HomeFront Winter 2015 by Leader Telegram

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home&garden solutions&projects

Leader-Telegram Magazine

Winter 2015

Counter

revolutions

reImagined refurbishing & repurposing for Winter Decorating Success

Garden Projects: Getting the jump on Spring

snowbirds Who to expect in your backyard this Winter

OUR STYLE IS ALL ABOUT YOURS

At Decorating Den Interiors, we have a pretty simple design philosophy. We think your home interior should express your tastes and support your lifestyle. And the whole process should be as easy and enjoyable as possible, whatever the cost of the project, whatever the scope of the project.

Affordable

Many people think that working with an interior decorator is expensive. It doesn’t have to be. First, when you work with Decorating Den Interiors our initial design consultation is always free. And, because we work with a wide variety of products and suppliers we can help you determine a budget and price range that is comfortable for you. Once we’ve established your budget, you can relax and know that everything we show you will fit within the budget for your project.

before

Change is good. Especially when it comes this easily. We discuss your needs, listen to your ideas and work with you from design through final installation. Best of all, you can be sure your project will have a happy ending because Decorating Den Interiors executes all phases. From initial consultation, to product selection, to final installation, we handle every detail. We are a true end-to-end decorating service. So you can be sure your “After” will be a dream come true.

A world of possibilities delivered to your door. We listen to you. When Decorating Den Interiors arrives, so does the excitement of creating a space that’s uniquely your own. From the comfort of your home, our professional decorators provide expert guidance on colors, materials, textures, finishes and furniture to arrive at the perfect solution. We develop a personalized master plan to assess your needs and prioritize your projects. It’s a blueprint for transforming your home or any part of it.

A WORLD OF POSSIBILITIES DELIVERED TO YOUR DOOR IT COULDN’T BE EASIER WE Window Treatments (including blinds & COME TO YOU! draperies)

So go ahead and imagine the possibilities. Whether the goal is a re-purposed room or a whole new interior environment for your entire house, we’ll show you attractive, affordable options, from window coverings, custom bedding, floor and wall coverings, upholstery and fine furniture to lighting and accessories.

We bring samples and knowledge of: Furniture Choosing Paint Colors Furniture Placement Rugs Custom Bedding Lighting Closet systems Accessories & Art

Call to schedule a complimentary, in-home consultation with a Decorating Den Interiors decorating professional. Visit www.decoratingden.com.

before

Call to schedule a complimentary, in-home consultation with a Decorating Den Interiors decorating professional.

Buy or build a home minus the worry.

Visit www.decoratingden.com for more information.

With a free pre-approval and easy online application.

Jan Wachewicz OWNER/DECORATOR 715-764-1166 jwach@decoratingden.com

Whether you’re looking to own your first home, buy a new home, build your dream home or refinance, an AnchorBank lender can help make it happen. Our lenders offer you a full circle of loan options, 24/7 tools and support to help you figure out what you can afford. You’ll always have the help you need to stay worry-free.

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HomeFront Winter 2015 Leader- Telegram

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sweet ideas

uses for leftover Halloween candy Article by Metro Creative Graphics, Inc

Halloween is certainly known for the spooky decorations that adorn homes and for the creative costumes children put on to canvas the neighborhood. But for many youngsters, Halloween is all about the candy. In just a few hours, trick-ortreaters can accumulate a substantial amount of assorted chocolates, confections and other sweet treats. Once everyone has had their fill of their favorite items, candy often gets relegated to a giant bowl on the kitchen table, where it beckons each resident who passes by. Rather than submitting to the call of the candy and sacrificing your dental health as a result, enterprising individuals can repurpose that leftover Halloween candy. Cont. on page 7

HomeFront

Winter 2015

Leader- Telegram

9 Counter

Revolution Current Trends in Countertops, the choices keep growing.

22 reImagined Refurbishing & repurposing for decorating success.

37 Garden

Projects

Getting the jump on Spring, plan outdoor projects now.

local contributors

local writers

Amy Boettcher of REiMAGINE on Refurbishing & Repuposing PGs 22-25

Dave Christian of Stone Countertop Outlet on Counter Revolutions PGs 9-12

Chris Durham of Lifetime Solid Surfaces on Counter Revolutions PGs 9-12

Gary Eslinger of Perma Glaze on Counter Revolutions PGs 9-12

Brett Popp of Potting Shed Garden & Floral

Julie Stunkel of Natural Touch Landscaping on Garden Projects PGs 37-42

on Refurbishing & Repuposing

PGs 22-25

and Garden Projects

PGs 37-42

Some contributors and/or writers may not be pictured.

HomeFront Winter 2015 Leader- Telegram

Steve Betchkal Snowbirds PGs 43-46

Heather Rothbauer-Wanish reImagined Repurposing & Refurbishing PGs 22-25

Nancy Skelley Getting the Jump on Spring PGs 37-42

Jocelyn Syrstad Counter Revolutions PGs 9-12

43 Snowbirds in this issue 3 Leftover Candy.

Home Front Editor Dan.Lyksett@ecpc.com 715-830-5926 or 800-236-7077 Graphic Artist Angela Rediess Sales Director Kathy.Hayden@ecpc.com 715-833-7420

Creative Centerpieces 18

Magazine Advertising & Distribution Coordinator Catie.Carlson@ecpc.com 715-830-5823

26 Gift Wrap Tricks

Next issue: April 2016 Published three times a year by the Leader-Telegram Advertising Department. P.O. Box 570. Eau Claire, WI 54702-0570. Copyright 2015 Eau Claire Press Company. All rights reserved.

Party Themes 30

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Winter 2015

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Aging gracefully Time stops for no one. All of us are faced with the reality of “getting older” and, as I author this, I am very aware that at 70 there are some limitations I did not face at 40 or 50. I have the good fortune of being quite healthy with none of the knee surgery, hip surgery, arthritis or other maladies that have encumbered many of my peers. Nevertheless I am well aware of difficulties that come with physical limitations as I have two sons who are wheelchair bound. The hope for many of us is that we can remain in our home for as long as possible. It is a place we feel comfortable in and often is chock full of memories. The biggest challenge that many boomers face as they choose to stay in their homes is accessibility and safety when bathing. Getting in and out of the old bathtub is difficult and sometimes simply impossible. There is a distinct possibility of a serious fall when entering or exiting the tub. There are some rather frightening statistics about the frequency and seriousness of bathroom falls among Boomers and older seniors. Most of us know of a relative or friend who fell and was injured and never quite recovered … life simply went downhill after the fall. The good news is that there are simple, attractive and affordable solutions that can be accomplished in nearly every home that provide for a safer bathing experience. In just a day or two a professional contractor can remove the old bathtub and replace it with a walk-in shower or walk-in tub. A walkin shower offers easy entry and a built-in seat if you choose. The wall system within the shower is attractive and super easy to keep clean. A handheld shower offers added convenience and properly installed grab bars provide increased safety. For the person who still prefers a bathtub the walk-in tubs offer a low entry, a secure seat, and the possibility of specially designed hydrotherapy to ease some of the aches and pains that often accompany growing older. When contrasted with the cost of assisted living facilities or, possibly, a nursing home, the investment in making an existing bathroom safer and easier to care for is a bargain.

There are a variety of DIY (do it yourself) products that can be found in the ”big box” stores. If you have the knowledge to figure out everything required to upgrade the bathroom you may be able to get it but much of it may not be of the same quality as that installed by someone who is going to guarantee their product and labor. In many cases, code requires that a licensed plumber be involved, in addition to the contractor (who should also provide credentials of a fully insured, licensed contractor). It is much better to do the job right than to do it over and that is best accomplished by working with a established contractor. Checking the contractor out on the BBB is always a wise move. I titled this “Aging gracefully”. While it might make for hilarious You Tube videos, slipping and flipping in your bathroom is no laughing matter. Taking measures to be safe as you bathe will allow you to (however slowly) move gracefully and safely. Ensuring a safe bathing experience is a wise investment in your home and your personal safety and, like any investment, it makes good sense to investigate thoroughly before signing up. Article & photo submitted by Miles Wilkins, Owner, The Board Store Home Improvements, Inc. 790203 11-14-15

HomeFront Winter 2015 Leader- Telegram

sweet ideas Cont. from page 3

Incentives

Baking

Gingerbread houses

Donations

Parents can store extra candy to use as rewards for good behavior. Many parents use sweet treats as rewards for children learning to potty train. Rewarding older children for a job well done cleaning up their rooms or as a special treat for scoring a good grade on a test also can be a way to put the candy to good use.

Cookies, brownies and cake bars taste even better with peanut butter cups, chips and chocolate candies baked inside. Some candy can be frozen for later use in baked goods. Baked goods can be enjoyed by the family or used for bake sales for schools and other organizations. Hospitals, doctors’ offices and nursing homes may appreciate donations of candy for staff and visitors. You can visit different places to see if they would appreciate a candy donation.

Christmas is just two months after Halloween. Put candy into sealable baggies and use it come the holiday season when building gingerbread houses. You will have a variety of different candies from which to choose and won’t have to purchase anything new in order to decorate your creations.

Adult beverages

Hard candies can be used to add some flavor to adult beverages. Let the candy sit in the alcohol for a few hours and the candy will dissolve. Use a coffee filter to strain out any candy remnants.

Advent calendars

Halloween candy can be saved to make an Advent calendar. This calendar traditionally counts down to Christmas, revealing a date and a sweet treat behind each door. Instead of purchasing a ready made Advent calendar, families can get together and make one for a family craft as a way to recycle Halloween candy.

Goody bags

Candy is a crowd-pleaser, and leftover candy can be used in goody bags doled out at birthday parties. Keep the candy well-sealed to store away until it is needed to fill goodie bags. Add a few trinkets that tie in with the theme of your party, and you’re all set. On a similar note, leftover candy can be used to stuff a pinata for a party. Pinatas are available in many different themes and styles, making any occasion ripe for a pinata.

HomeFront

There are many different ways to put Halloween candy to use so it doesn’t go to waste or end up ruining teeth and waistlines.

Recipes for Gingerbread and Peanut Butter Cupcakes on pages 31 & 32. Winter 2015

Leader- Telegram 7

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Design with Pets in Mind Home owners love their pets – and they also love great design with modern function. So it’s no surprise that home builders and designers increasingly are being asked to consider pets when developing floor plans and custom amenities. Builders are responding to this demand by offering homes with pet-friendly design in the kitchen, laundry room/mud room and even outdoor spaces. Whether you’re in the market for a new home, will soon be remodeling or just need some inspiration for how to use your current space, here are a few ideas to get started. Kitchen: If you have a small or medium-sized pet, consider finding a spot in your kitchen to create a built-in eating area. It can be as simple as using free floor space under the island to create a stylish spot for the food and water bowls. Or, declutter a large lower cabinet, remove the door and create a convenient feeding spot. You also can add a comfortable cushion for a cozy pet bed. If your pet is a messy eater, keep the feeding station away from

When storing your pet gear – leashes, toys, food – look for opportunities to seamlessly blend in the storage with the rest of your home’s style. For example, stash pet toys in a basket similar to the ones you use for your family’s outdoor gear. Store pet food in a large glass container – instead of its regular packaging – and you won’t mind the nibbles being on display.

most of the foot traffic. Water spills can be especially hazardous in the kitchen. That’s why feeding bowls for larger pets may be better suited for the laundry room or mud room.

Home owners also are adding pet-washing stations in their laundry/mud rooms. An enclosed tiled area with an extended faucet can be used for baths or simply to clean paws after coming inside.

Laundry Room/Mud Room: If you have a separate laundry room and/or mud room, there are many ways to utilize this space for your pets. A feeding station for your larger pet can be conveniently located beneath a boot bench. This also makes a great spot for a pet bed.

To find a home builder or designer that can help you make smart design choices for your pets, contact the Chippewa Valley Home Builders Association at www.cvhomebuilders.com or 715-835-2526.

Article submitted by Christina Thrun, Executive Officer, Chippewa Valley Home Builders Association. 791351 11-14-15

HomeFront Winter 2015 Leader- Telegram

home ideas

Counter

revolutions

Choices in countertops abound in the Chippewa Valley By Jocelyn Syrstad

When watching the ever-popular home improvement channels such as HGTV or DIY, it isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t unusual to hear a host saying nothing dates a home more than its kitchen and bathrooms. And realtors are quick to point out the look of the kitchen and bathroom is what hurts or helps a home sale the most. The first item many people consider when updating their kitchens or bathrooms is the countertops. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a major component of both rooms, and simply upgrading the countertops can change the look of a room.

Cont. on page 10

HomeFront

Winter 2015

Leader- Telegram 9

home ideas Cont. from page 9

Luckily, the Chippewa Valley offers customers plenty of options when it comes to updating their countertops. Gerhards in Eau Claire offers laminate, solid surface, butcher block, quartz, granite, marble and cultured countertops. Lifetime Solid Surfaces in Chippewa Falls provides clients with seamless solid surface and Cambria quartz. Stone Countertop Outlet in Eau Claire carries granite, quartz and soapstone surfaces. And Perma Glaze of Western Wisconsin gives people the option to resurface their existing tops. With all of these options in western Wisconsin alone, how can anyone decide what to install when updating their kitchens? Store owners and managers in the area said it simply comes down to personal preference. Of the many types of surfaces Gerhards sells, store manager Ronda Rindy said laminate, quartz and granite are probably the most popular – laminate because it’s affordable, quartz because it’s sustainable and granite for its aesthetic appeal. “In the 15 years I have been doing this, I would say quartz has gained the most popularity,” Rindy said. “But there are a lot of options out there, and each customer has a different criteria.” Dave Christian, the owner of Stone Countertop Outlet, agreed that quartz is growing in popularity. However, he said granite has been consistently popular for

the past two decades. He guessed three-fourths of his business consists of tearing out laminate countertops and replacing them with granite. Christian said granite is so popular because it lasts a long time and the upkeep is fairly simple. He suggests simply using white vinegar and water to clean a granite surface, and that will keep the counters looking new for many years to come. “Granite lasts forever,” Christian said. “Think of cemeteries, for instance. All of the headstones are made of granite and there are headstones that have been sitting out in the weather for 100 years. I have no qualms in the longevity of granite. “And then there is the pure elegance and beauty that comes with granite. Nothing can surpass it. It’s a timeless look. It’s not going to get old on you.” Chris Durham of Lifetime Solid Surfaces argued that his store’s seamless solid surface countertops are some of the easiest surfaces to take care of and they stay looking nice for a long time. The solid surfaces are made of a man-made composite that’s stain-resistant as well as nonporous, meaning the surface won’t take on stains or odors. The solid surfaces also have the sinks integrated right into the countertops, a feature Durham said many customers appreciate. “The sinks don’t have any caulk lines since they are Cont. on page 12

HomeFront Winter 2015 Leader- Telegram

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Countertop refinishing in this instance is done on site with no tear-outs and minimal down time for the customer. Gary Eslinger, owner of Perma Glaze of Western, WI, has seen the Stone-Flecks product gain popularity here in the Chippewa Valley. “As people learn more about the advantages of this product and process, they use the Stone-Flecks to renovate kitchens and baths at minimal costs and inconvenience.”

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Stone-Flecks forms a tough, durable finish that provides superior protection for many years. And with multiple piece countertops with seams, the Stone-Flecks finish is designed to cover those seams and produce a one-piece top. With over 20 different eco-friendly colors, you can make any countertop come alive. Homeowners, apartment managers and hotel operators who want the “natural” look and beauty of stone finishes have carefully compared the performance of Stone-Flecks to expensive granite and stone. “Dollars and durability are the most asked questions,” states Eslinger. “Refinishing is generally half the price of replacing and as for durability, it’s a non-porous finish that is highly resistant to acids, stains and damage. Stone-Flecks retains its natural luster and is simply cleaned with soap and water. Plus, it requires no annual cleaning and sealing.”

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Are bacteria and fungus lurking in your bathtub? Don’t Replace It, Perma Glaze It!

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So once again, we say “Don’t replace it - Perma Glaze it!” Article & photos provided by Perma Glaze of Western, WI, LLC 790468 11-14-15

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home ideas

Cont. from page 10

seamless with the countertops, and the caulk lines tend to be one of the first spots where wear and tear shows up on your counters,” Durham said. “The solid surfaces are easier to clean because they don’t have any seams or joints; everything is fused together. It gives a smooth, user-friendly appearance that looks really nice.” Obviously, just as with anything in our society, trends come and go. One of the newer trends in countertops comes in the form of resurfacing. Rindy said in the last five years she has seen a surge in customers who want to upgrade the edges on their existing laminate countertops as a way to gain aesthetics but keep costs down. That’s where businesses such as Perma Glaze come into play. Five years ago, Gary Eslinger started testing out the reglazing and resurfacing of countertops and was pleased enough with the results to bring it to the public in western Wisconsin.

world, reusing what’s already there is the way to go. It’s one less thing we have to throw away. With stone fleck, it will give a stone countertop look. We are finding it to be extremely durable, and yet you don’t have to tear out your old countertops and you don’t have to piece a bunch of surfaces together. It’s a very seamless look; it makes lines disappear. “I did it in my house first before I brought it to the public. I have teenage daughters, so I tested it out on their bathroom countertop. I figured if anyone’s going to abuse countertops, it’s going to be teenage girls. Five years later, it still looks nice.” Regardless of the surface type, the store owners and managers in the Chippewa Valley said a typical installation of new countertops takes roughly one to two days, so clients don’t have to worry about their rooms being out of commission for an extended period of time.

With Perma Glaze, customers have the option of a variety of finishes such as matte, satin and stone fleck. By resurfacing, people don’t have to go through an installation project and don’t have to spend as much money — Eslinger estimated Perma Glaze is about 50 percent less the cost — on getting entirely new countertops, but it will look like they did just that.

To figure out what countertop works best for each individual home and person, Rindy suggests stopping into a store, looking at the available options and talking with a professional.

“This is a nice alternative for people,” Eslinger said. “I figure in today’s green

Syrstad is a freelance writer based out of the La Crosse area.

“We are here to help and to give you quotes based on what you’re looking at,” Rindy said. “There are plenty of options out there to choose from.”

HomeFront Winter 2015 Leader- Telegram

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Redefine any space with an

Visit our new showroom! h !

interior decorator

3445 E. Hamilton Avenue in Eau Claire 715.598.7116

Article by Metro Creative, LLC.

across from Gordy’s

Though it may seem like interior decorators are a luxury reserved exclusively for the rich and famous, interior decorators work with people of all budgets. Homeowners sometimes wrestle with the practicality of hiring a decorator, wondering why they should spend the money when they can do the work themselves. But just like homeowners may hire professional electricians or landscapers, hiring a professional interior decorator can ensure the job is done right, within budget and completed within a reasonable amount of time.

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Those who have already invested quite a bit of money into their homes but want to add some finishing touches would be wise to hire interior decorators or designers. Homeowners often have no idea where to begin when attempting to establish flow from room to room in their homes. Decorators can help homeowners tailor the interiors of their homes so the homes produce the desired vibe. Hiring a designer can help a person avoid making potentially costly design errors. An aesthetically appealing house also can increase the home’s value, setting a property above others in terms of appeal. Even though the designer will charge a fee, the investment may be well worth the expense when the room is done right the first time. Interior decorators have numerous resources at their disposal. Fine tuned to the world of design, they understand which trends will come and go and also which design ideas have staying power. In addition, decorators will be in touch with vendors in the industry, connecting homeowners with the best of the best in terms of providing furniture, housewares, photography, and additional special touches that help make a house a home.

• Siding • Windows • Doors Soffit • Fascia • Gutters & Gutter Helmet Decks & Railings • Patio Doors Skylights • Sun Tunnels • Retractable Awnings Sun Shades • Sun Rooms • Solariums • Pergolas Visit our Showroom at 2309 West Cameron St., Eau Claire, WI

In addition to expertise and resources, interior decorators have eyes that will be trained on things homeowners may not have noticed or even realized can be done. A designer may envision removing a room to create more space or knocking a wall down to let more natural light into a room. Designers and decorators are trained to think differently and spatially to achieve concepts homeowners may never have envisioned for themselves. They can help tell stories through design and improve spaces immeasurably. Call 715-764-1166 to schedule a complimentary, in-home consultation with a Decorating Den Interiors decorating professional.

715.832.7282 or 1.888.go.asher

Visit www.decoratingden.com for more information.

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Article sponsored by Decorating Den Interiors. Jan Wachewicz, Owner/Decorator

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the art of art collecting

We’re Dedicated to the Details

I am an art collector and an artist. Being an artist is easy to define, whether professional or amatuer, an artist is someone who makes art. It follows that an art collector is someone who collects art but more importantly we need to differentiate an art collector from someone who simply buys art for decoration. An art collector loves art, but also assesses the monetary value of a work. The work of art may set your heart afire, but if you can’t prove where the piece came from it may be worthless to everyone but you. Provenance is key to establishing the value and cultural importance of a piece of art in the world view. Provenance includes many things but especially the history of the work, from its creation through its sales history. The veracity of a good story is important. Below is a list compiled by myself and Art Business News of recommended documentation to include with an art sale and painting records. • Receipts, certificates of authenticity and other relevant written or printed materials. • What the art means or what its significance is, either according to the artist or to the gallery that sold it to you. • Date and place of creation. • Any stories the sellers/artist tell you specifically relating to the art. • Any memorable moments about making the purchases. • Biographical and career information about the artists.

• How or why or any other information about the ways the artists made them. • Materials and methods of the work. • Exhibition history of the work • Save all related books, exhibit catalogues, gallery brochures, reviews and the like. • Whenever possible, photograph the artists who you collect, especially photograph the artist with the art. Have them sign or inscribe catalogues or gallery invitations for you.

Article provided by Jean Accola, owner of The Accola Gallery, Durand, WI. 790234 11-14-15

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home decor

Shop smart for vintage signs Decorating with vintage pieces can add an eclectic flair that sets your home apart from others. Instead of the cookie-cutter designs mass-produced for home centers and department stores, antique decor can be interesting, eye-catching and, depending on where you shop, more affordable.

for the convenience of online auctions, and other shoppers can quickly drive up auction prices. Antique shops are another venue for antique signs and coordinating pieces. Some sellers specialize in vintage signage. Antique stores are popular in many tourist towns and major cities, where more artistic neighborhoods tend to include one or more antique shops. If a particular antique store does not have what you are looking for, they may be able to secure certain pieces you desire from other vendors.

One growing trend in decorating with antiques is the use of vintage signs as artwork or even to serve as cabinet doors or headboards. Vintage signs lend well to kitchens and bathrooms but can be used throughout a home as well. Few things can compare to the drama, color and unique typography provided by antique signs. And they can be used with cottage decor or even in more contemporary homes. Those shopping for vintage signs may have noticed that the increase in demand for such signage has led to an increase in price. However, there are still bargains to be had with regard to vintage signs. Savvy shoppers often begin their quests for vintage signs at estate and garage sales. Many times people stash away old belongings in attics and basements, unaware that vintage items are highly valuable to others. Shoppers can find great deals on vintage signs at estate and garage sales. Bargains also can be found at

Article by Metro Creative Graphics, Inc

Shoppers looking for antique signs also can purchase reproductions. There are many retailers that produce very good likenesses that may be considerably more affordable than the originals. You also can commission an artist to reproduce signage that fits with your design plans. Some research online or a query of artists in your community may yield prospects who can produce the sign you covet. store closings and liquidations. You may even be able to purchase the actual sign from the shuttered store. Online auctions are another place to search for vintage signs. Buyers can bid on signs offered at auction and have many options to choose from. Keep in mind that you may pay more

Decorating with vintage signs and other artwork becomes much easier when you know where to start your search for materials. Scouring sales, antique stores and even online auctions can generally produce a bevy of options.

All that glitters is not aluminum. But it might be - especially if you want a little midcentury feel to your holiday decorating. For decorating ideas with a midcentury touch, visit: Space Out Furnishings LLC www.spacedoutfurnishings.com 715-379-0464 1602 Hogeboom Avenue, Eau Claire, WI 54701

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Practical Shopping for Home-Goods

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Styles come and go every 2 to 3 years and people are starting to catch on to the fact that some of the great deals at new furniture stores are not such great deals. Manufacturers created the trend of buying a new couch set or dining room table every couple of years; we are buying and throwing away furniture 4 times more often than 2 generations ago. It is not always a bad option to have cheaper furniture on the market, but for consumers to think they are buying something that will last 10 years and to pay new furniture prices when it has almost no resale value is a little deceiving and frustrating.

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See the big picture

When you are ready to purchase big ticket home furnishings remember paying a little more for quality hardwood furniture is going to save you money in the future. Even if you like to change your style every 4 to 5 years you should be able to recoup at least part of your investment with hardwood furniture, where as composite furniture has little to no resale value.

Veneer and composite board.Veneer is very convincing as hardwood these days. Most veneer and composite pieces use nail and glue instead of tongue and groove to hold them together. And with virtually no inner frame it will not hold up to everyday use much less being moved room to room or house to house.

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Couches and recliners. Most people don’t think about upholstered furniture being made of wood, but the quality of the frame and springs dictates how well that couch and/or chair will hold up over time, not just how firm the cushions are. Upholstery colors. Pick plainer chairs and sofas. Accent with fun pillows, rugs and pictures. It makes it easier and cheaper to change up the feel of your home. 855 Industrial Drive, Mondovi, WI

Article submitted by The Attic Consignment Furniture Store. 791231 11-14-15

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home decor

Creative solutions for table centerpieces Article by Metro Creative Graphics, Inc

Entertaining guests is a great way to open and share your home and make memories with family and friends. If your entertaining includes a meal, chances are everyone will be sitting at the table to dine and converse. A beautifully set table can make guests feel welcome and establish the ambiance for the meal. A centerpiece is at the heart of a welldressed table. While centerpieces are most often associated with formal affairs, any meal or gathering is enhanced with the right centerpiece. Here are some easy and elegant centerpiece ideas to dress up your dinner table.

City of Eau Claire Housing Division Housing Rehabilitation Program The City of Eau Claire Housing Division is taking applications for the Housing Rehabilitation Program. The Rehabilitation Program is federally funded and offers loans up to $20,000. This program is for homes in need of repair, not for extensions or cosmetic renovations.

For eligibility information and application call Chris at (715) 839-8294. The hearing impaired may contact this office by TDD at (715) 839-4943. If there are other specialized needs due to handicap, i.e. sign language interpreter, wheelchair accessibility, reader, please contact this office. 18

Type of Work: • Roof and window replacement • Plumbing repairs or upgrading • Electrical repairs or upgrading • Carpentry repairs

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home decor Fresh flowers

Floral arrangements make for great centerpieces. Such arrangements can be as simple or as extravagant as you desire. For casual meals, consider picking some flowers from your own garden or a nearby field. Spring daffodils or cherry blossom branches can add color to a table. Some smaller, potted impatiens or begonias make great centerpieces for summer soirĹ˝es, while autumn and winter blooms work for holiday gatherings and parties. If you want an even more special touch, consider working with a florist. Explain the theme of your party and ask the florist to recommend appropriate flowers for the gathering based on your theme.

Fruit & foods

Floral centerpieces may be some of the most popular, but food also works as a base for interesting centerpieces. Grab an unused soup tureen or some decorative vases and fill them with an assortment of items. Lemons, oranges and other citrus fruits add a splash of bold color to a table. Otherwise, look for exotic foods that have interesting appearances, like prickly pears or artichokes. Fill a tall vessel with walnuts or chestnuts for an earthy look. A large basket brimming with assorted breads and crackers looks attractive and is also ready for guests to dig in.

Candy

Whimsical parties or childrenĂ&#x2022;s events can be made more fun with clever centerpieces made from candy. Stick lollipops into buckets filled with sand or push them into a foam form to make a candy topiary. Canisters filled with candy of all shapes, sizes and colors appeal to guestsĂ&#x2022; eyes and their affinity for sweets.

Miscellaneous items

Look around the house for any number of other items that can be placed inside vases or clear containers. Bells, tissue paper, pebbles or confetti can be used to create attractive centerpieces for the table. With some inspiration and a little creativity, hosts and hostesses can create centerpieces that add a touch of elegance to any dinner party.

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Article by Metro Creative Graphics, Inc

Get organized for easy holiday decorating

home decor

Celebrations go a long way toward making the holiday season a special time of year. Each holiday offers the opportunity to transform both the interior and exterior of a home into a holiday wonderland blending both store-bought and handcrafted decorations and ornaments. As families grow, many amass various holiday trinkets and decorative items that become part of their holiday traditions. Some decorations hold special sentimental value, while others are standard decorations found in homes across the globe come the holiday season. It’s easy to get overwhelmed by holiday decorations, but organizing such items can make the process of giving your home a holiday facelift that much easier.

Color-coding

Storage bins are the unsung heroes of holiday decorating. Such bins keep treasures safe and out of the way in attics, basements and closets. Employing a color-coding system to organize holiday decorations will make it easier to identify items and their corresponding holidays. Christmas objects can be housed in red or green storage containers, while Halloween decorations can be placed in orange containers, and so on. Investing in durable, plastic bins with lids will keep items clean and orderly.

Designate a storage spot

Hunting and pecking around the house for holiday decor can make the process of decorating that much more time-consuming. Not knowing where the strings of lights or extra extension cords are stored can drag out the time it takes to decorate. Establish a designated storage area for ornaments, lights, wreaths, and other items used to decorate your home come the holidays. Out-of-the way spots like attics or seldom-used closets make good storage spots for holiday decorations, guaranteeing that such items won’t get in the way throughout the rest of the year.

Sort and replace as you go

Take the time to periodically go through decorative items, removing anything that is broken or worn beyond repair. It takes time to go items through piece by piece, but this will save time next year when decorations are taken out again. The longer you wait to sort items and do a little cleaning, the more time it ultimately takes to clean house.

Keep a running list

Although you may have a general idea of the items you have packed away, some things may be forgotten. Keep an informal inventory of decorations and supplies so you don’t purchase any duplicates. If you notice your list is lacking some items, shop pre- or post-season sales when items tend to be less expensive. Try to avoid shopping for holiday decorations right around that holiday, when stores are running out of stock and prices are typically at their highest. Decorating for the holidays can be fun, and it’s even more fun when homeowners take the time to carefully organize their decorations.

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reImagined refurbishing & repurposing for Winter Decorating Success By Heather Rothbauer-Wanish

Today it seems like any decorating magazines or online sources focus on the ideas of refurbishing and repurposing items. While some people choose to purchase these recycled items for accenting their homes, others try to make them on their own or even invent their own repurposed decorations. For those located in the Chippewa Valley, there are several sources for finding these items, taking classes or seeking inspiration for creativity.

HomeFront Winter 2015 Leader- Telegram

home decor Whether it is called refurbishing, recycling, repurposing or upcycling, the end result is the same: using something old in a new and imaginative way. Amy Boettcher is familiar with this niche and has owned REiMAGINE, a vintage and home décor store in Eau Claire, since August 2014. “The best part of the up-cycling movement is that you are using your imagination and nothing is wrong if you love it and it makes you happy,” Amy said. And, owning and operating REiMAGINE makes Amy very happy. “I love decorating and shopping so owning a store fills both needs,” she said. “I always thought that it would be fun and have wanted to own my own store. My husband said that you have to do it now because the opportunity may not come again.” Amy is currently getting the store ready for the busy holiday season. “I have mostly vintage items that include very cute trees made from bed springs. And I have more items that you can use to decorate for winter, including barn wood boxes, old windows and old frames for wreaths,” Amy said. Brett Popp, owner of The Potting Shed Garden and Gifts and Urban Meadows Floral Shop, carries both interior and exterior winter and Christmas decorations, along with themes that range from rustic and country to modern and trendy. And he has noticed a significant uptick in the sales of refurbished items. “From my standpoint as a retailer, I see items that carry the ‘refurbished’ look generally sell down two times faster than nonrefurbished items for any season,” Brett said. So what makes the repurposing trend so popular right now? “Every do-it-yourself media outlet trends with repurposing every project that you can think of today,” Brett said. “These can be a lot of fun

and—truth be told—really easy to do.” Cost most likely plays a factor in the movement. “There are many people that want the Pottery Barn style but simply cannot afford it,” Amy said. “I am a member of that group of people that sees something and thinks ‘I can do that,’ and the process has gotten so much easier and more affordable.” Amy added. “A lot of the items used in repurposing a project are inexpensive and readily accessible in a variety of retailers,” Brett said. Amy recommends people consider an item carefully prior to throwing it away. “As long as it doesn’t cause stress in your life or in your partner’s life, then save those items,” she said. “For example, I have a shelf in the garage with broken chair parts and lamps that need painting. In addition, I just took a damaged table and made awesome candle sticks and used part of it as new legs for another piece.” If you have never repurposed anything, Amy recommends starting small and inexpensively. As you gain confidence in your skills, you will easily be able to tackle larger and more complicated projects. Based on his own experience working on rejuvenating items, Brett offers four key tips for those considering a new project: 1. Research the project thoroughly and figure out what you will need for tools and supplies. Make a list and purchase the items that you can at a craft store. To save money, you can use mobile apps and websites to download coupons for most craft stores in our area. 2. Search for and attend garage sales, estate sales and auctions. These places are ideal for finding treasures. However, be sure to get there early, as the items you may be seeking tend to go quickly. Consider attending a flea Cont. on page 24

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home decor Cont. from page 23

market or second-hand store, as they can also carry items you may need.

classes will focus on how to create indoor gardening planters using repurposed items.

3. Search online websites for stuff for sale or for free in the area. As the old saying goes, ‘one person’s junk is another person’s treasure.’

“We are happy to provide workshops on a variety of projects that you can’t find elsewhere in the area,” Brett said.

4. Think about curbside shopping. It’s free! You can sometimes find some pretty interesting items along the curb. And, yes, it may be a little strange to rifle through someone else’s stuff, but that awkwardness could make for unique finds that make a great repurposed conversation piece at next week’s dinner party.

So, the next time you are considering throwing a broken household item away or are wondering if you should purchase that thrift sale goodie, reconsider the piece and think resourcefully about how that item could be used in a decorative manner or as a usable tool in your home.

For those that may want to dive into refurbishing and repurposing items but aren’t sure where to begin, The Potting Shed offers classes and workshops throughout the winter months. One of those upcoming

sweaters and existing vases.

Use buttons, lace, felt, ribbon and cardboard to make vintage button wreath ornaments.

Reuse old holiday cards by using them to make place cards for dinner parties.

String wire through old and nonmatching Christmas bulbs to make ornament garland that can be hung on a fireplace mantel.

Use a cast iron urn as the Christmas tree base instead of the typical tree stand.

Make no-sew sweater vases, using thrift store

Rothbauer-Wanish is a freelance writer who lives in Colfax.

The Attic

A quick search online provides a plethora of ideas for using existing and older items in a new way — spicing up your decorating during the winter and holiday season: For an outdoor decoration, take a pair of old boots and place pine boughs and holly inside the boots, using them as outdoor urns or vases.

“Just because it is broken doesn’t mean that it can’t live the rest of its life as something else,” Amy said.

Wrap pine cones around a votive with rustic twine to make a votive holder.

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Take a rusty canister and fill it with various colored candles, pine cones and greenery.

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24 HomeFront Winter 2015 Leader- Telegram

home decor Cont. from page 37

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holiday ideas

Gift wrap tricks to save time Article by Metro Creative Graphics, Inc

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Holiday shopping may be done, but that enormous pile of presents still needs to be wrapped. People have varying degrees of ability with regard to wrapping gifts. Some excel at those creased corners and perfect bows, while others are less adept at wrapping. The task of wrapping gifts may not be something to look forward to, but wrapping gifts is an essential element of the holiday season. Fortunately, there are a few tricks of the trade wrappers can lean on to make the process of wrapping gifts go as quickly and as smoothly as possible.

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Stock up on double-sided tape. Wrapping with double-sided tape helps you avoid unsightly tape lines and creates a neat finished product. Use a toilet paper tube to preserve wrapping paper rolls and keep them from unravelling. Simply cut the tube lengthwise and snap it over the open roll of paper to serve as a handy clip to keep the paper tidy. When you lose the edge of the tape on a roll, it can take precious time trying to find it again and then lift a piece of tape off the roll. Use a plastic bread clip to hold the place of the edge of the tape to prevent this from happening. Turn snack containers into handy gift wrap options. Empty potato chip cannisters can be wrapped and used to hold other food gifts or smaller stocking stuffers. Turn a foil-lined chip or popcorn bag inside out, first cleaning away any grease and crumbs, and use the bag to wrap a gift and tie off the end with a decorative ribbon.

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What’s Cooking at the Library

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Harvest time, fall festivals, hunting season, and the upcoming holidays may mean canning, blue ribbon baking, wild game recipes, and family gettogethers. Want to learn to make jam, cook Thai food at home, stretch your grocery budget, get a cookbook about a special diet recommended by your doctor, or impress your new in-laws with a fabulous Thanksgiving meal? Are you bored with the same old dinner menu or need new ideas for packing healthy lunch boxes? Your local library offers a wide variety of materials on all things food from garden to plate. Books with every type of recipe, instructional DVDs, and CDs to set the mood in your kitchen – all are available through your local library. Plus Wisconsin’s Digital Library offers a variety of ebooks as well as the newly added OverDrive periodical collection with downloadable magazine titles such as Taste of Home, Vegetarian Times, and Eating Well.

It’s also a great time of year to cook with your kids as it gets dark earlier each evening. Ask a librarian to suggest a book with a food theme. Read the book together and follow it up with a cooking lesson on the food featured in the book. What about the book Edible Science: Experiments You Can Eat for a mix of learning and fun. Would you rather be reading about food? Look in the NoveList database ( found through BadgerLink http://badgerlink.dpi.wi.gov/ ) for culinary mysteries – their Cooking Up Crime book list includes such titles as Pecan Pies & Homicides by Ellery Adams and The Whole Enchilada by Diane Mott Davidson. Celebrate any season with a visit to your local library and remember your library card may be the smartest card in your wallet. Article & photo submitted by Indianhead Federated Library System. 789923 11-14-15

Books are just the

Beginning 789921 11-14-15

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holiday ideas

Create a gift wrapping area

Wooden spoons or popsicle sticks can make clever gift tags. Poke a hole in the end and tie onto your gift.

Nearly as much energy goes into wrapping gifts as purchasing them. Some people excel at wrapping gifts, while others do not enjoy the task at all. Part of the trouble with giftwrapping is the room and tools needed to wrap all of those holiday treasures. But a gift-wrap station in a corner of the home that is seldom used can make wrapping presents any time of the year easier and more enjoyable.

Use a piece of fabric to wrap a present if youÕre not too skilled with traditional paper. Fabric can be reused and is more durable, and you wonÕt run the risk of tearing an edge or poking a hole through it. This can be especially useful for oddly shaped gifts. Newsprint tied with natural cord and some pine boughs is an inexpensive, classiclooking gift wrap. Kraft butcher paper or brown mailing paper can be used in a pinch. Stamp images on the paper to customize the gift wrap and use ribbons and bows to further dress things up.

Find a place to store gift wrap and the tools needed to wrap gifts. Many people find the back of a closet door works perfectly. Install wire hanger racks so the gift wrap tubes can be stored vertically along the surface of the door.

Always work on a hard, flat surface, as working on the floor or a soft surface makes it more difficult to control wrapping paper and youÕre more likely to tear the paper.

Install a folding shelf on a hinge, and use that shelf to do your wrapping. Fold the shelf up when it is not needed and secure it with a latch at the top.

Use a gift box or cardboard to create a firm container to wrap soft gifts.

Hang hooks to store tape and scissors. Attach the scissors to the hook with a string so they won’t go missing.

Reuse old boxes to create a greeting card. Use a piece of ribbon and a bow and your newly created card as a thank-you or gift tag for future gifts. This is a great way to recycle during a season when excess is common.

A basket tucked nearby can house bows and ribbons so that they are easily stored until needed.

Having the wrapping station so accessible also allows you to take inventory of supplies and restock when necessary.

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party ideas

Out-of-the-box themes for your holiday party Article by Metro Creative Graphics, Inc

Christmas sweater party: Christmas sweater parties have grown in popularity over the last decade, when revelers have tried to outdo one another with the most outrageous holiday-themed sweater. Give prizes for the most outlandish sweater and let guests know early on so they can begin their hunt for a holiday sweater that’s so ugly or outrageous you can’t help but love it.

Christmas costume party: Costume parties aren’t just for Halloween. This holiday season, consider making your holiday bash a costume party, encouraging guests to

Parties are an integral part of the holiday season, when friends and family gather to celebrate and give thanks. For holiday hosts, parties are a great opportunity to make the season even more festive with an event that guests won’t soon forget. The following are just a few themes to make your holiday party as memorable as it is merry.

dress up as their favorite characters from holiday tales like “Frosty the Snowman,” “A Christmas Carol” or any of the host of beloved holiday legends.

Caribbean Christmas:

The weather come the holiday season may be the one thing to put a damper on the festivities. To combat blue feelings from potentially inclement weather, consider a Caribbean theme for your holiday party this season. Rather than wearing sweaters and long pants, wear beach attire and give the party a touch of the Caribbean. Outfit your home in beach decor and serve food and drinks reminiscent of the Caribbean instead of more traditional holiday fare like eggnog and gingerbread cookies.

Film festival: Holiday movies are another tradition of the season, so why not invite friends and family over for a holiday film marathon? Include classics like “It’s a Wonderful Life” and “A Christmas Story” and encourage guests to submit their own favorites for consideration. Christmas karaoke:

For those who love to belt out their favorite holiday tunes, consider throwing a Christmas karaoke party that allows guests to perform their own renditions of their favorite Christmas carols. Purchase a home karaoke set and ask guests in advance of the party if there are any particular songs they’d like to perform.

pineapple rum punch Prep: 10 min. Makes: 12 servings

Ingredients

3½ cups unsweetened pineapple juice 1½ cups orange juice 1 cup coconut water 1 cup coconut rum 1 cup orange peach mango juice

1 cup dark rum ¼ cup Key lime juice 3 T. Campari liqueur or grenadine syrup

Directions In a pitcher, combine all ingredients. Serve over ice. Originally published as Pineapple Rum Punch in Taste of Home February/March 2013

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sweet treats

gingerbread cutouts Prep: 25 min. + chilling Bake: 10 min. per batch Makes: about 6 dozen

Ingredients 1 cup butter, softened 1 cup sugar ½ cup dark corn syrup 1 tsp. each ground cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves & ginger 2 eggs, beaten 1 tsp. cider vinegar 5 cups all-purpose flour 1 tsp. baking soda

Directions In a large saucepan, combine the butter, sugar, corn syrup and spices; bring to a boil, stirring constantly. Remove from the heat and cool to lukewarm. Stir in eggs and vinegar. Combine the flour and baking soda; stir into sugar mixture to form a soft dough. Cover and refrigerate for several hours or until easy to handle. On a lightly floured surface, roll dough to ¼ inch thickness. Cut with a floured 2½ inch gingerbread man cookie cutter. Place on greased baking sheets. Bake at 350 degrees for 8-10 minutes. Remove to wire racks to cool. Originally published as Gingerbread Cutouts in Taste of Home December/January 1995, p13

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sweet treats

peanut butter cupcakes Prep: 20 min. Bake: 20 min. + cooling Makes: about 1½ dozen

Ingredients ⅓ cup butter, softened ½ cup peanut butter 1¼ cups packed brown sugar 1 egg 1 tsp. vanilla extract 2 cups all-purpose flour ½ tsp. salt ½ tsp. baking powder ½ teaspoon baking soda ¼ tsp. ground cinnamon ¾ cup 2% milk

Directions In a large bowl, cream the butter, peanut butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla. Combine the dry ingredients; add to creamed mixture alternately with milk, beating well after each addition. Fill paper-lined muffin cups twothirds full. Bake at 350 degrees for 18-22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. Cool for 10 minutes before removing from pans to wire racks to cool completely.

FROSTING: For frosting, in a small bowl, cream

⅓ cup peanut butter 2 cups confectioners’ sugar 2 tsp. honey 1 tsp. vanilla extract 3 to 4 T. 2% milk

peanut butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in honey and vanilla. Editor’s Beat in enough milk to achieve Note: a spreading consistency. Frost Reduced-fat cupcakes. peanut butter is not Originally published as Peanut Butter Cupcakes in Quick Cooking July/August 2002, p10 recommended for this recipe.

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sweet treats

chocolate rum-soaked cherries Prep: 15 min. + soaking Cook: 5 min. Makes: 2½ dozen

Ingredients

1 jar (10 oz.) maraschino cherries (with stems), drained ½ cup rum or brandy 4 oz. bittersweet chocolate, chopped

Directions

Place cherries in a bowl; cover with rum. Refrigerate, covered, overnight. Drain and pat dry. In a microwave, melt chocolate and shortening; stir until smooth. Holding stems, dip cherries in chocolate mixture; allow excess to drip off. Place on waxed paper; let stand until set.

1 tsp. shortening

Soft Rum Caramels Prep: 10 min. Cook: 30 min. Makes: 1½ pounds

Ingredients 1 tsp. plus ¼ cup butter, softened, divided 1 cup heavy whipping cream 1 cup packed brown sugar 1 cup light corn syrup ¼ cup sugar ¼ tsp. salt 1 to 2 tsp. rum extract

Directions

Line an 8 inch square pan with foil and grease the foil with 1 teaspoon butter; set aside. In a small bowl, cream remaining butter until light and fluffy. Beat in cream until smooth; set aside. In a heavy saucepan, combine the brown sugar, corn syrup, sugar and salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly. Reduce heat to medium-low; cook until a candy thermometer reads 244 degrees ( firm-ball stage). Gradually add cream mixture. Continue cooking until a candy thermometer reads 242 degrees. Remove from the heat; stir in extract. Pour into prepared pan (do not scrape sides of saucepan). Cool completely. Invert pan onto cutting board; remove foil. Cut candy into squares. Wrap individually in cellophane, waxed paper or foil; twist ends. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Originally published as Soft Rum Caramels in Taste of Home’s Holiday & Celebrations Cookbook Annual 2002, p94

Package either candy in a pretty box or frilly bag to make the perfect gift for friends & family. HomeFront

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holiday treats

Ingredients

homemade eggnog

Prep: 50 min. + chilling Makes: 3½ quarts

12 large eggs 1½ cups sugar ½ tsp. salt 2 quarts milk, divided 2 T. vanilla extract 1 tsp. ground nutmeg 2 cups heavy whipping cream Additional nutmeg, optional

Directions

In a heavy 4 qt. saucepan, whisk together eggs, sugar and salt. Gradually add 1 qt. of milk. Cook and stir over low heat until a thermometer reads 160-170 degrees, about 30-35 minutes. Pour into a large heat proof bowl; stir in the vanilla, nutmeg and remaining milk. Place bowl in an ice-water bath, stirring frequently until mixture is cool. If mixture separates, process in a blender until smooth. Cover and refrigerate for at least 3 hours. When ready to serve, beat cream in a large bowl on high until soft peaks form; whisk gently into cooled milk mixture. Pour into a chilled 5 qt. punch bowl. Sprinkle with nutmeg if desired.

Editor’s Note: Eggnog may be stored, covered, in the refrigerator for several days. Whisk before serving.

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Enjoy Fruits and Vegetables & Your Children will, Too! Fruits and vegetables “do the body good.” Eating vegetables and fruits is important because they provide vitamins and minerals. When prepared with little or no added fats or sugars, most fruits and vegetables are low in calories, which helps maintain a healthy weight. Consumption of vegetables and fruits is associated with reduced risk of many chronic diseases. Specifically, the USDA Dietary Guidelines for Americans indicates there is moderate evidence to indicate that intake of at least 2 1/2 cups of vegetables and fruits per day is associated with a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease, including heart attack and stroke. Some vegetables and fruits may also be protective against certain types of cancer. Yet most of us don’t get enough. So how many fruits and vegetables are recommended daily? The simplest guideline is to make half your plate fruits and vegetables. More specifically amounts of fruits and vegetables are determined based on one’s daily calorie level, which is based on a person’s sex, age and activity level. For an adult with a 2,000 calorie diet, the USDA recommends 2 ½ cups of vegetables and 2 cups of fruit a day. For a four- to five-year-old, 1 cup of fruit and 1.5 cups of vegetables is suggested. For an active teen boy, 2 ½ cups of fruit and 4 cups of vegetables are recommended! What fruits and vegetables are most nutritious? Eat red, orange, and dark-green vegetables like tomatoes, sweet potatoes and broccoli. Fresh, frozen and canned vegetables all count. Choose canned vegetables with reduced salt. Buy fruits that are dried, frozen or canned in water or 100% juice. Select 100% juice. Make 100% juice no more than half your fruit intake.

How can I help my children eat more fruits and vegetables? Eat together. Enjoy fruits and vegetables as a family at meals and snacks. Take it with you. Take apples, oranges or grapes with you for a snack on a family outing. Share the adventure. Try new fruits and vegetables together. Fix them together. As your kids grow, let them help choose, prepare and serve fruits and vegetables.

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Build healthy habits by making half your plate fruits and vegetables. Enjoy fruits and vegetables and your children will, too! Article submitted by Nancy Coffey, Eau Claire County UW-Extension, Wisconsin Nutrition Education Program Coordinator, and United Way Health Advisory Council Member. 789920 11-14-15

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Home Improvement Tips for a Wisconsin Winter

Winter in Wisconsin means frigid temperatures, extra blankets and lots of holiday fun. If there are two things we do right in Wisconsin, #1 is winter and #2 is cheer! One thing you might not be thinking about during this time of year are home improvement projects. Here are 5 things that you can accomplish in a Wisconsin winter to not only save money and increase the value of your home, but to also help beat those winter blues,

Create walls that WOW Winter doesn’t throw a huge color palette our way here in Wisconsin, we see a lot of white and brown when we look out our windows. A fresh coat of paint to your walls can brighten the mood of your entire family. Liken it to this… a fresh coat of paint on the walls is like a fresh hair color, and doesn’t that feel spectacular? According to color psychology, colors known to inspire a “happy” feeling include lavender, pink, turquoise and light green.

Brighten rooms with inviting lighting There’s no way around it, a Wisconsin winter is dark. You’ll find many a Wisconsinite leaving for work in the dark and returning home the same way. One way to brighten not only your rooms but also your mood is with full spectrum light bulbs. Consider switching to these during the darker months of the year. Also, don’t forget about soft lighting. Take out your Christmas lights early and drape them over the mantle, around the windows or along the ceiling. The delicate look

of white Christmas lights will soften the room and your mood. Last but not least, enjoy some of your time by candle light. Candles inspire not only romance, but calmness and tranquility.

Welcome guests through a new door for the holidays Every time the doorbell rings during the holiday months you’re opening your home to a friend, neighbor or family member. Replacing an old door with a beautiful one you’re excited to open will not only be a quick pick-me-up each time, but will also increase the value of your home and its curb appeal. See yourself opening the door you’ve always dreamed of to welcome guests, whether it’s cherry wood or cherry red. Doesn’t that already feel nice?

Save money and get cozy with new windows While Wisconsin temperatures are plummeting, heating bills are on the rise. Windows typically occupy around 15-20% of the surface of your

walls, that’s a lot of area for old man winter to creep in, and your heat to sneak out. Poor windows can create a chilly, uncomfortable living space causing some people to resort to putting plastic over them, a practice that causes problems all on its own. Your windows will also play a huge role in how large or small your heating bills are. Simply replacing your windows will save you money year after year and keep you cozy in a warm environment.

Accessorize to mesmerize Turn your house into a comfy, warm and inviting place with just the right accessories for winter. Pick up a few new soft blankets to cuddle up in on the couch. Grab a few new holiday coffee mugs to make your morning coffee even more special, or a few pretty wine glasses to make the evenings more eventful. Candles, hand towels and a new throw rug are a few other accessories that don’t cost much, but will give you and your home a little extra spark.

A Wisconsin winter is long, cold and dark… but you and your home don’t have to shy away from that. Enjoy the darker times with bright and soft lights. Warm up your house and save money with new windows and comfy throw blankets. Paint a room or add some candles to give everyone’s visual senses a little boost, or welcome your guests and boost your home’s curb appeal with a new door. Article provided by Asher Lasting Exteriors. Visit their website at: www.goasher.com

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Fall is blowing past us and winter is on the doorstep, but this can actually be a perfect time to plan your yard and garden projects for next year. Few people realize that landscapers and garden center professionals actually begin booking projects quite early, so if you wait until May to contact them, many landscapers have projects already booked into July, August and beyond! Even making that contact in February or March during those home and garden shows can land your project in midsummer. By contacting them now, you can be sure they will have time to talk with you, look at your project and give it the time and attention it needs. Also, last season’s garden successes and failures are fresh in your mind,

so it’s a great time to make notes about what worked well, what looked good, what needs to look better and what totally didn’t work out at all. Or maybe you’re in a new home or have finally decided to tackle a long put-off landscape project. This can be a great time to take photos of your yard, to compile those pictures

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from magazines you’ve been saving, and to get your notes together and make an appointment with a landscape or garden professional. It’s an ideal time for site evaluation, with your site unimpaired by leaves and greenery. Look for potential problem spots: areas that stay too wet or that aren’t reached by rainfall or sprinklers, areas that receive little or no sun and areas that get hot afternoon sun. You can also look for focal points at this time, unimpaired by distractions. You may even find a whole new focus to your garden! Assess your soil. This can even be a great time to take in a soil sample to be tested. This step can be particularly important if you a working in either a completely new area/landscape, or in an area where you may have had problems Cont. on page 40

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One step to control energy costs is to schedule annual maintenance checks to make sure your unit is running efficiently. Most cooling systems require very little owner maintenance. However, operating dirty cooling equipment can result in an unnecessary loss of efficiency and can damage the furnace. You play a vital role in making sure your cooling system continues to operate at peak performance.

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If you’re in the market for a new cooling unit, consider purchasing a high efficiency model. They can help reduce your energy costs as well as conserve our natural resources. When selecting an air conditioner or heat pump, pay close attention to the SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio). This is a measure of cooling efficiency for air conditioners. The higher the SEER, the higher the savings. The minimum SEER rating is 13.

Zoning

Zoning can drastically lower your heating costs. With zoning, you no longer have to pay to heat or cool areas of your home that are rarely used. You won’t have to heat or cool the whole house just to make one room comfortable. Zoning divides your home into separate comfort areas, which are heated or cooled based on your needs, saving you money and making your occupied areas more comfortable.

Programmable Thermostats

Programmable or setback thermostats can make a big difference in energy consumption. These thermostats deliver maximum comfort, efficiency, and energy savings. Programmable thermostats are used to achieve the temperatures you want throughout your home. For example, if you’re going to be away, you can set the whole house at an energy-saving temperature to avoid heating or cooling an empty house. To find out more about reducing your cooling costs, call Hurlburt Heating & Plumbing at 715-283-4422. Hurlburt Heating & Plumbing has been providing service in the Chippewa Valley area since 1959. Article & photos submitted by Hurlburt Heating & Plumbing. 790473 11-14-15

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work can sometimes be delayed by wet weather in spring, but by ensuring your place in the schedule early on, you will be in a better position come spring to have your work done on time. Lloyd and Julie Stunkel of Natural Touch Landscaping also advise homeowners to contact their landscape professional as soon as they form their initial ideas. As long as there isn’t snow on the ground covering potential obstacles, early planning and budgeting can take place. They also note many landscapers may already have months of contracted work already schedued when spring arrives, so the earlier you contact one the better. “Typically we’ve seen the start of landscaping season May 1.” Julie Stunkel said. “However on certain years it’s been as early as April 1 or as late as Memorial Day. Spring comes when she decides! And weather is the major component in scheduling projects. One full day of hard rain can push a project back several days. “ By starting work on your outdoor projects before the holidays come around, you’ll have time to order and peruse the many garden catalogs that are just coming out for spring. You can even keep your eyes peeled for garden accessories and things like pottery that may be on closeout from last season, or to take advantage of preseason sales in early winter. Oftentimes you can pick up some wonderful items for the garden at bargain basement prices during the time of year when other people are thinking winter! I love to use this time of year to plan out my containers for next season! I love looking at websites such as Proven Winners for new annuals to use in containers and to then watch for those first thing in the spring. I can also plan out new ground plantings in areas where I may need to add some color to my garden. By planning in advance, I can take advantage of sales in spring and even figure out how many plants I’ll need for my projects. So while much of the rest of the world is busy worrying about snow removal and listening to those winter winds, you can be working on things for the spring that lies ahead! Skelley is a lifelong gardener and gardening/design services and consultanting who lives in Chippewa Falls. Contact her at nancyflowers2000@gmail.com for information.

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winter wildlife

snowbirds

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By Steve Betchkal

very year about this time I get the urge to flee: Arizona, Texas or maybe Florida. It’s the biological voice of self-preservation. Even Illinois would be better than staying put. But it’s got to be south, and it’s got to be clear of the cruel advance of winter. The birds feel it too. Most neotropical migrants are halfway to Costa Rica by now, and even the birds that don’t cross the Gulf are well-ensconced on the coast or at least safely moored in Arkansas or Missouri.

There is however, another remarkable group of birds that breed so far north. To them, by comparison, winter in Wisconsin feels like a day at the beach. So if you do stick around, you’re bound to run into them.

Pine siskins, American and hoary redpolls, whitewinged or red crossbills and pine and evening grosbeaks — collectively called “winter finches” — invade or “irrupt” our way in response to food shortages, not cold temperatures. A weak seed crop across Canada can signal an influx. In the case of redpolls, the annual production of Ontario’s paper birch tree seeds, produced in “catkins,” must be poor enough to tempt the birds south in search of nourishment. Common redpolls exhibit a regular, but peculiar every-other-year pattern of visiting the state in overwhelming numbers, sometimes accounting for one of the most numerous of species on Christmas bird counts. Redpolls closely resemble sparrows, finches or siskins and might be easily overlooked at a feeder. Like a house finch or siskin, they display heavily-streaked sides and back. Both male and female redpolls are named for the patch of ruby red on their forward crowns, and are further distinguished by black faces and double white wingbars. The closely-related, but much less common hoary redpoll is generally paler than the common, and lacks streaking on the undertail feathers or “coverts.” Lasting out the cold northern winters can be tough on any living thing, but especially brutal for 5-inchlong birds. The amount of food that must be ingested to provide fuel calories is enormous, but redpolls have adapted well to their circumstance and may be superior to other bird species in fighting the deep freeze. Some of the reasons are built-in anatomically, or behaviorally. Unfeathered legs are protected by proximal blood vessels which “pool” heat, or they are Cont. on page 44

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Evening Grosbeak

Pine Grosbeak covered by insulative breast feathers when birds squat while feeding. Fluffing of feathers creates loft and traps air, effectively adding protective layers to a bird’s body. Sitting still also conserves precious energy. Crossbills will range from the boreal belt of Canada and the coniferous forests of the Rocky Mountains to as far south as Florida, Texas and southern Mexico in search of their favorite food — conifer seeds. When seed crops dwindle in Canada, Wisconsin beckons. That’s why it seems that the state’s conifers are hung with crossbill ornaments. Like parrots, crossbills use both bill and feet to clamber over groups of cones, often hanging upside down to better access their food source. They insert their uniquely-shaped bills between the scales of a spruce, Douglas-fir, hemlock or pine cone, pry them apart and extract the seed with their tongues. Depending upon the way the bill grows — left over right, or vice–versa — a given bird may develop a “right-or-left-handedness,” exhibited in its approach to withdrawing seeds. Because conifer seeds are available at all times of the year, crossbills begin raising young as early as January, continuing into August, and the early start allows some crossbills to begin breeding the same year in which they were hatched. Incidentally, the young are born with straight, not hooked bills. It is not until the young birds fledge that the tips of the upper and lower mandibles begin, over the period of a few weeks, to cross. There are (so far) two species of crossbill. The red is perhaps more easily found across the state. The male white-winged crossbill is also red, but easily distinguished from its “cousin” by the bright bars on its jet black wings. Because of their wandering habits, it is often difficult to predict where and when crossbills may turn up, but the event is uncommon enough to create excitement for a

birdwatcher. While driving in winter, watch for them along the shoulder of Wisconsin’s highways, as they are very fond of salt. Learning to recognize the bird’s call — a sharp kip or jip — also helps to identify their presence.

Redpoll

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Pine grosbeaks are not limited to conifers. In fact they love to eat berries in winter. The pink males and ochre-colored females often gravitate toward mountain-ash, crabapples and bittersweet. Evening grosbeaks — which seem to be bouncing back in numbers — were named after the mistaken belief that they sang at night. They love black sunflower seeds and while their striking black and yellow plumage makes them fan favorites, a hungry flock of them will mean extra runs to the seed store. Snow Buntings — close relatives of sparrows and longspurs — nest farther north than any other songbird and winter, no matter the magnitude or cruelty, draws them out. Snow buntings can tolerate temperatures down to 58 degrees below zero, so they’re willing to accept winter in Wisconsin as is. The nickname “snowflake” aptly describes snow buntings, as they are found in large flocks in winter, and they often appear like a snow flurry when winter is at its worst. On their tundra breeding grounds, they have white heads and bellies, black backs and bold black-and-white wing patterns. By the time they reach Wisconsin in late fall,

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Northern Shrike

winter wildlife

they’ve molted into fresh plumage, with some brown in the back and wings, and cinnamon accents to the crown, cheek, neck and flanks. At any time of year they are easily recognized in flight by the distinct white wing patches which enhance the swirling snowflake imagery of a large, undulating flock. At the first evidence of spring — usually March — snow buntings desert Wisconsin, the long fringes of their buff-colored feathers worn away to once again reveal the breeding black and white.

Northern Hawk Owl

In Wisconsin, they often associate with horned larks or Lapland longspurs, frequenting the wide-open, wind-blown spaces of snow-covered ag fields, roadsides, cranberry bogs and lakes and dunes, basically feeding in whatever natural weed or grass stalks are left exposed by winter. It’s not surprising to find them picking through the undigested seeds in freshly-spread manure. The avian variety of the snowbird the dark-eyed junco, lives its summers north of a line running roughly from Grantsburg through Shawano, and its winters dispersed all the way to Northern Mexico, with males — ever mindful of territorial advantages — lingering farther north than females. Beginning in September and continuing into January, juncos swarm southward through the state (they arrived in my yard on Oct. 23 this year), overwhelming roadsides and residential neighborhoods, where they prefer to scavenge for “waste seed” on the ground beneath feeding stations. Flocks of dozens of birds display defined social hierarchies in laying claim to foraging space and are often one of the most abundant species surveyed during Audubon Christmas bird counts.

Joe Motto photo

By May, juncos are dispatched north — unlike their human counterparts — in the pursuit of snow, not sun. Birds of prey also are nomadic in winter. As snow accumulates, fough-legged hawks move south out of Canada in search of easier rodent hunting. Their dainty feet are not tough enough to break through crusty snow, so they will linger in our area as long as the snow doesn’t get too deep. The robin-sized Northern Shrike spends its summers in the arctic north and invades Wisconsin by fall. Shrikes look a lot like mockingbirds — steely gray above, pearly white below, with black wings that flash white wing bars in flight and a black Zorroesque facial mask. One of the most striking traits of shrikes is their feeding behavior. A shrike exhibits the attitude of a falcon dropped into the chassis of a robin. Though they are classified scientifically as songbirds, they’re predatory, even upon Cont. on page 46

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winter wildlife

Dave Lund photo

Snowy Owl

Cont. from page 45

other small songbirds. Unlike larger birds of prey, a shrike’s feet are useless for killing insects, mice or birds. Instead it uses its heavy, hooked bill to dispatch its victims. Characteristically, shrikes often impale their meals upon barbed wire or thorns — not out of cruelty, but convenience. They are better able to tear the flesh apart, and “store” leftover food for later, hanging it to dry in an open-air larder. The behavior has earned them the appropriate nickname of “butcher-birds.”

In any given year daytime sightings of northern owls can be expected, though sightings increase dramatically when conditions up north are harshest, and prey populations crash, or prey is abundant and there has been a bumper crop of young birds produced. Snowy owls are a regular Wisconsin winter treat. These 2-feet-long, 4-pound wonders look fluffy as the white stuff they’re named after and might pass for a big lump of snow on a fencepost or silo. I once spotted one sitting atop the “Welcome to Boyd” billboard along Highway 29 in eastern Chippewa County. What most folks don’t realize is that the farm country in the middle of the state is great for snowy owls. Drive the fenceposts and silos of Clark or Marathon counties January through March and you’ll likely find “lumps of snow” that turn their heads to stare at you like you’re a lemming sandwich or maybe a pigeon pot pie. This fall snowy owls seem to be showing up even more than usual, and they’re earlier too. More than 30 already have been reported in Wisconsin. Two other owl varieties venture south to Wisconsin in winter: the great gray owl and the northern hawk-owl. Last winter — “Lars” — a northern hawk-owl hung out from December to March near Lars Lane on the south side of Eau Claire. (If you should see an owl, please remember to give the bird space. Crowding a wild bird may stress it, and baiting or feeding may teach it to approach humans or cars too closely.) Lastly, keep in mind that surprises are one of the greatest satisfactions of viewing wildlife. In the world of birds, almost anything is possible; a varied thrush, a close cousin of the robin, wandered all the way from Washington state to Putnam Park. A Eurasian tree sparrow was discovered in a River Falls farmyard. And a curve-billed thrasher, a bird of the desert southwest, better-suited to ocotillo and cacti than cornfields, spent the winter in windswept Abbotsford. Keep your eyes open, your feeder stocked, and your clothes layered. And call me should that northern hawk-owl show up in your backyard!

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Betchkal is a freelance writer based in Eau Claire.

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