cdiez, Author at Carmichael CA Realtor| Carmichael Dream Homes| Craig Diez

Five Tips To Get Your Home Ready For Warmer Weather

March 30, 2021 by cdiez Leave a Comment

Spring is in full swing, and you know what that means: the days are getting longer, the temperatures are rising, and in a couple of months we’ll be heading into summer.

Summer is one of the best times of year; children are out of school, it’s the perfect time to explore the great outdoors, and of course, everyone’s favorite: good ol’ summer vacation. Most of us are ready for summer, but the question is: is your home? Here are five tips to get your home ready for warmer weather.

1. Get your A/C checked

The summer heat is great for lake days and splashing in the pool. But when you’re done enjoying the sunshine, you’ll want to open the door to a nice, cool interior. The best time to get your air conditioning in working order is before summer hits. Start by changing out the filters. Dirty filters make it harder for your A/C unit to do its job, lower the efficiency of your air conditioning system and waste energy. After you replace the filters, let your air conditioning system run for an hour or so to see how its cooling; a test run will give you insight into any potential problems you need to have serviced.

You should have an HVAC professional service your air conditioning system once a year. Even if you don’t notice any obvious problems, servicing your A/C annually will keep it running longer. Spring is the best time of year to get your A/C service; once summer hits, most HVAC companies are booked solid through the summer months, and the last thing you want is to find yourself in the thick of summer with a broken air conditioning system and no relief from the heat.

2. Switch out your gear

Each season requires a different set of tools, gear, furniture, and decor. To avoid clutter, it’s best to store these items when they’re not in use. If you’re storing your seasonal items, you’ll need to switch everything out as summer approaches so you have everything on hand you need to enjoy the season.

Put your patio furniture out in the backyard so it’s ready for when you entertain guests. Check your grill to make sure it’s in working order and ready for summer BBQs. Switch out those heavy winter comforters with lightweight quilting that’s more appropriate for summer weather.

3. Get your lawn up to speed

One of the best parts of summer is getting to enjoy time outside, often in your own backyard. But if you’re like most people, your lawn could probably use a bit of TLC after the cooler months. Add a few new plants or flowers to add visual interest to the landscape.

Your backyard will play host to many celebrations, playdates, and lazy evenings with your family this summer. In order to enjoy all the fun of summer fully, you want to make sure your lawn is in the best shape possible.

4. Plant a garden

Speaking of the backyard, there’s no better time than summer to plant a garden. The warmer weather is the ideal time for a rainbow of vegetables to flourish, including beets, cucumbers, corn, tomatoes, peppers, and squash. If you’re new to gardening, pick up a few raised garden beds and plant your seeds now. Before summer hits its peak, you’ll be enjoying fresh vegetables straight from your garden – perfect for a refreshing summer salad.

5. Get painting out of the way

You may not want to paint your ceiling yellow, but don’t be afraid to deviate from plain old white. Painting the ceiling a color can make a small room seem bigger, or a room with a high ceiling seem more intimate. Plus, it’s just more interesting. Ask at any full-service paint store for help in choosing complementary wall and ceiling colors, or search online for examples of rooms you like.

If you’ve been thinking about painting the interior of your home, now is the time to do it. If you do decide to paint, consider some seasonally appropriate hues, like gold or sky blue, to bring the feeling of summer indoors.

Summer will be here before you know it. And with these tips, your home will be ready for it.

Celebrating St. Paddy’s Day at Home!

March 16, 2021 by cdiez Leave a Comment

While Saint Patrick’s Day is typically synonymous with parades, festive food and drinks, and large gatherings with friends and family, this year it looks like a quiet holiday at home is on the agenda. Staying in might not be what you had planned, but lucky for us, there are still plenty of ways to safely celebrate St. Paddy’s Day at home. From creative recipes and drinks to fun crafts for the whole family, we’ve got you covered. Check out some of the below ideas for inspiration!

Whether you’re relaxing at home alone, celebrating with that special someone, or trying to keep the kiddos entertained, everyone needs to eat. So why not make a festive meal at home? We’ve got you covered with St. Patrick’s Day-inspired dishes that will be sure to impress your St. Paddy’s Day crew.

Bring on the Appetizers: Looking for some tasty appetizers to go with that green pint of Guinness? Check out these mouth-watering dips, bites, and sliders.

Corned Beef and Cabbage Sliders: This ridiculously easy app is taken to the next level with Guinness-braised cabbage.
Hot Reuben Dip: This cheesy spread might be better than the actual sandwich….Learn how to make it here.
Pretzel Dog Beer Cheese Dip: With beer cheese, and homemade pretzels, what’s not to love? Click here to make this crowd-pleasing app.
Arugula Pesto: The striking green shade from the pesto makes this flavorful spread a great appetizer for the occasion!
Irish Nachos: Think nachos but with an Irish twist…This recipe calls for a heaping pile of potato chips, slathered in beer cheese, and topped off with crunchy bacon and fresh chives.
Zucchini Tots: Shredded zucchini makes this dish healthy yet delicious! Try making them in an air fryer for added crunch.
Bacon-Wrapped Cabbage Wedges: When in doubt, add bacon. Learn how to make these bacon-wrapped cabbage wedges here.
Irish Pub Cheese Recipe: This creamy cheese dish is loaded with Irish cheddar and pairs well with pretzels or pita chips.
Saint Paddy’s Dill Dip: Serve this delicious dip with raw vegetables or crackers of your choice.

What’s For Dinner?: These Irish-inspired dishes will take your Saint Patrick’s Day celebration to the next level.

Guinness Burgers: These Guinness burgers with Irish cheddar and crisp bacon are a sure crowd-pleaser. Pair with Irish chips for a complete meal.
Colcannon: This staple dish is a mixture of shredded cabbage, creamy mashed potatoes, and garlic.
Irish Stew: This comfort d ish features tender lamb, hearty carrots, and potatoes topped off with herb butter.
Soda Bread: Soda bread anyone? Learn how to make this quintessential Irish side here.
Irish Seafood Chowder: This hearty chowder is a delicious combination of smoked and fresh fish in a light creamy broth.
Corned Beef in Beer (Crockpot): Let your crockpot do the work by trying out this tasty Corned Beef in Beer recipe.
Boxty: Similar to latke, Irish boxty is a potato pancake that is prepared by mixing grated potatoes into mashed potatoes before frying like a patty.
Irish C abbage and Bacon: There’s nothing boring about this cabbage dish, which is loaded with bacon, onions, chicken broth, and mustard seeds.
Irish Shephard’s Pie: This layered casserole dish combines ground beef or lamb with buttery mashed potatoes.
Irish Pan Haggerty Potatoes: This dish is loaded with sliced potatoes, bacon, onions, and lots of cheese. Check out the recipe here.

Mix up a Green Drink: Get the party started with these holiday-inspired beers, mixed drinks, and mocktails!

Green Beer: It wouldn’t be Saint Patrick’s Day without green beer. With just a couple drops of green dye, you can make your own. Get the recipe here.
Gaelic Grasshopper: This decadent Irish-cream-infused cocktail is both gorgeous and packed with flavor!
Irish Coffee: Any coffee lovers out there? Celebrate the occasion (and get your coffee fix) with this Spiked Irish Coffee.
Lucky Charms Shots: Try out these “magically delicious” shots with Bailey’s Irish Cream and Lucky Charms!
Shamrock Sour Cocktail: Whiskey sour gets a festive makeover by going green. Learn how to make this cocktail here.
Jameson Jello Shots: Saint Patrick’s Day isn’t complete without jello shots! Try making these Jameson Jello Shots.
Fuzzy Leprechaun: This fruity cocktail is made with peach schnapps, blue Curacao, and vodka.
Lime Sherbert St. Patty’s Day Punch (Non-Alcoholic): This delicious lime sherbert drink packs a punch! Learn how to make it here.
Irish Car Bombs: End the night with a holiday favorite….the classic Irish Car Bomb!

Make a Festive Dessert: Don’t forget the dessert! Consider making one of these decadent treats to celebrate the occasion.

Mint Chocolate Pudding Cookies: These mint chocolate pudding cookiesare the perfect way to end your meal. Pair with mint chocolate chip ice cream for the ultimate treat.
Saint Patrick’s Day Chocolate Covered Oreos: Up your Oreo game with these chocolate-dipped Oreos topped with sprinkles.
Irish Chocolate Pots de Creme: Not only is this dessert gorgeous but it’s also “melt in your mouth” amazing… Add two tablespoons of Baileys for that Irish touch.
Irish Blackberry Fool: Sweet lightly stewed berries and vanilla whipped cream and yogurt come together to create this delicious dessert.
Pot O’ Gold Cups: These little brownies prove that you don’t have to go to the end of the rainbow to find the perfect St. Paddy’s Day dessert.
Lucky Charm Eclaires: This recipe swaps your standard chocolate fair for a citrus filling topped with Lucky Charms.
Green Velvet Pops: Forget red velvet — green velvet will be your new favorite rich (and seasonally appropriate) flavor.
Shamrock Shake Cupcakes: This minty cake topped with a fluffy whipped cream mousse is what dreams are made of! Get the full recipe here.
Chocolate Guinness Cake: This silky, smooth chocolate cake has hints of Guinness and is topped with a rich cream cheese frosting…need we say more?
Irish Trifle: This fruit-filled treat is layered with ladyfingers, jello, jam, and fresh whipped cream.

Get Crafty: If you’re home with the kids due to school cancellations, set up a fun craft they can do on their own.

Leprechaun Traps: As seen on Instagram, Leprechaun traps are one of this year’s biggest holiday trends. And most of the designs can be made with materials that you can find around the house. Check out these 6 DIY Leprechaun Traps.
Pot of Gold Mason Jar: Create these adorable Mason Jars filled with chocolate coins and gift them to remind your loved ones that they make you feel lucky each day.
Paper Shamrock Wreath: All you need is some scrap paper to create this cute shamrock wreath.
DIY Tee: Working from home? You can still be festive and wear your green with this adorable Kiss Me I’m Irish shirt.
St. Patrick’s Day Pencil Toppers: Make homework a little more fun with these DIY Pencil Toppers.
Shamrock Coloring Printable: Coloring books are all the rage – and this shamrock printable is no exception. This activity is perfect for both kids and adults.
Fruit Loop Rainbow: This simple rainbow craft is a great way to keep your little ones entertained all afternoon.

As we transitioned into the new year, low mortgage rates and low inventory drove up real estate prices in markets across the country.

But exactly how much did home values increase at the start of 2021? According to Realtor.com, in February 2021 the median list price of homes in Sacramento was $399,500 – trending up 12.5% year-over-year. That means if you purchased a home for $350,000 in February 2020, by February 2021, that home would have increased in value by $43,750, bringing your home’s value to $393,750.

Demand for homes is high and inventory is low, which is driving up home prices—so if you’ve been thinking about selling, now is a great time to list and fetch top dollar for your home.

The Most Popular Home Upgrades Of 2020

January 12, 2021 by cdiez Leave a Comment

2020 saw people spending more time at home than ever—and, for many homeowners, all that time at home drove them to tackle a variety of home upgrades.

But which upgrades proved the most popular over the past year?

A recent article from Apartment Therapy asked designers and contractors to share their most-requested home upgrades of 2020. Some of the year’s most in-demand upgrades include:

Kitchen banquettes. Homeowners spent most of 2020 cooking and eating at home—and, as such, kitchen banquettes, which make for a stylish, personal, and cozy space to share meals, were among the most requested home upgrades this year.

Sanitizing stations. Because proper sanitation was so important in fighting COVID, 2020 saw many homeowners requested “sanitation stations” in their entryways—complete with storage for hand sanitizer, gloves, mask, and other sanitation essentials.

Functional closets. With many people spending the majority of their time at home in 2020, no one wanted to stare at a messy, disorganized closet—which is why renovations to make closets more organized, functional, and streamlined were among the most requested home upgrades in 2020.

So, what does this mean for you? If you’re thinking about upgrading your home, these in-demand upgrades are a great place to start—and if you’re thinking about buying a property in 2021, make sure to keep an eye out for these upgrades.

We’re All In This Together: Your January Newsletter is Here

January 7, 2021 by cdiez Leave a Comment

As we pack away our holiday decorations and kick 2020 to the curb, local businesses are working harder than ever to keep their doors open and remain a part of our community. While businesses continue to fight against closures amidst this continuing pandemic, consider supporting some of your favorite local spots to show them that we are all in this together. This month’s newsletter serves as a guide to highlight different ways that you can safely support your favorite restaurants, breweries, salons, boutiques, and local businesses in the Sacramento area and beyond!

Local Restaurants: With the future of many restaurants still uncertain, your business means more to them now than ever. So show them some love by ordering takeout or delivery at one (or a few) of the below spots. We’ve categorized some of our favorite restaurants by cuisine type and location in case you have a hankering for a fresh sushi roll or tasty burger.

Italian Cuisine:

Business Highlight: Craving authentic Italian? Check out Il Forno Classico, located in Gold River Town Center. This spot is known for its decadent pasta dishes made from scratch, fresh seafood, and hand-tossed pizzas. Check out their online menu here.

Seritellas (Carmichael)

Cafe Italiano (Fair Oaks)

Fabians Italian Bistro & Bar (Fair Oaks)

Cafe Vinoteca (Sacramento)

Paseanos (Sacramento)

Piatti (Sacramento)

Obo’ Italian Table & Bar (Sacramento)

Pizzeria Classico (Folsom)

Visconti’s Ristorante (Folsom)

Vaiano Trattoria (Granite Bay)

Boulevard 41 (El Dorado Hills)

Papa Gianni’s Cameron Park

The Place (Roseville & Placerville)

Il Fornaio (Roseville)

Via Roma Pizzeria Con Cucina (Rocklin)

Mexican/Spanish Cuisine:

Business Highlight: Located in the Carmichael Milagro Centre, Mesa Mercado serves up a variety of fresh and authentic Mexican dishes like their marinated skirt steak and roasted pork tacos, or their chicken stuffed enchiladas. If you’re a fan of guac, don’t forget to order their homemade guacamole and chips appetizer! Check out their to-go menu here.

Carmelita’s (Fair Oaks & Roseville)

Tapa the World (Sacramento)

Zocalo (Sacramento, Roseville & Folsom)

Cantina Alley (Sacramento)

Mas Taco Bar (Sacramento & Folsom)

Centro Cocina (Sacramento)

Alaro Craft Brewery (Sacramento)

Nixtaco (Roseville)

Mezcalito (Rocklin & Folsom)

French Cuisine/Wine Bars:

Business Highlight: The Waterboy is a neighborhood restaurant in Midtown Sacramento that features a seasonal menu, inspired primarily by the beautiful cuisines of northern Italy and southern France. Their takeout menu features winter favorites including chicken pot pie with crostata-style crust, homemade lasagna, and antipasto plates with cured meats, housemade charcuterie, olives, crostini, and more! Pick your favorite pairings here.

Revolution Wines (Sacramento)

The Rind (Sacramento)

Whired Wine (Sacramento)

Brasserie Capitale (Sacramento)

Danielle’s Creperie (Sacramento)

La Provence (Roseville)

Hawks (Roseville)

Celestin’s Restaurant (East Sacramento)

Julian’s Patisserie & Cafe (Folsom)

American/California Inspired Cuisine:

Business Highlight: Located in East Sacramento, Canon offers a seasonal menu with the freshest local ingredients. They focus on shareable plates with favorites including their whole roast chicken, smoked beef cheeks, and fingerling potatoes. They are now offering their full menu online! Order Canon to-go here and enjoy your meal in the comforts of your own home.

Wildwood (Sacramento)

Paragary’s (Sacramento)

Bennett’s Kitchen (Roseville)

Sienna (El Dorado Hills & Roseville)

Milestone (El Dorado Hills)

Hook & Ladder (Sacramento)

Farmhaus (Granite Bay)

Asian-Inspired Cuisine:

Business Highlight: Silver Sake has served up delicious sushi and traditional Japanese cuisine in Carmichael since 2002. For starters, try their mouth-watering lava bites with deep-fried spicy tuna, cream cheese, and habanero tobiko topped with spicy sauce. Looking for something lighter? You can’t go wrong with their fresh sashimi platter and a warm bowl of miso soup. Call in or order online here.

Kru (Sacramento)

Mikunis (Sacramento, Folsom, Fair Oaks, Roseville & Elk Grove)

Miyagi Sushi (Sacramento)

Fats (Folsom & Roseville)

PF Changs (Roseville)

Taiko (Carmichael, Folsom & Natomas)

Hazumi Sushi Bar (Granite Bay)

Umi (Roseville)

Local Breweries: Any beer lovers out there? Similar to restaurants in our area, there are many local breweries that are struggling to keep their doors open. Check out a few breweries that could sure use our support and business! And prepare yourselves for some refreshing beer…

Business Highlight: Tower Brewing in East Sacramento takes pride in offering a variety of beers with 16 rotating taps! They have everything from IPAs and Lagers to Stours and Sours. Order beer for pick-up or delivery (YES they deliver) here.

River City Brewing Company (Carmichael)

Porchlight Brewing (Sacramento)

Fieldwork Brewing Company (Sacramento)

New Glory Craft Brewery (Sacramento)

Track 7 Brewing (Sacramento)

Big Sexy Brewing Company (Sacramento)

Sac City Brews (Sacramento)

Moska Brewery (Rocklin)

Out of Bounds Brewing Company (Rocklin)

Loomis Basin Brewing Company (Loomis)

The Monks Cellar (Roseville)

Red Bus Brewing Company (Folsom)

Mraz Brewing Company (El Dorado Hills)

There are plenty of other affected industries – from health and beauty to fashion and entertainment – that also need our support due to their mandated closures. Below are a few creative ways that you can help keep some of your favorite places in business.

Purchase Gift Cards: Purchasing gift cards is a great idea for businesses that you visit frequently. It gives businesses like salons, yoga studios, and local fashion boutiques some much-needed income to support employees and reassures them that they will still have loyal customers. If you have the means, consider purchasing gift cards like you would a chain letter. Send a $10 gift card to a local friend, and then ask them to do the same for another business. Paying it forward can make all the difference in keeping our community and economy thriving.
Purchase Products and Merchandise Online: Purchase your favorite shampoo and hair-styling products at your hair salon or workout gear at your local gym. You can even gift them to friends and family for special occasions or just because.
Post and Promote on Social Media: Social media plugs are a great way to show your support to your favorite spots and the payoff is almost instantaneous. Post generously and encourage family and friends to do the same!
Write a Positive Review: Have you been meaning to leave a glowing Yelp review? Now’s the time to do it! This is another great way to help direct new clients to the business and the best part is that it’s FREE.

KCRA 3 created an interactive list of Northern California small businesses ready to serve you. Click here to view!

#SHOPLOCAL

Home for the Holidays

December 17, 2020 by cdiez Leave a Comment

While the most wonderful time of the year is right around the corner, it’s safe to say that our holiday festivities might look a little different amid the growing pandemic. This year, we have been asked to forgo our large celebrations with extended family and keep within our immediate “family bubbles”. It’s easy to feel discouraged and alone during a time like this, but now more than ever, it’s important to appreciate the gift of health, our loved ones, and the magic of the holiday season.

I hope to bring some much-needed holiday cheer in this month’s newsletter, which covers everything from the best light displays, to family-friendly holiday activities, to socially distanced local events and happenings!

You can still make this holiday a memorable one while keeping yourself, your family, and your community safe with these local (and virtual) happenings in and around your area:

Virtual Philharmonic Performances
What: The Sacramento Philharmonic and Opera is offering a digital series, so you can live stream these amazing performances from your home! Concert links are available with a gift of $25 or more. The streams will go live at 7:00 pm the evening of the concert and will be available for up to 30 days afterwards.
When: Saturday, December 19th at 7:00 pm
Where: Donate online to the Sacramento Philharmonic & Opera to receive a link.

Curbside Shopping With Santa
What: Curbside Holiday is a wonderful opportunity for your kids to see Santa while shopping safely and locally. Shop online with local favorites like Capital Books, the Crest Theatre, the Kitchen Table, and more! You’ll select a pickup window and Santa will bring your gifts directly to your car!
When:
Saturday, December 19th from 11:00 am to 7:00 pm
Sunday, December 20th from 11:00 am to 7:00 pm
Where: Shop online at curbside holiday and pick up your gifts in the designated zone between 1011 and 1013 K Street.

A Christmas Carol Livestream
What: Manual Cinema is bringing a breathtaking reinvention of “A Christmas Carol” to audiences of all ages. This new take on a holiday classic is presented by the Mondavi Center at UC Davis.
When:
Friday, December 18th at 7:00 pm
Saturday, December 19th at 5:00 pm
Sunday, December 20th at 4:00 pm
Where: Get tickets from the Mondavi Center.

Outdoor Ice Skating
What: Treat your family to an afternoon of outdoor ice skating in Historic Folsom! To make sure you stay safe, please observe social distancing and wear a mask while skating.
When: Open now through January 18th.
Where: Purchase tickets online to skate at the rink located at 200 Wool Street, Folsom CA.
Dance Gavin Dance Tower Bridge Livestream
What: Tree City Sessions Volume 2 features Dance Gavin Dance performing a fan-voted setlist featuring hits and tracks that have never been played live, all from the bands hometown in Sacramento on the iconic Tower Bridge.
When: Saturday, December 19th, from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm.
Where: Purchase your tickets here for this virtual event.

Waterfront Wheel in Old Sacramento
What: Located at the newly activated Waterfront Park (in front of Rio City Café), a visually-exciting and whimsical 65’ Ferris wheel, operated by Brass Ring Amusements, Inc, will take center stage for the holidays. Rides offered now through January 31, 2021.
When: Rides offered now through January 31, 2021.
Where: Purchase your tickets here to ride the Waterfront Wheel at 1150 Front Street, Sacramento CA.

Wondering where you can catch a dazzling light display this year from the comfort of your car? Check out some of my favorite holiday light displays!

Bayside Christmas Lights Drive-Thru in Roseville (Now through December 31): Join Bayside for its 5th Annual Christmas Lights Drive-Thru that is sure to delight the entire community. Round up your loved ones, jump in the car, listen to your favorite Christmas music, and enjoy a mile of spectacular lights! Free tickets are required to manage traffic flow and are limited. Click here to learn more.
East Sacramento’s Fab 40s Christmas Lights (Neighborhood Event): Grab your hot chocolate and bundle up while you admire this classic, established East Sacramento neighborhood for its beautiful homes and brilliant light displays. This neighborhood is transformed into a winter wonderland during the holiday season with lights and garland draped around the tree-lined streets.
Pebble Creek Christmas Lights in Rocklin (Neighborhood Event): This neighborhood has been attracting spectators for years with its popular Disney-themed homes and elaborate light displays! Stroll through the neighborhood by foot at a safe distance from others or bundle up in the car and roll down the windows for an impressive display of lights!

Please visit CaliforniaChristmasLights.com or SacBee.com for a full directory of homes displaying lights.

Are you going a little stir-crazy in your home this year? Relish in all that this holiday season has to offer by baking a dessert, playing a game with your family, or creating your very own DIY hot chocolate bar. Check out some of these festive ideas below.

Liven Things Up With Christmas Karaoke: There’s no better way to get into the holiday spirit than with some Christmas Karaoke! Liven up the party with Mariah Carey’s “All I Want For Christmas Is You” or classics like “Jingle Bell Rock”. Spotify has some great Christmas Karaoke playlists. Check them out here. YouTube also has a great selection of free Karaoke playlists.
Host a Gingerbread House Competition: Show off your decorating skills with this sweet holiday activity that the entire family will enjoy. Add an element of competition by having each family member create their own…winner gets to open the first present on Christmas morning! You can also include the extended family by setting up a Zoom call for an online competition. Purchase your gingerbread making kits here.
Plan a Christmas Craft Day: Entertain the kiddos with an afternoon full of holiday-themed arts and crafts like this fun DIY ornament making activity. Check out some other crafts ideas to make your home merry and bright here.
Create Your Own Candles for the Perfect Holiday Gift: Spread the holiday cheer with these DIY scented candles, which make the perfect Christmas gift! It’s surprisingly easy, plus there are dozens of essential oils that make delightful Christmas scents. Think frankincense, cinnamon, vanilla, and Douglas fir.
Host a Family Game Night: Christmas games are a fun way for the family to come together—and dedicating your evening to playing a few is an easy way to infuse a regular old Friday night with some holiday joy. There are tons of options including Christmas movie trivia, holiday charades, a kid-friendly scavenger hunt, festive Mad Libs, or a good old fashioned board game.
Whip Up These Adorable Snow Globe Cupcakes: These Snow Globe Cupcakes topped with edible gelatin bubbles are the perfect treat to serve up during the holidays. Check out the recipe here.
Set Up Your Own Hot Chocolate Bar: Any hot chocolate lovers out there? Make a big batch of hot chocolate and set out plenty of toppings—think marshmallows, whipped cream, sprinkles, and crushed peppermints—then let everyone in the family go to town. Learn how to set up a hot chocolate bar here.
Host a (Socially-Distant) Cookie Swap: For a socially-distant spin on the Cookie Swap tradition, invite 5-10 people to participate, and ask each person to drop a half-dozen cookies on the doorstep of each participant. Check out some delicious holiday cookie recipes here.

Wishing you and your loved ones joy, good health, and some much needed holiday cheer this Christmas season!

Your Thanksgiving Newsletter is Here…

November 20, 2020 by cdiez Leave a Comment

Thanksgiving is right around the corner, and if you’re like me, you might be wondering how you can celebrate safely this year amid the pandemic…Many of us will forgo our usual traditions and spend this holiday away from our extended family and friends. But that doesn’t mean you can’t think outside of the box and create new traditions. This year is an opportunity to switch things up and show your family, friends, and community all of the ways that you’re thankful for them – even if it can’t be done in person. Below are a few creative ideas to help you celebrate Turkey Day, 2020-style.

This year, we are encouraged to celebrate Thanksgiving “al fresco”, as outdoor gatherings are deemed significantly safer than indoor ones. And with the forecast showing plenty of sunshine and a high of 63 degrees in the Sacramento area, it’s not totally out of the question. So grab some outdoor heaters, crank up that fire pit and throw on a sweater and warm attire for a memorable outdoor celebration. If you are celebrating with different households, create a potluck station where each household can take turns loading up on their favorite dishes. Check out some of the below essentials—from kitchenware to décor – for a successful outdoor gathering. You might find that you already have some of these items lying around the house…

If you are unable to celebrate with extended family and friends, consider organizing a virtual Thanksgiving experience with your loved ones. Not sure how to set up a Zoom call? Check out this helpful guide.

Recipe Swap: Participate in a Thanksgiving recipe swap, where you can share your favorite recipes, test them out and set up a Zoom call for a taste test challenge! You can easily exchange family recipes online using one of these existing Google Doc templates.

Game Night: Who loves game night? Host a virtual game night with these 10 kid-friendly games (Thanksgiving themed of course) that can be played easily from behind the screens. You can also make a game out of these Thanksgiving Trivia questions, where the winner receives an e-gift card or prize of your choice.

Macy’s Parade: For many of us, watching the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade together is a favorite tradition, and this year they are going virtual. So why not go virtual as well and watch along with your extended family and friends using Zoom or FaceTime? Find out how you can tune in here.

Zoom Dinner: Last but certainly not least, consider hosting a virtual Thanksgiving dinner with loved ones that are not able to attend using Zoom or Facetime. Set up a call using your phone or laptop and share your meal as you normally would, go around the table and say what you are thankful for, catch up with the family…the possibilities are endless!

This Thanksgiving, it’s especially important to help those in need as many have been affected by this pandemic, both health-wise and financially. Below are some ways that you can donate your time, money, and resources to charitable organizations, businesses, and community members.

Support Our Local Restaurants: Many of our local restaurants are especially hurting during this time. Consider ordering takeout this year at one of your favorite spots. Check out Sac Bee’s list of restaurants that are offering delicious Thanksgiving feasts. OpenTable® also has a growing list of its own—see what made the list here.

Help Out a Neighbor in Need: Volunteer to go grocery shopping for a neighbor or friend who may be at-risk or elderly.

Donate to a Food Bank or Shelter: Find a local food kitchen or shelter that may need your help this year. Donate your time or money to the Sacramento Food Bank here or a local shelter here.

Give Back to our Furry Friends: Our furry friends need love too! Volunteer, donate, or adopt a pet at a local shelter, including The Sacramento SPCA or the Front Street Animal Shelter.

Run to Feed the Hungry (Virtual Event): Participate in the Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services’ first-ever, Virtual Run to Feed the Hungry event.

Meals on Wheels: Find a Meals on Wheels near you and sign up to volunteer. This widespread organization is committed to supporting our senior neighbors to live healthier and more nourished lives in their own homes.

Sending warm, heartfelt wishes from my home to yours this Thanksgiving!