Posts in category: Holidays

summer salads

Once summer arrives, it seems like the last thing we want to do is standing around and cooking over a hot stove, right? (Although having someone else slaving over a hot grill in the back yard is another story entirely!) So we started putting together a new list of summer salads that we think look fabulous, and these photos just looked too good not to share. (Feel free to make an extra batch of any of these and send it over to our office, by the way!)

Chickpea Tex-Mex Salad
from DinnerThenDessert.com

Chickpea Tex-Mex Salad Seriously? Does this not just scream of cool-and-spicy all at once? According to Sabrina at Dinner Then Dessert, this summer salad “has a ton of flavor like most Tex-Mex salads, but with far less of the heavier and more caloric ingredients that would weigh you down. Having this lunch option will help you avoid falling into the normal restaurant salad trap where similar Tex-Mex salads are filled with cheese and sour cream and mayonnaise based dressings.” We’re totally on board with the whole idea.

Grilled Vegetable Nicoise Salad With Salmon
from HummingbirdThyme.com

Grilled Vegetable Nicoise Salad With Salmon Okay – so let’s say we do have that guy out working the grill in the back yard. That’s perfect! All they need to do is grill us up some sliced eggplant and this amazing hunk of salmon, and we’re on our way to nirvana. Oh sure, a couple other items in this recipe might take a couple minutes on the stove (blanching green beans), and a few minutes in the oven (roasting beets) – but wouldn’t you say the end result is absolutely worth it? We would. We’d like to give a shout out to Laura at Hummingbird Thyme for sharing these mouthwatering photos along with her amazing summer salad recipe on her blog.

Sweet ‘n Savory Wild Rice Salad
from GreatEightFriends.com

Sweet ‘n Savory Wild Rice Salad Wild rice, grapes, cranberries and pecans (and Anna of Great Eight Friends says that adding some grilled chicken breast makes it even better). Seriously: YUM. Light, flavorful, savory, and sweet all in one dish – with a refreshing and simple dressing that is simply to die for. Bring it on.

Shaved Asparagus Spring Salad
from DelishKnowledge.com

Shaved Asparagus Spring Salad Minimal ingredients, maximum flavor – just the way we like to prepare our meals. Alex of Delish Knowledge created this fabulous vegetarian recipe (just throwing that part in because, hey – it matters!) – and even though it’s got the word “spring” in the title, we’re pretty sure it’s good-to-go anytime around here. Some tips from Alex: “This salad works because of the layering of flavors. If it grows in the spring, I put it in this salad. Thinly sliced radishes, mint, slivered almonds, couscous and a lemon-mustard dressing. Cooked couscous almost clings to the shaved asparagus like pasta, so I don’t recommend subbing out another grain in its place.” This one is worth investing in a mandolin, if you ask us.

Purple Cabbage, Orange & Walnut Salad
from Teczcape

Purple Cabbage, Orange & Walnut Salad A huge part of our dining experience comes from the visuals, as we all know. And we think this summer salad recipe is simply perfection for the eyes. (Not a bad experience for the taste buds, either!) Quick to prep and pull together, it offers a simple, fresh, and light meal solution on its own, or makes a great accompaniment for whatever that guy has on the grill tonight. Presented on Hui Leng Tay’s blog, we’re happy just looking at this one for the moment!

If you have a favorite summer salad recipe that’s your Go-To meal, we’d love to hear about it! (And taste it – so hey, share, okay?) Summer Rules All!

New Home Resource helps current and future homeowners with all of their Las Vegas real estate needs. Whether your preference is for property management, a newly built home from a local builder, or a resale property in just the right location, a New Home Resource Realtor® is here to provide the service you’re looking for. Please contact a New Home Resource Realtor® today at 702-365-1000 or visit www.newhomeresource.com. Broker Joanna Piette, and agents Denise Thrasher, Jessica O’Brien, Evelyn ‘Beng’ Kern, and Kathy Paterniti are all here to help!

image003It’s that time of year when we’re all on the hunt for the best holiday light displays in town. But, until we find where they’re hiding, we thought we’d share the numerous fun holiday events that won’t cost you a cent (except for the stop at Starbucks afterwards for the Peppermint Hot Chocolate!)

One of the things we love about Las Vegas is how involved our local businesses are with the community. It’s a great show to behold in your travels around the city. If you’re putting together your Holiday Entertainment Schedule, you may just want to plan on adding these to your list. Enjoy!

WinterFest

image005The City of Henderson will host its annual WinterFest celebration, December 8-10, 2016 at the Henderson Events Plaza and Henderson Convention Center, both located at 200 Water Street, in the Water Street District. This year’s theme is Winter – Silver & Snowflakes and the event will feature a snow play area along with a variety of family-friendly activities, including an official tree lighting ceremony with Mayor Hafen and Santa Claus, gingerbread house displays, roaming performances, and an evening light parade. Event admission is complimentary. Some activities will require paid admission.

Ethel M Chocolates Factory and Cactus Garden

image007For a Southwest take on the holidays, head to the festive cactus garden at Ethel M Chocolates Factory, which features some three acres of cacti festooned with half a million lights. It’s a bit off the beaten path, but well worth the trip. 2 Cactus Garden Dr at Sunset Way, Henderson. November 15th – January 1st; Admission is Free and Open to the Public.
Holiday Lights: Nightly, 5pm to 10pm.
Factory & Chocolate Shoppe: Open daily 8:30am till 10pm.
Visits from Santa Claus: Friday – Sunday till Christmas 5pm to 9pm.
Performances by Local Choirs: Friday – Sunday 6pm to 8pm.

Cowboy Christmas

image009The Cowboy Christmas returns to Las Vegas with more wares to keep even the most avid shopper entertained! Conveniently located in the South Halls of the Las Vegas Convention Center at Paradise Road and Desert Inn, just one block east of the famous Las Vegas Strip. This year’s show promises to exceed expectations! Over 440,000 square feet of show-floor hosting! 400 plus vendors from across the United States and Canada will showcase their unique products which include: customized jewelry, western wear, boots and spurs, furniture, original art, handmade crafts and pottery, as well as providing the best source for the Official Wrangler NFR and PRCA merchandise. 3150 Paradise Rd at Convention Center Dr. Dec 3–12, 9am–5pm; free.

Las Vegas Great Santa Run

image011It’s time for the running of the Santa’s! At this annual 5k fun run and one-mile walk to benefit local organization Opportunity Village, registration includes a five-piece Santa suit. Last year, over 9,000 Santa’s ran for charity (and to work off a few holiday cookies), but Las Vegas still lost the world record for the largest Santa run to Liverpool, England. This year, the event is hoping for 10,000 Santa’s and a chance to take the title. Third Street Stage at Fremont Street Experience, Fremont St between S Main St and S Casino Center Blvd. Dec 5, from 8am; free for spectators.

30th Annual Downtown Hoedown

image013Free Concerts on Nov 30, 2016 from 4:30 pm to 10:30 pm
Old Dominion and Sawyer Brown headline the 30th Annual Downtown Hoedown, the official kick-off to Wrangler National Finals Rodeo week in Las Vegas. The free event happens Nov. 30, 2016 and features top country talent beginning at 4:30 p.m. and ending with headliner performances from Sawyer Brown at 8:40 p.m. on the 1st Street Stage (near Binion’s) and Old Dominion at 9:50 p.m. on the 3rd Street Stage (between The D and Four Queens).

30th Annual Downtown Hoedown Schedule:

• Jackson Michelson on Main Street Stage – 4:30-5:30pm
• High Valley on 1st Street Stage – 5:40-6:25pm
• Aaron Watson on 3rd Street Stage – 6:35-7:20pm
• Craig Campbell on Main Street Stage – 7:30-8:30pm
• Sawyer Brown on 1st Street Stage – 8:40-9:40pm
• Old Dominion on 3rd Street Stage – 9:50-11:30pm

December to Remember at the Neon Museum

image015This year, families have a variety of festive reasons to attend the Neon Museum’s annual “December to Remember” holiday celebration, which takes place Saturday, Dec. 17, from 2 to 6 p.m. It begins with ornament-making in the Boneyard Park and then families can snap their own photo with Santa in the North Gallery from 2 to 5 p.m., followed by hot chocolate and caroling by Las Vegas Academy choir in the colorfully illuminated Neon Museum Boneyard from 5 to 6 p.m. “December to Remember” is part of the City of Las Vegas Cultural Corridor’s holiday festival. This event is free and open to the public; reservations are not required. 770 Las Vegas Blvd. North.

Santa Photo’s at The District

image017The District at Green Valley Ranch | Starts Nov 22 – Ends Dec 24
Come Visit Santa at his house in The District in Henderson! Santa’s house is located off main Street, near Williams Sonoma. Santa’s Hours are:

• November 28 – December 11
• Monday – Friday: 11am-7pm (Break 2:30-3:30pm)
• Saturday: 11am-8pm (Break 3:00-4:00pm)
• Sunday: 11am-6pm (Break 3:00-3:30pm)
• December 12 – 23 – Daily: 11am-8pm (Break 1pm-1:30pm; 5pm-6pm)
• December 24 – 9am-4pm (Break 12:30pm-1:00pm)

Mystic Falls Park at Sam’s Town

image019A holiday tradition for over 19 years, Mystic Falls Park will be decked out for the holidays with beautiful new holiday decor, an exciting all-new laser light show and will be making it snow in Vegas every night through the new year beginning November 25, 2016. Plus… Santa will be here to welcome kids of all ages! November 25, 2016 – December 23, 2016 – Thursdays and Fridays, 4:00pm -8:30pm; Saturdays and Sundays, 12:00pm – 8:30pm.

From all of us at New Home Resource, we wish you and yours the happiest of holidays this season!!

New Home Resource helps current and future homeowners with all of their Las Vegas real estate needs. Whether your preference is for property management, a newly built home from a local builder, or a resale property in just the right location, a New Home Resource Realtor® is here to provide just the service you’re looking for. Please contact a New Home Resource Realtor® today at 702-365-1000 or at www.newhomeresource.com. Broker Joanna Piette, and agents Denise Moreno Thrasher, Jessica O’Brien, Evelyn ‘Beng’ Kern, and Kathy Paterniti are all here to help!

image003We’ve found there are usually two common thoughts that run through the minds of most people when they live in Las Vegas, and we’re guessing during the holiday season, they happen more often than not.

The first is: “How can I accommodate all the family and friends who want to come stay with me?” (Because you live in Fabulous Las Vegas, silly! Two-birds/one-stone theory for them.)

The second is: “How come I can pick my friends, but I can’t pick my family?!” (Okay, that one may be more the result of remembering past holiday seasons – because, hey, what’s a Thanksgiving Dinner without a little family drama?) We can’t help you much with the second (if we could, we might try it ourselves! haha!). But the first can probably be managed a little better than in the past. (Let’s face it – we’re all so worried about hurting other’s feelings, we often don’t pay any attention to our own.)

That’s why we suggest a little forethought, some pre-planning, and actually setting the rules up-front – then saying them out-loud. It is, after all, your home – right? So even if you’ve had some difficult past experiences with certain house guests, we suggest you take that knowledge and turn it to your advantage. Let us get started with ideas by explaining how that can work.

Firm Up the Dates
Those open-ended visits can make you crazy. Admit it – you’ve been there. That’s why it’s critical that you lay out firm ground rules that start with the arrival and departure dates. That allows you to plan activities and know there is an end in sight. (You feel better already, don’t you?) This is probably the most important decision to make before your house guests arrive, and the three-day guideline is a good rule of thumb. (You know what they say about fish & guests.) The Added Benefit you get from this single step can also help to avoid difficult conversations between you, your spouse, and your kids. (Like: “When are they going to leave?!”)

Remember That Your Life Matters, Too
We all love visiting with people we don’t get to see often. Parents, grandparents, school chums – and the holiday season is one of the things that inspires us to gather, catch up, and reminisce. But then why – for some of us – is it a time of such stress and anxiety (and other emotions we won’t mention here, but you know what they are!)?

Part of the reason is that while your house guests may be on a carefree vacation – you’re still dealing with your day-to-day life. That might include work, school, your children’s activities, etc. Plus, the cleaning and shopping and cooking that as a host, you feel is required. And that’s not even counting rearranging the sleeping arrangements, lots of extra “stuff” around your house, more people to share bathrooms, who gets to choose what to watch on tv, and the list goes on.

Many hosts have a tendency to gloss over this by thinking: “it’s just for a few days – we’ll get through it.” But our response to that would be: “Why not just set the ground rules up-front?”

A lot of times, people are reluctant to take this step (those ‘hurt feelings’ again).

But in truth, most people are pretty understanding about this. Why? Because they’ve been in your shoes, and they remember how frustrating it can get! We suggest that at the time (or even before) confirming anyone’s visiting dates, you have an honest communication and say right up front that “I’m delighted you’re coming to visit! Here’s when I’ll be available to plan to do things with you – and when I’ll be working/taking kids to school or activities/etc.” (Even if you just want a couple of hours to yourself after a long workday.) If you have a baby or toddler, routine is important to maintaining household serenity – so invite them to be part of that, too. (They can always go to the casino after bedtime!) The point is to let them know what your schedule is like so they won’t just assume you’re the Local Las Vegas Entertainment Revue 24/7.

Let Them Know Your Home’s Boundaries and How Things Work
With some house guests, it’s hard to know if they don’t pitch in to help because they don’t want to be in your way or do things wrong – or if they’re just taking advantage of the Free Cook & Head Bottle-Washer services they can get out of you. Whichever it is, you can help out the first type, and give the lazier, er – latter ones – a not-so-subtle hint by letting them know how things in your home function. Such as:

• Out-of-bounds areas (like your personal computers, bedroom, etc.)
• Whether pets are welcome
• Where house guests can smoke
• Your WiFi password
• Where to find things (such as dishes, towels, toilet paper, etc.)
• Show them how to make the coffee
• Where should they put dirty laundry?
• Demonstrate how the dishwasher and washing machines work
• Show them where the trash goes
• ….and, well…… you get the gist of it.

Provide Special Touches They’ll Appreciate
This is just a short list of items that almost every house guest will appreciate. Your friends and family may have more specific needs – so we suggest you give them some thought, and surprise them with their visit with things they know only you would recognize – and that they would appreciate.

• Flowers – even tiny vases of fresh herbs or a single flower will clearly display you are thinking of their comfort.
• An extra power strip in their room for their devices (this one is almost mandatory anymore).
• Provide a collection of common bathroom amenities in a small basket.
• Set apart a stack of clean towels.
• Place some bottled water in their room.
• Provide a place to hang their clothes / set up their suitcase.
• Extra pillows.
• Clear off a nightstand and leave the lamp on for them.
• Written instructions about how to operate your television. Have Netflix or Roku? Tell them how to work that, too!
• A list with directions from your house to nearby stores, in case they need to purchase personal items.
• Do they enjoy a yoga or exercise class regularly? Provide a list of nearby facilities.

Will you be hosting elderly house guests? They also have some special needs to take into consideration.

• Keep extra blankets in their room in case they get a chill.
• Provide nightlights.
• Tub floor grippers and non-slip mats (might save everyone from a difficult situation)
• A clock and a calendar (in case they need to keep track of medications)
• Pen and notepad.
• Also, keep in mind that seniors eat smaller meals and snack more, and they may have certain dietary restrictions. Ask ahead of time about foods and drinks they normally eat, and make the extra effort to let them know you have them, where they are, and how to make them (explaining where utensils and dishes are, etc.)

See? It’s possible to make your house guests feel super-welcome AND not make your time during their visit a ride straight to Insanityville! Keep in mind, too – that after the first time you follow some of these tips, you’ll see that the benefits are worth the effort to speak up, and you’ll move forward with your next visitors accordingly. (Repetition will make it that much easier for you to do it with the next guests, and the ones after that!).

New Home Resource helps current and future homeowners with all of their Las Vegas real estate needs. Whether your preference is for property management, a newly built home from a local builder, or a resale property in just the right location, a New Home Resource Realtor® is here to provide just the service you’re looking for. Please contact a New Home Resource Realtor® today at 702-365-1000 or at www.newhomeresource.com. Broker Joanna Piette, and agents Denise Moreno Thrasher, Jessica O’Brien, Evelyn ‘Beng’ Kern, and Kathy Paterniti are all here to help!

new-years-resolutions

The end of 2015 is here. Ack! If you’re anything like us, you’re wondering just where in the world it went – and how did it do it so fast? Even so, these last few days before we turn the calendar on a new year always cause us to look back over the past 12 months – and wonder what the next 12 have in store for us.

It’s also pretty natural right about now to start thinking of that list of New Year’s resolutions you want to put in motion. In theory, it sounds like a good idea, right? But in reality (oh come on, you can admit it) – most of them usually last about as long as it takes to put the ink on the paper (or at least hit “save” on that Word document). In fact, 88% of New Year’s resolutions fail, according to a 2007 survey of over 3,000 people. Ouch.

Almost before you know it, you find yourself busy trying to remember to make it “/16” instead of “/15” when you type the date. Next, you find yourself several days into month and the magic of that “January 1” milestone becomes a distant memory. And ultimately – life just keeps marching on day after day – just like always, oblivious to all your wonderful intentions.

Happens every year, doesn’t it?

But that’s not to say you shouldn’t make an effort. As Benjamin Franklin said, “Without continual growth and progress, such words as improvement, achievement, and success have no meaning.” We just happen to think some ways to achieve that progress are more effective than others.

Because really, it’s not so much about “January 1” being the start of a miraculous, new lifestyle – as much as it is to recognize this: That if something needs changing or improvement, it needs it to happen “now” – not wait for a date on the calendar to appear.

Just to give you an idea of what we mean, we’d like to share three of the “resolutions” that we put into practice every year (and every day, for that matter). And while we’re by no means claiming a perfect record, we do our best. And sometimes, we even make progress . . . a single step and a single day at a time.

1) Run toward something, not away from something.

There is a significant difference between the two. When you spend your life running from dissatisfaction, it will follow you everywhere. Running from discomfort is not a life strategy. We need to make certain that we’re making our choices based upon what we’re moving toward rather than what we’re moving away from.

2) See yourself as if you were already there.

State your goal, and make every decision with that mindset. (And here’s a little hint: If you can’t clearly envision yourself doing your goal, don’t even bother. Your “resolve” isn’t going to get you there…..only your mindset and subsequent actions will.)

3) Focus on “diligence” not “discipline.”

You’ve heard the saying that “anything can become a habit after 21 days”? Ummm, not so much. Pretty much anybody can have the discipline to do something for 21 days. But few people will have the diligence to continue doing it for the rest of the year. With diligence, you’ll do the right thing a little bit every day, and it will add up to something big down the road. (Here’s your pithy saying of the day: “Diligence rules; discipline drools.”)

Our suggestion? Just start living every day the way you know will make you a happier, more successful person. And by the way, it’s okay to cheat on your New Year’s Resolution and start it a few days early. That is, if you actually want to change. But whatever your goals for the coming new year, we hope you make it one to remember!

New Home Resource helps current and future homeowners with all of their Las Vegas real estate needs. Whether your preference is for a newly-built home from a local builder, or a resale property in just the right location, a New Home Resource Realtor® is here to find the perfect property for you. Please contact a New Home Resource Realtor® today at 702-365-1000 or at www.newhomeresource.com. Broker Joanna Piette, and agents Denise Moreno Thrasher, Jessica O’Brien, Evelyn ‘Beng’ Kern, Lance Partin and Kathy Paterniti are all here to help!

image003

It’s getting close to the holidays – and you’re already out of ideas, aren’t you? You’ve been through the malls and the department stores; trolling online sites looking for brilliant suggestions. Do we have the picture? (It’s okay – you can admit it. It’ll just stay between us.)

That’s why we wanted to lend you a hand with some gift suggestions that are a bit ‘off-the-beaten-path.’ And if these don’t do the trick for your needs – perhaps they’ll help to light up that cartoon-like bulb over your head to help you think of something that will! We have to go shop some more now. But you have fun with these in the meantime!

Ring Video Doorbell

image005Talk about the perfect gift for any homeowner! We all know there’s plenty of technology out there for our homes these days, but we can vouch for the fact that Ring is not only easy to use, but affordable, too. How Ring Works: The Ring™ Video Doorbell lets you answer the door from anywhere using your smartphone. It features an HD camera with night vision, providing a clear view from your front door, day and night.

It installs easily in minutes, with no professional help or additional tools required. A built-in rechargeable battery lets you install the doorbell anywhere, or connect it to existing doorbell wiring. Motion-triggered alerts sent via the free Ring™ app (iOS® and Android™) notify you of arriving guests and deliveries. With Ring, you’re always home.

NomadKey – The Charging Cable That’s Always With You

image009Small enough to be a stocking stuffer – and useful enough to be a lifesaver (at least for people with serious relationships with their smartphones!). This ultra-rugged, key-sized, flexible charging cable (available in both Apple Lightning and Micro USB form) – makes it easy to charge your device from the nearest USB port without lugging around cables and wires (which is why most of us don’t have a charging cable handy when we need one!).

Gift the Gift of Dropbox Pro

image011It’s not often you’re able to actually give the gift of “Peace of Mind.” But this is one gift that will truly bring that to your recipient. Think about it: There’s a reason there are so many horror stories about computers crashing – because it happens more than we like to think. If it’s ever happened to you, you’ve probably already taken steps since then to make sure your digital life is backed-up. (If not – hey! Great gift idea for yourself, too!) But for those who haven’t been there – or aren’t as tech-savvy as they would like – giving the gift of online back-up can save them from ever losing those irreplaceable photos, videos, and information. It may not be “sexy” – but it WILL be appreciated. As soon as their friend loses all their data in a computer mishap, and they think to themselves: “Man – I’m glad that’s not ME!”

MOVA Globe

image013You want “different”? You want “unique”? Then the MOVA Globe might be right up your alley, then. (You really have to see the video to get the full effect.) No batteries, no wires – just amazing technology that allows this globe to remain in perpetual rotating motion using only ambient light and the earth’s magnetic field. It doesn’t get any cooler than that. A real conversation piece for home or office. A calming (and mesmerizing) gift that you’ll score points for! (You can see one up-close-and-personal at Boulevard Trophy right here in Las Vegas, too.)

New West KnifeWorks

image015Not something for the ‘faint of budget,’ but even a single Chef or Utility knife from New West Knifeworks will bring a work of art to the kitchen of whoever is lucky enough to receive it. Each knife is a finely crafted masterpiece created by America’s premier boutique knife manufacturer. As far as we’re concerned, the images speak for themselves. Visit their website to learn more.

Disney Mickey Mouse Pants Tea Pot

image017You are saying to yourself right now: “Omg I know someone who would LOVE that!” (Do we know you, or what?) More to the point, this tea pot is so adorable, who Wouldn’t want to have a bit of this whimsy in their home? Definitely something you don’t see in every store you go to (we found it on Amazon.com) – and after all, isn’t “unique” the goal for gift-giving?

Here’s to a great holiday for everyone! (And feel free to send any of those gifts our way, too! <wink!>)

New Home Resource helps current and future homeowners with all of their Las Vegas real estate needs. Whether your preference is for a newly-built home from a local builder, or a resale property in just the right location, a New Home Resource Realtor® is here to find the perfect property for you. Please contact a New Home Resource Realtor® today at 702-365-1000 or at www.newhomeresource.com. Broker Joanna Piette, and agents Denise Moreno Thrasher, Jessica O’Brien, Evelyn ‘Beng’ Kern, Lance Partin and Kathy Paterniti are all here to help!

Did you ever feel like you just spend all year dieting to prepare for….(dum, Dum, DUM!) …. The Holidays? Yep – we do, too. And in the spirit of convincing you to focus on all things wonderful and tasty about this season, to encourage you to bake with abandon in your Home Sweet Home – and better yet, to let you know you’re free to share the spoils with us! – here’s a list of some pretty delicious and gorgeous recipes that we think will help get you in the spirit (if you’re not already there, that is).

Vanilla Bean Shortbread Cookies

image003What screams “Christmas” more than the tradition of shortbread cookies? These sweet versions add the most delicate of holiday touches in the form of two tiny holly leaves and a red berry for a minimalist “under-the-top” look. The recipe from Sweet Lavender Bake Shoppe is melt-in-your-mouth fabulous (and easy to make, too). And because it took us awhile to hunt down those simple touches of decor, we’ll just let you in on a secret: We found ours in the $1 section of our nearest Target store! (but it’s a simple cake/cookie decoration item to find, too.)

Stained Glass Christmas Cookies

image005You’re seriously not going to believe how easy it is to make these beauties – or the simple ingredient that it takes to create that “stained glass window” effect. Think: Life Savers or Jolly Ranchers. Yep –it’s that simple. But, we’re going to let Martha Stewart explain how to do it right in her classic recipe.

 

Checkerboard Cookies

image007Want to step up your game a bit? If you’re looking for something a little more challenging – and a cookie that makes a bold statement on your platter – try these vanilla and chocolate Checkerboard Cookies. Not a walk in the park – but not as hard as you would think, either. This Cook and Be Merry recipe provides step-by-step instructions, complete with images to help you get there.

Pomegranate Jeweled Cheese Ball

image009Sometimes, you need a little “real food” sustenance to get you through the baking chores – or perhaps to add something a little more on the “savory” side for your holiday gathering. So give this a shot: Pomegranate Jeweled Cheese Ball recipe for your from How Sweet Eats. White cheddar, toasted almond, and crispy sage – decorated with the prettiest fruit of the season. Beat that.

Sparkling Cranberries

image011You. Are. Simply. Not. Going. To. Believe. This. One. These Sparkling Cranberries couldn’t be easier to make or more enjoyed by your guests. Not to mention they taste great and you can trust us on that, because we don’t even like cranberries! (unless they’re prepared like this) This is actually a great recipe to let the kids handle – and you are SERIOUSLY going to want to have these on-hand as a “quick-attitude-pick-me-up” – available at your fingertips each time you walk past the table where you keep them on display. (We’ve noticed that location seems to move depending on which room we’re spending time in.) They’re pretty and cute at the same time – festive as the holiday itself – and taste so darn good you’ll find yourself making them more than once this season (we bet). Here’s the recipe from 30 Pounds of Apples.

Mini Gingerbread Houses for Your Mug

image013Can’t pass up an opportunity to bring gingerbread into the mix. And speaking of, are these the sweetest additions to any coffee cup EVER? A big thanks to Tablespoon for bringing this too-cute-for-words Mini Gingerbread House recipe to the table. Our only complaint? They’re too adorable to eat!

 

Strawberry Santa Poppers

image015These are so adorable and so easy! You’ll just need strawberries (the bigger, the better), whipped cream or frosting, and black icing or candy to form the eyes. Simply slice the top of the strawberry off (to make the hat) and place a big dollop of whipped cream or frosting on the flat part of the strawberry. Then top that off with the top of the strawberry “hat”, and bring the Santa to life with eyes and buttons. (For even more fun – figure out how to put a belt on him, too!) Easy-Peasy – and just the right touch of whimsy for your table spread. Plus, you can always say “Hey – it’s fruit! It’s healthy! Have more!”

Holiday Cranberry Syrup

image017Anyone who loves to entertain during the holidays knows that “themes” are important. You can find all sorts of awesome cranberry-flavored drink recipes online (both alcoholic and non) – and now, there’s no need to run out to find those bottles of expensive drink syrups (that can taste a bit chemical-ly anyway, we think.) Cranberries give this syrup its rich color and characteristic tang in this recipe from Midwest Living. Use the sugar mixture as a base for drinks – or other ideas include as a topper for ice cream, cake or pancakes. Heck, you can even give it away in decorative bottles for food gifts (and add the recipe on the card for that special touch). Bottoms up!

Soft Pretzel Bites

image019(Because after all that sugar – you need a little salt!)

Keeping that holiday table filled with a variety of tidbits is easy when you keep in mind the main food groups: Sugar, Fruit, Pretzels. (Or maybe that’s just our motto?) Anyway – Two Peas and Their Pod have created this easy-to-follow recipe for Soft Pretzel Bites (dare we say they’re as good as Auntie Anne’s?). We’ll probably just have a separate plate full of these for ourselves. Thanks!

Rudolph-Tini

image021Yes, Virginia – grown-ups enjoy the holiday season in grown-up ways, too! Although with enough martini glasses on-hand, you can also whip up a non-alcohol version of this Rudolph-Tini for the kids – just because they’re so adorable. Get the recipe here: All Recipes link for this fun cocktail, and while you’re there, you can discover a whole world of other drink recipes for the holidays, too!

We may return our blog to its regularly-scheduled helpful homeowner and home buying tips soon…….but we’re having a little too much fun this month with all our personal favorites for enjoying the holidays – and a few new ones we’ve found. Hope that’s okay with you!

New Home Resource helps current and future homeowners with all of their Las Vegas real estate needs. Whether your preference is for a newly-built home from a local builder, or a resale property in just the right location, a New Home Resource Realtor® is here to find the perfect property for you. Please contact a New Home Resource Realtor® today at 702-365-1000 or at www.newhomeresource.com. Broker Joanna Piette, and agents Denise Moreno Thrasher, Jessica O’Brien, Evelyn ‘Beng’ Kern, Lance Partin and Kathy Paterniti are all here to help!

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One of the best things about buying a home? If you ask us, it’s about creating all those new holiday traditions! All the fun and festivities, the family and friends, the feasts and the falalalala’s. It’s a season we look forward to (presents & food!) – we dread (all that work, work, work to make it all perfect) – and we cherish (memories – both good and bad – whichever, they all make up our unique life stories).

We’d like to share some fun things centered on the holidays that we found and that put a smile on our faces. We hope they do for you, too!

image005A tree to remember. True story (<—-get it?) – because all your visitors will definitely be telling their friends about this one. Imaginatively simple and appropriately studious at the same time – this one tells the perfect tale about the host: Give me books for Christmas!

 

 

image007And for those who would like to take their Christmas tree in a different direction (<—ha! did it again!): An old ladder, a few boards, a little paint, and then bring on the lights and decorations!

 

 

 

image009What is better than a gift – that’s also food? (Other than a new Jaguar, we mean.) At least it’s great if you have people on your gift list that are passionate about their baking hobbies. Great tip: Offer a gift of holiday-shaped cookie cutters – but bake brownies in them for presentation. Fun, tasty, AND useful!

 

image011If presentation is everything, then we’d just like to say we need a few of these around to present our hors d’oeuvres for our holiday party. Arrange your mints on a parchment-lined pan, bake at 350-degrees for 5-8 minutes (watch them closely, though), turn out and let cool. A fantastically-easy and creative way to present your menu in style – and then hey, you can just eat ’em! (A neat twist: Use Jolly Ranchers….we hear they come out like stained-glass windows!)

 

image013Decorative balloons placed on a Frappuccino bottle + Ribbons = Are you kiddin’ me? How creative is this? An impressive and inexpensive packaging idea – great if you’re making homemade items such as bath salts or scrubs as gifts. We’ll take two, thanks!

 

 

image015And speaking of packaging, is this the greatest idea for wrapping children’s gifts EVER? We’re betting they’ll be so entranced, they’ll forget about the present INside. At least for awhile. (We know a few adults who would do the same thing!)

 

 

image017Gift Wrapping 101 continues with this clever presentation that will ensure no one at the office party is switching name tags on your Secret Santa deliveries! Note the cinnamon stick for a festive aroma, and the live greenery to enhance the effect.

 

 

image019We wonder how many of those paint-chip cards they have to keep in stock at Home Depot around the holidays?

 

 

 

image023Keep the kids in the spirit by assigning them the task of making these adorable GrinchKabobs for your holiday events. Or heck, just for breakfast. Green grape, banana, strawberry, mini marshmallow, and a candy heart on top. Couldn’t be simpler – or more fun (especially when they start piping the chocolate expressions on!)

 

image025Finally, if you’ve ever wondered how bakeries manage to create those adorable, individual lattice-topped holiday tarts, look no further. (It’s a little bit like exposing a magician’s secret, huh?) Eh – no matter. We figure we can use all the cheat-sheets we can get this time of year.

 

 

 

 

 

Whatever your holiday this season, and whatever your personal tastes – we truly believe they’ll all be better served in a home of your very own. If you’d like to make it happen for your family, let’s chat about it over the eggnog!

New Home Resource helps current and future homeowners with all of their Las Vegas real estate needs. Whether your preference is for a newly-built home from a local builder, or a resale property in just the right location, a New Home Resource Realtor® is here to find the perfect property for you. Please contact a New Home Resource Realtor® today at 702-365-1000 or at www.newhomeresource.com. Broker Joanna Piette, and agents Denise Moreno Thrasher, Jessica O’Brien, Evelyn ‘Beng’ Kern, Lance Partin and Kathy Paterniti are all here to help!

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Everyone enjoys the holidays, and each of us does it in our own way. But with all the hustle and bustle going on during the season, it’s also a time when busy people become careless and vulnerable to theft and other holiday crime. We can never be too careful, too prepared, or too aware. So we’d like to share the following tips with you to help ensure you’ll get through the season happy – and most of all, safe.

While Out Shopping

• Try to shop during daylight hour. If you must shop at night, go with a friend or family member.

• Dress casually and comfortably – and avoid wearing expensive jewelry.

• In parking lots – even though you are rushed and thinking about a thousand things, stay alert to your surroundings.

• Avoid carrying large amounts of cash – and carry the cash you do have in your front pocket.

• Pay for purchases with a check or credit card when possible.

• If you must use an ATM, choose one that is located in a well-lit location – and withdraw only the amount of cash you need.

• Protect your PIN by shielding the ATM keypad from anyone who is standing near you.

• Do not throw your ATM receipt away at the ATM location.

• Teach your child to go to a store clerk and ask for help in the event they are separated from you.

• Teach children to stay close to you at all times while shopping.

• Never allow children to make unaccompanied trips to the restroom.

• Children should never be allowed to go to the car alone and they should never be left alone in the car.

• Teach children their full name, address and telephone number to give to police officers or mall security.

• Teach children to immediately inform you if a stranger is bothering them.

• Keep a record of all of your credit card numbers in a safe place at home. (Not on your cell phone!)

• Wallets and purses are the prime targets of criminals in crowded shopping areas, and especially in tourist locations (of which Las Vegas has many!).

• Avoid overloading yourself with packages. Take two trips to your vehicle if you have to – or better yet, ask the store clerk for help. It is important to have clear visibility and freedom of motion to avoid mishaps.

• Beware of strangers approaching you for any reason. At this time of year, con-artists will try various methods of distracting you with the intention of taking your money or belongings – or even worse.

Driving Safe – Before, During & After Your Trip

• When approaching or leaving your vehicle, be aware of your surroundings.

• Keep all car doors locked and windows closed while in or out of your car, and set your alarm or use an anti-theft device if you have one.

• If you must shop at night, park in a well-lit area.

• Avoid parking next to vans, trucks with camper shells, or cars with tinted windows.

• Park as close as you can to your destination and take notice of where you parked.

• Never leave your car unoccupied with the motor running or with children inside.

• Do not leave packages or valuables on the seat of your car. If you must leave something in the car, lock it in the trunk or put it out of sight.

• Be sure to locate your keys prior to going to your car.

• Keep a secure hold on your purse, handbag and parcels. Do not put them down or on top of the car – or leave it in the shopping cart – in order to open the door or load your packages.

• Do not approach your car alone if there are suspicious people in the area.

Keeping Things Safe At Home

• Be extra cautious about locking doors and windows when you leave the house, even for a few minutes.

• When leaving home for an extended time, ask a neighbor or family member watch your house and pick up your newspapers and mail.

• Put both indoor and outdoor lights on an automatic timer.

• When not at home, leave a radio or television on so the house looks and sounds occupied.

• Large displays of holiday gifts should not be visible through the windows and doors of your home.

• Be aware that criminals sometimes pose as couriers delivering gifts or flowers.

• It is not uncommon for criminals to take advantage of the generosity of people during the holiday season by soliciting donations door-to-door for charitable causes although no charity is involved.

Enjoy Those Holiday Parties, But . . .

• Arrange for an official designated driver who will not drink at all.

• Have something to eat before consuming alcoholic beverages and know your safe limit.

• Never drink and drive.

With extra attention paid to what is going on around you, you’re more than likely to NOT be the target of criminals – they tend to focus on those who are distracted or unaware of their immediate surroundings. So stay aware and stay safe this season – because there’s way too much to celebrate (and to eat)!

New Home Resource helps current and future homeowners with all of their Las Vegas real estate needs. Whether your preference is for a newly-built home from a local builder, or a resale property in just the right location, a New Home Resource Realtor® is here to find the perfect property for you. Please contact a New Home Resource Realtor® today at 702-365-1000 or at www.newhomeresource.com. Broker Joanna Piette, and agents Denise Moreno Thrasher, Jessica O’Brien, Evelyn ‘Beng’ Kern, Lance Partin and Kathy Paterniti are all here to help!

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So – you think you know everything there is to know about Thanksgiving, eh? Well – maybe . . . and maybe not. But just to make sure you can pass the “Thanksgiving Trivia Test” that someone at the dinner table is sure to deliver this year, here’s a few tidbits that might help you score.

Does Turkey Really Make You Sleepy?

One of the most common misconceptions – but the real answer is “Not so much.” Turkey does contain the essential amino acid tryptophan, which is a natural sedative, but so do a lot of other foods – like chicken, beef, pork, beans and cheese. Though many people believe turkey’s tryptophan content is what makes many people feel sleepy after a big Thanksgiving meal, it is more likely the combination of fats and carbohydrates, as well as the large amount of food (not to mention alcohol, in some cases) consumed, that makes most people feel like following their meal up with a nap.

How Many Turkeys Are Consumed On Thanksgiving?

An estimated 46 million turkeys are eaten on Thanksgiving (the birds weigh, on average, 16 pounds). That is more than double the amount eaten on Christmas (22 million) and Easter (19 million). In 2010, more than 244 million turkeys were raised and about 226 million of those were consumed in the United States. Holy Turkey!

If Not For Thanksgiving – The Freezer Food Aisles Would Be Less Crowded

One of the greatest marketing triumphs of the 50’s, we’d say – because TV dinners have Thanksgiving to thank. In 1953, someone at Swanson misjudged the number of frozen turkeys it would sell that Thanksgiving — by 26 TONS! Some industrious soul came up with a brilliant plan: Why not slice up the meat and repackage with some trimmings on the side? And the family dinner has never been the same since.

Careers To Avoid If Black Friday Is Your Favorite Event

Going shopping the day after Thanksgiving? Not if you’re a plumber. Black Friday is the busiest day of the year for them, according to Roto-Rooter, the nation’s largest plumbing service. After all, someone has to clean up after household guests who, er, ‘overwhelm the system.”

The Movement Of The Turkey Inspired A Dance

Yep – and it’s called the Turkey Trot. Modeled on the bird’s characteristic short, jerky steps, it was one of a number of popular dance styles that emerged during the late 19th and early 20th century in the United States. The two-step, a simple dance that required little to no instruction, was quickly followed by such dances as the one-step, the turkey trot, the fox trot and the bunny hug, which could all be performed to the ragtime and jazz music popular at the time. The popularity of such dances spread like wildfire. (Although we’re just glad they didn’t change the main course to one of those other critters!)

Why Pick An Eagle When There’s Turkeys?

In a letter to his daughter sent in 1784, Benjamin Franklin suggested that the wild turkey would be a more appropriate national symbol for the newly independent United States than the bald eagle (which had earlier been chosen by the Continental Congress). He argued that the turkey was “a much more respectable Bird,” “a true original Native of America,” and “though a little vain and silly, a Bird of Courage.” (While we admit that plenty of people already know this bit of trivia, it’s still an interesting way of gaining our forefathers’ perspective, we think!)

And let’s just wrap it up with a few quickies (or perhaps “one-liners” would be more appropriate):

• A full-grown turkey has over 3,000 feathers.

• Only male turkeys, called toms, gobble. Females, called hens, cackle.

• Thanksgiving is not just an American holiday – Canadians celebrate it, too (except they do it the second Monday in October).

• Turkeys have heart attacks: The United States Air Force was doing test runs and breaking the sound barrier, and nearby turkeys dropped dead with heart attacks. (Altogether now: Awwww! That’s so sad!)

• Green bean casserole came about some 50 years ago – thanks to the Campbell’s Soup people creating new recipes for its annual cookbook. (Now, the company sells about $20 million worth of cream of mushroom soup, most likely for people to make the casserole.)

Now the ball’s in your court. If you can’t win yourself a bar-bet with one of those tidbits, then odds are you’re not the genius in the room. 🙂 Happy Thanksgiving!!

New Home Resource helps current and future homeowners with all of their Las Vegas real estate needs. Whether your preference is for a newly-built home from a local builder, or a resale property in just the right location, a New Home Resource Realtor® is here to find the perfect property for you. Please contact a New Home Resource Realtor® today at 702-365-1000 or at www.newhomeresource.com. Broker Joanna Piette, and agents Denise Moreno Thrasher, Jessica O’Brien, Evelyn ‘Beng’ Kern, Lance Partin and Kathy Paterniti are all here to help!

Just a few of the pumpkin carvings by Las Vegas local, Bryan Yeager of Killer Pumpkins. Catch his talents at the Summerlin Festival of the Arts, October 11-12 at Downtown Summerlin.

Just a few of the pumpkin carvings by Las Vegas local, Bryan Yeager of Killer Pumpkins. Catch his talents at the Summerlin Festival of the Arts, October 11-12 at Downtown Summerlin.

Autumn is upon us, and with it comes great weather and all the fun of getting back outdoors again in Las Vegas. From festivals and fairs, to pumpkin patches and plays – there’s probably a million things to do around Southern Nevada this fall.

Unfortunately, we can’t list ALL of them here. But we have cherry, er, pumpkin-picked some of the highlights below. So start penciling these into your schedule and go have some fun with the family! (Besides, it will start getting you ready for the upcoming holiday season, too.)

Sept. 18-Nov. 27 – Bellagio – Bellagio Botanical Gardens – All dressed up for fall, a must-see.

Sept. 22-Oct. 18 – The Smith Center – The Book of Mormon – Back by popular demand.

Thru Oct. 31 – Las Vegas – Gilcrease Orchard – Open Tues/Thurs/Sat/Sun. A Las Vegas family favorite.

Oct. 1-31 – Las Vegas – Pumpkin Patch at McKee Ranch – Farm fun, animals, hay rides, & pumpkins!

Oct. 1-4 – Downtown – Las Vegas BikeFest 2015 – It’s the 15th anniversary!

Oct. 3 – Las Vegas – Hallo-Wiener – 12th Annual -if you’re a wiener dog fan, this is the place!

Oct. 3-4 – Boulder City – Art in the Park – 53rd annual, it’s a Southern Nevada tradition!

Oct. 3-5 – Henderson – St. Francis of Assisi Parish Festival – Carnival, contests, foods, music, and the blessing of the animals ceremony (for all you pet-lovers!)

Oct. 8-31 – Red Rock Canyon – Bonnie Screams -Haunted house, Zombie hunts, Spook walks and more.

Oct. 9-11 – Sunset Park – The Renaissance Festival – The Age of Chivalry returns!

Oct. 10 – Lake Las Vegas – Rose Regatta Dragon Boat Festival – Paddle for a purpose!

Oct. 10 – Moapa River – Rise Festival – Help to fill the night sky above the Moapa River Indian Reservation with paper lanterns and send your message skyward.

Oct. 10-11 – Downtown Summerlin – Festival of Arts – Music, food, entertainment, vendors.

Oct. 16-31 – Las Vegas Farm – The Farm Festival – Fun, educational, and getting back to nature

Oct. 17 – Southern Highlands – Southern Highlands Fall Festival – Games, vendors, contests, crafts, raffles, and a free Pumpkin Patch!

Oct. 17 – Mountain’s Edge – Family Fur & Fun Festival – This one’s good for you AND your pets!

Oct. 17 – MGM – Jimmy Buffett – Who doesn’t love a great Parrothead?

Oct. 23-24 – Logandale – Logandale Fall Festival – Bluegrass music, bbq cookoff, vendors and more.

Nov. 6-8 – Cashman Center – The Craft Festival – Rated one of the top 20 craft fairs in the U.S.

Nov. 18-19 – Las Vegas – 27th Annual Festival of Trees and Lights – To Benefit DSOSM.

Dec. 3-12 – Thomas & Mack Center – National Finals Rodeo – If you’re lucky enough to get tickets!

Dec. 6 – Las Vegas – Nevada International Film Festival – Orleans Hotel.

Dec. 10-14 – Summerlin South – A Holiday To Remember – Entertainment, vendors, holiday fun.

If that list of events doesn’t get your fall fun calendar in order, then we’d have to say that you’re just not trying to get in the spirit. Now – go forth, and enjoy!

New Home Resource helps current and future homeowners with all of their Las Vegas real estate needs. Whether your preference is for a newly-built home from a local builder, or a resale property in just the right location, a New Home Resource Realtor® is here to find the perfect property for you. Please contact a New Home Resource Realtor® today at 702-365-1000 or at www.newhomeresource.com. Broker Joanna Piette, and agents Denise Moreno Thrasher, Jessica O’Brien, Evelyn ‘Beng’ Kern, Lance Partin and Kathy Paterniti are all here to help!