Stephen Roake - Home Sweet Home

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courtesy of: Steve Roake & Kimberly Genovese

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Dear Homeowners February brings a welcome sense of coziness—a time to enjoy the comfort of home while still finding small ways to refresh and brighten the season. In this issue, you’ll find ideas to help your spaces feel cleaner, greener, and ready for whatever the year ahead brings. We share a practical guide to caring for your carpets so they stay fresh, healthy, and long-lasting, with clear tips for everyday upkeep and smart advice on when to bring in the pros. If winter has you craving something homegrown, our hydroponics feature shows how easy it can be to keep herbs, greens, and even small fruits thriving all season. To make the most of your harvest, you’ll find a set of simple, flavorful recipes—from bright grain bowls to fragrant soups and tacos layered with fresh herbs. And for anyone settling into a new place or celebrating milestones, we offer inspiration for hosting a warm and memorable housewarming gathering.

If I can support you with any real estate needs this season—exploring a move, preparing to sell, or simply understanding your home’s value—I’m always here to help.

Steve Roake & Kimberly Genovese 630-912-9129 hello@freedomgroupglobal.com freedomgroupglobal.com

Table of Contents Indoor Winter Gardening SET UP A HYDROPONIC SYSTEM FOR YEAR-ROUND FOOD 16 04

Winter Veggie Recipes • Winter Greens & Basic Grain Bowl • Creamy Coconut & Thai Basil Soup with Hydroponic Greens • Hydroponic Herb & Microgreen Tacos with Lemon-Garlic Cream

A hydroponic gardening system can allow you to keep your kitchen stocked with fresh greens, herbs, and even small fruits long after outdoor beds have gone dormant. Learn tips and tricks on how to use a hydroponic setup and watch your plants thrive in winter, without the need for soil and sunlight.

The Complete Guide to Carpet Cleaning KEEP YOUR CARPETS CLEAN, FRESH, AND BUILT TO LAST

and Real 20

Warm, Welcoming,

HOST A CASUAL HOUSEWARMING & CONNECT WITH NEIGHBORS

This all-in-one guide breaks down exactly how to keep any carpet looking fresh, from plush wool to hardworking olefin. With expert tips on spot treatments, DIY machines, and when to call in the pros, the article shows how small habits can make a big difference.

Celebrate your move with a housewarming party that’s warm, fun, and stress-free. Even if you’re still settling in, discover how to throw a relaxed, memorable gathering that brings friends, family, and new neighbors together.

February 2026

Home gardening is as satisfying as it is labor- intensive. As any gardener knows, there’s nothing quite like the fresh flavor and convenience of fruits and vegetables grown using your own hands. To earn this reward, we spend our summers with hands in the dirt, nurturing plants, amending soil, and preserving harvests. When the season comes to a close, we wait until after the winter thaw to start again. But what if you could produce fresh greens and herbs year-round? There is a way, and it’s called hydroponic gardening. Many types of plants can thrive with one of these systems, and the best part is that they can require less space, water, and effort than a traditional garden. Winter Gardening: Set Up a Hydroponic System for Year-Round Food

HOME SWEET HOME Magazine

WHAT IS HYDROPONIC GARDENING?

Cool-weather crops like lettuce, spinach, kale, Swiss chard, basil, parsley, and cilantro thrive indoors. For variety, you can also grow cherry tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, and strawberries with slightly warmer temperatures and stronger lighting. WHAT CROPS PERFORM BEST IN WINTER?

Simply put, hydroponics is a method of growing plants without soil. Like traditional gardening, the roots absorb the required water, oxygen, and nutrients. However, instead of soil, the roots grow in a solution or growing medium. Hydroponics create a compact, ultra-efficient garden you can grow almost anywhere and in any type of weather.

WHAT TYPE OF LIGHTING IS REQUIRED FOR INDOOR HYDROPONICS?

Light is a major consideration when it comes to hydroponic gardening. Plants need 12–16 hours of full-spectrum LED light per day. This can be achieved with the aid of grow lights. Even simple LED panels can produce excellent results as long as light intensity and timing are consistent. You can buy a pre-built hydroponic system, complete with lighting panels, or add them to your DIY hydroponic setup.

WHERE CAN I PLACE A HYDROPONIC GARDEN?

Hydroponics results in faster growth, higher yields, and less mess—plus offers the major bonus of no weeding. Plants use less water and space than in soil gardens. Because hydroponic systems don’t rely on outdoor soil or sunlight, you can grow year-round indoors with grow lights, temperature control, and nutrient management. The trade-off is that you’ll need to monitor water quality and nutrient balance more closely than you do when gardening outdoors. You may also be limited on the types of plants you can grow effectively. WHAT ARE THE PROS AND CONS OF HYDROPONIC GARDENING?

With adequate lighting and temperature control, you can place a hydroponic garden just about anywhere. Consider counter and tabletops, wall mounts, and freestanding units in the corner of a room. Just like traditional gardens, indoor gardens require proper conditions to thrive. While your system may benefit from direct sun exposure, garages and basements work if you can control lighting, temperature, humidity, and air circulation. For example, a small heater and fan can create a stable environment in cool, damp areas. For best results, always use LEDs that run cool and avoid uninsulated spaces where temperatures drop below 60°F.

February 2026

There are endless variations of hydroponic gardens, ranging from tabletop microgreen boxes to full- room garden beds. Knowing your options means you can choose a system that fits your needs and your space. MAIN TYPES OF AT-HOME HYDROPONIC SYSTEMS

HOW DWC WORKS

With this type of system, plants are placed in a mesh pot that is filled with an inert medium like clay pebbles. The pots are suspended above a reservoir of nutrient solution, allowing the roots to dangle into the oxygenated water.

SUPPLIES:

Reservoir (bucket or bin with lid) Air pump and air stone (to oxygenate water) Net pots and growing medium (clay pebbles, rockwool cubes) Hydroponic nutrient solution (premixed or DIY) pH meter and adjustment solution Grow lights (if indoors) This is a great option for herbs and small plants with shallow roots like basil, mint, and lettuce. Because it’s lightweight and efficient, it can be mounted anywhere. Plus, it’s easy to maintain. This is not a good choice for deep-growing or heavy foods like carrots and potatoes. 2. NUTRIENT FILM TECHNIQUE (NFT)

HOW IT WORKS

For the DIY enthusiast, NFT is a great choice. It’s often made using PVC pipes. The pipes are mounted at a slight angle so the nutrient solution can continuously flow through, providing nutrients, water, and oxygen to the roots of the plants.

1. DEEP WATER CULTURE (DWC)

This easy-to-learn type of system is an ideal starting point, especially if your goal is to produce herbs, leafy greens, and small fruiting plants such as lettuce, basil, spinach, kale, and strawberries. The requirements are simple and inexpensive, so it’s quick to get started and requires minimal maintenance once established. However, it does have its limitations in that it’s not effective for growing large plants like cucumbers and tomatoes. It also requires consistent oxygenation to keep the roots from drowning.

SUPPLIES:

Channels or tubes (PVC works well) Pump to circulate nutrient solution Reservoir with water/nutrients Return line for water drainage Net pots + growing medium Grow lights if indoors

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HOME SWEET HOME Magazine

This system is a bit more complex and expensive to set up, but mirrors a traditional garden with the ability to manage larger plants and fruiting vegetables. 3. EBB AND FLOW (FLOOD AND DRAIN)

4. WICK SYSTEM

A wick system is the easiest and least expensive option, but it works well for herbs and houseplants. Because it doesn’t require pumps or timers, watering can be inconsistent, but it also results in quiet operation.

HOW IT WORKS

Using a pump and timer, grow trays filled with plants and medium are periodically flooded with nutrient solution, then drained back into a reservoir.

Similar to putting the bottom of your potted plant into water where it can absorb water from the base, a wick hydroponic system works by allowing nutrients to travel up from a reservoir to the roots through a wicking material (cotton rope or felt). It’s a passive system that requires no pumps, timers, or electricity.

SUPPLIES:

Grow tray and reservoir Submersible pump with timer Growing medium (expanded clay, perlite, coco coir) Hydroponic nutrients Grow lights

SUPPLIES:

Container for nutrient solution Wick (cotton, felt, or nylon rope) Growing medium (perlite, vermiculite, coco coir) Small net pots or planters

February 2026

5. AEROPONICS

This advanced system requires a high up-front investment and a high degree of monitoring. However, it doesn’t require a growing medium and offers quick, efficient growth. It’s best for tech- savvy gardeners who want top efficiency for greens, herbs, and strawberries.

HOW IT WORKS

In contrast to roots submerged in nutrient-rich water, an aeroponics system suspends plants in the air. Roots are then misted at regular intervals to maximize oxygen and nutrient absorption.

SUPPLIES:

Chamber to hold plants and misting nozzles High-pressure pump Timer and misters Reservoir with nutrients Grow lights

6. DRIP SYSTEM

Most gardeners are familiar with a drip system. In the case of indoor hydroponics, a drip system is best for mixed crops, larger plants, or permanent indoor gardens. It’s adaptable for different situations, but requires a bit more upkeep than other options.

HOW IT WORKS

A slow, steady drip of nutrient solution feeds each plant individually. Excess drains back into the reservoir. This method is used in many commercial greenhouses but is scalable for home use.

SUPPLIES:

Reservoir Pump and drip lines Emitters (for each plant) Timer Growing medium and containers

HOME SWEET HOME Magazine

Grow lights: Full-spectrum LEDs are best. You’ll need around 30-40 watts per square foot for fruiting plants. pH meter: Keeps the solution in the optimal range (5.5-6.5 for most plants). Nutrient mix: Usually comes as liquid concentrates (macro + micro nutrients). Popular brands include General Hydroponics, FoxFarm, and Advanced Nutrients. Growing medium: Rockwool cubes, perlite, clay pellets, or coco coir—all are inert (no nutrients). Water: Filtered or distilled water is best; tap water can contain minerals or chlorine that interfere. Environment: Temperatures around 65-75°F and humidity around 50-70% are ideal for most crops. REQUIREMENTS FOR HYDROPONIC GARDENING

CHOOSING THE RIGHT SYSTEM FOR YOU

The right system for your home depends on your goals, space, budget, and time investment.

If your primary goal is:

Herbs/lettuce: DWCulture or Wick systems are low-cost and low-maintenance. Compact countertop garden: DWC or NFT kits offer moderate cost and very low maintenance Mixed veggies, tomatoes: Ebb & Flow or Drip systems are best, although they bring medium- high set-up costs and a medium level of maintenance. High-yield tech setup: Aeroponics with high associated cost and maintenance. No electricity setup: Wick, which requires very low cost and low maintenance.

DIY OR PLUG AND PLAY

In addition to different types of hydroponic systems, there are options for every style of gardener. Whether you’re an inventive DIY type or prefer a turnkey product, there are many to choose from. A quick internet search will help direct your efforts. For all-in-one hydroponic systems, choose whether you want a countertop system or a freestanding vertical system. From there, you can select complete systems with features like automated nutrient dosing for a reliable hands-off approach. For a simple DIY DWC, a five-gallon bucket, an air pump, a net pot, and a nutrient mix can grow a large head of lettuce in around 30 days. Similarly, NFT systems can be built from PVC pipes and a small submersible pump.

TIME INVESTMENT

All this information might feel a bit overwhelming, but the standard in-home hydroponic system typically only requires an average of a few hours each week, depending on system size. Plan to monitor water levels, lighting schedules, and plant health. In addition, you’ll clean the equipment and test pH and nutrient levels each week. Once plants mature, you can harvest them the same way as you would a traditional garden. While plants grow, you can take cuttings from greens for meals or remove the entire plant to make room for another. Throughout the season, you can continue to nurture plants at different stages to maintain a constant supply. Just because the weather turns cold doesn’t mean your gardening days have to come to an end.

HOME SWEET HOME Magazine

Choosing carpet for your home is a decision that adds a soft touch, both underfoot and from an interior design perspective. However, dirt, pet dander, and spills mean carpeted surfaces require frequent attention. Regular vacuuming and spot removal help with day-to-day debris, but to truly maintain a carpet, you’ll want to implement a regular deep cleaning schedule too. Whether your floors are plush and luxurious or low-pile and practical, understanding how to clean your carpet properly can help it look better, last longer, and fulfill requirements to maintain your warranty. The Complete Guide to Carpet Cleaning

11 February 2026

There is no one-size-fits-all solution for maintaining carpets. To some degree, the cleaning method that works wonders for one fiber type can ruin another, so it’s essential you know what type of carpeting your home has. If you don’t know, look for installation paperwork, contact the floor covering store that installed it, or ask a professional cleaner to help make the distinction. NYLON One of the most common materials, nylon carpets are durable and resilient but are prone to static and staining. They respond well to steam cleaning and hot water extraction. POLYESTER Known for its stain resistance and vibrant color, polyester can lose texture if cleaned with excessive moisture. Low-moisture or encapsulation methods are often best. NOT ALL CARPETS ARE CREATED EQUAL

OLEFIN (POLYPROPYLENE) Great for basements or high-traffic areas because it resists mildew, but it’s sensitive to heat. Skip hot water extraction and stick with dry cleaning or foam methods. WOOL A natural, eco-friendly option that’s beautiful but delicate. Wool should never be saturated. Use cold water and pH-balanced cleaners, ideally applied by professionals familiar with natural fibers. Scott Schrader, chief marketing officer at CottageCare, a home cleaning company, points out that “Carpet styles are all quite unique: cut pile (plush, Saxony), loop pile (Berber), and blend styles have their own characteristics for cleaning.” He also recommended that homeowners always check a carpet’s label or care guide before cleaning. Many manufacturers specify which methods maintain warranty coverage, and which void it instantly.

HOME SWEET HOME Magazine

REGULAR MAINTENANCE

The easiest way to maintain carpet cleanliness is to avoid dirt in the first place. While it sounds simple in theory, we live in our homes. The daily movement of pet and human inhabitants means your carpet will attract debris. Keep damage to a minimum by removing shoes when you enter the home and placing rugs beneath tables and in high-traffic areas. To freshen and deodorize carpets, sprinkle with baking soda and allow it to rest for a bit before vacuuming. For regular maintenance, vacuum at least once a week and tackle spills immediately.

SPOT CLEANING

Schrader told Home Sweet Home, “For your stain removal needs, remember to blot, do not rub! It is much better to blot out a stain using a clean white cloth, starting from the outside of the stain and moving inward. With protein stains (food, blood, etc.), your best option is an enzyme cleaner, while the best options for tannin stains (coffee, red wine, etc.) are anything mildly acidic.” Although it’s tempting to scrub a stain, this action pushes the stain deeper into the fibers. The goal of blotting is to absorb the stain from the upper layers of the carpet.

A few tips to keep in mind:

Start the cleanup by lifting away solids using a plastic bag or paper towel. Then gently dab the area with a damp rag to remove excess moisture.

If there is a stain left behind, make a mixture of dish soap and water and repeat the process.

Do not oversaturate the carpet, which can damage the backing or carpet pad.

For stubborn stains, move to an enzyme-based cleaner, but test it on a small area before use. Fully read and follow all instructions carefully.

Ensure the fibers are completely dry before use.

13 February 2026

DIY CARPET CLEANING

There are a few different options for cleaning carpets yourself, but be aware of the potential consequences. Rental machines such as Rug Doctor do a decent job of cleaning, but often lack the suction power of professional units, which means longer drying times. Home models such as Bissell or Hoover are great for small spaces or maintenance cleanings between professional services. However, it is common for stains to recur when using machines. It’s easy to oversaturate carpet when using DIY machines. Schrader points out, “While Do-It- Yourself machines can be useful for regular, light maintenance of the carpet, machines often use too much water, and leave excess moisture in the fibers. If incompletely processed, it can lead to mildew and cause the carpet to soil quickly.” To avoid these issues, move the machine across several light passes rather than soaking the area. Thoroughly remove detergent from carpet fibers. If left behind, it can attract new dirt, making the situation worse. Most importantly, ensure carpets are completely dry before walking on them or moving furniture back into the space. Use fans and open windows to facilitate the process. Did you know your carpet may be covered by warranty? Most manufacturers offer coverage for material defects and performance. Schrader warns homeowners to pay attention because, “Some warranties have specific intervals that require you to have your carpets professionally cleaned for the warranty to be honored.” Most commonly, they require cleaning by a certified professional every 12– 18 months using approved methods. Although many homeowners tackle basic carpet cleaning DIY style, note that skipping professional cleanings could void your warranty. CARPET CLEANING AND YOUR WARRANTY

The industry standard for deep cleaning, this method injects hot water and detergent into the carpet, then extracts dirt and moisture with a powerful vacuum. It’s highly effective but requires a drying time of around six to twelve hours. 1. Hot Water Extraction (Steam Cleaning) If you’ve never had your carpets professionally cleaned, start by asking what type of method the business you contact uses. Professional residential carpet cleaning typically involves one of three main methods, each suited to different carpet types and household needs: PROFESSIONAL CLEANING: WHAT TO EXPECT

2. Dry Compound Cleaning

A granular compound (like a sponge) is spread across the carpet and brushed in to absorb dirt, then vacuumed away. This low-moisture option is great for delicate carpets or rooms that need to stay in use.

3. Encapsulation

A newer, eco-friendly option that uses a polymer to surround (or “encapsulate”) dirt particles, which are then vacuumed away after drying. It’s efficient and leaves minimal residue.

HOME SWEET HOME Magazine

WHAT TO DO BEFORE THE CLEANERS ARRIVE

To get the best results from professional cleaners, move small furniture, plants, and rugs out of the room. Ask your cleaning company whether they move furniture or not, and what their expectations are when they arrive. With excess items out of the way, thoroughly vacuum the space. As you work, watch for problem areas, such as areas where pets have had accidents or spills have occurred. If your carpet is under warranty, review the requirements of coverage so you can get the right paperwork for your records. Even if your carpet is out of warranty, a consistent schedule still pays off. Routine deep cleaning extends the life of your carpet, keeps allergens at bay, and prevents permanent discoloration.

TIPS FOR SUCCESS

Beyond the basics of preventative practices and regular maintenance, you can improve the health and longevity of your carpet with a few pro tricks:

Clean carpets aren’t just about appearances. They’re also a component of your home’s air quality and comfort. Protect your investment by understanding your carpet type, choosing the right cleaning method, and maintaining a steady care routine. Not only will your efforts extend the life of your carpet, but they will also keep your home feeling fresh year- round. Trim snags instead of pulling them to prevent unraveling. Angled flat scissors, commonly called carpet napping shears, are handy for this task. Schedule cleanings seasonally if you have pets, allergies, or heavy foot traffic, especially after winter when salt and mud accumulate. Rotate furniture occasionally to avoid permanent dents, uneven wear, and inconsistent sun exposure. Use enty mats and scatter rugs. Most dirt in carpets collects near doorways where it enters the home. If you don’t remove shoes, rely on mats to catch the worst of it at the source.

15 February 2026

Winter Veggie Recipes WINTER GREENS & BASIL PESTO GRAIN BOWL Put together this bright, nutrient-packed bowl that celebrates your hydroponic harvest of kale, spinach, and basil. Ingredients (Serves 2–3): z 1 cup cooked quinoa or farro z 2 cups baby kale or spinach, lightly chopped z ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved z ½ avocado, sliced z ¼ cup roasted chickpeas or nuts (for crunch) z ¼ cup crumbled feta or goat cheese Basil Pesto: z 2 cups hydroponic basil leaves z 1 small garlic clove z ¼ cup toasted walnuts or pine nuts z ⅓ cup olive oil z 2 Tbsp Parmesan cheese (optional) z Juice of ½ lemon z Salt and pepper to taste Instructions: 1. Make the pesto: Blend basil, garlic, nuts, olive oil, lemon juice, and cheese until smooth. Season to taste. 2. Assemble the bowl: Toss warm grains with a spoonful of pesto. Top with greens, tomatoes, avocado, feta, and roasted chickpeas. 3. Serve: Drizzle with extra pesto and a splash of lemon. Tip: Swap in any greens you’re growing. Swiss chard, mustard greens, or microgreens all work beautifully.

17 February 2026

CREAMY COCONUT & THAI BASIL SOUP WITH HYDROPONIC GREENS Try this aromatic, warming soup that combines tropical Thai flavors with fresh herbs and winter-grown produce.

Ingredients (Serves 4): z 1 Tbsp coconut oil z 1 small onion, diced

Instructions: 1. Sauté aromatics: In a pot, heat coconut oil and cook onion, garlic, and ginger until fragrant. 2. Add vegetables: Stir in bell pepper and curry paste. Cook 2 minutes. 3. Simmer: Add coconut milk, broth, soy sauce, and greens. Simmer for 10 minutes until greens wilt. 4. Finish: Stir in Thai basil and lime juice before serving.

z 2 garlic cloves, minced z 1 Tbsp grated ginger z 2 cups mixed hydroponic greens (bok choy, spinach, kale, or Swiss chard) z 1 red bell pepper, sliced z 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk z 3 cups vegetable broth z 2 Tbsp soy sauce z 1 tsp red curry paste (adjust to spice preference) z 1 handful hydroponic Thai basil leaves, roughly torn z Juice of 1 lime

Optional Add-ins: Cooked rice noodles, shrimp, or tofu.

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HYDROPONIC HERB & MICROGREEN TACOS WITH LEMON-GARLIC CREAM Spice up the season with this fun, fresh take on vegetarian tacos featuring your indoor herb garden produce, such as cilantro, parsley, mint, and microgreens. Feel free to add additional protein with fish, shrimp, or chicken.

Instructions: 1. Warm the beans: Heat olive oil in a pan, add beans and spices, and mash lightly. 2. Mix the sauce: Combine yogurt, garlic, and lemon juice in a small bowl. 3. Assemble tacos: Layer beans, herbs, and microgreens on warm tortillas. Top with sauce and pickled onions. 4. Serve immediately: Garnish with extra cilantro or lime wedges.

Ingredients (Makes 6 tacos): z 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed z 1 Tbsp olive oil z 1 tsp smoked paprika z ½ tsp cumin z ½ tsp garlic powder z Salt to taste z 6 small corn or flour tortillas z 1 cup microgreens or baby lettuce mix z ½ cup chopped herbs (cilantro, parsley, mint, or basil) z ¼ cup pickled onions (optional) Lemon-Garlic Cream: z ½ cup Greek yogurt or sour cream z 1 small garlic clove, minced z 1 Tbsp lemon juice z Salt and pepper to taste

Tip: Mix up your greens. Arugula adds a peppery kick, while mint cools the spice.

19 February 2026

Preparing the Room Good preparation makes the work safer and easier. Clear the room of furniture and accessories. Anything that remains should be covered. Use plastic sheeting to protect floors and walls and tape it securely in place to keep dust, debris, and water away from surfaces. Turn off the electricity to the room at the breaker, then remove ceiling fans and light fixtures. Cover any exposed wiring with plastic until the work is complete. For tools and safety gear, you will need safety goggles, a filtered dust mask or respirator, plastic sheeting, painter’s tape, a putty knife or drywall taping knife, a drywall mud pan or other container for scrapings, a garden sprayer, a sander, sandpaper, paint, and a sturdy ladder. Wear clothing that covers your skin and be ready to take regular breaks. Expect the room to be out of commission while the work is in progress. You’ve done it! You’ve finally found the ideal house to make your new home, you’ve moved in and acclimated a bit, and now you’re wondering about throwing a housewarming party to celebrate this incredible milestone. This article will answer common questions like who to invite and how, the right time to schedule your housewarming, games to entertain your guests, and things you’ll want to keep in mind to ensure everyone has an enjoyable time. Throw the Perfect Housewarming Party

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When Should You Have Your Housewarming?

Making and Sending Invitations When it comes to making your guest list, of course, you will want to invite family members and close friends, particularly those who may have assisted with finding your new home or in the moving process. Others you may want to consider inviting include work colleagues and ex-neighbors from your former neighborhood. While we’re on the subject, a housewarming is an excellent opportunity to reach out to your new neighbors and encourage them to come and join in the festivities. It allows you to get to know one another in a low-pressure setting, with others around, and can set a good tone for future interactions. You have lots of options when it comes to how you send out your invitations. You can hand-deliver invites or use regular mail. You may find it easier for family and close friends to send invitations via phone call, text, or social media. Be sure to include your new address in the invitation, whichever method you choose. If you are going the digital route, including a map link is extra thoughtful. Party planners also suggest you specify the party's beginning and end time, spanning a few hours, allowing guests to feel free to drop in during the designated time. If you invite your new neighbors, you’re unlikely to have their phone number or email address, and a written invitation that you give them personally or place in their mailbox is a nice gesture. Whatever method you use to invite your guests, be sure to follow up with them shortly before the party so you have an accurate head count and can plan the amount of food and beverages you will need to have on hand accordingly.

You may decide to have the party within a couple of weeks or wait a few months until you’ve had a chance to settle in a bit. Your guests will understand you’re still in the process of finalizing your move, so they won’t expect everything to be picture-perfect and all of the home décor to be complete. However, to ensure a good time is had by all, be sure to bear the following things in mind: Make sure you have sufficient seating to accommodate your guests. You can get creative if you need to by throwing a lovely blanket across a sturdy moving box to fashion an additional seating option. Or consider bringing lawn chairs inside and using those. It is crucial that you have at least one functional and well-stocked bathroom with plenty of toilet paper and fresh towels, everything guests will need to be comfortable on the day of the big unveiling of your new home. Stay focused on your reason for this get-together: welcome friends, family, and other guests into your new home and show them the new space.

September 2024 21 February 2026

Housewarming Themed Games

To really make the scavenger hunt challenging, rather than list what the items are, make up a list of clues that describe them in a non-obvious way. The same rules apply; players have a designated time limit and must take photos of each item they identify. z A scavenger hunt is a fun and engaging way to have your guests investigate your new space. Provide them with a list of items they must find and photograph with their phones in a set amount of time, with the one who finds the most items being declared the winner. If you want to make the game more interesting, you can hide these items and make the players search for them. z Charades is another game that’s always popular at parties. Prepare ahead of time by writing the names of books, films, television series, and sayings that include the word home on slips of folded paper and placing them in a bowl. Think Home Is Where the Heart Is and Home Alone , for example. z Who doesn’t love a spirited game of trivia ? Topics could center around the new home (after participants have had a chance to take a tour), the family who has just moved in, or the town or city where the house is located. z A variation on this could be a bingo game with spaces on the card dedicated to famous people and places from the city or town where you now own a home.

Refreshments You have a lot of options here: if your invitation list includes mostly friends and family you know well, why not go potluck? This is fun and takes the pressure off by having everyone pitch in and bring one thing. Plus, you are sure to have a variety of foods and cooking styles to offer your guests. If you’re doing the cooking, consider keeping the menu to finger food appetizers. This allows your guests to move around and socialize while they eat and helps minimize cleanup. If you want to focus strictly on greeting your guests and showing off your new digs, and you are confident about your final headcount, you can always order pizza! Whichever way you choose to go, do yourself a favor and stock up on paper plates, napkins, disposable cups, and cutlery. The last thing you need while you’re still in the process of moving and perhaps unsure of where your “real” dishes are at the moment, is to face searching for them, washing, and finding a place for them once the festivities end and before you are ready to undertake setting up your final kitchen layout. Paper products are also a great choice if you decide to have a theme for your housewarming party. There are so many variations in colors and patterns to select from; you can easily find one that is complementary.

Guests can play on their own or divide up into teams.

Remember to keep the festivities low-key and light. Enjoy sharing your new home with those who mean the most to you and don’t sweat the small stuff.

HOME SWEET HOME Magazine

Protect What Matters Most

Protect your loved ones with peace of mind that lasts a lifetime. Affordable coverage today means security tomorrow. Build stability, safeguard your family, and create a legacy. Don’t wait—your future deserves protection now. Call for your free life insurance review today. Primerica Advisors - Steve Roake 815-603-0077 sroake@primerica.com 1400 E Touhy Ave, Ste 170, Des Plaines, IL 60018

What Is Your Home Truly Worth? To Request a Copy of Our No Obligation Home Value Report to Determine What Your Home is Truly Worth, Call 630-912-9129 or Email hello@freedomgroupglobal.com . This is all 100% free with no obligation. After you submit the online questionnaire, you will receive our free report with information that will help you determine your home's value. We recommend printing it out and taking a drive to see the homes we 've identified as comparable to yours. See how your home measures up. This will help you get an even more accurate idea of what your home is worth. An appraiser would charge hundreds for this service, but we will provide one at no cost. If you would like our free, professional opinion on the value of your home, we 'd be glad to help. We can talk on the phone, or we can meet in person. We look forward to helping you!

Steve Roake & Kimberly Genovese 630-912-9129 hello@freedomgroupglobal.com freedomgroupglobal.com

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