WITH NONNA’S “ITALIAN PENICILLIN” RECIPE
OUR HOMES SHOULD INSPIRE US TO GO OUT INTO THE WORLD TO DO GREAT THINGS & THEN WELCOME US BACK FOR REFRESHMENT
Melissa Michaels
well-be·ing
/’wel,bēiNG,wel’bēiNG/
Feeling good isn’t just about workouts and diets. This year, explore new dimensions of health with financial, environmental, and mental habits that promote balance and peace.
FINANCIAL FITNESS
Reduce stress and build security by mastering your finances:
• Budget with purpose: Create a sustainable spending plan aligned with your goals.
• Invest for the future: Explore stocks, retirement accounts, or real estate for long-term growth.
• Plan ahead: Consult financial advisors or estate planners to organize your finances.
• Safeguard your documents: Use a fireproof safe or encrypted storage for peace of mind.
MENTAL MASTERY
Boost focus and reduce anxiety with mindful habits:
• Unplug regularly: Set tech-free hours for better sleep and mental clarity.
• Prioritize sleep hygiene: Establish a calming routine and aim for 7–9 hours of rest.
• Feed your mind: Try reading, puzzles, or meditation for mental nourishment.
• Practice gratitude: Recognize the positives to enhance resilience and happiness.
• Seek support: Reach out to counselors or therapists for stress management strategies.
TRANQUIL TOUCHES
Create a relaxing home to reduce stress and enhance comfort:
• Breathe easy: Improve air quality with clean filters and air purifiers.
• Clear the clutter: Organize your space for a serene environment.
• Cozy updates: Add fresh paint, plush bedding, or updated lighting for a welcoming vibe.
• Healthy habits: Stay on top of home maintenance to prevent health hazards.
REJUVENATING RITUALS
Recharge your mind and body with hobbies and relaxation:
• Explore creative hobbies: Try painting, photography, or knitting for stress relief.
• Stay active: Dance, hike, or practice yoga for energy and excitement.
• Restorative practices: Incorporate journaling or meditation into your routine.
NEIGHBORLY NETWORKS
Strengthen social connections for a sense of belonging:
• Join a local group: Build friendships in book clubs or sports leagues.
“Almost everything will work again if you unplug it for a minutes,feweven you.”
- Anne Lamott
• Support local businesses: Invest in your community’s growth by shopping local.
• Mentor or teach: Share your skills while gaining fresh perspectives.
• Volunteer: Participate in group projects to strengthen bonds and make a difference.
DIGITAL DEFENSE
Protect your digital life for peace of mind:
• Strengthen passwords: Use complex, unique combinations and consider a password manager.
• Enable two-factor authentication: Add extra security to sensitive accounts.
• Monitor activity: Check bank and credit card statements for unauthorized transactions.
• Secure your devices: Update software and use antivirus programs regularly.
With these habits, redefine what it means to truly feel good—mind, body, and soul.
2025 Real Estate Forecast: Insights for Buyers & Sellers
As we look ahead to 2025, housing market experts Brian Buffini and Dr. Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist of the National Association of REALTORS®, share reasons for optimism and key insights to guide buyers and sellers in the year ahead. From mortgage rates and home sales to the economy and housing supply, their predictions shed light on what’s to come.
ECONOMIC & INDUSTRY OUTLOOK
A steady economy and expert guidance make 2025 a promising year to explore your real estate goals.
For Buyers: A stable economy makes homeownership a smart investment; team up with knowledgeable agents to navigate the evolving market.
For Sellers: Confidence in the economy boosts buyer activity—lean on expert real estate advice to maximize your home’s appeal and closing price.
MORTGAGE RATES
Mortgage rates are finding stability, with modest declines expected—low 6% could feel like a deal in 2025.
For Buyers: Now’s the time to plan strategically— lock in a competitive rate and get pre-approved early.
For Sellers: Buyers are adjusting to the current rates, so wellpriced homes will attract motivated purchasers. Highlight your property’s value to stand out.
HOME SALES & INVENTORY
Rising home sales and increased inventory in 2025 mean more opportunities for buyers and sellers alike.
For Buyers: Increased inventory means more options for your dream home, but be prepared to act quickly as demand rises alongside sales.
For Sellers: With a projected 10% sales increase, listing your home in 2025 could bring more competitive offers and a faster sale.
JANUARY
17th/BOYS & GIRLS CLUB CHILI CHALLENGE, 5:30 PM, Event Center at Archer
I love talking about real estate and helping people reach their goals. Whether you’re ready to dive in or just want to chat about your options, let’s connect!
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 large onion, diced
• 1 large shallot, finely chopped
• 4 celery stalks, diced
• 1 large yellow bell pepper, diced
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 8 cups low-sodium chicken broth (add more if needed)
• 1 lb carrots, diced
• 1 parmesan rind (optional)
• 1½ tsp kosher salt (adjust to taste)
• ⅓ cup uncooked pastina (use more if desired)
• 2½–3 cups rotisserie or leftover chicken
• Grated Parmesan (for serving)
• Finely chopped fresh rosemary and/or thyme leaves
Italian Chicken Pastina Soup (aka Nonna’s Italian Penicillin)
"Soup puts the heart at ease, calms down the violence of hunger, eliminates the tension of the day, and awakens and refines the appetite"
- Auguste Escoffier
Heat a large Dutch oven or soup pot over medium heat. Add oil, butter, onion, shallot, celery, and bell pepper. Cook 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until onions are translucent. Stir in garlic and cook 2 more minutes.
Add broth, carrots, parmesan rind (if using), and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until veggies are tender.
Remove 2 cups of diced veggies with a slotted spoon and set aside. Puree the remaining broth/veggie mixture with an immersion blender (or let cool slightly and blend in batches using a regular blender, venting to prevent pressure buildup).
Add pasta and bring to a boil. Reduce to a simmer and cook according to package instructions. Stir in chicken and reserved veggies. Cover and let rest for 20 minutes.
Adjust seasoning to taste and serve with grated Parmesan, fresh rosemary or thyme, and black pepper. Enjoy!
18th/THE LAST WALTZ AGAIN, 7:00 PM, The Lincoln Cheyenne thelincolncheyenne.com
21st/BAD BAD HATS, 7:00 PM, The Lincoln Cheyenne thelincolncheyenne.com
22nd/RED CARPET RIBBON CUTTING: DERBY LANES & ENTERTAINMENT CENTER, 4:00 PM, The Derby Club
25th/LCCC ATHLETICS 3RD ANNUAL BLUE & GOLD BASH, 6:00 PM, Clay Pathfinder Building lccc.wy.edu
28th/TACOS NONPROFITS & TEQUILA FOR GIRLS ON THE RUN, 6:00 PM, The Railspur
31st/HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON IN CONCERT, 7:00 PM cheyennepresents.com
FEBRUARY
1st/WINTER FARMERS MARKET, 9:00 AM, Cheyenne Depot Plaza
1st/WOMEN’S SELF DEFENSE CLASS, 12:00 PM, Arena Training Institute, FREE
1st/BINGO LOCO CHEYENNE, 6:00 PM, The Lincoln Cheyenne thelincolncheyenne.com
5th/MO’ FUNNY, LESS PROBLEMS, 7:00 PM, Surbrugg Prentice Auditorium lccc.wy.edu
7th/CHEYENNE ART WALK, 5:00 PM, Downtown Cheyenne, FREE
7th/YOUTH NIGHT, 6:00 PM, David Romero Community Center, FREE
8th/FROZEN FURY ON THE PLAINS, 5:00 PM, Event Center at Archer laramiecountyevents.com
13th/WYOMING STATE ARCHIVES SPEAKER SERIES, 7:00 PM, 2301 Central Avenue, FREE
15th/WINTER FARMERS MARKET, 9:00 AM, Cheyenne Depot Plaza
15th/CFD18TH ANNUAL VOLUNTEER CRISIS FUND BANQUET, Little America Hotel & Resort
