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Thanksgiving Traditions Full of Flavor, Family, and Southern Charm
Thanksgiving has always been more than a holiday in our family; it’s a collection of traditions, flavors, and moments that come together to create something beautiful—something that feels like home.
Growing up, Thanksgiving mornings would always start with the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. No one really sat down to watch it, but we’d catch glimpses of the massive floats and colorful characters as we moved through the house or passed by from playing football outside. The crunch of leaves underfoot is forever tied to Thanksgiving in my mind. Being in the South, our holiday weather was often warm, which meant that the kitchen was a hot, bustling space. Yet somehow, that just made it feel all the more like Thanksgiving as we crowded together in the heat.
One of our unique traditions was cooking the turkey in a smoker. Every year, it was an art trying to time the turkey with all the sides, and somehow it never lined up perfectly. My dad would start complaining if the weather was cold, claiming that it made the turkey take forever to cook. Then there was the great debate about the turkey’s “red button”—you know, the little pop-up timer. My dad would swear the turkey was done before that button ever popped up, and my brother and I would try to convince him to wait. Still, he’d often pull the turkey out, saying the button was broken, and every time we’d end up microwaving slices because, of course, it wasn’t quite done. But honestly, it wouldn’t be Thanksgiving without that little tradition.
Somehow, these small mishaps and arguments over the turkey are what make the day feel complete. There’s always a moment when my parents get into a little spat over some tiny thing, and my siblings and I try to lighten the mood, sharing quiet jokes to ease the tension. But just like that, they’re back to laughing, as if nothing ever happened. It’s these little quirks that give Thanksgiving its charm.
Our Thanksgiving table is always filled with dishes steeped in tradition. My mom’s sweet potato casserole—with a pecan topping, never marshmallows—is a recipe passed down from my grandmother, and it wouldn’t be Thanksgiving without it. Another essential is the green bean casserole, made faithfully from the recipe on the back of the French’s fried onion can. And then there’s my dad’s contribution: Cabbage Salad. This simple mix of shredded cabbage, pineapple, mayonnaise, and marshmallows has a history all of its own. It was his mother’s recipe, a piece of his family tradition brought to life each Thanksgiving. As a kid, I couldn’t stand salad and always felt a bit guilty about not liking something my dad made with so much love. Now, even though it’s still not my favorite, the salad has become special to me. It’s a way of including my dad’s mom in our meal, even though she passed away before I was born. Preparing it is like inviting her spirit to join us at the table—a reminder that family, past and present, is woven into our traditions.
Now as an adult, for my part, I’ve taken on the role of making the cornbread dressing. Your dressing in the south has to be made out of cornbread and don’t even consider calling it stuffing. Preparing it each year has become one of my own Thanksgiving traditions, something I look forward to as part of my place in our family’s Thanksgiving story. And of course, we have to mention the cranberry sauce—always straight from the can and, without fail, always forgotten in the fridge until someone remembers it right after we’ve all finished eating. It’s one of those traditions we never change, even if no one really misses it!
Circa 2017/2018
Our dessert table is a tribute to my grandmother, whose pecan pie recipe remains a staple, though none of us can quite make it as she did. We add in pecan sandies (or wedding cookies) and a pumpkin pie, along with a few extra treats to keep everyone’s sweet tooth happy.
We usually end the day outdoors, either back in the leaves, playing football, or taking turns at a game of badminton while the kids and dogs run around, enjoying the last light of the day. There’s something so timeless about that scene, the air filled with laughter, the colors of autumn all around us.Thanksgiving in our family isn’t perfect, but it’s perfectly ours. It’s a day filled with love, quirks, a little bit of chaos, and so much gratitude. And that’s exactly how I’d want it to stay.
5 Interior Design Choices that Increase Your Home’s Value
When it comes to boosting the value of your home, interior design plays a pivotal role. Thoughtful design choices not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of your living space but also attract potential buyers, potentially increasing the market value of your home. Here are five interior design choices that can significantly enhance your home’s value:
1. Open Floor Plans
An open floor plan creates a sense of spaciousness, making even smaller homes feel larger and more inviting. By removing unnecessary walls and barriers, you can create a seamless flow between the living, dining, and kitchen areas. This modern layout is highly desirable among homebuyers, as it promotes better social interaction and maximizes natural light.
Pro Tip: Consider using consistent flooring materials throughout the open space to further enhance the sense of continuity and openness.
2. Updated Kitchen
The kitchen is often considered the heart of the home, and an updated kitchen can greatly increase your home’s value. Focus on modern, energy-efficient appliances, quality countertops (like granite or quartz), and stylish cabinetry. Even small updates, such as new hardware or a fresh coat of paint on cabinets, can make a big difference.
Pro Tip: Incorporate a functional island with seating to provide additional workspace and a casual dining area, which is a feature many buyers look for.
3. Luxurious Bathrooms
Upgrading bathrooms can provide a high return on investment. Think about installing double vanities, contemporary fixtures, and high-quality materials like marble or porcelain tiles. Adding features such as a walk-in shower or a soaking tub can create a spa-like atmosphere that appeals to buyers looking for a touch of luxury.
Pro Tip: Consider heated floors in the bathroom for an added element of comfort and luxury.
4. Smart Home Technology
Integrating smart home technology can make your home more attractive to tech-savvy buyers. Consider installing smart thermostats, security systems, lighting, and even smart kitchen appliances. These upgrades can make your home more efficient, secure, and convenient.
Pro Tip: Ensure that the technology you choose is user-friendly and compatible with various smart home ecosystems to appeal to a wider range of potential buyers.
Pro Tip: Ensure that the technology you choose is user-friendly and compatible with various smart home ecosystems to appeal to a wider range of potential buyers.
5. Quality Lighting
Good lighting can transform a space, making it feel warm and welcoming. Invest in a mix of ambient, task, and accent lighting to highlight different areas of your home. Modern, energy-efficient LED lighting fixtures are a great choice, and adding dimmer switches can provide flexibility for different moods and occasions.
Pro Tip: Use lighting to highlight architectural features or focal points in your home, such as artwork or a beautiful staircase.
Conclusion
By making these interior design choices, you can significantly increase your home’s value and appeal. Whether you’re planning to sell in the near future or simply want to enjoy a more beautiful and functional living space, these upgrades are worth considering. Remember, the key is to focus on quality, functionality, and timeless appeal to ensure that your investment pays off.
Ready to sell your home? Give us a call! 334-695-9173 or use our home valuation tool at kentmccowngroup.com for a hassle free home valuation!
Transform Your Space: The Power of Color Psychology in Interior Design
Color plays a crucial role in our lives, influencing our emotions, behaviors, and even our perceptions. In the realm of interior design, understanding color psychology can help you create spaces that not only look beautiful but also feel harmonious and serve their intended purposes. Let’s explore how different colors affect mood and ambiance, and provide guidance on choosing the right colors for various rooms in your home.
The Basics of Color Psychology
- Warm Colors: These include reds, oranges, and yellows. They are stimulating, energetic, and can make a space feel cozy and inviting.
- Cool Colors: These include blues, greens, and purples. They tend to have a calming, soothing effect and can make a space feel more spacious and serene.
- Neutral Colors: These include whites, grays, and beiges. They are versatile, timeless, and can serve as a perfect backdrop for other colors.
Choosing Colors for Different Rooms
1. Living Room: Warm and Welcoming 
The living room is a social hub where people gather, so it’s important to create a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Best Colors: Warm shades like soft yellows, warm neutrals, and muted reds or oranges.
Why: These colors can promote conversation and make the space feel cozy and welcoming.
Tips: Combine warm colors with neutral tones to balance the energy and avoid overwhelming the space.
2. Kitchen: Energetic and Fresh
Kitchens are often bustling spaces where people cook, eat, and socialize. Bright, energetic colors can stimulate appetite and activity.
Best Colors: Bright whites, yellows, greens, and even bold reds. 
Why: These colors can make the space feel lively and vibrant, encouraging creativity and social interaction.
Tips: Use bold colors for accents, such as backsplashes or cabinetry, while keeping larger areas in lighter, more neutral tones to avoid overstimulation.
3. Bedroom: Calm and Relaxing
Bedrooms are personal sanctuaries where we rest and recharge. Calming colors are essential to create a peaceful environment.
Best Colors: Soft blues, greens, lavenders, and cool neutrals.
Why: These colors have a soothing effect, promoting relaxation and restful sleep.
Tips: Choose muted shades and avoid overly bright or dark colors that can be jarring or oppressive.
4. Bathroom: Clean and Tranquil
Bathrooms should feel clean and refreshing. Cool, light colors can enhance the sense of cleanliness and tranquility.
Best Colors: Light blues, soft greens, crisp whites, and pale grays.
Why: These colors evoke a sense of cleanliness and calm, making the bathroom a relaxing retreat.
Tips: Use whites and light colors for fixtures and tiles, adding touches of soft colors in accessories and decor.
5. Home Office: Productive and Focused
A home office should promote concentration and productivity. Balanced, neutral tones with touches of color can create an optimal work environment.
Best Colors: Neutral shades like grays and whites, with accents of blues or greens.
Why: Neutrals provide a professional backdrop, while blue and green accents can enhance focus and reduce stress.
Tips: Avoid overly bright colors that can be distracting. Instead, use calming accents to maintain a balanced atmosphere.
6. Dining Room: Social and Comfortable
Dining rooms are spaces for gathering and enjoying meals together. Warm, inviting colors can enhance the dining experience.
Best Colors: Rich reds, warm neutrals, and earthy tones.
Why: These colors stimulate appetite and conversation, creating a welcoming environment for dining.
Tips: Use warm colors on walls or as accent pieces, combined with neutral furnishings to maintain balance.
Final Thoughts
Understanding color psychology can transform your home into a series of spaces that not only look beautiful but also feel perfectly suited to their functions. By choosing colors that align with the desired mood and purpose of each room, you can create an environment that supports your lifestyle and enhances your well-being. Experiment with different shades, consider the natural light in each room, and don’t be afraid to mix and match to find the perfect palette for your home. Happy decorating!
Navigating the Path to Homeownership in 2024
Overcoming Challenges and Finding Solutions
Are you a first-time homebuyer feeling overwhelmed by the frustrating task of purchasing your dream home in this ever changing market? You’re not alone. With rising home prices, limited inventory, and tightened lending practices, the journey to homeownership can seem like an uphill battle. But fear not! In this blog, we’ll explore some key challenges facing first-time buyers and provide actionable solutions to help you achieve your homeownership goals.
Rising Home Prices:
It’s no secret that home prices have been on the rise in recent years, making it difficult for first-time buyers to afford their desired homes. However, there are steps you can take to mitigate this challenge. Consider exploring emerging neighborhoods or suburbs where home prices may be more affordable. Additionally, don’t hesitate to negotiate with sellers or explore alternative financing options to make homeownership more accessible.
Limited Housing Inventory:
With fewer homes on the market, competition among buyers can be fierce. But don’t let this discourage you. Stay proactive and vigilant in your home search, utilizing online platforms, real estate agents, and networking within your community to uncover hidden gems. Additionally, consider expanding your search criteria or being flexible with your preferences to increase your options.
Tightened Mortgage Lending:
Securing a mortgage can be a major hurdle for first-time buyers, especially with stricter lending requirements in place. To improve your chances of approval, focus on improving your credit score, reducing debt, and saving for a larger down payment. Additionally, explore government assistance programs, employer-sponsored initiatives, or alternative lending options tailored to first-time buyers.
Student Loan Debt:
If you’re burdened by student loan debt, you’re not alone. Many first-time buyers face similar challenges. Take proactive steps to manage and reduce your debt, such as enrolling in income-driven repayment plans, seeking loan forgiveness options, or refinancing at lower interest rates. By improving your debt-to-income ratio, you’ll enhance your eligibility for a mortgage and increase your purchasing power.
Community Support and Resources:
Remember, you don’t have to navigate the homebuying process alone. Take advantage of community resources, homeownership workshops, and financial counseling services to gain valuable insights and support. Engage with fellow first-time buyers, seek advice from experienced homeowners, and leverage online forums and social media groups to share knowledge and experiences.
Stay Informed and Flexible:
The real estate market is dynamic and ever-changing, so staying informed and adaptable is key. Keep abreast of market trends, mortgage rates, and government policies that may impact your homebuying journey. Be prepared to adjust your strategy, timeline, or expectations as needed to navigate challenges and seize opportunities.
In conclusion, while the path to homeownership may present its fair share of challenges in this market, with determination, resourcefulness, and strategic planning, you can overcome obstacles and achieve your dream of owning a home. By leveraging available resources, exploring creative solutions, and staying resilient in the face of adversity, you’ll be well-equipped to embark on this exciting journey towards homeownership. So take the first step today and embark on your path to homeownership with confidence!
Discover Auburn’s Artistic Hub: Artifactory – Local Art & Home Decor
Tucked away in Auburn, Alabama lies Artifactory, a upscale home furnishings store perfect for art lovers and home decor enthusiasts. This boutique isn’t just about furnishing spaces; it’s a vibrant store celebrating local creativity and community bonds.
At Artifactory, every piece tells a tale. Featuring exquisite fine china to luxurious bedding and captivating wall art, each item reflects a love for Auburn and the talents of its local artists. Whether you seek a bold centerpiece or subtle accents, Artifactory offers something for everyone.
However, what sets Artifactory apart the most, is its steadfast support for local talent. By spotlighting Auburn’s local artists, the store not only encourages creativity but also nurtures a sense of pride and belonging within the community.
Because of Artifactory’s commitment to the community, there’s no surprise you will find a large Auburn Art collection. Capturing the spirit of Auburn University and its surroundings, these pieces showcase the local love for the Auburn and it’s rich history. You will find depictions of iconic landmarks to snapshots of game day fever. The Auburn Art collection allows visitors to carry a piece of the Auburn spirit home.
But, the spirit of Auburn doesn’t stop with the arts. Beki Thompson, the dynamic owner, is deeply engaged in Auburn University’s Student Veteran Program. She and her husband sponsor many fundraisers to help support veterans who have come “home” to obtain their degrees at Auburn Univeristy. Beyond entrepreneurship, Beki’s commitment to supporting student veterans follows the store’s vision of community involvement and meaningful connections.
Seeing that Beki is deeply routed in the heart of Auburn there’s no surprise that Artifactory isn’t just a retail space; it’s a vibrant testament to Auburn’s spirit and the flourishing creativity within the area. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, stepping into Artifactory promises inspiration and joy, fostering a deeper appreciation for Auburn’s artistry and camaraderie.
Check out www.artficatoryauburn.com to find out more about this amazing store and business owner.
Earth Day: A Guide to Sustainable Home Buying
Earth Day. It serves as a reminder of our responsibility to protect and preserve the environment for future generations. One area where our actions can make a significant impact is in the realm of real estate. By making thoughtful choices when buying a home, we can align our housing decisions with the principles of sustainability and environmental stewardship. In this blog post, we’ll explore how you can celebrate Earth Day through real estate by incorporating eco-friendly practices into your home buying journey.
Embrace Green Features:
When searching for your dream home, prioritize properties that have eco-friendly features such as energy-efficient appliances, solar panels, and sustainable building materials. These features not only reduce your carbon footprint but also contribute to long-term cost savings through lower utility bills. By investing in a home with green amenities, you’re not just buying a house – you’re investing in a more sustainable future.
Consider Location:
The location of your future home plays a crucial role in its environmental impact. Opt for neighborhoods with easy access to public transportation, reducing the need for individual car usage and promoting sustainable commuting options. Additionally, look for properties situated near green spaces or nature reserves, allowing you to immerse yourself in the beauty of the natural world right outside your doorstep.
Cultivate Sustainable Outdoor Spaces:
Transform your outdoor areas into havens of sustainability by incorporating eco-friendly landscaping practices. Choose native plants that require less water and maintenance, reducing the need for chemical fertilizers and pesticides. Implement rainwater harvesting systems and composting bins to minimize waste and nourish your garden naturally. By nurturing a sustainable outdoor space, you’re not only enhancing the beauty of your property but also contributing positively to the local ecosystem.
Prioritize Energy Efficiency:
Evaluate the energy efficiency of potential homes by looking for features such as double-pane windows, proper insulation, and programmable thermostats. These elements help reduce energy consumption and lower utility costs while creating a more comfortable living environment. Additionally, consider implementing energy-saving practices within the home, such as turning off lights when not in use and unplugging electronic devices to minimize phantom energy usage.
Engage with Sustainable Communities:
Research the communities where you’re considering buying a home and inquire about any sustainability initiatives or green programs in place. Choose neighborhoods that prioritize environmental stewardship and offer opportunities for community engagement in sustainability efforts. By becoming part of a sustainable community, you can amplify your impact and contribute to collective efforts towards a greener, more sustainable future.
As we celebrate Earth Day, let us remember that our housing choices have the power to shape the world we live in. By integrating eco-friendly practices into our home buying journey, we can make a positive impact on the environment while enjoying the benefits of sustainable living. Whether it’s embracing green features, prioritizing energy efficiency, or cultivating sustainable outdoor spaces, every choice we make brings us one step closer to a more sustainable future for all. So let’s celebrate Earth Day through real estate and pave the way towards a brighter, greener tomorrow.
