home garden DECORATOR
RESIDENTIAL ROOFING
The Home Roofing Solution
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• Water and Ice Protection
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12 COOL WEATHER VEGETABLES YOU CAN STILL PLANT
16 RAINWATER HARVESTING FOR YOUR GARDEN
23 PRODUCT REVIEW SUVI SMART COOKING FOR BUSY FAMILIES
home garden DECORATOR
Mendy Kenney
Sales Representative
816-456-3338
mendy.kenney@warrensburgstarjournal.com
Ella Banakh
Sales Representative ella.banakh@sedaliademocrat.com
Vanessa Schardan
660-530-4519
660-492-0875
Sales Representative vanessa.schardan@sedaliademocrat.com
Linda Gosnell
Customer Service Representative linda.gosnell@sedaliademocrat.com
Nikki Monsees
copy editor
Office Manager nikki.monsees@sedaliademocrat.com
Christian Dischler
Contributing writers
Ellie Gardner
Jessie Gray
Alyssa Ingram
Nellie Palmer
Grant Parker
Edna Roberts
Art and Design
Suzanne Fox
660-530-0273
660-530-0275
Lighting Up Autumn Nights
By Grant Parker
AS THE DAYS GROW SHORTER AND EVENINGS ARRIVE SOONER, AUTUMN INVITES US TO LINGER OUTDOORS A LITTLE LONGER — WRAPPED IN A BLANKET, SIPPING CIDER, AND ENJOYING CRISP AIR UNDER A CANOPY OF STARS. THE SECRET TO EXTENDING YOUR OUTDOOR SEASON IS LIGHTING. WITH THE RIGHT COMBINATION OF LANTERNS, SOLAR FIXTURES, AND STRING LIGHTS, YOU CAN TRANSFORM PATIOS, PORCHES, AND GARDENS INTO COZY RETREATS THAT GLOW WELL PAST SUNSET.
Lanterns: Warm & Portable Ambiance
Lanterns are timeless for a reason: they create instant charm and are easy to move wherever light is needed. Choose metal or wood lanterns with glass panes for a rustic touch, or sleek black-framed versions for a more modern vibe. Fill them with pillar candles in ivory or warm gold for a soft, flickering glow. For convenience, consider battery-operated LED candles that mimic real flame without the worry of wax drips or wind. Cluster lanterns on stairs, line them along pathways, or place a trio on a porch table for a welcoming accent.
Solar Lights: Eco-Friendly & Practical
Solar lighting offers both beauty and function — charging during the day and glowing automatically at dusk. Stake solar path lights to guide guests to your front door or highlight garden beds. For a contemporary twist, try solar lanterns with woven or rattan finishes, which double as stylish décor pieces. Many models now offer warm-toned LED bulbs, ensuring the light feels cozy rather than harsh. With no wiring required, solar fixtures are one of the simplest ways to brighten your yard sustainably.
String Lights: Instant Magic
Nothing sets the mood like string lights. Draped across a pergola, zigzagged above a patio, or wound around a tree trunk, they bring a festive yet intimate atmosphere. Opt for warm white Edison-style bulbs for a classic look, or try globe
Layering the Glow
The most inviting spaces combine all three: lanterns for ambiance, solar fixtures for practicality, and string
lights for drama. Together, they create depth and dimension, turning any outdoor area into a cozy autumn haven.
With just a few thoughtful touches, your outdoor space can shine long after the sun sets — inviting you to savor every crisp autumn night.
Quick Ideas for Autumn Outdoor Lighting
• Line your steps with lanterns to create a warm, welcoming entrance.
• Hang string lights above a fire pit for a magical gathering spot.
• Wrap string lights around tree trunks to highlight fall foliage.
• Cluster lanterns on porch tables for an instant cozy vignette.
• Use solar stake lights along pathways to guide guests after dark.
• Mix different heights of lanterns for dimension and drama.
• Choose warm white bulbs over cool tones for a softer, inviting glow.
Cranberry
Walnut Bread
By Nellie Palmer
Ingredients
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 ½ tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• ¾ cup orange juice
• 2 tbsp melted butter (or oil)
• 1 tbsp orange zest
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• 1 ½ cups fresh or frozen cranberries, halved
• ¾ cup walnuts, chopped
Directions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9x5inch loaf pan or line with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, mix orange juice, melted butter, zest, and egg. Pour wet ingredients into the dry and stir until just combined.
4. Fold in cranberries and walnuts. The batter will be thick.
5. Transfer batter to prepared pan and smooth the top.
6. Bake for 50–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Cool in pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Slice and serve warm with butter or cream cheese.
Tip: Tis bread keeps well for 3–4 days and tastes even better the next day.
Weekend Project Ship lap Accent Wall
By Edna Roberts
If you’re looking for a project that makes a big impact without a full-scale remodel, a ship lap accent wall is the perfect weekend DIY. With its clean lines and rustic character, ship lap adds warmth, texture, and personality to any room — from farmhouse-inspired spaces to sleek contemporary homes. Best of all, installing it is simpler than you might think.
Why Shiplap?
Ship lap boards interlock with a slight groove, creating subtle shadow lines that bring depth to flat walls. Traditionally used in barns and cottages, ship lap has been reimagined for today’s interiors. Whether painted bright white for a coastal look or left in natural wood for rustic charm, it creates an instant focal point.
A Big Impact in Just a Weekend
In just two days — or even one if you’re handy — you can transform a plain wall into a stunning feature. A ship lap accent wall isn’t just stylish; it’s a simple way to refresh your home with timeless charm and minimal effort.
ADD RUSTIC CHARM WITH MINIMAL EFFORT
Materials You’ll Need
• Pre-cut ship lap boards (wood or MDF)
• Stud finder
• Level and measuring tape
• Saw (hand or power)
• Construction adhesive and/or finishing nails
• Nail gun or hammer
• Paint or stain (optional)
Step 1: Plan and Prep
Choose your wall and measure carefully to determine how many boards you’ll need. Use a stud finder to locate studs — you’ll be attaching the boards directly for a secure hold. Remove any outlet covers or wall fixtures.
Step 2: Cut and Place Boards
Starting at the bottom corner, apply a thin bead of adhesive to the back of your first board. Press it into place, ensuring it’s level. Nail into studs for extra support. Continue placing boards row by row, cutting pieces as needed for outlets or edges. Remember to stagger seams for a natural look.
Step 3: Finishing Touches
Once your wall is covered, fill nail holes with wood filler and lightly sand. Leave the boards natural for a rustic feel, or paint them in crisp white, soft gray, or a bold accent color to match your décor. Adding a coat of stain can highlight the wood grain for extra character.
Design Ideas
• Farmhouse Charm: White shiplap paired with warm woods and vintage accents.
• Modern Minimal: Dark gray or navy shiplap creates a sleek backdrop for contemporary furnishings.
• Rustic Warmth: Natural wood tones bring texture and coziness to living rooms or bedrooms.
you can still plant cool-weather Plants
LETTUCE, KALE, AND CARROTS THRIVE IN AUTUMN GARDENS JUST BECAUSE SUMMER HAS PASSED DOESN’T MEAN YOUR GARDEN HAS TO WIND DOWN. IN FACT, AUTUMN IS ONE OF THE BEST TIMES TO GROW VEGETABLES. COOL WEATHER BRINGS FEWER PESTS, MORE RELIABLE MOISTURE, AND CRISP CONDITIONS THAT MAKE LEAFY GREENS AND ROOT VEGETABLES THRIVE. WITH THE RIGHT CHOICES, YOUR GARDEN CAN REMAIN PRODUCTIVE WELL INTO THE FALL — SOMETIMES EVEN AFTER THE FIRST FROST.
By Nellie Palmer
Lettuce: Tender and Fast-Growing
Some of us have a hard time keeping plants alive because of a tendency to "over-love" them. Generally, this means that you can't resist the urge to give them water even if they don't really need it. If you have this tendency, you may already know that keeping cacti doesn't work for you.
While you'll want to avoid plants like cacti and succulents, some plants that actually need all that attention are pothos (all species), fittonias and ferns. These are all types of plants that need relatively high levels of water, and their soil moisture levels should be checked every few days.
Kale: Hardy and Nutritious
Kale is a superstar of the fall garden. It not only tolerates cool weather — it actually gets better with it. A touch of frost sweetens the flavor, softening its earthy bite. Plant seedlings in early fall, and you’ll have a steady supply of nutrient-packed leaves well into winter. Curly kale, lacinato (also called dinosaur kale), and red Russian kale are all excellent choices.
Carrots: Sweet and Crisp
Carrots are another vegetable that thrives in chilly soil. Cooler temperatures slow their growth but enhance their sweetness, producing crisp, flavorful roots. Sow carrot seeds in loose, welldrained soil, and thin seedlings to allow enough space for roots to expand. If you mulch heavily before hard frosts, you can continue harvesting carrots straight from the garden even after the ground cools.
Tips for Success
• Timing matters: Plant early enough in the fall to give crops time to mature before deep winter.
• Protect your plants: Use row covers, cloches, or cold frames to shield vegetables from unexpected frosts.
• Succession plant: Sow seeds in small batches every couple of weeks to stagger your harvest.
• Harvest young: Many cool-weather vegetables taste best when picked small and tender.
Why Fall is a Great Time to Buy or Sell
Spring and summer are often thought of as the peak real estate seasons, but fall offers unique advantages for both buyers and sellers. As the leaves change, the housing market shifts in ways that can create real opportunities — from motivated buyers to less competition in listings.
For Sellers: Serious Buyers and Seasonal Charm
By the time fall arrives, casual househunters typically leave the market, leaving behind serious buyers who are ready to make decisions. This often translates into quicker offers and smoother negotiations. Families who want to settle before the holiday season or the start of a new year are especially motivated, making fall an ideal time to list.
The season also offers a natural advantage in staging. Crisp air, cozy décor, and autumn curb appeal — think pumpkins on the porch, mums in bloom, and warm lighting — create an inviting atmosphere that resonates with buyers. A home
dressed in its fall best can feel instantly welcoming.
For Buyers: Less Competition and Better Deals
Buyers also benefit from fall’s unique timing. With fewer people househunting compared to spring and summer, there’s less competition for properties. This can mean more negotiating power, greater flexibility
in price, and sometimes even seller incentives as homeowners aim to close before the end of the year. Additionally, lenders and real estate professionals often experience a lighter workload in the fall. That can result in faster mortgage approvals and more personalized attention from agents, inspectors, and contractors.
Year-End Advantages
Fall also coincides with the final quarter of the financial year. Sellers may be more motivated to close deals for tax reasons, while buyers might benefit from year-end promotions on moving services, appliances, or home improvement supplies. These savings can add up, making the transition into a new home easier on the budget.
While spring and summer may have more activity, fall offers a sweet spot for both buyers and sellers — motivated parties, seasonal charm, and opportunities for better deals. Whether you’re looking to purchase your dream home or list your current one, autumn provides a window of opportunity worth considering.•
Rainwater Harvesting at Home
By Grant Parker
As water costs rise and communities face increasing drought concerns, many homeowners are looking for sustainable ways to keep their gardens thriving. One of the simplest and most effective methods is rainwater harvesting — capturing rainfall from your roof and storing it for later use. Not only does this practice reduce reliance on municipal water, but it also benefits plants and the environment.
Why Collect Rainwater?
Rainwater is naturally soft and free of the salts, minerals, and chemicals often found in tap water. This makes it ideal for watering gardens, houseplants, and lawns. By collecting rain, you can lower water bills, reduce stormwater runoff, and do your part in conserving a vital resource. For avid gardeners, it also provides a reliable supply during dry spells, ensuring plants stay healthy without extra cost.
How It Works
Most systems begin with a roof catchment area — the rain that falls on your home is directed into gutters and downspouts. Instead of flowing away, that water is funneled into a rain barrel or cistern. These containers can be as simple as a 50-gallon barrel or as elaborate as underground tanks with pumps and filtration.
At its simplest, a spigot at the bottom of a rain barrel allows you to fill watering cans or attach a hose. More advanced setups use gravityfed drip irrigation or pumps to move water directly into the garden.
Getting Started
• Choose a location: Place barrels beneath downspouts where they can collect the most runoff.
• Use safe materials: Food-grade barrels are recommended to avoid harmful residues.
• Add screens: Fine mesh covers keep out debris and prevent mosquito breeding.
• Plan overflow: Ensure excess rainwater can flow safely away from your home’s foundation.
A Greener Choice
Beyond the practical benefits, rainwater harvesting connects homeowners more closely with the cycles of nature. Using water that falls directly from the sky to nurture your garden is both satisfying and sustainable. It’s a
small step that makes a big impact — conserving resources, reducing runoff, and keeping gardens lush and beautiful.
Whether you choose a single decorative rain barrel or invest in a larger system, rainwater harvesting is a smart, eco-friendly way to embrace the season and prepare your garden for the future.
rustic meets modern
keeping it simple: contemporary with a touch of cozy
MODERN HOMES ARE KNOWN FOR THEIR SLEEK LINES, OPEN SPACES, AND CLEAN SIMPLICITY. BUT WHILE CONTEMPORARY DESIGN OFFERS ELEGANCE AND ORDER, IT CAN SOMETIMES FEEL COLD IF LEFT ON ITS OWN. THAT’S WHERE RUSTIC FARMHOUSE CHARM COMES IN.
By Nellie Palmer
By thoughtfully layering in natural textures and warm accents, you can create a space that stays true to today’s modern style while feeling comfortable and inviting. The key is restraint — adding just enough rustic detail to balance the crispness of contemporary décor. Start with a Contemporary Base
Think of the modern look as your foundation. Keep walls and large furniture pieces neutral — shades of white, gray, or taupe work beautifully. Choose clean-lined sofas, streamlined cabinetry, and uncluttered layouts. This creates a calm, open backdrop where every rustic touch you add feels intentional rather than overwhelming.
Add Warmth with Texture
Rustic charm doesn’t have to mean distressed everything. Instead, focus on textures. A chunky knit throw tossed over a sleek armchair, a woven basket tucked next to a modern fireplace, or linen pillows layered on a streamlined sofa instantly soften the look. These
tactile elements bring warmth without breaking the modern flow.
Use Wood Thoughtfully Wood is where rustic style shines, but moderation matters. Instead of covering a room in reclaimed barn boards, consider a single accent piece: a coffee table with a live-edge top, floating shelves in warm oak, or natural wood candlesticks on a sleek mantel. One or two well-chosen wood accents can make a contemporary room feel cozy without tipping it into “farmhouse overload.”
Keep Décor Simple
When combining rustic and modern, less is more. A few knitted or fabric pumpkins in soft neutrals, a rope or yarn swag with subtle gold or pearl accents, or a simple fall wreath can add seasonal charm without clutter. The modern side of the design thrives on negative space, so let your accents breathe.
Light the Room with Warmth
Lighting sets the mood. Modern fixtures — think clean black pendants or slim brass lamps — can be balanced
with rustic warmth by using soft ivory candles, lanterns, or even Edison bulbs. The light itself should feel warm, adding glow and coziness to otherwise minimal spaces.
Add Color with Restraint
A modern base works best with neutral palettes, but a pop of unexpected color keeps the look interesting. A touch of French blue, muted green, or warm burnt orange in a throw pillow or piece of pottery can add character while preserving simplicity. Keep colors limited to one or two accents so they feel deliberate, not distracting.
Balance is Everything
The trick to rustic-meets-modern is balance. By starting with a contemporary foundation and layering in rustic elements sparingly, you get the best of both worlds: a home that feels polished yet lived-in, stylish yet comfortable. The warmth of farmhouse charm softens the edges of modern design, while simplicity keeps the overall look fresh and uncluttered.
This fall, let your décor reflect the beauty of both — modern simplicity paired with rustic heart. Together, they create spaces that are not only elegant, but also welcoming Use Spotlights for Highlights
Sweet SavoryPotato & Onion Tart
By Nellie Palmer
INGREDIENTS
• 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
• 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 large onions, thinly sliced
• 1 tsp fresh thyme
• 1 cup shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese
• 1 egg (for egg wash)
• Salt & pepper to taste
DIRECTIONS
►1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil. Add onions, season with salt, and cook over medium-low heat for 20 minutes until golden and caramelized. Stir in thyme.
3. While onions cook, toss sweet potato slices with 1 tbsp olive oil,
salt, and pepper.
4. Roll out puff pastry on the baking sheet. Sprinkle half the cheese in the center, leaving a 1-inch border.
5. Layer sweet potatoes and caramelized onions on top. Sprinkle with remaining cheese.
6. Fold edges of pastry slightly over the filling, pleating as needed. Brush edges with beaten egg.
7. Bake 25–30 minutes until pastry is golden and crisp.
8. Cool slightly, slice into wedges, and serve warm as a main or side. Tip: This tart pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or a bowl of soup for a complete meal.
Product Review
Suvi Kitchen Robot
By Ellie Gardner
What It Does
The Suvie Kitchen Robot is a countertop appliance that combines refrigeration with cooking—an all-in-one solution for busy home cooks. It allows you to load meals, from fresh or frozen ingredients, and schedule them to cook later using convection baking, air frying, slow cooking, broiling, roasting, or sous-vide methods.
Standout Feature: "Cool-to-Cook" Scheduling
Suvie’s signature feature is its ability to time-shift meals. You can prep ingredients in the morning, and the appliance stays cool until your scheduled dinner is ready—so you come home to a hot, cooked meal without last-minute prep. What Users Love
• Convenience for busy families: One user shared that they “load raw meals in the morning and return to a fully cooked dinner. No cooking—just eat.
• Quality design and easy setup: Another reviewer noted it’s “well-made with sturdy hinges... setup was as easy as plug in and connect to Wi - Fi.”
• Versatility in cooking: You can place two different meals in
separate trays and Suvie handles cooking each precisely.
Considerations Before Buying
• Size and space: It’s compact compared to a crockpot, but still requires a permanent spot on your countertop due to its refrigeration components.
• Learning curve: Sous-vide or non-standard dishes may require fine-tuning. One user attempted poached eggs overnight and ended up with hardboiled results.
• Meal cost: While Suvie offers prepared meals, they are on the pricier side. Many users balance this by cooking their own meals in the device.
• Occasional tech hiccups: Some users report refrigeration errors or scheduling glitches; tech support appears responsive, though.
SOURCES: CONSUMER REPORTS
MANTRIPPING MEN'S TRAVEL & LIFESTYLE SUVIE.COM
CHAMPAGNEANDCOFFEESTAINS.COM
Final Verdict
The Suvie Kitchen Robot is a compelling blend of tech and convenience—ideal for households seeking stress-free, scheduled meals without sacrificing quality. It's especially useful for busy parents, professionals, or anyone who values both hands-off cooking and delicious results.
If you prioritize flexibility in cooking styles—air frying, broiling, slow cooking, or sous-vide—paired with the ability to prep in advance and return to a hot meal, Suvie is a smart addition to your kitchen. Just make sure you have the countertop space and patience to explore its full potential.
ACR is extremely excited to announce our new par tner shi p with Aeroseal. Did you know leaking duct wor k can cause the average home to lose 10-40% of the conditioned air, not to mention raising your energy bill? Unsealed air ducts suck in dirt, dust, allergens, smelly odors, and other pollutants, while also bringing in humidity which can lead to moisture and comfort issues inside your home.
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