Michiana House and Home January 2021

Complimentary January 2021

Exorcise 2020 for a refreshing 2021 Bedroom trends The ultimate game room

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www.michianahouseandhome.com PUBLISHER Ron Baumgartner rbaumgartner@the-papers.com PUBLICATION MANAGER Bill Hays bhays@the-papers.com EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Deb Patterson dpatterson@the-papers.com EDITOR Sarah Wright swright@the-papers.com ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Karen Johnson kjohnson@the-papers.com BUSINESS MANAGER Carrie Goralczyk cgoralczyk@the-papers.com DIRECTOR OF MARKETING Steve Meadows smeadows@the-papers.com

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contents

Project: Create a Home Gym

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Maymie Ankrom, Mary Lester

DIRECTOR OF CIRCULATION Jerry Long jlong@the-papers.com

Trend With Color: 2021’s Shades Trending in Bedroom Design

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How to Make Working From Home Work Year-Round Gardening

Michiana House and Home (MHH) is a newsmagazine with emphasis on home decor, design and remodeling. MHH does not knowingly accept false or misleading advertising or editorial content, nor does MHH or its staff assume responsibility should such advertising or editorial content appear in any publication.

The Ultimate – Game Room

MHH reserves the right to determine the suitability of all materials submitted for publication and to edit all submitted materials for clarity and space.

Michiana House and Home has not independently tested any services or products advertised herein and has verified no claims made by its advertisers regarding those services or products. MHH makes no warranties or representations and assumes no liability for any claims regarding those services or products or claims made by advertisers regarding such products or services. Readers are advised to consult with the advertiser and/or other home repair and renovation professionals regarding any such claims and regarding the suitability of an advertiser’s products.

NO. 9

Exorcise 2020 for a Refreshing 2021

FEATURE WRITERS Julie Young, Kathleen Moran, Amanda Demster & Rebekah Whirledge

MARKETING ASSISTANTS Darlene Eichelberger darlene@the-papers.com Trina Hoy thoy@the-papers.com

January 2021 VOLUME 17

Servin’ Up Good Eats

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| Michiana House and Home | January 2021 | 3

editor’s note...

I love the new year because it often feels like a clean slate filled with fresh perspective and motivation. You didn’t get x or y accomplished? That’s OK! There is always the new year. While this thought process can become a slippery slope of procrastination and loose ends, sometimes resolutions do stick. Sometimes, the fresh start is really that: people actively choosing to make positive changes in their lives.

In December, I launched some of my own positive changes, focusing on beating back the disorder in my home created by a hectic schedule. Rather than making cleaning and organization a resolution, I wanted to ring in the new year with effort and momentum behind me before taking advantage of a well-placed vacation at the start of January. I decided to start the new year just right: more organized and simplified.

For instance, while catching up on laundry, I was struck by how many clothing articles I own. It made me want a Marie Kondo in my life, encouraging me to part with items that no longer spark joy or at least a brutally honest person who can tell me “that ensemble does nothing to flatter you” or shame me for hoarding clothes that no longer fit. But unable to entice Kondo to my home, I’ll be honing a critical eye on my closet and dressers, intent on making some serious dents.

How do you intend to start the new year? What projects are topping your lists? After this past year’s challenges, I almost feel like

an exorcism is needed to ensure 2020’s bad vibes don’t continue into 2021. Setting yourself up for a refreshing 2021 starts with your surroundings — the one part of your life you have some control over. Writer Kathleen Moran has some suggestions and tips in her article, “Exorcise 2020 for a Refreshing 2021.” From methods to obtain better sleep to adding new decor and touches of green, Moran and our local pros will get you set!

Reliance Construction shared what design trends are being seen in the master bedroom and bathroom with writer Amanda Demster. Whether you are looking to build your home or renovate an existing one in 2021, you will definitely want to see what’s up.

A lot is still hanging in the air as we enter January, and the odds favor more jobs being shifted into the home or children completing eLearning from home. Rebekah Whirledge lays out a blueprint to make the most of the situation. And finally, we are launching a new series called “The Ultimate.” It will focus on specific spaces and creating the ultimate of its kind. We’ll be starting with the game room.

If you are creating resolutions or positive changes, don’t forget to cut yourself some slack if you backslide. Treat such moments as temporary and try to recapture the sensation felt at the beginning of the year when everything was possible. No good will come from not giving yourself a break. You deserve it!

Happy New Year, everyone! Here’s to fresh starts! n

Sarah

Sarah Wright, Editor Email: swright@the-papers.com

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4 | Michiana House and Home | January 2021 |

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Refreshing 2021

Exorcise 2020 for a

By Kathleen Moran, House and Home Writer

As 2020 finally came to an end, the importance of protecting and preserving one’s well-being has never been more apparent. Thus, 2021 is all about investing in oneself whether that means improving one’s sleep, switching out one’s lighting or selecting some plants to be enjoyed indoors.

Moreover, something customers may not readily think about is the value of rugs, let alone rugs that pair well with selected window treatments. “Open-concept homes are so popular now and many have high ceilings. Rugs are just the thing to quiet the echo,” indicated Anderson.

Also, don’t discount the value of a new mattress, especially if your current one is over six to eight years old. There are so many types of mattresses available to fit every type of sleeper, including foam, innerspring, hybrid and latex. From there, firmness must be factored in. For this reason, it is important to visit a local mattress store on a research mission to test out beds. SleepFoundation.org advises, “Make sure to stay on a mattress for at least 10-15 minutes to really evaluate what’s comfortable.”

photo courtesy of Budget Blinds, Granger

COUNTING SHEEP Dorothy Anderson, co-owner of Budget Blinds at Toscana Park in Granger, explained, “Window treatments are calming because of their look, the security they offer in terms of privacy, and their ability to quiet inside and outside noises,” all of which can go a long way in improving one’s sleep. With so many options in shutters, blinds, draperies and valences, etc., it is rather easy to meet a homeowner’s needs whether it is filtering light, total blackout or both.

On the Web SleepFoundation.org offers a free guide about choosing a mattress, including a graph explaining what firmness level is best for what kind of sleeper, such as side sleepers, back sleepers and stomach sleepers. Learn more at www.sleepfoundation.org/mattress-information/how-to-choose-a-mattress. | Michiana House and Home | January 2021 | 5

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NEW TOUCHES According to Hannah Taylor, lighting showroom manager at Kendall Lighting Center in South Bend, there is a noticeable design trend in favor of a “comfortable and inviting atmosphere whether it is in one’s home office or living room.” That means many homeowners are opting to update their lighting and decor, especially considering the number of individuals now working from home.

These changes could be as simple as adding a desk lamp to one’s home office or a swing arm sconce — with a plug-in option when no wiring is conveniently available — above a nightstand.

As far as art and decor are concerned, Taylor said, “They should be fun and enjoyable pieces like a vase of flowers or a clock to artwork like painted woods, unframed canvases and photographs — basically any new element that is added to one’s home environment.”

6 | Michiana House and Home | January 2021 |

Photos courtesy of Kendall Lighting Center

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ADD GREEN TO YOUR ROOMS “Like clothes, plants follow cyclical trends,” stated Jewel Wise, assistant store manager with Clayton Garden Center in North Webster. More and more people are electing to adorn bedrooms, bathrooms and work spaces with houseplants because, “if people are stuck at home, they might as well look at something pretty that is not going to add to their stress levels.” She went on to clarify that bathroom skylights actually offer enough light for many indoor plants that only need low light.

There are many great options for sprucing up the inside of one’s home. For example “pothos, a vining plant that needs medium to low light, is ideal for hanging baskets as well as adorning high spaces like the tops of shelves and cabinets, while the peace lily is a nice choice for beginners due to its forgiving nature and ability to recover within a day of being watered.” Succulents are very popular right now because they are easy to care for and require minimal maintenance. Finally, anthurium, also known as the flamingo flower, will have homeowners dreaming of warm getaways because it offers a tropical appearance due to its bright colors. n RESOURCES: Budget Blinds at Toscana Park, Granger, 574-277-6800, budgetblinds.com

203 Wayne St., Middlebury, IN (574) 825-8824

Clayton Garden Center, North Webster, 574-834-2249,

www.claytongardencenter.com Kendall Lighting Center, multiple locations, 800-558-8820,

www.kendalllightingcenter.com | Michiana House and Home | January 2021 | 7

Project:

Create a HOME GYM

Establishing an exercise routine is a common New Year’s resolution, and it often falls to the wayside quickly. Give yourself the best start with an affordable home gym that can fit in a corner.

Y ou don’t have to go all out with fancy equipment. A jump rope, ab roller, resistance bands and free weights can be the right mix to start off while also being economical.

Purchase a mat, whether it’s designed for yoga or a multipurpose interlocking foam variety — your knees will thank you!

Stock up on bodyweight exercises, which don’t require equipment.

Nowadays there is a variety of compact exercise equipment available for when space is at a premium. Some even fit under a desk! In its article, “When is the best time to buy exercise equipment,” Livestrong.com notes, “Exercise equipment doesn’t often fluctuate in price due to steady demand and competition. You might find that you get the best discounts in January, when demand is high and more people are buying equipment to satisfy a New Year’s resolution.”

I f you need the gym experience to stay motivated, Consumer Reports advises while some gyms may offer discounts at the beginning of January, consumers can often find the best deals at the end of a month as fitness clubs seek to boost sales to meet quotas.

“Another good time to lock in a good annual membership rate is during the summer,” it shares. Not sure if a gym membership is for you? Sign up for a no-commitment trial run. n Photos: Shutterstock.com

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598 Shawnee Drive, Nappanee, IN 46550 8 | Michiana House and Home | January 2021 |

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Trend with Color

Shutterstock.com

2021’S SHADES GLIDDEN: Aqua Fiesta

PANTONE COLOR INSTITUTE: Ultimate Gray and Illuminating

Each year paint companies and the Pantone Color Institute pick colors of the year. Given 2020’s turbulent nature, it’s not surprising many sought freshness and pops of color with their choices. One or more of these colors just might be perfect for breaking out of any ruts 2020 brought. www.glidden.com

RUST-OLEUM: Satin Paprika

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| Michiana House and Home | January 2021 | 9

Trending in Bedroom Design CREATING YOUR PERFECT SLEEP ENVIRONMENT

By Amanda Demster, House and Home Writer

Bedroom construction is fairly straightforward — four walls in which to place a bed, at the least, plus amenities such as a dresser, closet and, perhaps, electronics. While basic bedroom construction has not changed much in recent years, there are a few upgrades in what clients are asking for in master bedroom design.

According to Sam Beachy of Reliance Construction, Nappanee, master bedrooms are smaller than they have been in years past, designed mainly to fit around clients’ chosen furniture.

Nowadays, a typical master bedroom measures 14 feet by 16 feet or 16 feet by 18 feet.

“Typically, in master suites, the focus is no longer on a huge bedroom, but more a focus 10 | Michiana House and Home | January 2021 |

on a size of bedroom for the furniture they want. The bigger focus goes on the master closet and the master bathroom.

Speaking of the master bathroom, “his” and “her” sinks are still an asked-for feature, making getting ready in the morning a much easier task. Walk-in showers have, for the most part, replaced bathtubs as a quicker, more efficient way to wash up.

As far as any bedroom type goes, large windows are not typically an asked-for feature unless a client lives beside a lake or in another setting that offers a view. The same goes for private patios and balconies.

While these sound nice, many people find they simply do not use them like they thought they might.

“They’re not as sought after as they once were,” Beachy said. “People tend to think about, how much are you really going to use that individual space off of your bedroom?”

Again, this is up to the client, and in many locations with a view, a private balcony or patio may become a go-to for quiet time alone.

As far as clothing storage, walk-in closets are still sought-after because they allow clothing to be hung in a visible way, making choosing what to wear for the day much easier. Some walk-in closets now boast islands for additional storage and to lay out the day’s potential outfits.

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Having the right flooring is essential. Luxury vinyl planking is attractive, durable and easier to keep clean than carpet.

Hardwood is also a popular choice.

Of course, no room of the house is functional without lighting. With smaller and fewer windows, artificial lighting is more important than ever. Built-in ceiling lights, as well as outlets for lamps, are important.

Winter in northern Indiana brings longer nights and shorter, grayer, gloomier days.

“People want their house brighter than it is outside, and it helps with the gloom this time of the year brings,” Beachy said.

Regardless of what is currently popular, bedroom construction styles can vary as much as individual clients’ tastes. n Photos:Shutterstock.com

RESOURCES: Reliance Construction Inc., Nappanee, 574-773-4308, www.reliancedbr.net Martin Brothers Contracting Inc., Goshen, 574-862-2142,

www.martinbroscontracting.com | Michiana House and Home | January 2021 | 11

Work!

HOW TO MAKE

WORKING FROM HOME

By Rebekah Whirledge, Michiana House and Home Writer

While any flat surface at home may work as a temporary desk when working from home, after a few days, using the corner of the couch or the counter in the kitchen may eventually kill your productivity.

As many of us are now working or eLearning from home, now is the time to make the most of a space that is multitasking as a room in your house plus a spot for getting office or schoolwork done.

Some key tips in creating an ideal work from home or eLearning space include access to natural light — Debbie Carpenter at Sweet Water Interiors in Goshen suggests finding an area in your house with good lighting and big windows — a pleasant temperature, good air quality, comfortable furniture and an area where distractions would be minimal.

“Create a little space in a corner of a room or bedroom,” suggested Christine Doncaster of Doncaster Flooring & Design in Mishawaka. “You could purchase cabinets to create a home office, or I have found things at an antique mall, like an old desk. You could even use a folding table or take filing cabinets and put a board or laminate on top to make a desk, plus have a place for files and storage.You could create a space where you can hide things, such as a hutch that turns into a desk, but you can close the doors when not in use.”

For eLearning, tune in to how your child learns best. Do they need some background noise? Maybe a spot off the kitchen or home office would be best. Do they prefer silence? A spot in the bedroom may do. If space is limited and several children are learning from home at once, try staggering the use of the shared space by giving each child a schedule for using the space.

Although successful remote working or eLearning does require a dedicated office or learning space, that doesn’t mean the space can’t be fun.

“Create a fun space. You can have containers to put files and keep pens and pencils that would still be transferable. You can be creative by decorating a bulletin board. You can dress up the space to make it fun to work or do eLearning,” said Doncaster. “Make it a fun place to learn or do office work, but remember to take breaks to not get too tired and feel overwhelmed.”

“Add your favorite music on low to not distract and a candle,” suggested Carpenter. “It should be a location that you enjoy!” n RESOURCES:

Photos:Shutterstock.com

Doncaster Flooring & Design LLC, Mishawaka, 574-318-4522 Sweet Water Interiors, Goshen, 574-534-3989, www.sweetwaterinteriors.com

12 | Michiana House and Home | January 2021 |

| YEAR-ROUND GARDENING | RED THUMB — Greta Wilborn, Syracuse, with some of her prized poinsettias. She has mastered the secret of keeping them year-round.

(Photo provided)

The Holdover Poinsettias

By Kathleen Moran, House and Home Writer

Each year Greta and Rich Welborn, Syracuse, receive poinsettias for Christmas from their children. Greta’s mother had a green thumb, which she says she didn’t inherit, except for one plant: the poinsettia.

Her routine is simple. After Christmas, she keeps the poinsettias in the window with a southwest view, watering when soil is dry on top. When Mother’s Day arrives, she decorates her deck with geraniums. The poinsettias go right with them.

The deck has the same southwest view. The earth turns somewhat to a southerly sun giving lots of sunlight all summer. She waters all the plants the same, giving them some houseplant fertilizer occasionally. In the fall, when Sept. 15 is approaching, the poinsettias are brought inside and resume their previous location.

The poinsettia (Euphorbia pulcherrima) is a commercially imported plant species of the diverse spurge family (Euphorbiaceae). The species is indigenous to Mexico. It is particularly well known for its red and green foliage and is widely used in Christmas floral displays. It derives its common English name from Joel Roberts Poinsett, an ambassador from the United States to Mexico in 1825.

The showy colored parts of poinsettias, which most people think of as the flowers, are actually colored bracts (modified leaves). The yellow flowers, or cyathia, are in the center of the colorful bracts. Some people with latex allergies have had a skin reaction after touching the leaves. This probably happens because of the latex-based sap.

In March or early April, prune back the stems, making sure some leaves are left on. Prune off any remaining colored bracts. Keep the plant in your sunniest window and water it regularly, occasionally applying a houseplant fertilizer.

Now here’s the tough part. The theory is poinsettias won’t flower unless they are kept in total darkness for 14 continuous hours per night for eight to 10 weeks. The sun’s rotation makes this naturally possible.

However, even momentary exposure to light pollution (streetlight, security, motion, digital, flash or house night lights) can delay or inhibit flowering.

Survey your situation. You could use a night cover with a box or a heavy paper bag if you think it necessary.

The plant should stay in the dark from 5 p.m. to 8 a.m. Nighttime temperatures shouldn’t fall below 60 F. From 8 a.m. to 5 p.m, it will need full sunlight, with daytime temperatures around 70 F to 75 F. Keep watering and begin the feeding schedule again. Soon after you may notice tiny green leaves emerging where the yellow flowers, or cyathia, will be developing.

The adjoining stems may turn red first, and then it filters to the leaves. Soon the bracts should be flushed with color. Congratulate yourself on your patience and dedication, and give your rejuvenated poinsettia a place of pride in your holiday decorating. If this does not happen at Christmas, your plant is just relaxing while its health is regained.

Everyone does not have the same plant expertise. Learning your capabilities at gardening is the secret. Once you know, repeat your successes and share with all. n | Michiana House and Home | January 2021 | 13

The Ultimate ­– Shutterstock.com

By Amanda Demster, House and Home Writer

A game room is a place to unwind and have fun on the weekend or at the end of a busy day. While most homeowners are, in some ways, constrained by a budget, dreaming up the “ultimate” game room can be a fun way to let those creative juices flow.

DEFINE YOUR GAMING STYLE

Shutterstock.com

14 | Michiana House and Home | January 2021 |

A game room can look like anything — a sophisticated billiards room, an action-packed arcade or a comfortable video gaming haven.

Depending on space, some may include bowling lanes, laser tag or even an escape room.

While at it, why not install a putting green or an entire private mini golf course? After all, the only limitation for the ultimate game room is preference.

The ultimate video gaming area would feature every type of gaming console imaginable, from the latest to retro models, and high-definition TV monitors, strategically mounted on the wall for the best gaming experience. Furniture would be comfortable and positioned so each player can easily see their screen.

A virtual reality corner would be free of tripping hazards. Ideally, this space would be large enough so sensors, monitors and other delicate equipment could be spaced out to prevent players from knocking them over.

Arcade games are another option. Favorites include, but are not limited to, Pac-Man, pinball and Skee-Ball. Air hockey, table tennis and Foosball are ideas to help round out this collection.

For those who enjoy card games or board games, a card/board game area is a must-have.

Card tables come in a variety of shapes and sizes to accommodate different games and different numbers of players.

Many gamers prefer to use their smart devices, making charging stations vital. This can be as elaborate as a charging kiosk or as simple as a basket full of chargers and adapters next to a wall outlet. Comfortable seating then ensures gamers can use their devices while charging, without having to stand or sit on the floor.

STORE IT Every game room needs good storage and housekeeping practices. Covering tables and arcade games, while not in use, will keep them cleaner. Wall racks ensure pool cues, table tennis paddles and other pieces are accessible and well maintained.

Placing inactive video game controllers and video games inside a cabinet can prevent damage. Board games are best stored on shelves that allow easy viewing of their boxes. Shelves can be freestanding, built-in, fixed bracket — whatever works.

Why not go the extra mile? Create a walk-in closet attached to your game room for storage.

Each category would have its own storage area within the closet.

TAKE A BREAK Gaming can be hard work, so it is nice to have a spot to take a breather. A fully stocked mini bar, coffee bar or snack bar off to the side would do the trick. Be sure to include a cooler or mini fridge, equipment and ingredients for mixed drinks, coffeepots and espresso makers — or a teapot if preferred.

Photos courtesy of Weaver Furniture Sales, Shipshewana

Joe Hendrickson / Shutterstock.com

RESOURCES:

WHERE TO SHOP Knowing where to shop can make all the difference. An Amish-made pool table, checkerboard, Chinese checkers or Aggravation game from Weaver Furniture Sales, Shipshewana, will add a touch of uniqueness.

Weaver Furniture Sales also carries TV cabinets, chairs and storage cabinets and wall racks for pool.

Check local gaming stores for video games and accessory ideas.

Design is another consideration, especially for a multi-use gaming room. This aspect often requires a professional. Gather your ideas and budget before approaching a builder, such as Reliance Construction, Nappanee, and Martin Brothers Contracting, Goshen.

Kendall Lighting Center, multiple locations, 800-558-8820,

www.kendalllightingcenter.com Martin Brothers Contracting, Goshen, 574-862-2142,

www.MartinBrosContracting.com Quality Window & Door Inc., Elkhart, 574-862-1613, www.qwdbarn.com Reliance Construction, Nappanee, (574) 773-4308, www.reliancedbr.net Weaver Furniture Sales, Shipshewana, 260-768-7730,

www.weaverfurnituresales.com

Shutterstock.com

LIGHT IT UP Lighting is a gaming necessity. Large windows will let in plenty of natural light; however, this may not be an option for a basement game room.

Kendall Lighting Center’s many lighting consultants can walk homeowners through potential lighting solutions to arrive at the perfect setup. Lighting offers the opportunity for self-expression, such as picking show-stopping pendant lights over pool and card/board game tables.

While the ultimate game room might prove unrealistic for most budgets, it is still fun to dream. Envisioning your “ultimate” game room will help to pass the time while social distancing and waiting for warmer weather, and you might find a scaled-down version is more than realistic. n

Transforming Your Home & Adding Value!

(574) 354-1533

7568 N 900 W • Nappanee, IN 46550 | Michiana House and Home | January 2021 | 15

Discover New Ingredients This Winter If you’re looking to spice up your mealtime routines this winter, you may find your solution in versatile ingredients that work for a multitude of dishes.

(Family Features) For example, you can turn to plantains as a replacement for often-used recipe staples like potatoes. Plantains are a fruit grown around the world that cooks and eats more like a vegetable.

Members of the banana family, they’re starchier and lower in sugar, meaning they’re still green when ripe.

While you’re most likely to find them baked, roasted or fried as a savory side dish at Latin, African or Caribbean restaurants, they’re growing in popularity in North America as stars of their own recipes or as nutritious, exotic swaps for starches. As an additional benefit, plantains can be used at every stage of ripeness. They can be boiled like a potato when green; prepared in sauces and soups, air-fried or roasted as snacks when yellow; or baked in desserts and sweet recipes when black or spotted.

Find more ways to enjoy plantains and other fresh fruits and vegetables in family recipes at dole.com.

Plantain Crusted Salmon Fillets Prep time: 15 minutes | Total time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

Nonstick cooking spray

1/3 cup chopped fresh cilantro 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil 1 1/2 tablespoons lime juice 1 tablespoon minced garlic 1 teaspoon cumin 4 salmon fillets (6 ounces each), skin on 1/4 teaspoon salt, plus additional, to taste, divided 1 Dole plantain, green or half ripe 2 Dole green onions, thinly sliced 1/2 tablespoon grated lime peel

Slow Cooker Sweet Potato, Plantain and Lentil Caribbean Curry

16 | Michiana House and Home | January 2021 |

Preheat oven to 425 F. Line baking sheet with foil; spray with nonstick cooking spray and set aside.

Combine cilantro, olive oil, lime juice, garlic and cumin; set aside.

Arrange salmon fillets on prepared baking sheet. Season with salt, to taste. Spread about 1 tablespoon cilantro mixture on top of each salmon fillet to cover.

Using box grater, peel and grate plantain.

Place grated plantain in bowl with green onions, lime peel and 1/4 teaspoon salt; toss to combine.

Sprinkle about 1/4 cup plantain mixture on top of each salmon fillet, gently pressing to adhere. Spray plantain crust with nonstick cooking spray.

Bake 15 minutes, or until salmon is opaque and plantain crust is lightly browned.

Prep time: 20 minutes | Servings: 6 1 tablespoon, plus 2 teaspoons, grapeseed oil, divided 1 large Dole white onion, chopped 4 cloves garlic, minced 2 teaspoons curry powder 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper 1/2 teaspoon grated fresh ginger 1 can (15 ounces) reduced sodium chickpeas, drained and rinsed 2 large Dole sweet potatoes, chopped (about 4 cups) 2 medium Dole plantains, chopped (about 3 cups) 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth 1/2 cup red lentils 3 cups packed, chopped collard greens 1/4 cup roasted salted pepitas In large skillet over medium-high heat, heat 2 teaspoons oil; add onion and cook 3 minutes, or until softened, stirring occasionally. Add garlic, curry powder, cayenne pepper and ginger; cook 2 minutes, or until fragrant and starting to brown, stirring occasionally.

Transfer onion mixture to 3-4-quart slow cooker; add chickpeas, potatoes, plantains, broth and lentils. Cover and cook on high 4 hours or low 8 hours, or until potatoes and lentils are tender.

Stir in collard greens; cook 20 minutes, or until greens are tender. Serve garnished with pepitas. n Source: Dole

michiana around

JAN. 9 | MISHAWAKA

January Big Sit

Join the South Bend-Elkhart Audubon Society for a Big Sit at its wildlife sanctuary. There will be a fire in the wood stove while watching the feeder birds.

Dress accordingly for the weather and bring your own snacks and beverages. Masks are required while inside the winter quarters and if social distancing is not possible. Registration required.

9 a.m.-noon SBEAS Wildlife Sanctuary 59395 Clover Road www.facebook.com/events/141729673993970/

JAN. 15 AND 29 | SOUTH BEND

Editor’s Note: With ongoing concerns in regards to

coronavirus, events may have been cancelled or postponed following Michiana House and Home’s press deadline.

Verify events are still occurring before setting out to attend.

JAN. 29-30 | SHIPSHEWANA

Twentieth Annual Midwest Tool Expo & Auction The 20th annual Midwest Tool Expo & Auction will feature more than 200 woodworking, carpentry and construction vendors; free seminars; a $20,000 tool giveaway; and up to six auction rings selling simultaneously.

Admission fee. Children 15 and younger free.

9 a.m.-6 p.m. Friday and 8 a.m.-2 p.m.

Saturday Michiana Event Center, “The MEC” 455 E. Farver St. midwesttoolexpo.com

JAN. 30 | SOUTH BEND

Moonlight Snowshoe Ages 12 and up can enjoy a snowshoe hike with hot cocoa by the fire pit afterward.

Registration and payment are required by Jan. 26.

Registration fee 7-9 p.m.

St. Patrick’s County Park — Red Barn 50651 Laurel Road 574-654-3155 www.sjcparks.org n

Glow Ski

Enjoy skiing by the light of glowing luminaries on snow-covered trails. After the adventure, warm up by the outdoor campfire and take home a winter treat. Registration and payment for the Jan. 15 glow ski are required by Jan. 13 and by Jan. 27 for the Jan. 29 glow ski.

Registration fee 6-9 p.m.

St. Patrick’s County Park — Red Barn 50651 Laurel Road 574-654-3155 www.sjcparks.org

JAN. 23 | VIRTUAL

National Squirrel Appreciation Day National Squirrel Appreciation Day is an unofficial holiday started by North Carolina wildlife rehabilitator Christy McKeown in 2001. Join Wellfield Botanic Gardens on Facebook for an engaging, interactive day of trivia, fun facts and other squirrel-related antics from dawn until dusk, celebrating these furry friends.

All-day event Wellfield Botanic Gardens www.facebook.com/WellfieldBotanicGardens/

JAN. 23 | SHIPSHEWANA

Ice Festival Competition and Chili Cook-off Come enjoy the Ice Festival competition and chili cook-off at the Wolfe Building.

10 a.m. carving begins Wolfe Building 345 N. Morton St. 260-768-7589 www.shipshewana.com/shipshewana-ice-festival

JAN. 28 | SOUTH BEND

shutterstock.com

Winter Fling for the Little Ones Participate in a special morning of activities for children five and under. Experience the best of the season with a cool outdoor adventure, including snacks, crafts and stories. Then head to the hill for some tubing. Registration and payment are required by Jan. 26. Weather permitting.

Registration fee 10 a.m. to noon St. Patrick’s County Park — Brown Barn 50651 Laurel Road 574-654-3155 www.sjcparks.org | Michiana House and Home | January 2021 | 17

Did You Know?

Ring in the new year around the house

By Julie Young, House and Home Writer

Savvy homeowners know January is the perfect time to spruce up their abodes and prepare for the year ahead. Why not ring in 2021 the right way by getting a jumpstart on all of your home-related resolutions?

WASTE NOT, WANT NOT

When putting away the holiday decor, take the time to toss or donate the ornaments, ribbons and gift bags that have outlived their usefulness. Feeling crafty? Upcycling Christmas cards is a fun, post-holiday activity. Projects can include fashioning gift tags for next year, creating cute ornaments, cutting mini trees from them or using cards featuring family photos or vintage scenes to make magnets, coasters, wreaths or garlands.

NEW YEAR DEEP CLEANING

EYES PEELED FOR DEALS

Cleaning is often a common New Year’s Eve tradition for many families and cultures around the world. In Japan, families observe osouji, or the big cleaning. This deep cleaning is performed in the home and workplace before the very end of the year in order to welcome Toshigami, the kami of the New Year. Why leave cleaning to the spring? Give yourself a fresh start for 2021!

Organize your catchall spaces, and do a deep dive to clean hard to reach places, such as behind refrigerators, range hoods and the tops of cabinets. Then hire a professional cleaner to handle everything else. It may cost $200-$300 for a one-time clean, but it’s worth it!

Although the January “White Sale” originated in 1878 to boost post-holiday sales, these events offer more than deep discounts on bedding, linens and towels. It’s also a good time to score a deal on big-ticket items, such as stoves, refrigerators, washers and dryers.

NEW YEAR, NEW LIFE

If you love paperwhites but hate the smell of the traditional Ziva, you can find fast-growing blooms without the foul odor by choosing alternative varieties, such as Avalanche, Erlicheer, Grand Primo and Winter Sun.

THE MORE YOU KNOW, THE SOUNDER YOU SLEEP Looking to invest in a new sleep system?

All mattresses are not created equal.

Remember that the lower the coil number, the thicker the wire and that some mattress warranties are voided if you do not purchase a new box spring as well.

Consider a viscoelastic foam mattress if you have a restless partner or latex foam if you suffer from allergies and asthma.

18 | Michiana House and Home | December 2020 |

INVENTORY TIME

Do a sweep of your home to identify tasks that have piled up. Make a list of necessary supplies and hit the hardware store to buy everything you need so you can knock them out over the course of a weekend. n

... and now you know!

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