sugar has hardened and now resembles a brick, don’t throw it out just yet! Use a cheese grater to get the brown sugar, you’ll get GREAT results!

Sushi Rolls Made Easy – Along with prep and presentation: assemble ingredients (nori [seaweed sheets], toasted sesame, etc.) and choose plating/ mats. Then using ice cube trays, place a little oil (bottom and sides) in each cube space, then first against and around the sides of each cube space press the nori, next place sliced sushi of your choice in each cube space, add other ingredients, and lastly add the rice. Press the ingredients firmly in each cube then quickly turn the ice cube tray over onto your plate/mat. Voila` you have perfectly formed sushi rolls.

ROOM BY ROOM Put some live plants in each room – they clean the air and raise spirits.

Watering them is also a daily event!

DIY: Painting rooms – refresh current room color or paint a new color.

There are also great removable wallpaper that come in fabulous designs.

Purchase low-cost area rugs, window treatments, etc. for each room.

CLEANING YOUR SPACE Dusting - Using a Swiffer or equivalent item (extendable handle and the short handle) start high and work down. Start with a clean duster cloth and dust tv screens, computer screens, glass framed wall art, framed pictures, mirrors, ceiling fan blades, fridge tops, table surfaces, counter tops, stove tops, islands, etc. When done do the floors (including bathroom but do that floor last). If you’ve done only a light dusting you can turn the cloth over and use the other side.

Mirror Cleaning - after cleaning with glass cleaner and drying with dry paper towel, use a folded up piece of newspaper to really eliminate streaks and film left by paper towels.

KEEPING UP WITH THE KITCHEN DIY: If you have a window, purchase new inexpensive window treatment.

DIY: Change out the cabinet hardware or handles.

DIY: Set up a storage area for extra supplies (cleaning products, sanitizing products, etc.) by using plastic storage bins or cardboard boxes.

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Covid sanitizing supplies: Keep all together in a plastic bin and transfer liquids that are in large containers (e.g. bleach) into smaller plastic squeeze bottles (use empty dish detergent bottles). If you have a dishwasher that isn’t used too often you can store your bleach, alcohol, peroxide, etc., on the top rack. But, remember to keep away from children and pets.

Invest in some new dish cloths.

Purchase a new floor mat.

Reorganize cabinets: move the slow movers (items not used frequently) to the rear and/or sides of the cabinets.

Stock up on canned goods for the coming flu season so that just in case there is an interruption in electrical service or refrigerator breaks down you’ll have vegetables, soups, etc.

LAUNDRY: If you have to do your laundry outside of your home, to be good to go, keep your laundry detergent/supplies in your laundry basket but place them in a plastic container or on a tray to prevent detergent leaking on your floor.

After you load your clothes into the washers, wipe down the surfaces that your clean clothes will touch when they are ready to be removed from the washer.

Washers at home: always leave the door/cover open to prevent mold from growing.

AUTOMOBILES: A great way to get outside. Clean your auto inside and out. Declutter glove box, etc. Keep a hand-swiffer in the car at all times so that you can always quickly dust. Purchase welcome mats from your local dollar store and cover or replace floor mats.

Winterize: Snow/ice storm blowing in – cover your side view mirrors with plastic bags to prevent snow buildup.

STORAGE IDEAS: Use plastic egg cartons to organize jewelry (earrings, rings, etc.) and clips, nuts, nails, etc.

Gift Bags: We all have too much “baggage,” and gift bags that we want to reuse can cause a storage nightmare. To avoid a big mess when trying to grab a single bag a time for use, store them in one larger bag by laying them on their side so that the folded bottom portion doesn’t get hung up on the other bags. Organize either by size small to large or by category (birthday, holiday, generic, etc.).

KEEPING THINGS FRESH For items that don’t need to be washed but just need to be aired out, put them in a clothes dryer on low heat with several dryer sheets. The dryer will remove dust and the dryer sheets will remove musty odors. Do this only with cloth items that can be placed in a dryer (clothing, curtains, small scatter rugs, scarfs, shower curtains, decorative pillows, fabric toys, etc.).

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(818) 358-2182 thego2girlsla@gmail.com @thego2girlsla

LIGHT UP YOUR HOME

BY MARTIN DEMAREST

One of the most dramatic ways to transform any room in your home is to change the lighting.

Installing modern light fixtures, replacing outdated lamps, or just choosing a new lampshade design can create a whole new mood and atmosphere.

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What’s New A more modern feel is dominating today’s lighting styles. Look for clean, stylish geometric shapes and designs. In terms of the latest colors, you’ll find an emphasis on black finishes and a new contender called Silver Leaf, a bright addition to your decorating choices.

We’re loving this year’s emphasis on natural materials. Natural rock crystals and recycled glass are replacing traditional cut crystal, and feature in all types of lighting from wall sconces to chandeliers.

Traditional metal has been replaced by organic, free-form shapes. Designers are using travertine, ceramics, acrylic, textile fringe, and wood, as well as polymer resins.

If your heart is set on a new lamp to give your room a lift, try a sleek, retro mushroom lamp. You’ll see this favorite in the most exclusive interior designs this season.

Outdoor Lighting for Backyards, Patios or Terraces While lighting trends are on your mind, make a plan to update your outdoor space! Outdoor lighting creates a delightful evening atmosphere for family and friends, but it also provides security from criminal activity and safety along walkways.

There are many types of landscape lighting. We’ll just touch on this season’s highlights and trends.

Install or Upgrade Outdoor Lighting

If you favor the look of wicker or rattan, the new man-made woven materials last longer and require lower maintenance.

Ceiling Lights, Chandeliers and Pendants Ceiling lights have undergone radical changes! Replace shabby chic crystal chandeliers with the adjustable light fixtures often seen in art galleries. Their spot lighting is great for illuminating an image or feature. The lights rotate in any direction, giving you the ability to adjust them to your changing decor.

Consider the new sleek style of flat ceiling fixtures called flying spaceships.

These covers are clean and geometric, diffusing a soft light that’s easy on the eye. Forms vary from square and rectangular to round and oval. They pair especially well with Scandinavian style interiors.

If you’re in the market for a natural material fixture that makes a statement, check out the huge, gorgeous woven chandeliers. They cast wonderful shadows on ceilings and walls. You have a number of striking styles to choose from, some of which can serve as oversized pendants.

The newest metal chandeliers and sconces offer designs with beautiful, whimsical, details featuring flowers, vines, or birds. Some pieces cleverly incorporate other materials such as stones and natural crystals.

Lamps and Shades If you want to refresh your lighting without installing new fixtures, browse the hottest looks in lampshades. This year, you’ll see black shades on lamps, chandeliers and sconces. One of the most stunning trends is the opaque brass lamp shade. Nothing is more glamorous!

The shape of lampshades has evolved as well. Update your living room, dining room, or bedroom with stylish empire or cone shades. While you’re at it, you might want to think about modernizing the look of your kitchen with new cone pendants!

Now is the perfect time to upgrade your outdoor lighting or install a whole new system. The cost of outdoor fixtures has decreased as much as 20% over the past few years. If you have the bare minimum in outdoor lighting, such as path lights and/or corner motion-activated floods, consider putting systems in place to light your patio, deck, terrace, garden, or even the trees on the edge of your property. LED solar lights which don’t require an electric plug in and which are so inexpensive, can transform your potted or hanging plants or wall art.

LED Lights Without question, changing out your old light bulbs for LED (light emitting diode) lighting should be a top priority. LEDs are highly energy efficient, using 8 watts of power compared to the 90 used by halogen lights, and will save you tons of money over the long haul. They also produce brighter light without becoming hot enough to burn a careless hand.

Create a Bistro Stringing up fairy lights is an excellent choice for your patio, deck or terrace.

However, you also have the option of hanging those large Edison-style bulbs you’ve enjoyed at your favorite bistro! They’re classy and affordable.

Colored LED Lights Change out your white LED lights for colored bulbs for a unique look. If you’re feeling adventurous, opt for color-changing lights that automatically fade from one color to the next. These are especially effective when used to illuminate a fountain or water feature.

Online Lighting Controls Welcome to a new world of outdoor lighting! You can now control your outdoor lights, including separate zones, from anywhere you have an Internet connection. You can also set your lighting system on an automated schedule.

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AN OUTSIDE OASIS ALL YOUR OWN

BY MARTIN DEMAREST

This year you may be rethinking your usual summer vacation plans. Resort getaways, island vacations, and cruises may no longer be attractive options for you. That being said,what a great time to remake your backyard or your terrace/balcony/patio into a fabulous vacation retreat!

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Y

our transformation will depend on the space you have available as well as the budget you’re working with. We’ll show you a range of cool, budget-friendly options.

Privacy Your outdoor space will feel more like an oasis if it has a sense of enclosure.

Fences and garden walls ensure privacy for patios and yards, but you can also use lattice, pergolas and landscaping to define outdoor spaces and to screen views of neighboring houses or apartments. A wooden pergola will cost from $10-$90 per square foot depending on the type of wood used. An aluminum or vinyl pergola can be had for much less at $15 per square foot for a 12’ x 12’ structure. Lattice is very inexpensive and can be found at all home improvement stores.

Defining Spaces You can make your outdoor space a destination, regardless of the size, by defining different activity zones. The size of the space will determine the number of different zones you are able to create, and your individual preferences and those of your family will decide which zones take priority.

Some suggestions are: decks and patios, cooking areas, dining areas, conversation areas, garden areas, and play areas. Utilizing outdoor area rugs will also define the different areas.

Shade Even sun worshipers welcome a little shade. You’ll enjoy your yard or patio more if you can provide relief from the sun. Many yards don’t have mature

shade trees, but you do have other options: umbrellas, retractable awnings, or even pergolas and arbors planted with vines. A gazebo adds another level of luxury. Pre-built structures or kits are $1500-$7000 depending on size, materials and options. Umbrellas that tilt are a great choice for backyards or terraces.

Outdoor structures provide focal points, or transitions from one area to another. With comfy cushions and a blanket, they can also become quiet areas for reading, meditating, or even yoga. Think about adding wind chimes (but be aware of your neighbors) or hanging ornaments.

Decks and Patios If your backyard already boasts a deck or patio, fantastic! Consider recreating your existing space as a vacation destination by defining a dining area, a conversation area, and a grill area.

You may be considering a new deck or patio. A 12’x 20’ concrete patio installed with lighting and a fire pit will cost approximately $2100-$2750, depending on options and the area you live in. If you prefer something a little more budget friendly, you can find detailed DIY plans to build your own by searching the web.

Looking for more ideas? Now is a great time to replace that old patio furniture and grill!

Some 2020 Patio Furniture Winners (prices are approximate and may vary)

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Seating COSIEST 7-Piece Outdoor Patio Furniture, Executive Sectional Sofa, Glass-Top Coffee Table, 2 Toss Pillows, Includes Waterproof Cover, Clips.

Seats 6. $890 TANGKULA 4-piece Wood Patio Furniture Set with Cushions, 1 Love Seat, 2 Chairs, 1 Coffee Table. $550 TUOZE 5 Piece Patio Furniture Sectional All-Weather Wicker, Sofa, Large Ottoman, Glass-Top Coffee Table. Seats 3 to 4. $410 Dining SOPHIE & WILLIAM Patio Dining Set, 1 Square 37”x37” Umbrella Table, 4 Swivel Chairs, Weather Resistant Metal Frame. $600 EAST WEST FURNITURE 7 Piece Outdoor Natural Color Wicker Dining Set, Patio Table and 6 Balcony Backyard Armchairs with Linen Fabric Cushions. $503 OFFICE STAR Resin 3-Piece Folding Bench and Table Set, 2 Benches and 6’x 2.5’ Table. $174 Outdoor Kitchen You can make a budget-friendly outdoor kitchen with a classic charcoal grill, or install a full kitchen under a pergola with a grill, storage, and a refrigerator.

Use your imagination! Whatever your plan, most people start with a new gas grill.

Gas Grills for your 2020 Outdoor Kitchen (prices are approximate and may vary) BROIL KING Regal S590 Pro Gas Grill, 5-Burner, Stainless Steel. $1337 WEBER Weber Spirit II E-210 2-Burner. $379 CHAR-BROIL Classic 360 3-Burner Liquid Propane Gas Grill with Side Burner. $168 Portable Bar This is a smart investment! Load your cart with non-breakable glasses, small plates, a pitcher for water or lemonadeand your favorite snacks. It’ll save you steps to and from the kitchen as well as allowing you to whisk everything into the house for refills or to avoid that looming thunderstorm.

Fire Pit There’s nothing like a fire pit to draw people together on a cool evening.

Provide plenty of seating! The kids will love roasting hot dogs or toasting marshmallows. You can build your fire pit out of wall stones, or purchase a reasonably priced metal one.

Another great option are outdoor propane/butane patio heaters, infrared outdoor heaters or electric hanging heaters that look like a ceiling fan ($115.00 at Wayfair).

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Backyard Theater What could be more fun than watching your favorite movies in the backyard?

Pop some corn, grab some blankets and pillows, and string up some outdoor lights for the atmosphere. All you’ll need is a projector and a DIY screen to create a unique and fun evening for the whole family.

Hammock Whether you’re contemplating reading a great novel, watching the clouds drift by, or simply taking a leisurely nap, a hammock is the best place to spend a summer afternoon. Ideally you’ll be able to suspend your hammock between two trees, but you do have the option of buying a hammock with a stand for that patio or terrace.

Lawn Games Vacation is about active fun as well as relaxing. Try setting up a variety of lawn games such as croquet, bocce ball, ladder golf, and bucket ball (you can DIY it by using buckets that you have on hand). Great family fun!

Putting Green If you’re an avid golfer, you might want to consider installing a putting green in your backyard. You can purchase one at a cost of about $500-$2500, or check a DIY site for plans to build your own.

Stock Tank Stock tanks in the backyard have come into their own in the last couple of years. They make an attractive, inexpensive place for kids and adults to cool off on hot summer days. Prices start at just $50. There’s no installation involved. Just place on a concrete patio or stone platform to protect your lawn from water damage. Plastic works best – easy on the body and won’t leave marks on surfaces.

Layer on the Amenities Details count! A finished design is all about the details and accessories.

Think about adding some of these to your fabulous, fresh outdoor room.

• A water feature or fountain either on the patio or in the garden • Garden statuary • Weatherproof art such as plates, plaques, or decorative wrought iron • Outdoor rugs as a pop of color and to define seating areas • Outdoor string lights to create a dreamy vacation atmosphere • Benches or chairs set into private nooks • Groups of plants in decorative containers These are some of the many ways you can transform your backyard, patio or terrace into a stunning vacation retreat that will give you years of pleasure and add to the overall value of your home.

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CREATING THE PERFECT (and Functional!)

HOME OFFICE PERSONAL ORGANIZERS ASHLEE BARNETT AND STACEY HUGHES THE GO 2 GIRLS LA

Creating a functional home office isn’t as hard as it seems!

H

ome life and work life coincide more than ever these days - due to recent circumstances, many of us are having to change gears and work from home instead of commuting to an office. So how do you set up a functional home office?

The good news is you don’t need as much as you think! When we organize offices, we focus on the same 3 main components to make the space successful, no matter what the job title is.

Environment The environment in which you put your office can make a huge difference in productivity. For some, setting up at a dining room table started out as the best temporary option to having a space for a home office.

However we’re sure as time went on, you realized the environment around you can surely change the way you work. We recommend re-looking at areas in your house that you haven’t before to consider as a space for your new home office. A bedroom is often under utilized during the day, and offers a quiet sanctuary to be in peace.

Another element of working from home that differs from a typical office setting is the need to take video calls. Setting this up can take a little extra work, however it’s worth it in the end to be able to take a phone call and not worry about your colleges being distracted by what’s going on in the background. We suggest turning your work desk around so it floats in the room, then seating yourself behind the desk and looking out into the room. This allows you to take command of your space, while giving a wall behind you to act as your background.

Your last consideration is lighting and sound. Test out your new space with your computer camera to be sure there isn’t any glare from windows or mirrors. If lighting needs to be added, we recommend a floor lamp across the room, so the light is distributed throughout the space, and not directly shining down on you. A simple light ring can also be ordered online, meant specifically for video calls. If you have kids or anyone else working in the home, finding a room with a shut door is of highest priority. Not only can others distract you from getting the work you need to complete, but it can also disrupt someone else’s routine too.

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Motivation Everyone needs motivation in the workplace, and you can use working from home as an opportunity to make it your own. Sometimes the things that make an office feel cluttered, are not clutter at all! Items that mean the most to us like family photos and momentos can crowd our workspace if they don’t have a specific home. That’s not to say there isn’t tremendous importance in seeing pictures of your loved ones or your favorite quote that makes you happy.

We recommend utilizing the blank wall space behind you as a form of expression. Hang up your favorite art piece, or incorporate a happy quote.

Another popular idea is hanging curtains to bring in a pattern or fabric that makes you smile. Even a display shelf can be installed to house your picture frames and special items too. The end goal is to have a clear desk space to work at, so that your motivational items become part of your office decor.

Lastly, we highly recommend considering plants in your office space. Whether it’s a faux plant or you have a green thumb, the liveliness of greenery can be uplifting in your new home office.

Organization Every space will have items in it... organization just ensures those items don’t cloud your frame of mind!

The best part is when you take the time to organize, you will benefit from the peace of mind the space gives you every time you use it. A home office can be tidied up using two simple steps- sorting and containing.

Sorting is putting like items with like items. Using a large surface or the floor, begin by sorting all your office items in piles. Put your pens with pens and books with books, etc. Try and resist the urge to put items away in your desk quite yet. Sorting is also a great time to discard the items you no longer need as well. Once you have your piles, then you can visually see what kind of space each category needs. For example, if you don’t have many papers, you could use a desk filer as opposed to using a filing cabinet if you have more paperwork.

This is where the second step to organizing comes in... containing! This can be anything from your bookshelf to your pencil cup. In actuality you’re giving places a home, which is why this step is imperative to the organization process. So instead of throwing everything into a drawer, invest in some drawer separators which will help you save time when you’re looking for something next. It is also important to remember that everyone thrives in different work environments. Some work best with things tucked away, while some like to see all of their tools in order to create. Find the right medium of items you store in closed containers compared to what you’d like out and in your view. You’ll know your home office is organized when it simply makes your life easier!

You don’t need much at all to have a place you feel inspired to work in. By setting up a home office that focuses on your environment, motivation and organization, your space will continue to work for your needs, whatever they may be.

The Go 2 Girls, Ashlee and Stacey, are personal organizers based in Los Angeles, California. Their expertise and passion have led to a completely unique experience in organization, and they serve their clients with as much heart for their homes as possible. The Go 2 Girls offer phone consultations and have options for virtual projects. Reach out at (818) 358-2182 or visit https://thego2girlsla.com/

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H+T SUMMER 2020

This dinner started here.

The Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove Showroom will help you create a kitchen that’s uniquely yours. On-site chefs, product experts, and inspiring designs will help you envision the possibilities for your home – and all of the delicious moments to come.

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FALL Issue 2020

Publication date: September, 2020

Home+Table

www.homeandtablemagazine.com