Creating a Festive Atmosphere

One of the best ways to make Thanksgiving memorable is by creating a festive atmosphere in your Home. Keep the pumpkins, but it's time to put those jack-o-lanterns and creepy skulls away!

Decorating your home with Fall accents

Bring the beauty of the season indoors by incorporating Fall accents into your decor. Use items like colorful leaves, pumpkins, and gourds to create stunning centerpieces for your dining table or display them on your mantel. You can also hang a fall wreath on your front door to welcome guests into your home. Think along the lines of either "Rustic Harvest" or "Modern Autumn Elegance", there are many options and not a one size fits all...use items that you love and that bring a smile to your face. 

Using scented candles to add warmth

Wait...WHAT? I personally prefer the aroma of pumpkin pie and turkey floating from the kitchen..you know, ALL that seasonal yumminess! But after dinner, nothing sets the mood quite like the warm glow and inviting aroma of scented candles. Choose candles with fragrances like pumpkin spice, cinnamon, or apple cider to fill your Home with the cozy scents of fall. Place them strategically throughout your living area to create a warm and inviting ambiance that will make your guests feel right at Home. This also helps diminish lingering cooking smells. Young children and pets? Maybe electric melt warmers or essential oil diffusers are a better option for you, as they smell and perform just as nice.

Planning Your Thanksgiving Dinner:

Creating a menu that caters to everyone's dietary restrictions

One of the highlights of Thanksgiving is the delicious feast that awaits, a time when family and friends come together to celebrate, and it's important to ensure that everyone can enjoy the meal. Take into consideration any dietary restrictions or allergies that your guests may have. Offer a variety of options, including diabetic friendly, gluten-free alternatives, and nut-free options. This way, everyone can indulge in the feast without any worries.

Cooking ahead to reduce stress on the day of

Thanksgiving Day can be quite hectic, so it's a good idea to plan ahead and cook as much as possible in advance. Prepare dishes that can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator or freezer. This will not only save you time on the day of, but will also allow you to enjoy more quality time with your loved ones. Consider making desserts in advance. Desserts are the perfect opportunity to save time!

Trying out new recipes or sticking to traditional ones?

Thanksgiving often brings a mix of traditional family recipes and the desire to try something new. Decide whether you want to stick with the tried-and-true classics or experiment with new dishes. If you choose to try new recipes, consider adding one or two new dishes to your menu while also keeping the traditional favorites. This way, you can introduce some exciting flavors without sacrificing the nostalgia and comfort that comes with traditional Thanksgiving dishes (not to mention have something to fall back on, in case the new recipe didn't turn out as expected). I learned this lesson from personal experience, new recipes should be tried a week or so in advance...I tried a new spin on a sweet potatoe dish a couple of years ago, it was a flop! I missed having sweet potatoes on Thanksgiving that year! Needless to say, I won't wait until the day of, to try a new recipe for Thanksgiving again!

Organizing Fun Family Activities:

Planning for games that can engage all family members

Thanksgiving is the perfect opportunity to bring the whole family together for some fun and games. Choose games that can engage all family members, from the youngest to the oldest. Classic games like charades, Pictionary, cards and board games are always a hit. Outdoor activities like touch football or a scavenger hunt can also be a great way to get everyone moving and enjoying the fresh air.

Incorporating Thanksgiving crafts for kids

Thanksgiving crafts are a great way to keep the little ones entertained while also encouraging their creativity. Set up a crafting station with supplies like construction paper, markers, and glue, and let the kids create their own Thanksgiving-themed masterpieces. They can make handprint turkeys, paper pumpkins, or gratitude jars to capture the spirit of the holiday. I would advise, however, to have someone else keep watch over the littles while you are preparing dinner! IYKYK

Creating a family tradition or embracing old ones

Family traditions are what make Thanksgiving truly special. Consider creating a new tradition that can be passed down through generations, such as a gratitude circle where everyone takes turns sharing what they are thankful for. You can also embrace old traditions that have been part of your family for years, like reading a Thanksgiving story or watching a favorite movie or parade together. These traditions create a sense of belonging and nostalgia that will make your Thanksgiving celebrations even more meaningful. My favorite is sharing what we are most thankful for.

Setting up the Perfect Dining Area

Creating a beautiful and inviting dining area is key to hosting a memorable Thanksgiving dinner. Here are some tips to help you set up the perfect space:

Arrange the dining area to accommodate all guests

• Consider the number of guests you'll be hosting and arrange your dining area accordingly. Make sure there is enough seating for everyone, whether it's using your dining table, adding extra chairs, or setting up a buffet-style meal and eating at a bar top.
• If space is limited, you can also set up additional seating areas in the living room or patio with comfortable chairs or floor cushions.
• Kids love to have their own table!

Setting up a beautiful Thanksgiving table

• Choose a tablecloth or table runner that matches your Thanksgiving theme or color scheme. Earthy tones like orange, brown, and gold work well for a traditional feel.
• Add a centerpiece to your table using elements of the season, such as a vase of autumn flowers, a cornucopia filled with gourds and mini pumpkins, or a rustic wooden tray with battery candles and fall foliage.
• Don't forget to set the table with elegant dinnerware, including plates, silverware, and glassware for each guest. Consider using cloth napkins in fall colors for an added touch of sophistication.

Creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere

Everyone's belly is now full, the tryptophan and carbohydrates are working their magic! For after dinner comfort:

• Place soft blankets or throws on the chairs or nearby seating areas for guests to use if they get chilly. Those throw pillows might actually get used today!
• Play soft background music that complements the festive atmosphere, such as instrumental holiday classics or soft jazz. Have musicians in the family? Now is a great time to embrace it!

Managing House Guests

As you prepare to welcome friends and family into your home this Thanksgiving, it's important to think about how to make their stay as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.

Preparing guest rooms for comfort

Before your guests arrive, take the time to prepare their rooms to ensure they feel welcomed and at home.

• Provide fresh linens and towels for each guest.
• Clear out any clutter and make space for your guests to store their belongings.
• Add some personal touches, such as a small basket of toiletries or a vase of fresh flowers.
• Make sure the room is properly ventilated and temperature-controlled.

Plan activities to entertain guests

Keep your guests entertained and engaged by planning activities that everyone can participate in. These tips will ensure that your house guests have a wonderful and memorable Thanksgiving experience in your home

• Organize a sightseeing tour of your city or town.
• Plan a movie night with classic Thanksgiving films.
• Arrange a friendly game of backyard football or board games.
• Take a nature walk or hike in a nearby park, especially the day after Thanksgiving when so many "Opt Outside" instead of shopping.

Background

I was raised in small town America, in beautiful East TN. My parents, who instilled in me the importance of hard work and determination, played a significant role in shaping my values and beliefs. I never knew of a time they were not working, and I have continued this habit in my own life. Work makes me happy- weird I know, but even on an off day, I feel as if I am wasting the day if I am not actively doing something productive. So, on the days my career isn't calling, I do have a few hobbies that I will share with you in just a bit...but first, a little about why I got into Real Estate...

My childhood was filled with adventures and exploration. Such a great benefit of growing up in the area, the Cherokee National Forest as my backyard, a paradise even before we knew what paradise was! But as I said earlier, I was learning a work ethic, also. My love of all things Home came from watching my parents transform the farmhouse I grew up in, from a 2 bedroom to a 4 bedroom by using the upstairs "attic space" that had 10 foot ceilings and about 1000 extra square feet! I was paying attention to their designs and watching it come to life for other people as well, hence my interest in homes and well, Real Estate. I have loved many styles of homes, but some of my favorites have been the ones that needed just a bit of imagination (and work), creating a space as unique as the family that it was meant for. I always wanted a career in Real Estate, and when the time was right, I jumped in and couldn't be happier!

Education and Learning Experiences

At this point in my life, I believe that learning is a lifelong journey that never ends. Throughout my educational journey, I have had several significant learning experiences that have shaped me into the agent I am today. I must say, not all education is formal, as a large percentage of what I have learned is from real life experiences. These tend to be the most memorable...for sure.

Education has equipped me with a range of invaluable skills, including:

• Effective Communication: I realize how important communication is, I believe open and honest discussion is the only way to form a trustworthy relationship. Sometimes it may be hard to hear, but most people prefer the truth. As long as it is tactful, right? Oh, and listening to client needs is pretty important as well. All great communicators must first listen.
• Negotiations: Analyzing complex issues and finding solutions has become second nature to me. The key is to determine what factors will make BOTH parties of a transaction happy. I have earned the RENE designation, Real Estate Negotiation Expert, which has taught me to determine how to accurately and professionally deal with someone who may (or may not) be receptive to what I am about to suggest. While establishing what motivates the other party, we most often can come to an agreement all parties are in favor of! 
• Goal Oriented: Of course I have my own personal Goals, that I trend to ensure growth, but the Goal I take the most serious is YOURS! Whatever it is you hope to achieve (Real Estate related), I am committed to making it happen! I have also earned the SRS, Seller Representation Specialist designation. This ensures I am able to represent you, your best interest and goals in mind, with the sell of your home, all in the most professional way!
• Collaboration: Working in diverse teams has allowed me to appreciate the strengths of others, adapt to different working styles, and achieve collective goals. The relationships I have formed with other realtors has allowed an incredible network to be formed, one that is so casual and easy, that it simply just flows. I am confident that if I am in need, I have resources to pull from- and they may also pull from me.
• Embracing Challenges: I am embracing opportunities that push me out of my comfort zone, as they often lead to personal and professional growth. What better way to learn than by a real life experience!

I am constantly seeking new opportunities for educational growth and development, above what is required to maintain my license in TN, and I am excited about what the future holds.

Hobbies and Interests:

In my free time, I have a few hobbies that bring me joy and relaxation. This allows me to explore my nature loving soul, as much as my creative side.

• Gardening: I find solace in working in my flower gardens and watching the plants grow. It's incredibly fulfilling to see them blossom and perform to benefit nature. I adore butterflies and hummingbirds and plant brightly colored species to bring them my way. This year, I created a small frog pond that has brought a ton of enjoyment! I find it a challenge to sneak up on them while resting on their rocks....of course until they see me, and jump into the water to hide. So far, I'm not very good at this!
• Hiking: Exploring nature and breathing in fresh air recharges my whole being. Hiking East TN trails and immersing myself in the beauty of the great outdoors is a favorite pastime. I enjoy searching for wildflowers, moss, mushrooms, and enormous old trees with canopies that soar up and contrast with the bright, blue sky. Even better if there is a waterfall, with a basin deep enough to take a swim! Now, that is an experience!

These activities provide a way for me to unwind, express my creativity, and connect with the world around me, bringing balance to my life and allowing me to maintain my personal well-being. They remind me to embrace the present moment, find joy in the simple things, and continually seek out new experiences and opportunities.