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Area Attractions Blog Events Kyle Kyle Texas Tips

Holiday Events and Happenings Near Crosswinds

The holiday season has arrived in Kyle, and the entire area is glowing with festive cheer. December is filled with twinkling lights, family outings, handmade gifts, and celebrations that bring the community together. For residents of Crosswinds, all the magic is just minutes away, making it easy to plan a month full of joyful memories. Whether you are exploring local events, sharing traditions with neighbors, or looking for fun ways to celebrate closer to home, there is something for everyone to enjoy this season.

Local Holiday Highlights

One of the most beloved traditions in Kyle is the Buda Holiday Lights Trail. This event transforms the park into a sparkling walkway lined with glowing displays and holiday scenes. Families can stroll through at their own pace, enjoy the crisp evening air, and take in the colorful lights that brighten the season. It is a simple and charming outing that kids and adults look forward to year after year.

December also brings Holiday Market Days to Downtown Kyle. Shoppers can browse local vendors, discover handcrafted gifts, and support small businesses while enjoying festive music and seasonal treats. It is the perfect place to find unique presents or simply enjoy a cheerful morning with friends and family.

Throughout the month, you can also catch Santa sightings, carriage rides, and neighborhood light shows around Kyle and the surrounding communities. These little touches make the season feel even more special and give families plenty of opportunities to celebrate close to home.

Crosswinds Inspired Ideas

Living at Crosswinds makes it easy to turn any holiday event into a cozy, connected experience. Before heading out for an evening at the Buda Holiday Lights or one of the city’s celebrations, you might set up a simple hot cocoa bar at home. Marshmallows, candy canes, whipped cream, or even flavored syrups can turn an ordinary cup of cocoa into a fun pre-event tradition.

Group outings are another great way to bring neighbors together. Families can coordinate carpools, share holiday treats, or plan to walk the Trail of Lights as a community. These small moments build lasting friendships and make the season feel even warmer.

Family Tips for a Festive Month

With so much happening around Kyle, a little preparation can make your holiday outings even more enjoyable. Bringing cozy blankets to outdoor events can help keep everyone comfortable during cool evenings. A lightweight bag with snacks, water, and a small flashlight can also be helpful for nighttime activities.

Be sure to capture the magic with photos throughout the season. Whether it is kids bundled up with cocoa in hand, a family selfie at the Trail of Lights, or a snapshot of beautifully decorated homes nearby, these memories are worth preserving. Children may also enjoy making their own keepsakes at home, such as handmade ornaments or simple holiday crafts inspired by the events they attend.

Celebrate the Season Close to Home

Living at Crosswinds means having easy access to some of the best holiday events in Kyle, along with the comfort of a welcoming, family-focused community. From festive lights to local markets, December is filled with experiences that bring joy to people of all ages. If you want to be part of a neighborhood where holiday magic is just around the corner, visit our contact page to learn more about life at Crosswinds.

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Blog Homeowner Tips Kyle Kyle Texas Tips

Why Winter Is a Smart Time to Buy a Home in Kyle, TX

When people think about buying a new home, spring and summer often come to mind. But in a fast-growing market like Kyle, Texas, winter is one of the smartest times to make your move. While the temperatures might be cooler, the opportunities for buyers can be warmer than ever. From builder incentives to quicker move-ins, there are several advantages to purchasing a home during the winter season. For families and individuals looking to settle into a peaceful yet connected neighborhood, Crosswinds offers the perfect place to start the new year in a new home.

The Benefits of Buying in Winter

One of the biggest benefits of winter home shopping is reduced competition. Since fewer people tend to buy during the colder months, there is less pressure to make rushed decisions or engage in bidding wars. This creates a calmer experience for buyers who want to take their time and consider all of their options.

Winter is also a popular time for builders to offer promotions or year-end incentives. You may find limited-time deals or upgrades that make your investment even more worthwhile. Additionally, homes that are already completed and ready for move-in can help speed up the closing process, allowing you to settle into your new space faster than during peak seasons.

Kyle’s Steady Growth Brings Long-Term Value

Kyle continues to rank as one of Central Texas’s fastest-growing cities. New businesses, local investments, and improvements in infrastructure have made it an attractive place for families, professionals, and retirees alike. Its location along the I-35 corridor places it within easy reach of both Austin and San Marcos, creating a blend of small-town charm and big-city convenience.

Buying a home during the winter puts you in the perfect position to enjoy spring and summer in full swing. By the time the warmer months arrive, you’ll already be settled, allowing you to take advantage of nearby parks, festivals, and community events without the stress of moving.

The Crosswinds Advantage

Crosswinds is more than a place to live. It’s a thoughtfully designed neighborhood where trusted builders, move-in ready homes, and community amenities all come together. From scenic walking trails and green spaces to a resort-style pool and playgrounds, everything you need for daily enjoyment is right outside your door.

Even during the winter months, Crosswinds offers a peaceful and welcoming atmosphere. The neighborhood layout supports a connected lifestyle, while still giving residents space and privacy. For homebuyers who want access to nature, strong schools, and a sense of belonging, this community checks every box.

Explore Crosswinds This Season

Winter may not be the most traditional time to shop for a home, but that’s exactly what makes it such a unique opportunity. With lower competition, attractive builder offerings, and a city that’s constantly evolving, buying in Kyle this season is a smart move for those thinking ahead.

If you’re ready to start your next chapter in a community built for comfort, connection, and growth, Crosswinds is ready to welcome you. Explore available homes and schedule your personal tour today by visiting our Contact Page. Your future in Kyle could begin this winter, right here at Crosswinds.

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Blog Family Fun Kyle Kyle Texas Tips

DIY Holiday Crafts & Kid-Friendly Décor Projects for Cozy Nights at Home

There’s something magical about crafting during the holidays. As twinkling lights begin to glow and festive music fills the air, families in Crosswinds can turn ordinary evenings into something truly special with hands-on creativity. Whether you’re making decorations for the house or gifts to share with loved ones, these simple and joyful projects are perfect for cozy nights at home. The spacious layouts and open-concept designs of Crosswinds homes make it easy to set up a dedicated crafting corner that the whole family can enjoy together.

Simple Crafts for Kids

Holiday crafting doesn’t have to be complicated to be meaningful. Children love the chance to create something with their own hands, especially when it’s something they can display or give to a neighbor.

Start with easy paper snowflakes using white printer paper or coffee filters. Kids can fold, snip, and unfold their own unique designs, which can be taped to windows or strung up on a garland. For something a little more festive, handprint wreaths made from green construction paper add a personalized touch. Arrange handprints in a circle and decorate with stickers or red bows to complete the look.

DIY ornaments are always a hit. Try using felt, ribbon, popsicle sticks, or cinnamon-scented dough to make keepsakes that can be hung on the tree or tied to holiday gift bags. These small but heartfelt creations make perfect gifts for grandparents, teachers, or neighbors.

For older kids, homemade holiday cards are a great way to express creativity and spread cheer. Use blank cardstock, colorful markers, washi tape, and glitter glue to design one-of-a-kind messages. Include a family photo or a small note to let someone know you’re thinking of them this season.

Family Décor Projects

Beyond crafts for the kids, the whole family can pitch in on easy décor projects that give your Crosswinds home a festive glow. Pinecone garlands are a classic option. Collect pinecones on a nature walk, paint the tips with white or gold paint, and string them together with twine for a natural, rustic decoration. Hang the garland along the staircase, fireplace, or windows.

Holiday countdown chains are another fun way to build excitement throughout December. Use red and green construction paper to create a chain link for each day, and remove one each morning until the big day arrives. Add small activities or kind acts on each link to make the countdown even more meaningful.

Recycled materials can be transformed into colorful window displays. Use cereal boxes, toilet paper rolls, or leftover wrapping paper to cut out stars, trees, or snowmen. These lightweight decorations are fun to make and easy to hang using removable tape or string.

Setting aside a specific area in your home for holiday crafting can make the experience more organized and enjoyable. A breakfast nook, spare dining table, or corner of the living room can easily become a cheerful “craft corner” during the season. Keep supplies in small bins or trays so everything is within reach and easy to clean up afterward.

Creating a Cozy Crafting Atmosphere

Half the fun of holiday crafting is the atmosphere you create around it. Soft lighting, background music, and warm drinks make all the difference. Add string lights or a flickering LED candle near the craft station to add a cozy glow. Choose a holiday playlist filled with family favorites or instrumental tunes to set the mood without distractions.

Warm drinks like cocoa or apple cider are perfect for sipping between crafts. For an extra touch, add a toppings tray with marshmallows, cinnamon sticks, or whipped cream for kids to customize their cup. This small detail can turn an ordinary night into a memory-making moment.

Organization can help keep things stress-free. Clear trays, labeled bins, and wipeable surfaces are ideal when working with glue, glitter, or paint. Consider keeping a small plastic tablecloth on hand for quick cleanup or to protect your kitchen island or dining table.

Happy Crafting!

Holiday crafts bring families closer together and create lasting memories that fill your home with joy and color. Whether you’re cutting out snowflakes or painting pinecones, the moments you spend creating are just as meaningful as the projects themselves. At Crosswinds, wide-open living spaces and thoughtfully designed homes make it easy to embrace the season’s creative spirit.

If you try out any of these DIY ideas, be sure to share your creations with neighbors or on your favorite social platform. Better yet, host a craft night with nearby families and turn it into a new tradition. And if you’re dreaming of a home where family moments like these come naturally, visit our Contact Page to learn more about life at Crosswinds.

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Blog Kyle Kyle Texas Tips TX

Fall Scent Guide: Best Essential Oils & Candles for September

There’s something special about fall: the shift in pace, the return of routines, and the little moments that make home feel extra comforting. One of the easiest ways to invite the season in is through scent. Whether you’re lounging on the porch, entertaining on the patio, or simply winding down after a busy day, the right fragrance can set the mood and bring a touch of seasonal magic to your space.

This month, we’re sharing our favorite essential oils and candle scents for September, perfect for Crosswinds living, whether you’re diffusing indoors or lighting up your favorite candle outside with neighbors and friends.

Why Fall Scents Matter

Fragrance has the power to transform a space. A whiff of cinnamon can bring on a sense of warmth and nostalgia. A blend of vanilla and amber can help you relax and settle in. Seasonal scents add richness and depth to your everyday routines and can make your home feel more personal, welcoming, and peaceful.

Top Scent Picks for September

  • Pumpkin-Cinnamon Spice
    A timeless favorite that instantly brings a cozy, homey feel. It’s a perfect pick for family hangouts, solo quiet time, or even a casual coffee on the porch.
  • Crisp Apple & Maple
    Sweet, fresh, and a little playful, this scent adds brightness to your space while still feeling grounded and seasonal.
  • Vanilla Amber
    Smooth and slightly sultry, this scent is a go-to for creating a calming, mellow vibe, especially in the evenings or when hosting friends.
  • Evergreen & Pine
    Clean and earthy, evergreen scents bring a sense of balance and freshness to your home. It’s a great counterpoint to the sweeter options and perfect for a nature-inspired space.

Essential Oils vs. Candles

Essential oils are a great option if you love variety and prefer something subtle and steady. Use them in diffusers around your home or patio to enjoy a gentle background aroma. They’re also a simple, flame-free choice if you have little ones or pets nearby.

Candles, on the other hand, bring more than scent; they create ambiance. The flicker of a candle can add instant charm to any corner of your home, and it’s hard to beat the ritual of lighting one as you settle in for the evening. Look for soy or natural wax candles with cotton wicks for a cleaner, longer-lasting burn.

How to Infuse Your Space

Start by placing a diffuser near your favorite hangout spot, like nearby the porch swing, a patio table, or a reading chair. Try mixing your own oil blend, like cinnamon and orange for a cozy kick, or lavender and clove for something soothing and warm.

For candles, group a few together in decorative holders or lanterns and place them where you gather most. It’s easy to create a display that looks as good as it smells.

You can also add seasonal touches like a tray of wax melts, a small bowl of dried spices and herbs, or a DIY simmer pot on the stove when entertaining indoors.

Crosswinds Community Connection

Want to turn your scent obsession into a fun community moment? Host a scent-swap with your neighbors: everyone brings a candle, oil blend, or wax melt to trade and try. It’s a simple way to discover new favorites, and it’s a great excuse to gather and catch up.

You can also share your favorite blends and porch setups in the Crosswinds community group. It’s the perfect spot to swap ideas and get inspired by your fellow residents!

Let Your Porch Smell Like Home

Scent is such a small thing, but it has a big impact. It helps define the feeling of home, adds comfort to your everyday routine, and creates memorable moments for your family and guests. Whether you’re drawn to sweet, spicy, or woodsy fragrances, September is a great time to refresh your space and fully enjoy the season.

Thinking about making Crosswinds your next chapter? Contact us to learn more!

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Blog Homeowner Tips Lifestyle Outdoor Living Tips

Revamp Your Outdoor Space: Landscaping Ideas to Welcome Warmer Weather

 

Spring has arrived, and with it comes the perfect opportunity to breathe new life into your outdoor space! As the weather warms up, you’ll likely be spending more time outside, whether it’s in your backyard, on your patio, or enjoying the green spaces around your home in Crosswinds. A fresh and inviting landscape not only enhances curb appeal but also creates a relaxing retreat for you and your family to enjoy. If you’re ready to give your outdoor space a seasonal refresh, here are some simple and effective ways to spruce things up for spring and summer.

1. Clean Up & Declutter Your Yard

Before diving into new projects, start by tidying up your outdoor space. Winter can leave behind fallen leaves, broken branches, and other debris that make your yard look untidy.

To-Do List:

  • Rake up leaves and twigs.
  • Trim back overgrown bushes and trees.
  • Remove any weeds from garden beds and pathways.
  • Clean off patios, decks, and outdoor furniture.

A clean slate will make it easier to plan and implement fresh landscaping ideas!

2. Refresh Your Lawn

A lush, green lawn sets the tone for a beautiful outdoor space. After winter, your grass may need a little TLC to bring it back to life.

Lawn Care Tips:

  • Aerate the soil to help water and nutrients reach the roots.
  • Reseed any bare patches and apply fertilizer.
  • Mow regularly but avoid cutting grass too short to maintain healthy growth.
  • Water deeply and consistently, especially in warmer months.

A well-maintained lawn is the foundation of a great outdoor space!

3. Plant Seasonal Flowers & Greenery

Adding vibrant flowers and fresh greenery is a simple way to enhance the beauty of your yard. Choose plants that thrive in the Texas heat to keep your garden looking great all season long.

Best Spring & Summer Plants for Texas:

  • Colorful Flowers: Lantana, petunias, marigolds, and zinnias.
  • Drought-Resistant Plants: Succulents, agave, and yucca.
  • Shade-Providing Trees: Crepe myrtles and live oaks.
  • Herbs & Veggies: Basil, rosemary, tomatoes, and peppers.

A mix of flowers, shrubs, and edible plants will make your outdoor space both beautiful and functional.

4. Update Outdoor Furniture & Decor

Your outdoor space should feel just as inviting as the inside of your home. Freshening up your patio or backyard with new furniture and decor can make a huge difference.

Easy Upgrades:

  • Clean or repaint outdoor furniture for a fresh look.
  • Add new cushions and outdoor rugs in bright, summery colors.
  • String up fairy lights or lanterns for cozy evening ambiance.
  • Incorporate decorative planters, bird feeders, or wind chimes for extra charm.

Small changes can make your space feel brand new!

5. Mulch & Redefine Garden Beds

A fresh layer of mulch not only enhances the look of your garden but also helps retain moisture and keep weeds at bay.

Steps to Refresh Your Garden Beds:

  • Pull out any weeds or dead plants.
  • Edge around the beds to create defined borders.
  • Apply a new layer of mulch (2-3 inches thick) in natural or colored varieties.
  • Arrange plants in layers for a visually appealing effect.

Mulching instantly makes garden beds look polished while keeping plants healthy.

6. Install a Water Feature or Fire Pit

For a major upgrade, consider adding a focal point like a water feature or fire pit to your outdoor space.

Benefits:

  • A water fountain or small pond adds a peaceful, soothing element to your yard.
  • A fire pit creates a cozy gathering space for summer nights and roasting marshmallows.
  • Both features can boost curb appeal and property value!

Choose a feature that suits your space and lifestyle to create a relaxing retreat.

7. Set Up a Functional Outdoor Living Area

Turn your backyard into an extension of your home by creating designated areas for dining, relaxing, and playing.

Ideas to Try:

  • A shaded dining area with an umbrella or pergola.
  • A comfortable lounge space with weatherproof seating.
  • A kid-friendly play area with a sandbox or swing set.
  • A garden nook with benches for reading or unwinding.

A well-planned outdoor space makes it easy to enjoy your home all season long!

8. Add Pathways & Lighting

Pathways and lighting not only improve safety but also enhance the look of your outdoor space.

Simple Enhancements:

  • Use stone, gravel, or stepping stones to create garden paths.
  • Add solar-powered lights along walkways for soft evening illumination.
  • Use LED string lights or lanterns for a warm, inviting glow.

These touches make your yard more accessible and enjoyable after sunset.

Welcome Spring & Summer with a Beautiful Outdoor Space!

There’s no better time than now to freshen up your landscape and create an outdoor space you’ll love spending time in. Whether it’s planting new flowers, updating patio furniture, or adding cozy lighting, these simple improvements will make your home feel refreshed and inviting.

Here at Crosswinds, we love seeing neighbors enjoy their beautiful outdoor spaces, whether it’s in their backyards, on their patios, or in the scenic community parks. So grab your gardening gloves, fire up the grill, and enjoy all that spring and summer have to offer in your revitalized outdoor oasis!

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Blog Family Fun Homeowner Tips Lifestyle Tips

Fun & Festive Spring Craft Ideas for the Whole Family

 

Spring is in full bloom, and there’s no better time to get creative with your little ones! As the days grow longer and the flowers start to blossom, it’s the perfect season to bring a little color and joy into your home with fun, easy craft projects. Whether you’re looking for a rainy-day activity or a way to enjoy the sunshine together, these spring-inspired crafts are sure to keep your kids entertained while making wonderful memories. Let’s dive into some creative projects you can do right in your Crosswinds home!

1. Handprint Flower Bouquet

Handprint crafts are always a hit with kids, and this one makes for a beautiful keepsake!

What You Need:

  • Colored construction paper
  • Scissors
  • Glue
  • Green pipe cleaners
  • Paint (washable, kid-friendly)
  • Paintbrush

How to Make It:

Have your child dip their hand in paint and press it onto the paper to create flower shapes.

Cut out the handprint flowers once they dry.
Attach green pipe cleaners as stems using glue.

Arrange them in a “bouquet” and place them in a paper vase (you can fold and decorate a small piece of cardstock for this).

This craft is not only fun but also a great way to capture your child’s little hands as a special springtime memory!

2. Egg Carton Caterpillars

Transform an old egg carton into an adorable caterpillar with this simple craft.

What You Need:

  • Egg carton (cut into strips of 4-5 cups)
  • Paint and paintbrushes
  • Googly eyes
  • Pipe cleaners
  • Glue

How to Make It:

Cut an egg carton into a strip of connected cups to form the caterpillar’s body.

Let your child paint each section in bright, fun colors.
Once dry, glue on googly eyes and poke pipe cleaner “antennae” into the first cup.

Draw on a smile with a marker, and your caterpillar is ready to wiggle!

3. DIY Bird Feeders

Springtime brings chirping birds to the neighborhood, so why not make a feeder to welcome them?

What You Need:

  • Toilet paper rolls or pinecones
  • Peanut butter (or sun butter for allergies)
  • Birdseed
  • String or twine

How to Make It:

Spread peanut butter all over the toilet paper roll or pinecone.
Roll it in birdseed until fully coated.

Attach a piece of string so you can hang it outside on a tree or fence.

This is a great way to teach kids about nature while encouraging them to observe the birds in their own backyard.

4. Paper Plate Butterflies

Bring a touch of spring indoors with these colorful butterfly crafts.

What You Need:

  • Paper plates
  • Paint or markers
  • Pipe cleaners
  • Scissors
  • Glue

How to Make It:

Cut a paper plate in half to create butterfly wings.
Let your child paint and decorate each side.

Once dry, glue the two halves together at an angle to form butterfly wings.

Use a pipe cleaner as the body, twisting the ends for antennae.

These bright butterflies can be used as decorations for your home or even turned into a mobile to hang from the ceiling!

5. Spring-Themed Suncatchers

These beautiful suncatchers will brighten up any window in your home!

What You Need:

  • Contact paper
  • Tissue paper (various colors)
  • Scissors
  • Paper frames (cut into shapes like flowers, butterflies, or raindrops)

How to Make It:

Cut out a frame from construction paper (such as a flower or a butterfly outline).

Cut a piece of contact paper and stick it behind the frame.

Let your child place small pieces of colored tissue paper inside the frame to create a stained-glass effect.

Once complete, press another piece of contact paper over it to seal everything in place.

Stick it to a sunny window and watch the colors shine!

Enjoy a Craft-Filled Spring at Crosswinds!

Spring is a season full of life, and there’s no better way to celebrate than by making something creative with your kids. Whether you’re painting, gluing, or getting a little messy, these crafts bring fun and laughter into your home. Plus, they’re a great way to spend quality time together while adding some seasonal charm to your space.

Here at Crosswinds, we know how important family time is, and with so many beautiful outdoor spaces and cozy homes, it’s the perfect community to enjoy spring activities. So grab some craft supplies and start creating—happy crafting! Contact us today to learn more about life at Crosswinds!

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Blog Lifestyle Tips

Sweet Dreams: Tips for Better Sleep

Getting enough sleep is essential for both our body’s physical and mental health. Here are a few tips to keep in mind that will help you get more Zzzzs when you hit the sack. 

 

Establish a Sleep Schedule 

 

Establishing a schedule that will better help you get a consistent number of hours of sleep each night is key. In the same way, a routine is beneficial for exercise; a sleep routine will improve the quality of your sleep and better maintain the benefits of sleep. 

 

A few things to keep in mind when establishing a sleep schedule:

 

  • Set a specific “lights out” time
  • Avoid afternoon naps as these can throw off going to sleep at the same time each night 

 

Create a Bedtime Ritual

 

In order to be ready to actually go to sleep each night at a specific time and not find yourself staring wide-eyed at the ceiling when you do turn off the light, a relaxing bedtime ritual can make all the difference. 

 

A warm bath or shower can help your body relax, but you may also want to do some light stretching or practice some breathing exercises. This will help send the signal to both your brain and body that the day is done, and now it’s time to sleep. 

 

And as simple as it might seem, brushing your teeth also sends a signal to your body that it’s time to rest.

 

Create a Peaceful Sleep Environment

 

Sure you may be able to sleep through a passing freight train, but that doesn’t mean it’s beneficial to healthy sleep. Noise can easily disrupt the sleep cycle, so you’ll want to do your best to block out any outside noise. Using earplugs or a white noise machine can be very helpful with this.

 

Other elements for a peaceful sleep environment should include:

 

  • A comfortable and cool temperature
  • A comfortable mattress and pillow
  • A dark room. You may want to use blackout curtains or a sleep mask.

 

Limit Screen Time

 

It’s a good idea to kill screen time at least an hour before you turn out the light. Blue screen light disrupts the release of melatonin (your body’s natural sleepytime hormone) and can make falling asleep difficult. So, get in the habit of establishing an electronics curfew.

 

Some people can read books (the traditional kind, not on a tablet) before bed, but others may find that even this is too much brain stimulation. Figure out what works best for you and stick to it. 

 

Be Mindful of What You Eat and Drink

 

It’s not only important that we limit our brain stimulation before sleep, but our physical stimulation as well. You may want to avoid strenuous exercises for several hours before going to bed, as this can “wake up” muscle groups. It’s also a good idea to abstain from any sort of stimulant, such as nicotine, sugar, or caffeine, four to five hours before bed. 

 

Alcohol and spicy foods can also disrupt sleep patterns, so if you plan on enjoying a few margaritas and tacos, do so several hours before bedtime. 

A comfortable bedroom in a home you love can make all the difference when it comes to a good night’s rest. If you’re looking for the perfect home, reach out to the Crosswinds team to learn more about our available inventory of homes.

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Blog Homeowner Tips Tips

Tidy Up After the Holidays: Tips For Holiday Storage

With the holiday season and another year in the rearview, you might find yourself looking around the house and feeling that some decluttering is needed. Hey, no shame here! It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of the season, only to find yourself knee-deep in shipping boxes, decorations, and general wintertime clutter come January. 

 

Here are a few tips to help you tidy up after the holidays and get your home back in order. 

 

Wrap Up Your Christmas Tree

 

Decorating the Christmas tree is a lot of fun and often a memorable way for families to come together. When it comes to undecorating it though, don’t be surprised if there’s a lack of zeal among your household. 

 

A super simple way to make putting the Christmas tree away a breeze is to just wrap it up. Christmas tree covers allow you to simply throw a specially fitted tarp over your tree, lights and all and put it away for storage. An even cheaper way that reportedly works just as well is wrapping it in saran wrap. If you have fragile ornaments, it’s advised to first remove those. 

 

Smart Storage

 

When it comes to storing holiday decorations, how you go about it makes all the difference. Fragile tree ornaments can be especially tricky to store. A great way to keep them safe is to buy a large plastic storage bin and store each ornament in its own plastic cup or container for extra protection. Just be sure not to overpack the bin. 

 

Nobody likes untangling a ball of Christmas lights that were haphazardly put away the previous year, so store them smartly. Wrap the smaller lights around tightly rolled-up newspapers, and for the larger jumbo lights, take a few stiff pieces of cardboard and cut out a slot on each end to make a spool. 

 

Combine and Reorganize

 

If you are the sort of person who likes to have certain decorations in the same spot year after year, then this is one tip you’ll certainly want to utilize. Consider grouping your decorations by room. 

 

What we mean by that is when you put each of your decorations away in storage, don’t simply label the box “Xmas lights” or “holiday table runners”; also label them by room. “Christmas knick-knacks – living room” or “holiday towels, upstairs guest bath” will help make things easy to find and streamline putting those decorations back on display when the holiday season rolls around again. 

 

Declutter

 

Some holiday decorations are treasured keepsakes that get passed down through generations. Others, however, are lucky if they survive two Christmases. Doing a little bit of decluttering as you put away the decorations will help free up storage space and… (bonus) give you a reason to buy new decorations next year!

 

Assess each decoration for what you want to keep, what is trash, and what is still in decent condition, but you’d rather not hold onto it and donate instead. 

Celebrating the holidays in a home you love makes the season and new year all the more special. If you’re looking to find a new home you can make your own, reach out to the Crosswinds team today.

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Amenities Blog Lifestyle Tips

Holiday Hustle: Staying Healthy During the Holiday Season

Whether it’s traveling, figuring out a shopping budget, planning big meals, or keeping the peace at family gatherings, the holiday hustle can be exhausting. 

 

Here are a few ways to stay merry and bright throughout the holiday season. 

 

Don’t Skip on Exercise

 

Many people tend to hit pause on the gym come Thanksgiving and vow to start exercising again after New Year’s. This is a mistake. 

 

Making time for regular exercise (at least 2-3 days a week) will help you stay healthy during the holidays in a number of ways. 

 

  • Reduces stress
  • Provides an energy boost
  • Strengthens your immune system
  • Can prevent weight gain 

 

Nobody wants to end the year sick, tired, and feeling like they put on unwanted weight, so get in some cardio!

 

Travel Smart

 

Travel during the holidays can be especially tiring, and with so many people passing through airports and roadside travel centers, it’s especially easy to pick up a bug. 

 

A key tip to avoid getting sick is to follow the advice of your kindergarten teacher and wash your hands. Always wash them after using a public restroom, preparing to eat a meal, or after passing through a baggage checkpoint. (Keeping hand sanitizer on you isn’t a bad idea either.)

 

If you have a compromised immune system or are getting over an illness, masking up when passing through airports, subways, or crowded areas is also a good precaution. 

 

Hydration is Key

 

Speaking of travel, flying naturally dehydrates the body, so make a point to drink lots of water. Even if you’re not traveling for the holidays, drinking plenty of water is still good. People tend to eat more sugar and salt during the holiday season, and drinking water will help to keep your body hydrated. 

 

It’s also wise to drink at least one glass of water for every alcoholic beverage you have. This will go a long way in preventing that dreaded holiday office party hangover. 

 

Healthy Eating 

 

Perhaps no other time of year is full of mouthwatering treats and recipes than the holiday season. It’s no secret that many holiday dishes are full of calories, and those calories can quickly add up.

 

You don’t need to forgo pie and stuffing completely, but simple holiday healthy eating tips like doubling up on veggies, skipping seconds, and not shopping on an empty stomach can go a long way in keeping extra weight off. 

 

And if you’re in charge of the cooking, opting for healthier versions of holiday dishes will help balance out the extra plate of cookies. 

 

Manage Holiday Stress

 

The holidays can be stressful even for those who seemingly have nerves of steel. Recognizing what causes that holiday stress is the key to managing it. If you feel like you “have to do everything,” then taking on less and saying “no” more often can take extra pressure off your plate. 

 

If relatives are a source of stress, then it’s important to set boundaries. As the saying goes, “You can’t change how others act, but you can determine how you respond.”

The holidays are a wonderful time and enjoying them in a home you love makes the festivities even more special. If you’re looking for your dream home, contact our team to learn more about the master-planned Crosswinds community.

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Mastering Meal Prep: Time-Saving Strategies for Busy Families

Families are busier than ever, but thankfully, meal prep is one area of life where a few time-saving strategies can make all the difference. 

 

Make a Meal Plan

 

The first step to any good meal plan is creating a master list of meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) that you know your family will actually eat. You’ll want to be sure and mix in enough variety so that your family members aren’t rolling their eyes by week three. 

 

From there, you’ll need to decide on what meals you plan on cooking that week and take inventory of what’s already in the kitchen before you head to the grocery store. You’ll want to do this around the same day each week to get in the habit of making this part of the weekly routine. 

 

Freezer Meals for Busy Days

 

Even with a good meal plan, there are probably going to be those days when, by 9 AM, it’s obvious that there’s not going to be enough time in the day to cook a full meal. This is where the freezer meal backup plan comes in. 

 

You’ll want to carve out some time in your schedule when you know you can make an extra meal that you can put in the freezer for those super busy days. How many you want to keep on deck is up to you (and how big your freezer is), but two or three never hurts. 

 

Some meals freeze better than others, so be sure to pick recipes that thaw well. Stews and casseroles are usually a safe bet. 

 

Simplify Recipes

 

Everyone likes a home-cooked meal made from scratch. The problem is that “from scratch” can be very time-consuming. Luckily, it’s pretty easy to simplify many classic recipes and still deliver a delicious meal the family will love. 

 

Here are a few simple ways to take some of the work out of recipes:

 

  • Opt for canned veggies over fresh
  • Buy frozen or pre-sliced veggies
  • Ask your grocery butcher to slice the meat you’d like to buy
  • Invest in an Instant Pot or Crock Pot
  • Instead of slicing garlic or ginger, buy the already-minced version
  • Toss your meats and veggies on a baking sheet for an easy sheet pan dinner
  • Make use of a preheating oven for roasting veggies that aren’t as sensitive to a fully heated oven

 

Involve the Family

 

There’s no reason not to get the entire family involved if they’re going to be eating the food, too. (Okay, babies and toddlers might be more trouble in the kitchen than help, but everyone else…) Bringing in the entire family to help with some aspect of the meal prep can take part of the load off your shoulders and will also help children be more confident and independent in the kitchen. 

 

Even if it’s something as simple as grabbing a box of pasta from the pantry, dumping in a can of corn, or stirring a pot of chicken noodle soup, kids (and spouses) will gradually feel more comfortable and probably even enjoy helping with meal prep. 

A well-designed and functional kitchen can make all the difference when it comes to meal prep. To learn more about the amenities and floor plans of the homes in the Crosswinds community, contact our team today.