Living In Evergreen - Vol. 4 | Issue 1

living in

EVERGREEN EVERGREEN.HOMESINCOLORADO.COM

VOL. 4 | ISSUE 1

THE ART OF EVERYDAY

BEAUTY

PLUS

* MAKE TODAY AMAZING * FEEDING A CROWD * ORGANIZE YOUR CLOSET

&

WELCOME HOME: The 6 Steps To Buying A Home; Why You Need A Real Estate Agent

Find Your Home In Colorado

Evergreen.HomesInColorado.com 1

DISCOVER A NEW LEVEL OF EXCELLENCE IN LUXURY REAL ESTATE. Superior Resources. Global Recognition. A Refined Approach.

Through the RE/MAX Collection, RE/MAX has created a unique brand identity and powerful marketing resource for luxury homes.

DISCOVER THE RE/MAX COLLECTION.

Evergreen, Colorado

OUT&ABOUT LEISURE, CULTURE & LOCAL PURSUITS

EVERGREEN

HIWAN HOMESTEAD MUSEUM 4208 South Timberline Drive, Evergreen

303-674-6262 The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from September to May, noon to 5 p.m.; from June to August 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

H

iwan Homestead provides a glimpse into the daily Colorado lifestyle of the 1800s. The historic log cabin and original furnishings transports visitors back to a simpler time and demonstrates a way of life that may seem foreign to many of us today. The focal point of the open space park is the one-room cabin built in 1893 and the rustic architecture the property evolved into over time. ThroughVOL. 3 | ISSUE 4

out the Hiwan Homestead volunteers dressed in costumes of that time period share their knowledge of the homestead’s history and provide guided tours. The 25-room lodge showcases Native American artwork along with the original furniture and other historic pieces. The Lodge has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1974.

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OUT&ABOUT

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Botanic Beauties

Spring fever is in full bloom at the local Evergreen greenhouses. Stop by Sundance Gardens & Landscaping at 27866 Meadow Drive and get an early start on garden planning and bloom swooning.

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Connect.

Discover.

Create.

Evergreen Library (located at Highway 73 & Buffalo Park Road)

DOWN THE ROAD | SPIRITS IN THE WIND GALLERY

ART OF THE NEW WEST 1211 Washington Avenue, Golden Eternal Autumn Wood Magpie Sculpture with Removeable Mask

By David Caricato

jeffcolibrary.org 303-275-5275

Very early in his career the artist was a wood block print maker. Caricato’s work went through many phases since then and now has come back to wood, this time as sculpture.

With the carving, the artist introduces his painting skills; and visitors often mistake his carved and painted objects as being assemblages of real objects, or installation art. When the sculptures are explained as trompe l’oiel, the viewer tends to become fascinated and spends much time closely examining the many provoking features.

(303) 279-1192; spiritsinthewindgallery.com

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VOL. 4 | ISSUE 1 Publishing Director Casey Orr Creative Director Kaley Rhodes Editorial Kimba Orr, Allison Orr Photography Kimba Orr Contacts: Ph: 303-955-5036 ADVERTISING General Inquiries Contact@MyPelicanMagazine.com More Information About Pelican Publications: Magazine Publishing & Marketing Consulting Pelican distributes LIVING IN DENVER magazines to Denver NEWCOMERS through real estate agents, chambers of commerce and www.LivingInDenver.co.

Pelican distributes WILDLIFE magazines to WILDLIFE ENTHUSIASTS in Kansas through email subscribers, local businesses and www.MWMKS.com.

Office 7550 W Yale Ave, Suite A-100 Denver, CO 80227 www.MyPelicanMagazine.com Š 2016 Pelican Publications, All rights reserved.

No part of this magazine may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form, or by no means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without prior permission of the publisher.

CONTENTS OUT&ABOUT Local Pursuits The Art Of Everyday Beauty Patio Gardening For The Birds Promise Ranch Make Today Amazing Shop Talk

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FASHION Closet Consultation

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FOOD, ETC. Feeding A Crowd: Recipe Workbook For Feeding 50 Or More

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WELCOME HOME Freshen Up Your Space Feng Shui The 6 Steps To Buying A Home Invest In A Real Estate Broker The Art Of House Hunting

48 49 52 54 56

OUT&ABOUT GALLERY

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OUT&ABOUT

THE ART of PERSPECTIVES

EVERYDAY BEAUTY AN ARTIST’S PAINTERLY PERSPECTIVE OF EVERYDAY BEAUTY IN THE FRONT RANGE

Custom, urban portraiture paintings by KBR

ARVADA

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GOLDEN

PARKER

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FORT COLLINS

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Connect.

Discover.

Create.

Arvada Library

(located in Olde Town W. 57th Ave. & Webster St.)

jecolibrary.org 303-275-5275 15

FORT COLLINS BOULDER

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LIVING IN’S

2016

MONTHS AHEAD

Volume 4 Issue 1 JUNE FLAG DAY Tuesday, 06/14/16 INTERNATIONAL PICNIC DAY Wednesday, 06/18/16 SUMMER SOLSTICE Monday, 06/20/16 FATHERS DAY Sunday, 06/19/16

birthstone

Alexandrite, Pearl & Moonstone

fRUITS & VEGGIES

Cherries, Plums, Pluot, Okra

summer solstice

Monday, 06/20/16 The longest day of the year and the official start of summer, it is often a time for festivals, feasts and celebrations.

JULY INDEPENDENCE DAY Monday, 07/04/16 NATIONAL ICE CREAM DAY Sunday, 07/17/16 NATIONAL HOT DOG DAY Saturday, 07/23/16

D.I.Y. Citronella Candles Lemons Fresh mint Glass jars, such as mason jars Floating candles Citronella essential oil Water

1) Take about half of the fresh mint and gently crush it in your hands to release its fragrance. Add the mint to jars for the first layer.

2) Cut 3-4 lemons into slices. Add the lemon slices to the jars for the second layer. Continue to alternate between lemons and herbs to fill jars about three quarters full.

3) Add a few drops of citronella essential oil into each jar. Then add water to fill jars.

4) Finally top each jar with a floating candle. Light candles and enjoy!

“Happiness will never come to those who fail to appreciate what they already have.”

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NATIONAL PARENTS DAY Sunday, 07/24/16 NATIONAL CHEESECAKE DAY Saturday, 07/30/16

birthstone

Ruby & Onyx

fRUITS & VEGGIES

Papaya, Nectarine, Garlic

national parks month

Great Dane, Custom Digital Oil Painting

COMMISSION PORTRAITURE | KBRGALLERY.COM

OUT&ABOUT GARDEN DREAMING

Patio

GARDENING LIVING IN THE CITY, BUT LONGING FOR A GARDEN TO GROW YOUR OWN PRODUCE? CONSIDER PATIO GARDENING: SMALL AND EFFICIENT, IT WILL YIELD JUST ENOUGH FOR A SMALL SUMMER CROP AND PROVIDE THE FULFILLING ENJOYMENT OF GROWING YOUR OWN GOODS. Make sure you have adequate sun where your plants will be growing. You need 6 to 8 hours of sun daily for your garden to produce bountifully.

Large plants like tomatoes, cucumbers and beans require larger pots at least two feet in diameter. Smaller pots can be used for peppers, greens and herbs. In hot weather water evaporates quickly from the elevated soil in containers. You may need to water pots everyday if the temperature goes above 90 degrees.

If you live in a small space where storage is at a minimum you’ll want to have stackable pots that can be attractively kept on your patio in the off-season. You can buy allweather resin that is lightweight and can be used for all kind of vegetables. You will want to keep your tomatoes staked. Tomato cages work well; also bamboo is an attractive alternative. Tomatoes do much better when staked because they will be well aerated, thus less chance for disease. Also, you can plant smaller plants in with your tomatoes, like carrots, radishes and even herbs.

Be sure to choose super productive plants. Choose early bearing fruit such as ”sun gold” cherry tomatoes. That way you will have tomatoes to enjoy while your larger tomatoes are growing. Also, looking for dwarf varieties is a good idea. Try planting a variety of different plants together in an 18” pot such as peppers and chilies.

Window boxes are such a fun way to grow your herbs or other small vegetables. You can display them attractively with a little planning, by picking pretty plants. You can choose a wide variety that you will have at your fingertips when cooking! Edible flowers are pretty and a tasty option as well. They can be sown right into the soil beside your other herbs. Nasturtium and borage are easy to grow, adding taste and color to your salads. Be sure to keep salad greens fresh by snipping lightly once a week. When they are exhausted, replace them with new seed so that you will have salad all summer.

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HOW DOES YOUR GARDEN

GROW?

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Best Seed Sources: These old-school seed packets put

a pretty face on tasty edibles.

A FEW FAVORITE SELECTIONS: [1] Baker Creek; This Missouri outfit stocks seeds for more than 1,400 heirloom plants. From $2.00; rareseeds.com. [2] Burpees; One of America’s oldest seed suppliers, this Pennsylvania giant also boasts a boutique heirloom line.

From $2.95; burpee.com. [3] Seed Savers Exchange; This non-profit organization near Decorah, Iowa, is the largest heritage seed bank in the United States. From $2.75; seedsavers.org. [4] John Scheepers; Every seed sold by this Connecticut-based business is free of genetic modifications. From $2.95; kitchengardenseeds.com. [5] Chas C. Hart Seed Co.; Family-owned since 1892, this Connecticut company offers 43 varieties of heritage vegetables and flowers. From $2.00; hartseed.com. [6] Renee’s Garden; The seed packets from this California line feature a hand-drawn watercolor portrait, growing instructions, planting charts, tips, and cooking ideas. From $2.75; reneesgarden. com. [7] Johnny’s Selected Seeds; Since 1973, this Maine-based company has grown every single one of their seeds on their certified-organic research farm. From $2.95; johnnyseeds.com. [8] Botanical Interests; Peel open this Colorado brand’s packets, and you’ll find growing tips, recipes, and other info inside. From $1.59; botanicalinterests.com

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ECLECTIC ART

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Don’t toss the packets!

These seed packages are some of the smallest forms of exquisite artwork! Take care in opening, press onto paper or mat board and secure with tape or spray adhesive. Torn apart?

Place the two pieces a bit apart when securing for a different perspective. Add a reclaimed wood frame to create unique art with a personal, vintage flair.

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OUT&ABOUT BIRD WATCHING

For The Birds:

D.I.Y. FEEDERS BIRD WATCHING CAN BE A LOT OF FUN AND YOU CAN DO IT RIGHT FROM YOUR BACK YARD! MAKE A FEW SIMPLE, INEXPENSIVE BIRD FEEDERS THAT WILL NOT ONLY PROVIDE YOU WITH ENTERTAINMENT, BUT GIVE THE BIRDS A NICE TREAT AS WELL! KIDS WILL LOVE TO HELP WITH THE FUN PROJECTS. Make a toilet paper roll bird feeder: spread peanut butter all over a toilet paper roll and roll in birdseed, patting it in so to stick.

Hang it on a branch or put a string through it and hang it from a tree or post.

A SIMPLE BIRDFEEDER CAN ALSO BE MADE OUT OF AN ORANGE: 2 oranges 1 cup rolled oats or cornmeal 1/4 cup sunflower seeds (optional) knife small wooden skewer or nail 1/2 cup peanut butter 1/4 cup raisins (optional) 2 bowls spoon 4 pieces light twine or heavy string- each 8-10 inches long Cut the oranges in half; with a spoon, scoop out the fruit and put in the bowl; be careful not to go through the rind. Poke 2 holes in each orange half directly across from each other. Thread the rope through the holes and tie it. Next make the filling by placing the peanut butter in a bowl; add one cup cornmeal or rolled oats, raisins and sunflower seeds. Stir or knead them into the peanut buter. The mixture will be slightly sticky. If it is too crumbly mix a little of the fruit that you removed earlier and work it in to add moisture. Fill each orange half with your peanut butter mixture.

Hang them from a shrub or tree for the birds to enjoy.

MAKE A BIRD FOOD GARLAND: Make some peanut butter pine cones. All you have to do is gather some pine cones and spread peanut butter on them. Be sure to select a good quality birdseed, the cheaper brands can have filler in them such as split peas, dried rice or lentils which are only good for larger species. Spread out the bird seed and roll the pinecones in it. Make sure there is no peanut butter showing. Add a piece of string to hang.

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LOOK AT CUTE ANIMALS: IMPROVE PRODUCTIVITY It may sound crazy, but researcher Hiroshi Nittono of Japan conducted a study called ”The Power of Kawaii” which showed that looking at pictures of cute puppies, pandas, kittens and cats won’t just improve your mood, but will actually make you more productive.

Students looked at photos of food, adult animals and other neutral objects, but the results were not the same. Those who looked at cute animals outperformed their peers by a significant margin.

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Red (opposite) & Side View, Custom Digital Oil Paintings

COMMISSION PORTRAITURE | KBRGALLERY.COM

OUT&ABOUT Something magical is happening at Promise Ranch in Parker, Colorado...

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PROMISE Ranch F

By Allison Orr

ounder, Dr. Anne Moore, a former pediatrician and equine enthusiast, began the ranch with a vision in mind: to instill independence, confidence and trust through “equine assisted activities in individuals facing physical, emotional, behavioral and cognitive challenges.� Using therapeutic riding, in conjunction with a medically recognized therapy method known as Hippotherapy, Promise Ranch works with a wide range of individuals with disabilities to improve their quality of life and meet various medical and personal goals.

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OUT&ABOUT GIVING BACK; PROMISE RANCH Amidst sprawling farms, piney woods and rolling hills lies what

“there is just something that you cannot put your finger on [and

many call “horse country” and within it Promise Ranch, a non-

that is] why these horses seem to understand and recognize what

profit therapeutic riding ranch for individuals living with men-

these riders are all about,” Carol tells us.

tal and physical disabilities. Established in 2009, Promise Ranch

Board president Mark Scheuneman explains, “Something dif-

started with a single instructor, a handful of volunteers and a few

ferentiates us and it’s our instructors, and it’s our horses and it’s

promising students. Since then the program has expanded to in-

the environment that we’re in.” Parent and Promise Ranch board

clude three PATH certified instructors, two occupational thera-

member, Blair Wyles tells us, “There’s just something magical

pists, nearly 70 volunteers, an 8 person board of directors, 8 ther-

that happens to the people that are involved. The people that are

apy horses and over 35 students ranging in age from 3-60, almost

involved with [the program] see it and feel it and you can see this

all of whom visit the ranch once a week for lessons.

transformation on all levels, and that’s the magic.” Carol adds,

At Promise Ranch the two programs focus on distinctly different

“It’s therapeutic for everyone involved and everyone contributes;

goals but for many riders they begin to “kind of blend and over-

the horses, the volunteers, the instructors but also the clients

lap because you get the benefits of both,” head therapeutic rid-

contribute. To spend 45 minutes with a rider…it’s like it takes

ing instructor at Promise Ranch, Carol Crisp, explains. Beginning

you for that little bit of [time] that you’re in there experiencing

with Hippotherapy, individuals work with an on-site occupational

it, it takes you out of the world and it’s really like a little piece of

therapist that uses the horse to help them achieve medical related

heaven that you can just be there and experience it.”

goals that may be physical, communicative or behavioral in na-

Aside from the unexplainable magic, Carol explains another

ture. The therapist uses the horse as a tool to cultivate learning

big difference in the Promise Ranch program is their ability and

while promoting balance, fine motor skill development, attention-

willingness to work with older disabled populations. “You have

al skills, verbal and sensory responses.

to take more time, it takes more flexibility, it takes a certain kind

Through their success in Hippotherapy, students can then be-

of horse…and these larger programs as [riders] get older are

gin to learn the hands-on skills needed to ride a horse through

not able to serve them as well.” “After these kids become adults

the ranch’s therapeutic riding program. Simply put, Carol tells us

the medical world kind of says, okay, you are what you are and

that therapeutic riding involves “teaching individuals with dis-

you’re not necessarily going to improve and so a lot of the fund-

abilities how to horseback ride through riding instruction.” In

ing goes away and a lot of the focus and interest goes away.”

broader terms, therapeutic riding teaches individuals the skill set

But not here, where from the countless stories we hear, mira-

they need to ride with a focus on increasing flexibility, improving

cles do happen and no rider, in spite of age or disability, is left be-

posture, coordinating body movements and mechanics with the

hind. Carol tells us of a student whom she worked with as a child

guidance of an instructor and most importantly instilling a sense

at another program and now works with as an adult at Promise

of confidence and accomplishment when these goals are met. Car-

Ranch. Living with cerebral palsy and wheel chair bound since

ol, alongside fellow Promise Ranch instructors Katey Simons and

childhood, Amy had been on a horse as a child in another pro-

Sharon Tiraschi, work to customize the therapeutic riding pro-

gram but was always a passive rider and had never had the op-

gram for each individual rider to achieve optimal success.

portunity to ride in a saddle or control the reins. As she got older

Carol adds that while safety is always in mind, “In therapeutic

and her physical condition worsened it became harder to get her

horseback riding we try and have our clients do as much on their

on and off of a horse and the program she was in felt like she

own [as is] possible. There’ s this mentality in their lives of being

could no longer horseback ride. Never giving up, Amy enrolled

told what they cannot do and we are trying really hard to not see

at Promise Ranch about three years ago. During her first les-

their disability but what their abilities are and help them be as in-

son at the ranch Carol asked Amy, “What do you want to do?”

dependent as possible… We have them do as much as they can on

Glancing towards a rider in the arena, Amy replied, “I want to

their own to help them feel able not disabled.”

look normal.”

Aside from more tangible physical goals, riders also begin to

Carol and her team went to work and slowly helped Amy in-

form strong emotional bonds with the horses they are paired with.

crease the flexibility in her legs so that she could comfortably

As board vice-president, Marsha Boggart, states, “Promise Ranch

ride western style in a saddle with her feet in stirrups. Due to se-

is a non-profit that helps a developmentally disabled child [or

vere muscle spasms in her hands, she had never had the chance

adult] respond better the outside world after they have spent an

to control the reins and is now able to hold them and navigate

hour deeply bonding with a horse by rhythm, feeling and trust.”

her horse, Knickee, through an obstacle course when she rides.

The deep connection between rider and horse is hard to explain,

When she began therapeutic riding, Amy required the assistance

VOL. 3 | ISSUE 4

of 3-4 volunteers and now she can ride independently with a

times can cause issues with riders that are affected by changes

single volunteer at her side. Amy is just one of the many success

in their environment due to unfamiliar horses and noise levels.

stories at Promise Ranch. Carol and her devoted team of volun-

A private space used solely by Promise Ranch and its clients is

teers work with each and every rider to aide them in achieving

key in their search. They also hope to find a space with a larger

goals and enable them to reach their full potential and break

boarding area to house additional horses, whereas now their

through the physical boundaries of their disability. And in or-

boarding space can only house the eight donated and rescued

der for the ranch to continue its and its rider’s successes they

horses that the program currently utilizes.

rely heavily on outside contributions and volunteer support.

In addition to a larger space with modern amenities, Promise

Carol explains, “As a non-profit we rely on charitable contri-

Ranch hopes to increase the catalog of services that they cur-

butions, we rely on volunteers, we rely on the community to

rently offer including supported employment and volunteer

help us and support us. Douglas County in particular is very

work for individuals living with disabilities. Even with over

aware of its population of people with disabilities and so we

70 volunteers currently helping on the ranch, it is simply not

have been awarded a [Douglas County Developmental Dis-

enough and they hope to build a force of volunteers over the

ability] Mill Levy grant for two years in a row.” The Mill Levy

next year through such programs as supported employment,

grant was established to provide non-profits with resources to

as well as their current volunteer recruitment program.

provide their services to developmentally disabled individuals,

Promise Ranch is also looking to expand their therapy ser-

some of whom are on a statewide waiting list, to “receive ser-

vices. Their current occupational therapists, Jeff Galloway and

vices for a variety of unmet needs.”

Michelle Baxter, are interested in introducing small animal

Funding provided from the Mill Levy grant has allowed stu-

therapy to the ranch with research being done and efforts be-

dents like Peter to attend the Promise Ranch therapeutic riding

ing made to develop a new therapy program using goats, llamas

program. Peter’s parents had never heard of therapeutic riding

and alpacas. The current board has also been busy working out

and were skeptical to bring Peter there. Peter, living with cere-

the details for an equine therapy program tailored for disabled

bral palsy and autism, showed no interest in their pets at home

veterans called Horses for Heroes. In order to successfully start

and they were unsure of how he would react to a horse. In one

the program a large wheelchair lift is needed along with larger

of those magical moments, Peter arrived on the ranch for his

horses that can support more weight than the current brood

first lesson when Angel, a beautiful pony with a reputation for

which they hope to be able to accommodate in a new space.

being a little nippy at times, walked right up to Peter and gen-

With these goals in mind, the next year has a lot in store for

tly placed her muzzle on his arm. His parents were amazed at

Promise Ranch and making sure that their annual fundraiser

the instant bond Peter and Angel formed and from that day on

is a success is going to be more important than ever. Mark fills

every day Peter arrives for his lesson Angel greets him. His par-

us in on some of the tentative details including a “riding expe-

ents report that since starting the therapeutic riding program

rience” that allows attendees to see the program and its riders

Peter has been able to decrease some of his medications and

at work. And while the location and exact date are still TBD

has greatly increased his abdominal strength and can now sit

as of printing, they are planning on late August with Brother’s

upright on his own.

BBQ already slotted to cater the event and a nationally known

Serving children and adults alike, the program continues to

country singer in talks to perform.

grow each year and Promise Ranch starts to look to the future.

In the meantime, Promise Ranch continues to work within

They are currently searching for a large, private, climate con-

their current space to serve their riders 6 days a week. In the

trolled space within Douglas County to move operations to.

month of April alone the ranch held over 100 lessons and with

“Our main goal is to be in our own space by the end of the year,”

hopes of being awarded another Mill Levy grant this year they

board president, Mark, states. And with a new space, the orga-

know that program interest and enrollment will only continue

nization has an important list of features they are looking for

to grow. And as Promise Ranch continues to work in expand-

including a more climate controlled arena and paved access for

ing its services and differentiating its program from others in

their clients in wheel chairs. These key features are also impor-

the state we know that exciting things are in the near future for

tant for inclement weather conditions and being able to hold

the ranch and its riders.

lessons as normal despite of the weather.

The current Promise Ranch space is located on their founder’s personal ranch and is shared with other boarders which at 29

OUT&ABOUT THE GOOD LIFE

MAKE TODAY AMAZING The beginning is always now.

NO MATTER WHAT THE HISTORY OF YOUR DAY HAS ENTAILED THUS FAR, THE REST OF YOUR DAY DEPENDS ON WHAT YOU DO RIGHT NOW. THE REST OF YOUR DAY IS GOING TO BE GREAT! HERE ARE A FEW REMINDERS TO MAKE IT SO.

LOOSEN YOUR GRIP

Trying to micromanage every little thing every moment is stressful. Life should be touched, not strangled. Sometimes you’ve got to relax and let life happen without incessant worry. Starting now, let go before you squeeze too tight. Take a deep breath. You don’t have to know exactly where you’re going every single second to be headed somewhere great.

Everything in life is in perfect order whether you understand it yet or not. It just takes some time to connect all the dots.

FORWARD FOCUS

You can’t go back to how things were, or how you thought they were supposed to be; everything other than the present moment is just an illusion. All you really have is now. The smartest thing you can control

VOL. 3 | ISSUE 4

in life is your reaction to what’s beyond your control. Dwelling on negativity from the past simply contributes to its power. Put positive energy into what’s going to move you forward. Everyone’s life has positive and negative aspects – whether you’re happy and successful or not depends greatly on which aspects you focus on. The best thing you can do now is to let go of what you can’t control, and invest in the things you can.

CHECK ONE TASK OFF YOUR TO-DO LIST

Putting something off instantly makes it harder and scarier. What you don’t start today won’t be finished by tomorrow; and there’s nothing more stressful than the perpetual lingering of an unfinished task. You know that thing you’ve been meaning to do, but keep putting off and it keeps nagging at you from the back of your mind. Put the nagging to bed by taking action now!

GREAT NEIGHBORHOOD SCHOOLS WORLDS OF OPPORTUNITY More than 98,000 graduates and counting since 1955.

SPEND AN HOUR DOING SOMETHING YOU ARE PASSIONATE ABOUT

When you strike that fine balance between the challenge of an activity and your skill at performing it, when the rhythm of your work feels in sync with your purpose, when you know that what you’re doing makes a difference, you become absorbed in the task at hand to the point where time ceases to exist. This is what true passion and happiness feels like. On your average day, flow experiences like these are those flashes of intense living when you’re engrossed in a meaningful task that makes you feel more alive. These optimal experiences can happen when you’re engaged in work, paid or unpaid, that moves you. Work like this is something you should be pursuing for at least an hour on a daily basis.

TRY SOMETHING NEW

Step out of your comfort zone and try something completely new. Aim for something small that you can accomplish in an hour or less. A whole new activity or just a small experience, variety truly is the spice of life. You can see or do something a million times, but you can only see or do it for the first time once. As a result, first time experiences often lift our spirits and our consciousness.

HELP SOMEONE SMILE

There is no exercise better for the improvement of our world than reaching down on a daily basis to lift someone up. Do something nice for someone who has no way of paying you back. Do it because you can, and because it makes the world a happier place. When you make a positive impact in someone else’s life, you also make a positive impact in your own life. Do something that’s greater than you – something that helps someone else to be happy or to suffer less. It will be an extremely rewarding experience; and your small gesture just might touch a wound that only kindness can heal.

REMEMBER: LIFE IS GOOD!

You deserve some time every day in which worries don’t get in the way of your happiness. Moments when, even if some people are insensitive or unkind around you, you’re not going to mind because you realize that the blessings you have received are far greater than the burdens you are dealing with. You can create time like this for yourself today. There is power in positivity.

The Class of 2015 earned more than $58 million in scholarships.

The Cherry Creek School District is one of just 10 school districts in Colorado to make the College Board’s 5th Annual AP District Honor Roll for increasing access to AP® course work while at the same time maintaining or increasing the percentage of students earning scores of 3 or higher on Advanced Placement Exams.

America’s Best Employers. Forbes business magazine has named the Cherry Creek School District one of the 2015 Best Employers.

Cherry Creek Schools has the third most National Board Certified Teachers in Colorado.

Cherry Creek Schools offers opportunities for high school students to participate in 22 Colorado High School Activities Association sanctioned sports and four team sports at Cherry Creek middle schools.

The programs have garnered 187 Team State Championships and 235 Individual Champions in just the past 14 years.

The Cherry Creek School District has been honored by the Association of School Business Officials International as one of only 23 school districts nationwide to receive the Meritorious Budget Certificate of Excellence for at least 16 consecutive years. The award recognizes school entities that demonstrate excellence and transparency in school budget presentation.

“All children deserve a great school in their neighborhood, one they can walk or ride the bus to with their friends. These friendships between children and their families unite communities and make them stronger.”

Dr. Harry Bull, Superintendent

Cherry Creek Schools

303.773.1184 | www.cherrycreekschools.org 31

OUT&ABOUT THE GOOD LIFE

A small 2010 study found that regular yoga practice may reduce inflammation in the body. Inflammation, which can be triggered by stress, can worsen allergy attacks. These three moves will help you find relief.

yoga for allergies ALTERNATE NOSTRIL BREATHING: A 2008 study found that alternate nostril breathing—one of the most common breathing exercises in yoga—can increase your body’s relaxation response.

Try it: Cover your right nostril and inhale through your left for a count of ten. Hold your breath for five seconds. Then cover your left nostril and exhale through your right for a count of ten. Inhale through your right nostril and hold for five seconds. Cover your right nostril again and exhale through your left. Do three more rounds.

DOWNWARD FACING DOG: Already stuffed up? This position might feel like you’re putting more pressure on your sinuses, but the release you feel when you stand up actually helps trapped mucus drain from your nasal passages.

Try it: Start on all fours with your hands directly beneath your shoul-

INCREDIBLE INTERIORS

ANDREA SCHUMACHER INTERIORS When in need of some tender-loving-care for that difficult space in your home, you can’t go wrong with a visit to ASI. Andrea started the company in 1999 and holds a bachelors degree in interior design from the F.I.D.E.R. accredited Colorado State University. She also earned a certificate in Universal Design from the Graduate School of Design at Harvard University and has furthered her design studies with courses toward a Masters in Architecture at the University of Colorado. She is an ASID allied member and has experience in a variety of aspects and disciplines of architecture and interiors. Her experience ranges from both commercial and residential spaces, as well as set design for television at ‘Days of Our Lives’ and Columbia Pictures.

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ders. Raise your bottom, straighten your legs (it’s okay to have slightly bent knees), and press your hands and feet firmly into the floor. Inhale and exhale for a count of five. Repeat five times. Then, walk your hands in close to your feet and slowly return to standing.

SUPPORTED BACKBENDS: When you have allergies, the muscles between your ribs may get exhausted from pushing air past blocked nasal passages, which can lead to more painful wheezing, backbends can soothe these muscles.

Try it: Lie on your back with your feet flat on the ground and pulled in close to your bottom. Starting with your tailbone, slowly lift your back.

When your back is completely off the floor, slide three stacked pillows under your lower back. Relax your shoulder blades down to the floor so your chest remains propped up. Hold for two minutes.

A bold yet comfortable space designed by Andrea Shumacher Interiors showcases the laid back Colorado lifestyle with a bit of modern flair. Color and pattern blend seamlessly with the natural elements of stone and wood beams.

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Georgia, Custom Digital Oil Painting

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OUT&ABOUT SHOP TALK

Dahlia cuff, Sela short necklace and the Katra earrings all available at Dragonfly

ECO-CONSCIOUS COOL

LENA BERNARD JEWELRY

DRAGONFLY BOUTIQUE IS YOUR ONE-STOP FASHION SHOP FOR EVERYTHING FALL; FASHION, CANDLES, ACCESSORIES AND MORE. STOP BY AT 3615 WEST 32ND AVENUE IN THE HIGHLANDS SHOPPING DISTRICT. FOLLOW THE STORE ON INSTAGRAM AND KEEP UP WITH NEW ARRIVALS, INSPIRING OUTFIT IDEAS AND SALE ITEMS. @DRAGONFLYAPPAREL

Based in Bali, everything in the stunning Lena Bernard Jewelry line is sourced fair-trade and all materials are sustainable. The new pieces are hand-patinaed antique brass and humanely sourced antler sheds.

DELICATE DETAILS

HANDMADE BEAUTIES A delicate crystal necklace (or bracelet)* strung on nude pink nylon cord. Each piece features a rough-cut semiprecious crystal, and 14k gold filled spring clasp. Crystals are believed to promote positive energy, and there is a crystal for every mood and occasion! Perfect for bridesmaids gifts, birthday, anniversary, friendship, etc.

VOL. 3 | ISSUE 4

SPRING TREND

FRAY OBSESSION From skinnies to cropped straight leg styles there is a ton of the frayed hem showing for spring/summer. A new way to show the distressed trend in denim right now. We thought Mother Denim did it best in the Looker Fray or Rascal Fray.

FASHION

CLOSET

CONSULTATION ALLISON ORR; IN-HOME CLOSET CONSULTANT

For my clients, I recommend getting a head start on the next season by prepping your closet early and planning your shopping list for the season while merchandise is just getting into stores to ensure the best slection of goods. The early spring months are the perfect time to start organizing and preparing your closet for the coming season. >>

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FASHION

short dresses, long sleeve tops, short sleeve tops and tanks. I keep sweaters, casual tshirts and denim folded. Take note of colors and prints that you are drawn to and silhouettes that you gravitate towards. Repetition can be a good thing in moderation - I call this an indicator of your own personal style!

ASK YOURSELF:

DOES IT FIT? DOES IT FLATTER? DOES IT WORK FOR MY LIFESTYLE? DO I FEEL GOOD IN IT?

Pick a date for organizing your closet ahead of time - mark it on your calendar and set aside several hours to complete the process. I tell clients that your closet shoudl be a happy place within your home and should bring you feelings of joy when you enter it. Make it a priority and give it the time that it needs.

PREP WORK: write down 2-3 lifestyle categories that encompass the main categories that you dress for everyday - you will want to keep these in mind as you go through your closet to ensure you are building a wardrobe that fits your lifestyle.

Look at items with a critical eye. Ask yourself: Does it fit? Does it flatter? Does it work for my lifestyle? Do I feel good in it?

Many times we attach meaning to items, however mundane that meaning may be. If it does not fit, if you do not wear it, if you feel like the piece is too complicated or if you do not feel good in it then get rid of it.

*Sentimental or heirloom items that are not in use should be stored. *Pull aside items needing repair. *Prep an area for storing heavy winter sweaters and seasonal items and pull these items out of your closet now. Make the focus on the current season.

Organize in a way that makes sense to you.

I personally organize based on style going from jackets and vests to maxi dresses,

Keep accessories in their own designated area.

I feel that having shoes, scarves, belts and jewelry in their own space makes it easier to copmlete an outfit. Exercise the same critical eye when organizing these items and get rid of hard-to-wear, dated or unused pieces. I recently purged several pairs of gorgeous 6� pumps that no longer fit my daily style.

Make a shopping list. What pieces are you missing that will help fill in the holes? Are there well-loved items needing replaced? Are you low on basics? Do you wear your one pair of black boots so much that it might be wise to invest in another pair or something similar in another neutral color? Keep this list in mind as you shop for the season.

Set a budget and curb impulse purchases! If you purged 5 peplum style tops because you never wore them then do not succumb to a 75%-off sale luring you to buy another!

Pick out your favorite trends for the season and add these to the list. Give yourself a few fun items to add to your wardrobe!

Don’t be afriad to invest in the classics. Spend a little more on the pieces you know are timeless and will get a lot of wear.

IN-HOME CLOSET CONSULTATION SERVICES PROVIDED BY ALLISON ORR. RATES, SCHEDULING & ADDITIONAL INFORMATION AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST. VOL. 3 | ISSUE 4

TAKE NOTE OF COLORS AND PRINTS THAT YOU ARE DRAWN TO; REPETITION CAN BE GOOD IN MODERATION - IT IS AN INDICATOR OF YOUR PERSONAL STYLE!

EMAIL ALLISON AT DRAGONFLYHIGHLANDS@YAHOO.COM TO LEARN MORE AND SCHEDULE YOUR PERSONAL CLOSET CONSULTATION 37

VOL. 3 | ISSUE 4

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FOOD , ETC.

FUN FOODS WITH KIDS Sometimes all it takes for kids to eat healthy is a simple recipe they can help with and fun transformations of otherwise boring foods. Try these easy recipes with your young ones, and be inspired to get creative with your daily food choices.

ANTS ON A LOG 5 stalks celery 1/2 C. peanut butter 1/4 C. raisins Cut celery in half and spread with peanut butter, sprinkle with raisins.

STRAWBERRY BANANA CREAMS 8 strawberries 2 oz. vanilla yogurt 1/2 small banana 1 Tbsp slivered almonds Mash together the banana and yogurt - cut out the top of each strawberry and fill with some of the yogurt mixture - top with almonds.

APPLE LADYBUG TREATS 2 red apples 1/4 C. raisins 2 Tbsp peanut butter 8 thin pretzel sticks Slice apples in half and scoop out core.

Spread flesh side with a thin layer of peanut butter and place on a plate. Dab small amounts of peanut butter on the skin of the apple and apply a raisin (for ladybug spots!)

Create antennas by sticking a pretzel into the apple and dabbing just enough peanut butter on the end to attach another raisin.

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FOOD, ETC. FEEDING a

CROWD Save money by making your own food instead of hiring a caterer!

It will take a bit of planning, but you can have everything done ahead of time to eliminate the stress behind serving a crowd.

RECIPE WORKBOOK FOR FEEDING 50 OR MORE 41

FEEDING A CROWD BROWNIES

TAVERN BURGERS

3 cups butter 5 1/2 cups sugar 1 Tbsp. vanilla 12 eggs 3 cups flour 2 cups cocoa 1/4 cup cooking oil 3 cups chopped walnuts (optional)

10 lbs ground beef 1/4 cup sugar 2 Tbsp. vinegar 2 Tbsp. chili powder 2 Tbsp. salt 4 onions, finely chopped 10 cloves garlic, crushed 2 1/2 cups prepared mustard 2 green peppers, finely chopped

1 Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Cream butter and sugar; add eggs and vanilla, beat until light. Blend in cocoa and oil, stir in flour and nuts.

2 Bake in 3 greased 11”x16” jellyroll pans for 25-30 minutes

1 Brown ground beef, onions and garlic. Stir in sugar, vinegar, chili powder, salt and mustard. Cover and simmer 1 hour. Add green peppers and continue to simmer 30-45 minutes.

Makes 72 brownies

Makes 50 sandwiches

SLOPPY JOES

WESTERN GREEN BEANS FOR 100

10 lbs. ground beef 2 large onions, chopped 2 Tsp black pepper 1/4 cup worcestershire sauce 6 1/2 Tbsp. sugar 1 large can tomato juice 15 oz can tomato paste 1 cup water

5 gallons canned green beans 2 lbs. cubed bacon 1 cup finely chopped onion 4 cups ketchup 1 cup brown sugar 1/4 cup chili powder 2 Tbsp. garlic powder

1 Brown ground beef and onions together. Stir together pepper, sugar, worcestershire, tomato juice, tomato paste and water. Pour over ground beef; cover and simmer 2 hours.

Makes 50 sandwiches

1 Drain green beans, reserving 1 gallon of liquid.

2 Place liquid in a large kettle or stock pot; add cubed, uncooked bacon, onion, ketchup, brown sugar, chili powder and garlic, bring to a boil and simmer 30 minutes.

3 Gently stir in beans, cover and heat through, approximately 30 minutes.

Serves 100

These recipes are easy to cut in half if you aren’t planning on quite so many. Also, if you have dutch ovens, they work great; just plan on enough electrical outlets so you do not blow a fuse.

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Assign everyone a job. Have a person to serve each of your dishes. This will help with portion control and to keep the line moving quickly.

If you decide to serve large portions of meat like brisket or pulled pork, try serving the bread instead of putting it on the tables. A lot of bread typically goes to waste when served family-style.

CREAMY POTATOES

POTATO SALAD

12 lbs. frozen hash browns 10 cans cream of chicken soup 10 cups sour cream 5 lbs. shredded cheddar cheese 4 cups onion, finely diced 4 Tbsp. salt 2 Tbsp. pepper

12 lbs. potatoes, cooked and cubed 8 cups celery, chopped 2 dozen hard boiled eggs 1 cup prepared mustard 1/2 cup vinegar 4 cups mayonnaise 1/2 cup sugar (or more to taste) 1 cup onion, finely chopped

1 Preheat oven(s) to 350 degrees. Break frozen hash browns apart. Stir together soup, sour cream, cheese, onion, salt and pepper.

2 Divide potatoes between 2 greased disposable steam pans or pans of your choice. Pour sauce over potatoes; gently mix so as not to mush potatoes.

1 Combine potatoes, celery and eggs.

2 In a separate bowl, combine mustard, vinegar, mayonnaise, sugar, and onion; mix well.

3 Bake for 1 1/2 hours.

4 Pour over potato mixture and stir gently to combine. Regrigerate at least 4 hours before serving.

Serves 100

Serves 50

COLESLAW

HOT 3 BEAN CASSEROLE

12 lbs. of cabbage 4 quarts mayonnaise 10 cups vinegar 128 oz. Crisco oil 3 cups water 3 cups sugar Celery seed to taste 1 Shred the cabbage and put into a large container that you can cover with a lid. Mix all remaining ingredients together, whisking until smooth.

(Depending on how sweet you like your coleslaw, you may want to start with 2 cups and add more after tasting.

2 Add the last 1/2 of the water a little at a time so it doesn’t get too thin.

Mix early so all the flavors blend together.

Serves 50

8 lbs. bacon 16 lbs. ground beef 20 lbs. pork and beans 20 lbs. kidney beans 6 #303 cans lima beans 1 gallon ketchup 5 Tbsp. salt 2 cups dried onion flakes or 6 cups fresh onion, chopped 1 cup prepared mustard 1 cup vinegar 6 cups brown sugar 1 Fry bacon until crisp. Remove from skillet; drain all but 1/4 cup drippings. Remove any excess fat. Add pork and beans, kidney beans, lima beans; mix well.

2 In a separate bowl combine ketchup, salt, onions, mustard, vinegar and brown sugar. Mix well, add to bean mixture. Bake for 1 hour.

Serves 75

Using disposable dinnerware will save on clean up, just be sure to invest in good quality, sturdy plates and utensils so someone’s plate does not collapse.

Don’t forget plenty of tea or water. Use large Gott coolers filled with half ice and half tea or water; this will eliminate the need for extra ice in the glasses.

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WELCOME HOME FRESHEN UP

freshen up your

BEDROOM

The holidays are over and the urge to get our homes back in order starts to take over. This is a great time for deep cleaning individual rooms in your home. Start with one room at a time and keep up with a daily cleaning schedule to keep your home clean through spring! BY KIMBA ORR

S

tart the new year with a freshly deep-cleaned bedroom. Need a little incentive? Many stores have white sales after the holidays, for bedding, pillows and towels. This is a great time to invest in a new set of sheets for yourself or a guest bed.

What better reason to clean than to sink into new sheets that night?

Start by washing any new bedding or pillows you have purchased. Wash any existing pillows as well as blankets and comforters. Re-arrange the furniture and vacuum as you move things around.

Wipe down the walls that you can’t normally reach and all sides of the furniture. If you have a ceiling fan don’t forget to clean it before you vacuum! You may even want to shampoo carpets or at least spot clean the more soiled areas.

Wash the curtains according to the manufacturers directions. Blinds need to be dusted off and cleaned with a mild soap and water solution. You can use a dusting attachment on your vacuum to clean shades. Don’t forget to wash the windows!

If it is too cold to wash the exteriors you can save that until spring. Now that everything is clean put it all back! A good tip for storing sheets is to place each set inside one of its pillow cases and group them by bedroom. Stack on shelves and use the set on top, putting the sheets you just laundered on the bottom, keeping them rotated.

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DAILY CLEANING SCHEDULE BEDROOM MAKE THE BED PICK UP CLOTHES STRAIGHTEN THE NIGHTSTAND

HOMEMADE AIR FRESHENER RECIPES

BATHROOM WIPE THE SINK BASINS CLEAN SPOTS FROM MIRRORS & FAUCETS WIPE TOILET WITH DISINFECTANT SPRAY SHOWER & TUB WITH DAILY CLEANER REPLACE DIRTY TOWELS START A LOAD OF LAUNDRY

KITCHEN EMPTY THE DISHWASHER EMPTY SINK & SCRUB PICK UP CLUTTER ON COUNTERS WIPE DOWN COUNTERS & APPLIANCE FRONTS WIPE SPLATTERS OF FOOD FROM FLOOR SET OUT A CLEAN DISH TOWEL MICROWAVE WET KITCHEN SPONGE FOR 1 MIN. SWEEP FLOOR

1.5 oz distilled water 1.5 oz. cheap vodka 20-30 drops of your favorite essential oils

1 cup water 1 cup white vinegar 1 tablespoon vanilla extract 4 whole cloves

LIVING ROOM STRAIGHTEN ALL PILLOWS & BLANKETS WIPE AWAY CRUMBS & FINGERPRINTS CHECK THE FLOOR & USE A VACUUM SPRAY A HOMEMADE AIR FRESHENER

2 cups hot water 1/8 cup baking soda 1/2 cup lemon juice

WELCOME HOME MAKING THE DREAM OF HOME OWNERSHIP A REALITY.

FRESHEN UP YOUR SPACE 4 BASIC DESIGN PRINCIPLES OF FENG SHUI THE 6 STEPS TO BUYING A HOME INVEST IN A REAL ESTATE BROKER THE ART OF HOUSE HUNTING 47

WELCOME HOME FRESHEN UP YOUR SPACE

Clean HOUSE

the

A few pantry items are all that’s necessary to leave your home looking and smelling great for the new year. BY KIMBA ORR VINEGAR •

To clean bathtubs and shower doors, heat 1/2 cup of white vinegar in the microwave until hot. Pour the vinegar into an empty spray bottle and add 1/2 cup of dish soap. Shake gently to combine. Spray mixture onto bathtub or shower surfaces and allow to set for 1-2 hours. Wipe surfaces clean then rinse with water. Try adding the mixture to a handheld scrubber that holds soap in the handle. Leave the filled scrubber in the shower for easy access and a sparkling shower!

•

For a non-toxic, fume-free oven cleaner mix 4 tablespoons of vinegar, 5 tablespoons of baking soda and 3 drops of liquid dish soap into a paste. Coat the oven with the paste and let set for 15 minutes. After 15 minutes scrub and wipe the oven clean of any remaining residue.

HYDROGEN PEROXIDE •

Use hydrogen peroxide to wipe down the inside of the refigerator to get rid of lingering odors. Hydrogen peroxide is non-toxic and leaves surfaces smelling fresh and clean!

•

For a sanitizing boost in the dishwasher, add 2 ounces of hydrogen peroxide in with regular dishwashing detergent.

•

Clean cutting boards and countertops by spraying hydrogen peroxide directly onto surfaces. Allow to bubble up for a few minutes then scrub and rinse.

•

To sanitize and deodorize kitchen sponges, soak them in a 50/50 mixture of hydrogen peroxide and warm water for 10 minutes and rinse.

•

Remove baked-on residue from cookie sheets by combining hydrogen peroxide and just enough baking soda to make a paste. Rub onto surface of cookie sheets, let set for 30 minutes, then rinse clean.

•

Brighten dingy hard-wood floors by mopping with a mixture of 1/2 cup hydrogen peroxide and one gallon of hot water.

It is safe on any type of hard-wood floors and there is no need to rinse.

VOL. 3 | ISSUE 4

THE 4 BASIC DESIGN PRINCIPLES OF FENG SHUI

F

eng Shui [pronounced ”fung shway”] is the study of the environment and how it affects people. Contrary to what you may have heard, feng shui is not a belief system, a religion, superstition, or magic. You don’t need to ”believe” in it in order for it to work. Feng shui has nothing to do with changing your luck and everything to do with helping you create a space that promotes feelings of happiness and well-being. No matter where you are or what you are doing, how you are feeling right now is influenced by the way you are experiencing the feng shui of that environment. >>

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WELCOME HOME FENG SHUI The architect should strive continually to simplify; the ensemble of the rooms should then be carefully considered that comfort and utility may go hand in hand with beauty.

- Frank Lloyd Wright

I

n order to have an optimal life, you must have optimal surroundings. All living things practice feng shui. Plants, animals, and people have specific requirements for their respective environments in order to thrive. An unfavorable

BASIC PRINCIPLE 2: MINIMIZE SHARP EDGES, POINTS AND CORNERS Right angles and straight lines don’t exist in nature. Sharp

setting may bring disease and illness, causing living things to

points, corners and angles in our surroundings can be inter-

degenerate and possibly even die. Just like plants and animals,

preted as threatening, and our bodies respond to the threat

your releationship to your surroundings is fundamental to

with tension. When sharp corners protrude into a room, the

your health and well-being

space may not feel very relaxing because our survival instrincts are on high alert to keep us safe.

Feng shui is often credited with creating miraculous changes in people’s lives.

Many people attribute improvements in

Soften or minimize sharp angles and pointed objects in your

relationshiops, finances, health, and well-being to applying

space by doing the following:

feng shui principles to their homes and offices. The benefits

•

that are achieved with feng shui are not the result of magic, belief, or luck. They occur because feng shui helps people

and outside your home.

•

adjust factors in their environment in order to accentuate the positive and minimize the negative. When you’re happier in

Avoid plants with spiked leaves and thorns, both inside Place round objects, such as sculptures, planst with soft leaves, circular tables and lamps in the corners of a room.

•

your surroundings, you experience greater happiness and

Position furniture with sharp edges, such as tables, desks and cabinets, diagonally in corners to make a room feel

satisfaction in your life.

more inviting.

BASIC PRINCIPLE 1: PROTECT YOUR BACK

•

Frame windows with drapes to soften the edges.

•

Choose floral or non-geometric patterns for rugs and upholstery.

Both people and animals prefer to sit with their backs to a wall in order to have a view of the rest of the room. When your back is protected, you feel safe enough to relax and enjoy yourself because your basic survival needs for safety and protection are being met.

Feng shui translates human survival mechanisms into basic design principles that can help create an environment that’s relaxing and comfortable. Select chairs, sofas and headboards with sturdy backs that are high enough to provide a feeling of safety but not so high that they feel oppressive. Chairs and sofas with arms offer a greater feeling of protection than seating with open sides.

Arrange furniture to provide a clean

view of the main door to a room. This is especially important with desks and task oriented seating. When you’re seated with your back to a wall and with a clear view of the door as well as the rest of the room, this is known as the ”command position” in feng shui. This position eliminates the element of surprise. Such an arrangment allows you to feel more empowered, more relaxed, and more in control of your surroundings.

VOL. 3 | ISSUE 4

Chairs with arms and comfortable backs are key, just make sure the back isn’t so high that it feels oppressive.

BASIC PRINCIPLE 3: ADD IMAGES & MATERIALS FROM NATURE Scientific studies have proven time and time again that plants, images, and materials from nature reduce stress, promote healing, increase productivity and provide a greater sense of well-being in humans. We are hard-wired to respond to all aspects of the natural environment: its shapes, materials, smells and colors. When we integrate plans, images and materials found in nature into our living and working spaces, we’re including features that resonate with us on a deep level.

No matter your design preferences, there are simple ways to bring nature into your home: •

Add live plants. It’s a simple idea, but somethimes just the addition of a plant or two can transform an area from a place where no one feels comfortable to a place where people want to be all the time.

•

Display artwork that depicts scenes from nature. Seascapes, landscapes and other outdoor scenes help to bring the natural world indoors, promoting a feeling of calm.

•

Choose materials that come from nature. Wood, stone, jute, hemp, bamboo and cotton feel better and are better for you than synthetic or man-made materials.

•

Integrate water into your home environment with indoor tabletop fountains or aquariums. Pools, ponds and even birdbaths add water to an outdoor setting, as well as outdoor fountains.

•

BASIC PRINCIPLE 4: CREATE BALANCE BETWEEN EXTREMES The term ”feng shui”, loosely translated, means ”wind” (feng) and ”water” (shui). Instead of taking these words literally and seperately, it’s more beneficial to consider them conceptually and together.

Combined, they capture the essence of feng shui, which is balance and flow. The concept of balancing between two extremes is the essence of feng shui’s approach to optimizig an environment. You must be mindful moment-to-moment of keeping your balance while also looking ahead to make sure that you’re heading in the best direction. It’s about being balanced and focused in the present moment while paying attention to, and preparing for, what lies ahead.

When you apply feng shui principles to your surroundings, you’re helping your environment, and your journey through life becomes more balanced and positive.

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WELCOME HOME

THE 6 STEPS TO BUYING A HOME & WHY YOU NEED A REAL ESTATE AGENT With the purchase of real estate being one of the biggest financial transactions most people will experience in their lifetime, why not let a professional with years of experience and knowledge help you on this exciting journey!

VOL. 3 | ISSUE 4

DECIDING TO BUY

MAKING AN OFFER

WITH AN AGENT: The housing market is tricky. Real estate agents can help you to navigate foreclosures, short sales, tight lending standards and a whole host of other issues.

WITH AN AGENT: Good real estate agents are experienced negotiators, able to help you complete a real estate transaction that involves a win-win price, transaction details like time lines, closing dates, financing details and other important information that fits your specific situation.

WITHOUT AN AGENT: The weight is on your shoulders. Thanks to the internet, it can be done, but be prepared to dedicate many hours a week to your search and home-buying process.

FINANCING YOUR HOME WITH AN AGENT: A good agent will already have a contact with local lenders. They can help you find a reputable local lender who will provide good service and act in your best interest.

WITHOUT AN AGENT: It’s you against the financial world as you sift through different lenders looking for the best deal.

FINDING YOUR NEW HOME

WITHOUT AN AGENT: Prepare to roll with the punches! Not everything is as easy as what’s portrayed on HGTV; and if you get in a bidding war with another buyer, things could get messy, fast!

DUE DILLIGENCE & INSPECTIONS WITH AN AGENT: The initial agreement is only the beginning of the process. Appraisals, inspection and financing all pose as possible pitfalls in a real estate transaction. An agent can deal with any complications in a professional, unemotional way, resolving issues and moving a transaction smoothly into closing.

WITHOUT AN AGENT: Buying and selling a home requires a staggering amount of paperwork, not to mention all the un-forseeables that often arise. The process can often become an emotional, draining and discouraging process and experience.

WITH AN AGENT: Locating your dream home is an agent’s role in their professional life. They have the contacts, the databases of homes and the know-how to get things done. An experienced real estate agent will have up-to-date information on what is happening in the marketplace; including pricing, financial terms and trends in the market.

CLOSING

WITHOUT AN AGENT: Prepare to be very organized in your home search.

This includes keeping track of locations, prices, bedrooms, baths, likes and dislikes, visit dates and other details. Not to mention keeping all this information handy as you move from home to home.

WITHOUT AN AGENT: Most homebuyers don’t know anything about title insurance, fees or the daunting amount of paperwork.

WITH AN AGENT: An experienced agent will understand the closing paperwork and knows what to expect in regards to closing costs, title insurance, pro-rations and other fees that surface at closing time.

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WELCOME HOME

I NVEST I N A R EAL E STATE BROKER There has been much ado in the Denver press about a real estate firm charging commissions that are a set, or flat, amount instead of charging commissions based on a percentage of the home’s selling price. To use an overused phrase…..this flap is much ado about nothing. It is more important to carefully choose a broker based on individual circumstances than it is to minimize commissions.

10% commission rate instead of the more common 6% commission.

BUYERS CHOOSE THEIR BROKER CAREFULLY Buyers must also be diligent in the selection of a broker. However, it is even more complicated for buyers to compare the value of their broker with the amount of

SELLERS CHOOSE THEIR BROKER CAREFULLY Hands down….the most important decision of a home seller is the selection of a broker.

Sellers choosing the cheapest broker in town are likely to receive less professional service.

Sellers choosing the most expensive broker in town are likely to receive more professional service.

Sellers’ individual circumstances should determine how much they pay their broker. A broker should provide more value to a seller than the amount of commission expense. In other words, broker commissions should be viewed as an investment.

Before hiring a broker, sellers should thoroughly evaluate the broker prospect.

This evaluation includes identifying the value provided by a broker prospect and analyzing to determine if the broker provides more value than the amount of commission paid to the broker. This is not an easy or precise analysis, but it is important to make the effort. In difficult or unusual circumstance, it could very well be that your broker is worth a

VOL. 3 | ISSUE 4

SELLERS CHOOSING FLAT COMMISSIONS The most important analysis made by sellers is the comparison of brokers’ value to amount of commissions paid. The manner in which commissions are calculated is less important.

However, flat commissions could be a factor in this analysis because, when more money is involved, then more broker attention is required. The sale of a $1,000,000 property demands more attention than the sale of a $100,000 property, but brokers are paid the same for each transaction if a flat brokerage commission is charged. This “attention” factor promotes a calculation of commissions based on a percentage of the purchase price.

HOMES ARE NOT COMMODITIES If all homes become uniformly valued and uniformly maintained in uniform neighborhoods, then homes would become commodities without any requirement for professional real estate brokers. However, this has not, and (hopefully) will not, happen. It is for this reason that the services of brokers are required and it is for this reason that buyers and sellers should carefully analyze their investment in brokerage commissions.

Because most sellers are not experts in real estate, it makes sense for most to choose an experienced and knowledgeable broker willing to provide more professional advice and service. It follows that these types of brokers will likely charge more for their services.

For the relatively few sellers with real estate expertise, it makes sense for them to choose a broker whose role is limited to coordinating the transaction. These types of broker are more like clerks and likely charge less for their services.

brokers increase the price of a home, it is more likely that a carefully chosen buyers’ broker will bring more value to buyers than the amount of commissions.

commission expense because the buyers are not a part of the commission setting process.

Sellers enter into an agreement with their brokers which identifies the amount of commissions paid……the sellers’ brokers then enter into an agreement with the buyers’ brokers identifying the commission split to be paid by the sellers’ brokers to the buyers’ brokers. Adding to the confusion is the fact that each property may have a different commission amount and commission split.

The difficulty that buyers encounter when comparing the value of a broker with the commission paid to the broker makes it even more important for buyers to research brokers’ references, experience and character. Although some may argue that the amount of commissions paid to buyers’

ALL BROKERS ARE NOT THE SAME If all brokers had the same experience and the same qualifications with knowledge of the same neighborhoods, then selection of brokers would be easy and determining the value of brokers would be simple. Obviously, the idea that all brokers could be the same is absurd and reinforces the need for home sellers and buyers to compensate their broker based on the value of their professional services.

LET COMMON SENSE PREVAIL Some very specialized or very capable attorneys charge $1,000 per hour and other attorneys charge $100 per hour. Legal clients must evaluate to determine what level of services their legal circumstances require. Selection of real estate brokers is no different. A commission payment to a carefully selected broker is a good investment!

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WELCOME HOME LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION! Figure out what city and neighborhood you want to live in. Look for signs of economic vitality: a mixture of young families and older couples, low unemployment and good incomes. Pay special attention to districts with good schools, even if you don’t have school-age children. When it comes time to sell, a strong school system is a major advantage in helping your home retain or gain value. Also try to get an idea about the real estate market in the area. If homes are selling close to or even above the asking price, that shows the area is desirable.

STAY ORGANIZED When you start touring homes, bring a notebook and a digital camera to help you remember details. Your real estate agent should supply you with a description of each house and the lot it sets on, the property tax assessment and the asking price. Your camera and notebook are there to record other details, ranging from the cost of heating to the view out the master bedroom window.

BE FLEXIBLE If you’re able, consider doing your house hunt in the off-season; generally in the colder months of the year. You’ll have less competition and sellers may be more willing to negotiate.

Be wary of choosing search criteria that is too restrictive. Perhaps you select a price range 10% above and 10% below your true range. Add a 10mile cushion to the location you specify.

If you’re a first-time buyer, pay special attention to condominiums and cooperatives, or co-ops.

Condos generally sell for 15-20% less than the cost of comparable detached homes in the same neighborhood, giving you more space for your money.

Don’t automatically reject a house just because it doesn’t measure up to your desires, either in features or price. You can always add a deck or update the kitchen. Since the asking price is just a starting point for negotiation, you will be making offers and counteroffers as both parties seek an acceptable price.

HOUSE HUNTING

The Art Of

VOL. 3 | ISSUE 4

OUT&ABOUT GALLERY

The Art of

VIEWING ART

ARTIST KBR PAINTS THE BEAUTY OF PEOPLE WATCHING AND ART APPRECIATION AT THE DENVER ART MUSEUM 57

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