Central Virginia HOME Holiday/Winter 2014 by James River Media

HOME CENTRAL VIRGINIA

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Wonders of Winter family traditions, holiday décor and scents of the season

home

at with the Fosters

INTERACTIVE CONTENT INSIDE

the best for your guests

HOLIDAY/WINTER 2014, vol. 8, No. 4

MODEL

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n P U B L I S H E R ’ s note It is with much excitement and gratitude that we bring you this issue of Central Virginia HOME magazine. And we have some exciting news: this issue starts a new publishing cycle for us as we begin producing HOME five times a year instead of just four. Though we all tend to organize ourselves around the four seasons in Virginia, here at HOME we’ve decided to pay more attention to the rhythms of our busy lives rather than merely following the calendar. This means we’re not only providing more ideas and inspiration with an additional issue each year, but we’ll also be able to deliver it in a more timely manner, at the optimal time each season. Take this issue, for example. We’re rolling it out nice and early to provide you with more ideas than ever before on how you can add sparkle and cheer to your holiday season. I hope our exciting content motivates you to make this time of year about thankfulness, celebration and productivity so you’ll be sure to enjoy your home. Then in February, we’ll bring you our Early Spring edition just as spring fever kicks in and you’re looking for inspiration and motivation to tackle those projects on your New Year’s to-do list. Our Spring issue will come out in April when the new scents of the season are starting to bloom and you’re looking for fresh perspectives to complement your home. Whether summer is a time for you to catch up or just enjoy the lazy days, HOME’s Summer issue will inspire you to take on those outdoor projects, and provide simple, fun ideas about how to make the most of it in the ways you love most. In September, the Fall issue will arrive just as life settles back into a more “normal” routine and you are spending more time at home. If this is the time for you to start thinking about reinventing your space, all you need to do is read through the pages of HOME for the latest on how to keep your home fresh and new. We plan to cover it all over the course of next year—each of our five issues will be packed with the latest and greatest in home and garden, and will also showcase some of the area’s finest homes. In short, we’ll bring you all the best Central Virginia has to offer. And no matter what time of year it is, our advertisers are especially great resources for up-to-date ideas and solutions for all the spaces in and around your home. I’m so proud to call them partners. As for this past year, we’ve worked hard, made new friends, and have had so much fun producing a magazine that has been enjoyable for our readers and effective for our advertisers. We continue to receive overwhelmingly positive feedback and are so thankful for the dedication of our advertisers and our readers. My wish for you, our valued advertisers and readers, is all the happiness this season can bring, and that 2015 will bring you more joy and fulfillment than ever before. Until next year,

— JULIE PIERCE, PUBLISHER julie@westwillowpublishing.com

HOME CENTRAL

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VIRGINIA

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Volume 8 I ssu e 4 PUBLISHER

Julie Pierce MANAGING EDITOR

Laurel Feinman EDITOR

Meridith Ingram ART DIRECTOR

Trisha Roth CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Mitzi Bible Becky Calvert Lucy Cook Phoebe Dinsmore Laurel Feinman Heather B Hayes Meridith Ingram Noelle Milam Rory Rhodes GRAPHIC ARTISTS

Tiffany Allen Edwana Coleman Helga Kaszewski PRODUCTION COORDINATOR

Beth Moore PHOTOGRAPHERS

Allegra Helms KG Thienemann ADVERTISING SALES

Lyn Marie Figel Liz Houhoulis Janet Lampman Julie Pierce SUBSCRIPTIONS

Central Virginia HOME is published quarterly by West Willow Publishing Group, LLC. For an annual subscription, please send $20 and your name, address and telephone number to: Central Virginia HOME 3831 Old Forest Road Lynchburg, VA 24501 For advertising information please call (434) 386-5667 or sales@cvhomemagazine.com. To discuss coverage of an event relating to home or garden, please contact Central Virginia HOME at info@cvhomemagazine.com.

West Willow Publishing Group, LLC (434) 386-5667 westwillowpublishing.com Copyright 2014 by West Willow Publishing Group, LLC. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without written permission from West Willow Publishing Group, LLC. All pictorial material reproduced in this magazine, whether in a produced ad or by itself, has been accepted on the condition that it is with the knowledge and prior consent of the photographer or the artist concerned. As such, West Willow Publishing Group, LLC is not responsible for any infringement of copyright or otherwise arising out of publication thereof. The information contained herein has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable. However, West Willow Publishing Group, LLC makes no warrant to the accuracy or reliability of this information. Opinions expressed in this magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of ownership or management.

C e n t r a l V i r g i n i a h o m e H o l i d a y / W i n t e r 2 0 1 4

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n editor ’ s note From Thanksgiving and Christmas all the way to the dawn of a new year, at the heart of this happy season are the people that make everything so special. In that spirit, this edition of HOME celebrates family traditions. Perhaps you’ll even gain some fresh ideas to add to your own! There’s a lot of focus on food, family and fun in this edition of HOME—as no other time of year seems to bring all three of those ingredients together quite so beautifully. We have recipes and party ideas, tips for comfortably hosting overnight guests, and even a few clever shortcuts and helpers you can employ to help keep your Joy from turning into “Oy!” In fact, several articles in this edition of HOME are presented with a “stress less” point of view because it’s so easy to get caught in the frenzy of trying to “make everything perfect,” isn’t it? Remembering that you, personally, don’t have to do it all is the key to keeping your sanity during all times, but especially during the busy holiday season. Our article about working with caterers will reassure you that help is just a phone call away, because these party experts offer services ranging from handling all aspects of your dinner party, to dropping off a few side dishes before the guests arrive. When you work with a caterer to host an at-home party, the experience truly can be customized to your needs.

Speaking of the importance of knowing one’s limitations… anyone who has ever found themselves tangled in a jumble of electrical cords while attempting to string twinkle lights in the bushes (and then been woefully short on the number of strands needed to complete the job) will surely enjoy learning what’s involved with hiring a professional to help them with this task. It’s easier than you think! In every edition, we strive to present you with articles that are both “pretty” and “practical” so that HOME will be the best local resource and guidebook for homeowners. Though some of our stories may be dreamy, we hope they’re never out of reach— thanks to the expertise of those retailers and craftsmen who are our advertisers. It is such a thrill for us when we hear that we’ve helped make a connection between a satisfied homeowner and one of our advertisers. We love to hear these success stories! Please continue to share them with us. Warmest wishes and much happiness for your holiday traditions,

—LAUREL FEINMAN, managing EDITOR laurel@westwillowpublishing.com

“My husband and I were very pleased with the quality workmanship on our home. The meticulous talent of each craftsman working on the house helped to create our beautiful dream home. Bert Allen and his wife, Debby, were always responsive to our questions and requests. We lived elsewhere in Virginia while our home was under construction, but knew everything was in the hands of Bert and his capable team.” ~ Anita Beard

Building Quality Structures and Strong Relationships in Central Virginia Since 1979 Builder of Fine Homes, Commercial Projects, Churches and Church Additions

www.SidneyAllenBuilder.com • (434) 525-5129 c vhomemaga zine .com

October 4, 2014 Dear RM Gantt, There are thoughts, there are ideas, and then there are dreams. In real life dreams do not come to fruition. Do they? The thought of moving after 30 years was daunting. To build a house is a nightmare we heard folks say, And even after many meetings and plans were complete Still we thought our dream we would never meet. The day the first equipment arrived and trees began to come down, Amidst the tears I threatened to drown. The next five months were unbridled excitement, Each day a new adventure, no time to lament. Every crew onsite were remarkable, committed and fun! We were so thankful and touched that you tolerated our presence, and didn’t shun. We send our gratitude to all of you the same. As we celebrate one year in our new home, The fondness and adoration we feel for you all is like family. You did not build a house, you created a home, Our happiness is beyond what we have ever known. So if you’re ever in our neighborhood, our door is open for a visit, a brew, a hug. Dreams do not become reality do they?

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contents C e nt r a l V irg ini a h o m e H o li d ay / W int e r 2 0 14

18 34 50 72

features The C omf orts of H ome

Setting up a guest room theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll dream about BY N OE L L E M I L AM

Caterers T O T H E R E S CU E

Hire an ally in home entertaining BY H eat h e r B Haye s

Christmas C O L L E C T I O N S

Go home for the holidays with Joan and Bobby Foster BY Lau r e l F e in man

Family Traditions

Christmas at the Maddens BY Lau r e l F e in man Cover photography by Allegra Helms at the home of Catherine and Mike Madden LIKE US ON FACEBOOK HOME Magazine

c vhomemaga zine .com

C e nt r a l V irg ini a h o m e H o li d ay / W int e r 2 0 14

departments 30

DESIGN

IMPROVE

GARDEN

LIVE

84 C hristmas Tree S How to choose just the right one

41 The After- party Don’t cry over spilled merlot (and other helpful tips)

30 ALL IS BRIGHT Hire a pro to hang your outdoor holiday lights

BY M e r i d ith I n g r am

BY RORY RHODES

BY M ITZ I B I B LE

26 M a k ing G ood Scents Adding fragrance to your home

91 D E C ORATIVE C oncrete A pretty and practical choice for hard surface floors

46 B eauty in Simplicit y No-fuss holiday decorating ideas

66 O ur Feathered Friends Make your yard a birdfriendly haven this winter

BY N OE LLE M I LAM

By B EC KY CALVERT

By P h o e b e Din s m o r e

61 G i f ts from the Kitchen Handmade by you By Lu cy C o o k

94 Editor’ s P ic k s Gifts for pets and pet lovers

BY H eath e r B Hayes

84 S pecial I nterest 9 7 Resource gallery 9 8 Index of advertisers 16

94 C e n t r a l V i r g i n i a h o m e H o l i d a y / W i n t e r 2 0 1 4

www.stclair-eye.com

Joyful

Wishing you and yours a

holiday season!

DOCTORS OF OPTOMETRY Dr. Gary H. St. Clair Dr. Clifford I. Phillips Dr. Mark D. Rodammer Dr. Anna H. Farouq Dr. Ashley C. Veloso

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PHOTOS BY K.D. BURKE PHOTOGRAPHY

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P h ot o c o ur t e s y of D e c o r at in g D e n I nt e r i o r s

The Best for Your Guests

Thoughtful Touches Make Visitors Feel Welcome By N o ell e Mila m

The arrival of the holiday season often brings other kinds of arrivals, namely your family and friends, who travel over the rivers and through the woods to spend time with you. Though they come bringing holiday cheer, they may arrive at your doorstep feeling weary. As a good host, you want them to be able to refresh after their travel and feel as comfortable in your home as they would at a fivestar hotel—perhaps even more so. Inviting guests into your home is a gesture of love, conveying that you are grateful for the time, trouble, and expense they took to get to you. So before they arrive, run the scenario in your mind. Ask yourself, what is the best for your guests? Holiday guests are usually staying for at least one night, so the first thing to consider is the space you will use as a bedroom. Some people are fortunate to have a room dedicated as a “guest room,” but these days, many people use that space as a home office, playroom or craft space, often with a sofa bed or futon that can be pressed into service for guests. Those without a dedicated guest room will need to consider alternatives ahead of time. Even the most unfussy overnight guests will expect to sleep somewhere: A basement recreation room with an air mattress? The living room sofa bed? One of the children’s rooms? Wherever you decide to accommodate your guests, you will want to keep a few things in mind to ensure they have restful sleep, adequate privacy, a place to put their things, and that they leave with a sense that you thoughtfully provided for their comfort; that they were, in a word, welcomed. With some preparation and planning ahead, you will indeed be providing the best for your guests. c vhomemaga zine .com

P h ot o c o ur t e s y of Cur t a ins , B lin ds a n d B at h

Restful Sleep

We all usually clean up for guests, but the room or area where your guests will sleep is worth some extra elbow grease. Smudges and fingerprints on the wall, dust bunnies under the furniture, pet hair clinging to upholstery…these are things that we might live with in our day-to-day family life, but they are an embarrassment that can be avoided in your guests’ area. Besides removing many common allergens, only a deep clean provides that gratification of showing your guests to their room where they can draw in a deep breath of its fresh, clean atmosphere. Depending on your guests, a mildly scented candle is also a nice touch. The building block of restful sleep is, of course the bed itself. Regardless of whether you have a bed to offer, or one of the many temporary alternatives, the best advice is to try a night there yourself. Make mental notes about the experience. How is the mattress? Do you notice excess humidity (often a problem in basements) or chilly drafts? Too much light? Too much noise? This will allow you to take stock of your situation. It may be that you can revive a tired or too-thin mattress with a memory foam, down (or other material) filled mattress topper. These can be put over a too-thin sofabed mattress, and could make a big difference in comfort for your guests—and they also make the sofa bed sheets fit better! Once you know the mattress is as comfortable as you can make it, you can address drafts, invest in a dehumidifier, or look into window treatments that will darken the room more effectively. Noise is a tricky issue, as we noticed years ago when we slept on a friends’ basement sofa bed and awoke, startled, to what sounded like a herd of zebras running overhead. It turned out to be just the normal foot traffic of a busy family morning in the kitchen directly over our heads. 2 0

In some cases this could be muted by a throw rug or perhaps the simple request for the children to keep the volume down on the TV. Another option, if you are concerned about noise disturbing your visitors’ rest, is a white noise machine or a small fan whose gentle whir screens out many sounds. To dress the bed, start with quality sheets that fit the mattress well; invest in the best you can afford. Many people choose to dedicate a set of guest sheets and other linens that come out only when someone is visiting. This is an excellent idea; however, even if the sheets were washed and put away last time you had guests, consider washing them again if they have been sitting for more than a month. After a time, sheets lose their clean scent; washing will refresh the fibers and make the bed smell good. Ironing the sheets is an optional but elegant touch. Nothing equals the feel of ironed sheets. If you don’t have time, just iron the pillowcases. My grandmother’s trick was to pull the pillowcases wet from the washer and put them in the freezer for an hour or so. Then she’d pass an iron over them. She maintained that the pillowcases were so crisp and soft that no one noticed the sheets weren’t ironed! Keep bed linens simple and layered. Place several (four for a double or a queen) pillows on the bed. It’s a good idea to provide different types of pillows so that guests can choose their preference: fluffy, thin, firm, synthetic…you get the idea. If possible, avoid down (use a down alternative instead) to avoid aggravating allergies. Add a quilt, coverlet or duvet, and maybe a decorative pillow or two, and you have assembled a clean, comfortable place to sleep. It’s a good idea to place extra blankets in an obvious place so that your visitor doesn’t have to choose between shivering or rummaging through your linen closet in the middle of the night. C e n t r a l V i r g i n i a h o m e H o l i d a y / W i n t e r 2 0 1 4

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If your house does not have a guest room with a dedicated or ensuite bath, you will need to think carefully about how to issue private space. If possible, give your guests as much privacy as you can muster, and they will thank you for it. If you can detour your family’s toothbrushes and shower needs to a different bathroom, do so. This goes for sleeping areas as well as bathrooms. If your guests will sleep in what is usually a common area of your home (a living room sofa bed or a futon in the basement playroom, for example), give some thought to how to offer the most privacy possible. This could mean relocating the Xbox out of the basement, or finding a decorative screen to designate the guest’s sleeping area. Warn family members ahead of time that the area is off limits while your guest is sleeping. A Place for Their Things

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Generally you can expect your guests, especially those in town for the holidays, to arrive with stuff—often a lot of it. Good hosts will plan ahead for the space needs of their guests. If there will be several guests, or if quarters will be particularly tight, it might be thoughtful to warn your visitors ahead of time. Still, as you take stock of your guest space, think about providing room for them to spread out and unpack. A folding luggage rack or bench for a suitcase or bag is a welcome addition, especially on short visits when people don’t really unpack. Clear some space in the closet for hanging items, and provide a few quality hangers of various types. Do the best you can to clear the furniture surfaces in the room. This is particularly important in home offices that double as guest rooms. You certainly do not want your visitor have C e n t r a l V i r g i n i a h o m e H o l i d a y / W i n t e r 2 0 1 4

P h ot o c o ur t e s y of D e c o r at in g D e n I nt e r i o r s

Provide a light at the right height for reading in bed, and plenty of clear space, as the night table is often the bearer of your guestsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; most important things: wallets, jewelry, medications, cell phones and the like.

P h ot o c o ur t e s y of Cur t a ins , B lin ds a n d B at h

to search for space for her bag amidst the detritus of bills and permission slips on your desk. Take some time to put things away. Besides, an uncluttered room feels calming for everyone. Clear surfaces in the bathroom as well, and provide hooks or benches for their towels or robes. Finally, if there is not already a small table next to the bed, find something that can be used as a night table. This is often the most important space of all. Provide a light at the right height for reading in bed, and plenty of clear space, as the night table is often the bearer of your guestsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; most important things: wallets, jewelry, medications, cell phones and the like. Small decorative trays work nicely in this area as well.

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Little Touches That Say “Welcome”

After you do the heavy lifting of preparing a space for your guest, then you can focus on the details that will take your guest’s experience to the next level. Consider some of your own experiences as a guest, either in a gracious home or even in a nice hotel. What details did you especially appreciate? What amenities would you like to have had? Incorporate these into your own space. Having a mirror available in the room is always appreciated, especially when bathrooms are full. A full-length mirror would be an added bonus. Nowadays, a universal charger or charging cube for electronics is also thoughtful, as those chargers are often the first thing guests forget to bring. While you’re at it, be sure there is an obvious wall plug available. No one wants guests crawling under the bed to plug in their cell phones! Another thoughtful touch if you have wifi in your home is to provide the password (perhaps leave it on a small card) so that guests can access wifi from their devices. Other items to consider including would be a nightlight or two, a fan, a wastebasket, and a collection of clothing-care items (a small sewing kit, a lint roller, a mini steamer) in a basket in the closet. In the bath, keep a small basket or tray containing sample sizes of necessities that your guests may have forgotten, or in this age of stringent TSA guidelines, been unable to bring along: shampoo and conditioners, a shower cap, lotion, a disposable razor, toothpaste, sunscreen, Tylenol and hairspray. Provide your guests with bath linens that are fluffy and clean. Like your bed linens, consider a set of towels that are earmarked for guests only, whether you choose to monogram these or simply choose C e n t r a l V i r g i n i a h o m e H o l i d a y / W i n t e r 2 0 1 4

P h ot o c o ur t e s y of D e c o r at in g D e n I nt e r i o r s

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a separate pattern or color from your everyday towels. Distinctive “guest towels” are easier to keep out of the normal family rotation and are less likely to have been unwittingly used to dry the dog or wipe off muddy golf shoes. In the shower, remove excess bottles and old bars of soap. Place a new bar of soap in the shower soap dish, and provide a plush bathmat. Place a luxury soap and lotion at the sink along with fresh hand towels. Above all, be sure everything is as clean and uncluttered as possible, and that there is an ample supply of toilet paper. Having guests is a both a joy and a compliment to you and your family. Remind yourself to keep the perspective that ultimately, these people are visiting you because they love you and want to spend time with you—not simply because of the amenities you will offer. Fortunately there is no five-star rating system for houseguests! But if you spend a little time preparing for guests’ arrival, you’ll be able to sit back and relax and enjoy your time together. After all, that is what hosting guests is all about.

n LIVE HOME FRAGRANCE

USING GOOD SCENTS Incorporating fragrance into your home’s design BY P h o eb e Dins m o r e

When planning all the thoughtful details that put your personal stamp on your home, almost all of the attention is focused upon how it looks—creating a visual experience. But what about that oft-overlooked but unmistakably powerful sensory pleasure: our sense of smell? A fragrance can instantly elicit a flood of memories, influence moods and even affect stress levels, because the olfactory bulb is part of our brain’s limbic system—an area so closely associated with memory and feelings that it’s sometimes called the “emotional brain.” If you’ve ever walked into a place for the first time in many years and immediately recognized it because of its smell, you know exactly what I’m talking about.

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You, too, can use the sense of smell to create an atmosphere that puts the “you” into “your home.” A beautifully fragranced home not only makes you feel good, but it will also influence how your guests feel when they enter your home. Choosing a signature scent (or combining several to create a group of favorites) is a highly personal process. Through your selections, you can express your individuality and personal preferences, thereby sharing what brings you pleasure and evoking lasting memories with those closest to you.

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The base aromas you choose for your personal perfume will likely be the same ones you’ll enjoy when fragrancing your home. People tend to know whether or not they favor “floral” or “citrus” (or if they have strong feelings for or against patchouli). Use your already-familiar preferences as the starting point when thinking about your home’s signature scent, and know that throughout the year, your preferences may change. Do you have a “wintertime” perfume and a “summertime” perfume? Or do you wear the same signature scent, year-round? While modern science works to validate claims that aromas can energize, calm, rejuvenate and purify the body and mind, why not just enjoy them for the sake of pleasure? Although attempting to define what smells “good” may be subjective—a matter of personal preference—most of us will agree that certain scents will evoke typical responses. Several scents are said to lift moods and clarify thoughts, nearly immediately. Cinnamon is said to offer a revitalizing second wind to the weary. The aroma of fresh-cut grass evokes summery thoughts and reminds us of nature. Ginger is a spice well known for its ability to soothe an upset tummy and perhaps its zesty kick can also stimulate and improve your mood. Mint and pine, scents that are especially abundant at this time of year, purportedly help cleanse, ease tension and promote an overall sense of wellbeing—that’s why they are such popular ingredients in everything from aromatherapy balms to cleaning products. Feeling lonesome or homesick? Vanilla provides a soothing, sedating feeling that can help you feel connected to family and friends. Of course, the ultimate mood shifter is the herb lavender, which can take you from an agitated state to a relaxed state with just one whiff. If you’re feeling irritable, the sweet smell of a rose or jasmine can help release stress and maybe even turn your mind towards romance. That’s why they are such popular ingredients in women’s perfumes.

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Choose Scents That Make Sense

Whatever your favorite scents, it’s also worth noting that they should also complement your décor. For example, coconut wouldn’t make sense in a mountain lodge, just as a swimsuit would look silly with snowshoes. Just as different design styles can evoke different feelings in a room, so can different essences. Spend some time thinking about the overall impression you want to create for your home with fragrance, because a pleasantly scented home indicates that positive energy is freely flowing through it—like feng shui for your nose. If you have a lot of dark wood and earth tones in your décor, choose earthy scents, like spices or musk. A contemporary home that’s sleek and uncluttered would be complemented by fragrance with light, fresh notes that evoke the outdoors, like white tea or fresh-cut grass. Fragrance should also benefit the activity that takes place in that area. For example, lavender or chamomile is great in the bedroom or bath where relaxing occurs, but perhaps you’ll also want to incorporate some energizing citrus or peppermint body wash for those times of day when you need a pick-me-up. Florals might clash with food aromas in the kitchen and dining room and, by that same token, food smells, like spices or vanilla, might be off-putting in a bedroom. Scenting Your World

a tradition

THAT feels rigHT AT Home

If you’ve ever accidentally gone overboard on perfume, you know that there’s a difference between a pleasantly scented room and one that makes your guests’ eyes water. Mothers have told daughters for generations to lightly dab perfume behind their ears so that a gentleman has to lean in to notice it. So, how do you create that sensual appeal for your home that whispers to your guests instead of shouts? The most popular ways to scent a room are with candles, reed diffusers and sprays. A high-quality candle can fragrance up to 800 square feet, but a reed diffuser typically only fragrances a 3-foot radius. Reed diffusers work continuously, as opposed to candles which only work when they are lit. On an aesthetic level, candles are beautiful—until they melt and their shape can become distorted. The appearance of reed diffusers, on the other hand, doesn’t change over time. Many reed diffusers serve as a spa-like and elegant adornment to a room, compared to the more casual look of jarred candles.

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Sprays are conveniently packaged and flameless, but keep in mind that you’re essentially launching tiny droplets of scented liquid (and possibly chemical particles) into the air for you to inhale. Additionally, sprays are a temporary solution, as you only get the benefit of the spray when you use it and for a short time after. Other tools in your “scentsory” toolbox might include fresh flowers, bowls of fruit, scented sachets, drawer liners, potpourri, and even the soaps you choose for the powder room. All of these have their place and will add a subtle, albeit fleeting, effect in a well-scented home. Of course, none of this is important if your home isn’t clean to begin with, or if it is swimming in heavily scented cleaning products. Cleaning is one of the best ways to make your house smell nice. White vinegar and water can clean almost anything, even though initially the mixture doesn’t smell “good.” Its piquant odor soon dissipates, so don’t let this natural home cleanser’s initial impression turn you off from using it. A home doesn’t feel “homey” if it feels sterile. Fragrance can be that third dimension that gives your home its special character, elevating what you’ve worked so hard to create visually to the next level by adding an extra layer of sensory delight. Choose fragrances to suit your personal style and apply them with a gentle hand. Make your guests want to lean in and linger in order to capture the essence of your home.

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n GARDEN HOLIDAY LIGHTING

Light the

Illuminate your outdoor space with help from the pros By Mi t zi B ibl e

3 0

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O u t d o o r L i ght in g by CLC I n c o r p o r at e d . P h ot o gr a p hy by K . D. B ur ke

Night

O u t d o o r L i ght in g by CLC I n c o r p o r at e d . P h ot o gr a p hy by K . D. B ur ke

Lots of plastic containers (or tubs as we like to call them), stacked high, filled with outdoor Christmas decorations, are sitting in the basement or storage shed or attic, all ready for you…but are you ready for them? The biggest chore many of us tackle every year is decorating our home’s exterior for the holidays. Headaches often ensue when we drag items out of their yearlong hiding places (never in quite the order that we need them), climb rickety ladders to reach rooflines, dodge overgrown shrubbery, and attempt to untangle lights that may just decide for themselves not to get in the holiday spirit this year. Don’t look down—a whole day could go by and you may not have anything to show for it. More and more homeowners are hiring professionals to do the job because having it done on time, safely, and tastefully means a holly, jolly Christmas for all. c vhomemaga zine .com

Landscape companies, who spend a good part of the year enhancing a home’s surroundings, are a natural fit for this work as the cold weather begins to set in. Chris Templeton, owner of CLC Incorporated, a design and landscape firm in Forest that also specializes in outdoor lighting, says his holiday lighting service for area homes and businesses has grown by about 20 percent each year. His company takes care of every aspect of the job, from consultation and design, to installation, take-down, and storage of materials. The biggest benefit that keeps customers signed on every year? The time savings, he says. “People live very busy lives now and don’t have the time to do what they want with their Christmas lights and decorations. It can take them three or four weekends, when we can do it in two days,” Templeton says. “Once they see the time they save, they never look back.” He says it is also a relief for clients who simply are unable to do the work themselves because of age or disability, or because of a fear of heights. “Crawling around on the roof isn’t right for everybody,” he says. Some holiday lighting companies work through a distributor that offers a full line of products, and they may require you to purchase the products up front. Templeton explains that his customers lease the lights on a two-year basis and have an option to add or change their design from year to year. Designers will first visit the home to plan the design along with the homeowner. Measurements will be taken and items will be chosen. Such designers also carry the electrical know-how that’s necessary to equip the home without overloading circuits. Some companies like CLC will also take pictures of the house and then run the photos through a computer program that will generate a simulated finished look with the selected products. Templeton says that many homeowners simply don’t know where to start when it comes to holiday decorating. (Then, of course, there are those who don’t know where to stop!) While we can be lured by the pictures on the boxes in retail stores and the beautiful homes in all those holiday TV commercials, many of us don’t know how to combine the products for an elegant display. 31

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But Templeton says his designers stay focused on highlighting your home’s features for the holidays; there’s no going overboard. They will make sure your house doesn’t stand out like the Griswolds’, but is also something you can’t miss. “People want to light up their homes for the season mainly because of the joy it brings to the neighborhood, the general interest it creates in sharing the spirit of Christmas,” he says. And many, of course, decorate their homes for children, contributing to the magic of the season, he adds. The most common designs CLC employs are simple but sophisticated, with people choosing to border their rooflines and windows and wrap their trees with lights. Templeton says his customers also request a lot of pre-lit, artificial greenery— garlands, swags and wreaths. The convenience of the whole process is that most of the companies that provide this service also store and maintain the items. No more carving out a spot in a storage shed and no more replacing bulbs or making repairs. While those businesses that require you to purchase the products will charge you a higher initial cost in the first year, each job cost really depends on the amount of lighting—and type of lighting—you choose. As the lighting industry continues to introduce more technology, the options have varied as well. Customers may choose to pay more for the new LED lights, with the allure of a lower electric bill and a longer life span. Templeton says that a handful of his clients are using this new technology, which consumes about a quarter less electrical power than traditional C-9 Christmas light bulbs. While a lot of math goes into traditional lighting to make sure circuits aren’t overloaded, with C e n t r a l V i r g i n i a h o m e H o l i d a y / W i n t e r 2 0 1 4

LEDs you can cover an entire home and use only about 14 outlets, according to Templeton. The LED lights come in single color, multicolored, or clear. LED rope lights are particularly popular, with flashing and scrolling options. Just adding a full strand of stars or snowflakes in a warm classic white (the original clear lighting) or a classic white LED light, can make a home look like a winter wonderland. One of the benefits of hiring a professional to handle this is that installation can begin at your convenience; most people choose to have lights installed just after Thanksgiving. Take-down can be timely as well. So there’s no more waiting to see if you will be the last house in the neighborhood with Christmas lights as it gets closer to Valentine’s Day. While hiring a professional can take the headaches away, it can also take out all the guesswork. Installers will take into account your home’s electric capacities, testing your outlets, using the appropriate adapters and cords, as well as keeping cords safely tucked away in the yard and at the side of homes. They can set up specialized digital timers, too, so the work is basically hands-free for the homeowner. If outdoor decorating is at the top of your Christmas to-do list, but often makes its way to the bottom, hiring someone to take care of the chore could free up more time to get to those tasks that make the holiday what it should be—a meaningful, stress-free, “bright” time for your family.

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CATERING BEGINS AT HOME

Want to throw a party? Make it easy by hiring a caterer. By H e at h er B Hay es

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Some people seem to have a genetic predisposition for throwing parties. You know the type: The neighbor who can pull together an impromptu “my son decided to come home a few days early from college” celebration for 25 of his closest friends, or the executive’s wife who can put on an intimate, five-course dinner for eight without breaking a sweat. Then there are the rest of us. We love the idea of having groups of friends, family and coworkers over to our homes for good conversation and a great meal—until we start contemplating all the planning, decorating, shopping and cooking involved. Who has the time? Fortunately, you don’t have to be a natural entertainer to successfully entertain at home. You just might need a little help from a caterer. These experienced, talented professionals can assist you with everything party-related, from planning and cooking to decorating and cleaning—but it’s not an allor-nothing deal. They offer varying levels of support so you can stay within your budget—and still completely enjoy the personal, memorable experience that comes with hosting a celebration or dinner party in your own home. And if you think that hiring a caterer is only for the untalented or the ultra-busy, think again. There’s a good chance that the neighbor who makes party-hosting look like a snap uses a caterer from time to time and may even have their number on speed dial. “Most people hire us to take the work and worry out of having people over so that they can relax, enjoy themselves and have fun at their own event in their own house,” says Adi McCauley, owner of Magnolia Foods in Lynchburg. “Having help with some or all of the details just really takes the pressure off and makes it easy.”

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Right Party, Right Caterer

Before you head next door to ask for the name of your neighbor’s caterer, keep in mind that not all catering firms are alike. They can have different specialties, different pricing models and different approaches to service. Most caterers are willing to work with you to create customized appetizers, entrees, side dishes and/or desserts, while some prefer that you order off of a set menu. Some specialize in a certain style of cooking, and many are willing to prepare food items and even personal recipes brought to them by the client. Some caterers will send a full team, including chef, bartender and wait staff, and work out of your kitchen, while others will prepare the food at their own facilities and drop off food trays at your home just before the party starts. And some will come into your home ahead of time to assist you with party setup and decorating. As a result, before you start asking for referrals and calling caterers, it’s important to take time to think about what kind of party you want and who you plan to invite. Will it be a sit-down dinner for a few friends? An upscale backyard barbecue for 100? A birthday, graduation 36

or anniversary party? A bridal shower and luncheon? Perhaps you’d like to have your work colleagues over for a casual, buffet-style meal or you might want to invite your neighbors for a wine-tasting event and heavy hors d’oeuvres. Maybe you’d like to have a big Super Bowl party and were planning to make your own famous Texas chili, but you’d like a caterer to supply some appetizers, side dishes and dessert. The options are endless, but your decisions on party theme, menu and services will impact the price, the amount of planning involved, and the caterer’s workload and approach to your event. Most critically, you need to have a budget. “That’s really the key for us,” says Trey Ward, executive chef for the Farm Basket in Lynchburg. “Because we can do anything, from foie gras to barbecue. But if somebody calls and says, ‘I want a dinner for 25 people but I don’t have any idea how much I want to spend,’ it’s going to be tough getting started because we build the menu and the experience based on the client’s budget.” Even if you’ve got a pretty good idea of what you want to spend and how you want your party to go, there’s a good

chance you’ll be at a loss on what type of food—and how much variety—to serve. Don’t worry. Caterers are great at making suggestions, so at this point, go ahead and make an appointment to consult with one or several caterers to get an idea of your options. “We’re happy to help people out with ideas,” McCauley explains, noting that she will usually interview clients to determine what foods will and will not work. In what direction are they leaning— casual or formal? Sit-down or buffet? Italian, American or French? If it’s a 50th birthday party for a husband, what are his favorite foods? Do any of your guests have allergies or intolerances to any foods, such as nuts or gluten? “We’ll just really talk things through,” McCauley says. “I’ll get a broad idea of what they like and what they need, and then if they want me to make some recommendations, I’ll usually put together a list of items with prices for them and let them choose. It’s a mutual effort—with a little bit of work on both ends.” At Magnolia Foods, popular choices include shaved roast beef on crostini with fresh tomato bruschetta and panseared sausage bites with goat cheese and C e n t r a l V i r g i n i a h o m e H o l i d a y / W i n t e r 2 0 1 4

coarse-ground mustard for appetizers, and entrees like hoisin-glazed pork loin with mango salsa and salmon with artichoke gratin. For less formal occasions or a Saturday luncheon, people might opt for the caterer to drop off a couple of gourmet salads, a sandwich platter and some dessert choices. If you’d rather make your selections from a set catering menu, you’ll realize a couple of key benefits. You’ll likely be able to sample the food ahead of time, the prices are already set, and the recipes included usually represent what the caterer does especially well. The Farm Basket in Lynchburg, for example, is famous for its southern-inspired dishes, like its “Southern in a Jar” appetizer, which includes black-eyed pea hummus, smoked trout and pickled vegetables; its signature southern shrimp and grits entrée; and its mini-blueberry cobblers. However, the catering teams at both Magnolia Foods and the Farm Basket encourage clients to bring their own ideas, whether it’s a recipe that’s been in your family for 100 years or something that grabbed your attention while reading a magazine.

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“We actually love to try new dishes so that we’re not doing the same things over and over again,” says Ward. “And if we’re doing something new and different, it makes the event that much more interesting for us.” The Finer Points

Once the menu is finalized, you’ll need to work with the caterer to determine other key details that can help ensure a successful and smooth-running party. First, the beverage question. Are you planning to serve alcoholic drinks, and if so, what kind: beer and wine, specialty drinks, liquor or some combination thereof, or just canned beer and sodas? Most caterers have an ABC license and can help supply the hard liquor while you provide the wine or beer (or vice versa). Or if you just want to serve wine and beer, you can aid your budget by buying it yourself (and, if you ask, your caterer may help you develop a shopping list). No matter who’s doing the supplying, it’s a good idea to consider paying the caterer to staff a bartender at your party, especially if you’re planning an evening affair with more than 20 guests. “It just makes that part of it go a lot smoother,” says Ward, noting that an on-site bartender avoids bottlenecking and sticky spill disasters at the drink table, and keeps the host from having to be bothered with restocking drinks, ice and glasses. For larger or more formal parties, the caterer, as part of the quoted cost, will generally supply at least one server (and sometimes more) to set out food, keep the party area clean of empty glasses, plates and crumpled napkins, and/or serve hors d’oeuvres. However, if you’re having a smaller shindig, you can still request an on-site server. It’s an additional cost, but it can be money well spent if you’d rather spend your time completely focused on your guests and party activities. Another issue to contemplate: What kind of table service do you want? If it’s a small, formal dinner party, you can ask your caterer to serve your guests using your own family china and antique platters, but if you don’t want to risk any breakage, many serve the food using their own upscale dinnerware (though it may or may not involve an additional fee). “We can do china, silverware, crystal, whatever the clients wants,” says Ward. If it’s a less formal celebration, the caterer can serve using any variety of pretty or plain plates, glasses and serving ware, or you can opt for disposable items to make clean up fast and simple. Setting the Stage

One of the big issues with a house party is making sure that you can easily accommodate your guests and ensure that they can move around easily and feel comfortable. To do this effectively, caterers will, for an extra fee or as part of the negotiated price, come in ahead of the big day and help you map out the flow of your party. This will help you determine the best spots for your serving table, appetizer stations and bar or drink area, and whether or not to bring in extra seating. Some caterers offer other pre-party service offerings, such as helping you clean, prep and decorate your home or backyard. The Farm Basket, for example, has a decorating specialist on staff who will work with your home design and theme to create a party decor using floral arrangements and other unique decorative items. Although most caterers do much of their prep work and cooking before they arrive at your home, they’ll still need use 38

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of your kitchen to stage, finalize and warm the various food items. The good news is that you probably won’t need to supply anything, except, perhaps, your microwave, stovetop and oven. “We try to bring everything we need with us, our own knives, cutting boards, any specialized tools or appliances, and that’s because we don’t want to be going through drawers or bothering the host for help in finding this or that,” says McCauley. “Again, it’s all about making it easy and comfortable for the customer.” The one thing you will need to do is to clear your countertops of any paperwork, appliances or other clutter and make sure all surfaces and cooking areas are clean and disinfected. “We’ll come in with lots of stuff and then lay it out and organize it from there, so it’s nice to have everything cleared so we have plenty of space and don’t have to work around anything,” Ward says. “It allows us to just get in there and get to work as efficiently as possible.” Party Down

On the day of your big party, everything is set up, the house looks beautiful, the staff is set and your guests are starting to arrive. So what do caterers advise you to do now? Relax. Mingle with your guests. Let go and let the caterers do their job. “Don’t start micromanaging and looking over your chef’s shoulder and getting antsy about whether people are having a good time or not,” says Ward. “People are getting fed, they’ve got drinks, everyone is going to enjoy themselves. We can take care of any issues that arise, so the host should focus on having a good time too.” And isn’t that exactly what you’re paying for?

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SIDE DISH

Make the most of your catering experience with these additional hints: Pl an ahead Caterersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; schedules fill up fast, especially during prime party seasons like Christmas and Saturday evenings in June. Once you know when you want to have your party, get yourself penciled into their calendar, even if youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re still working out the details. Curb your costs You can get the party support you need without

breaking the bank. Among the possibilities: Supply your own beer and wine. Have the caterer cook, prepare and deliver your food (or you pick it up) right before the party, saving you the cost of on-site service. Prioritize your spending by asking the caterer to create very simple, inexpensive appetizers, such as a tray of interesting crackers and cheeses, and use the bulk of your budget for a couple of sophisticated entrĂŠe items. Or divide up the food preparation so the caterer is providing only the most work-intensive or interesting items. As an example, you could prepare a large but simple meat dish, such as a Virginia ham or roast beef, and let the caterer supply the appetizers, side dishes and dessert. Party and learn Having a top chef working in your kitchen is a great opportunity for you and your guests to watch a professional work, ask questions and learn a new cooking style.

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n IMPROVE CLEANING TIPS

Party Fouls

How to Clean Up the Most Common Party Messes By R o ry R h o d es

I will never forget the time I was invited to a Bunco party at a swanky home on a golf course. As I sat down at a card table draped in a vintage white tablecloth, my knee bumped the table leg and sent a long-stemmed wine glass arcing towards the hostess, who was wearing a white peasant blouse. Mortified, I stammered apologies while the woman, whom I’d only just met, mopped up the spill with a rag. Gulp. I spent the rest of the evening guiltily eyeing the purple blotches and trying to roll the dice without touching the card table. The holiday season is upon us, and for many that means hosting dinner and cocktail parties, open houses and family gatherings. Spills happen, so here’s how to keep the good times rolling in the event of a party foul.

Red Wine

Let’s start with my faux pas. The gold standard is Wine Away (I used to work at a winery, and we always kept this on hand). Biodegradable and non-toxic, it’s safe for use around kids and pets. Gently soak up excess wine with a cloth—don’t rub—then spray the cleaner, wait several minutes, and blot until lifted. Repeated applications may be necessary. If possible, use hot soapy water to remove any lingering discoloration, and most importantly, treat the stain before it dries! Wine Away also claims it removes coffee, ink, pet stains and blood, in case your party gets really interesting. Don’t have Wine Away? Dilute the stain with water and blot: I suspect this is why using club soda or white wine on spills is advised—they’re primarily diluting the red liquid. You can also use a mixture of equal parts Dawn dishwashing liquid, widely touted as a gentle but effective stain and oil remover, and hydrogen peroxide. Blot up excess wine, pour on this mixture and let it soak, then wash. Hydrogen peroxide is a mild bleaching agent, so be sure to check your item’s care instructions before attempting clean up. Candle Wax

Freeze the wax with an ice cube wrapped in a sandwich bag, then scrape it off. Place the stained area between layers of paper towels, and use your iron on a low setting to transfer the remaining wax onto the towels. For any remaining stain, treat with stain remover and launder as usual. If the wax is on upholstery, carpet, or anything nonwashable, you may have to finish up with a dry cleaning solvent, such as Woolite’s Dry Cleaner’s Secret or Dryel.

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Lipstick

If you find lipstick on your napkins, use a squirt of Dawn dishwashing liquid to break up the grease, then launder as usual. Check the napkins before putting them in the dryer to make sure that the stain is gone; if color remains, try soaking in white vinegar. Another stain removal method is to place the napkin on top of a paper towel. Take another towel dampened with rubbing alcohol and press it to the stain. Read the care label first to make sure the fabric is safe for this method. The stain will transfer to the towel beneath. A good tip for party cleanup is to soak all napkins in a mix of Dawn dish detergent and water before laundering.

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Gravy and Salad Dressing

Scoop up as much as you can with a spoon or dull knife, and use cornstarch or talcum powder to absorb the rest. Vacuum the absorbent after 10 to 15 minutes. From there, pretreat washable items with stain remover; use dry cleaning solvent for nonwashables. Mustard

Mustard’s zesty flavor comes in part from turmeric, a yellow spice whose stain is difficult to remove. The key with mustard is—don’t wait! Without alarming your guests, scoop up whatever mustard you can, and dilute the remaining stain with water. If you can, pour the water over the underside of the item, because it will push the stain out the top of the fabric rather than through the layers. Next, apply some laundry or dishwashing soap and rub the fabric under running water, then apply laundry stain remover. Launder in cool water and check the stain before

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The acid in lemons makes the citrus a great cleaning agent. putting it in the dryer. If mustard lands on a dry clean-only item or upholstery, use dry cleaning solvent and blot. If the item is sturdy enough, try tamping the solvent into the fabric lightly with a bristle brush to help loosen the stain. Tomato-Based Stains

Ketchup and pasta sauce respond well to lemon juice, as long as your fabric can handle it. Apply the juice with a sponge, and finish with a cloth dampened with cool water, then blot to dry. You can also follow the mustard method by running water through the back of the fabric and gently scrubbing with dish liquid and a bristle brush. If you can still see the stain on a light-colored fabric, try sponging with a mild bleaching agent such as distilled white vinegar or hydrogen peroxide. Soak in cold water before laundering.

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The Future of Education

Chipped or Cloudy Crystal

If a crystal glass or bowl gets chipped, it can be repaired. In a pinch, if it’s a very small chip roughening the rim of a glass, you can smooth it with a nail file, though it may still be visible. A better idea is to take the item to a crystal repair service or a quality jeweler, which will file the rim down evenly, but know that it might end up slightly shorter than your other glasses. Small cracks can also be filled with a sealing compound. If the stem breaks off a glass, it may not be able to be properly repaired, as the clear acrylic glue used probably won’t hold long-term. However, a crystal repairer can turn a cherished item such as a goblet into something decorative, like a Christmas ornament or votive holder. To make cloudy crystal sparkle again, soak it in warm white vinegar, which will remove hard water build-up. You can also wipe crystal with acetone nail polish remover. If these methods don’t help, it may be that the crystal has become etched. Soft water is often the culprit. Unfortunately, this is permanent.

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Silver will react with various substances, including salt, vinegar, olives, fruit juice, cut flowers, and sulphur-producing foods such as onion and eggs. If these items come into contact with silver, they can produce black spots that polish will not remove, so before putting your items away, make sure you wash gently using your favorite method, avoiding any lemon-scented dish detergents. Never wash silver with stainless steel because, if they touch, an electrolytic reaction will cause spots. Likewise, rubber will corrode silver, so stay away from rubber gloves. Rinse with warm water, dry thoroughly, and buff gently with a soft cloth. Prevent reactions and slow tarnishing by making sure silver is not stored near rubber, newspaper ink (silver was once wrapped in newspaper and rubber bands—a double whammy!) salt, chamois leather, or stainless steel.

Broken Glass or Ornaments

Use dampened paper towels or newspaper to safely lift up small shattered pieces. A piece of soft bread will also work. Dispose of carefully in trash, so pets or children can’t get to it. When sweeping up, sprinkle salt over the area to help catch little pieces and make clean up easier. C e n t r a l V i r g i n i a h o m e H o l i d a y / W i n t e r 2 0 1 4

EMERGENCY PARTY-FOUL KIT Keep a bucket or bin stashed in the pantry filled with these useful clean-up items: Clean rags and sponges Dawn dishwashing liquid Laundry stain remover Wine Away Dry cleaning solvent Cornstarch or talcum powder White vinegar Hydrogen peroxide Rubbing alcohol Spray bottle with water or allpurpose cleaning solution Dustpan and brush

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ALL-SEASON ARRANGEMENTS

Decking the Halls Has Never Been Easier

By N o ell e Mila m

The arrival of holiday season means quick transitions. Swiftly we move from fall to winter, and from Thanksgiving to Hanukkah, Christmas and New Yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s. There are overnight guests, family gatherings, parties and events that make this time of year so special, but accompanying those is the stress of so much to do in so little time. Holiday decorations, so ubiquitous this time of year, can be one more stressful demand on your time. Streamlining is key, so consider creating or obtaining a few base arrangements that you can update minimally throughout November, December, and January to bring a beautiful, natural sense of holiday cheerâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;from the time the autumn leaves change color all the way through the time when the Christmas tree is down and the carols have stopped playing. 4 6

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Using this strategy, you can dress up a few simple bases— think potted mini-fir tree, boxwood topiaries, or a wreath made of dried vines—with cuttings from your yard and other adornments you can swap in and out in a varying wardrobe of cheerful holiday themes. With this approach, holiday decorating time is whittled down, and because you don’t have to take down the bases, they are fresh, easy, inexpensive, and unique to your home. Pots and urns are obvious choices, whether they hold living houseplants, or are filled with florist’s foam that can be watered to keep a base arrangement of dense evergreens fresh. Placed on sideboards in the dining room, or as centerpieces on tables and fireplace mantels, such base arrangements provide a green, and often fragrant, backdrop for your own embellishments. Other suggestions for bases include wreaths, garlands and swags. These can be constructed of dried vines, ornamental grasses, or you can weave them together yourself using evergreen branches and florist’s wire. Even for the committed, though, live garlands, boughs, and swags are challenging to keep fresh, and will start drying out and dropping needles within a few weeks. Consider purchasing artificial versions to augment with fresh cuttings from your yard. Once arranged along your mantel, over doors, or down your staircase, they can be embellished with fresh greens or sprigs of berries from your own cuttings. Simply anchor embellishments with florist’s wire or twist ties. This is also a great way to use the lower branches you cut from your Christmas tree to spread that wonderful smell to other areas of your home. Splurge on quality, realistic garlands if you are going faux, as you will use them year after year. c vhomemaga zine .com

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Once you have purchased or prepared a few base arrangements, you are ready to embellish them for the season. The first layer you apply will be the most permanent and should stay put throughout the life of your arrangement. As you progress with each layer, use lighter and airier greens, keeping in mind that these less hearty clippings may need to be replaced more often. The best greens for indoor use (and longest lived) are evergreens—specifically pine, fir and cedar. Cut these the day before you plan to decorate. Remember: you are effectively pruning your outdoor evergreens as you make these cuttings. Keep the plant’s health and structural integrity in mind as you snip. Trim, then crush the stem with a hammer to facilitate maximum water absorption. Submerge the cuttings overnight in a bucket or pail. If they are very large, the bathtub works beautifully. You can expect to get several weeks of sweet-smelling life out of these fresh greens as long as you keep them away from heat sources or direct sunlight, and mist them with water a couple of times a week. The next layer is all about creating visual interest, so consider a frillier, lighter specimen like arborvitae, holly or cedar. Ivy also works well, but doesn’t stay fresh as long and will need a constant water source. Variegated greens are especially eyecatching for this layer. Use your eye as a guide; if this layer looks too heavy against the base, then switch to something even lighter: chamaecyparis (false cypress) or mistletoe, or any other lacy green. Don’t be afraid to experiment. You may be discovering a new favorite, and if it fails and goes limp in a day, just remove it and try again. C e n t r a l V i r g i n i a h o m e H o l i d a y / W i n t e r 2 0 1 4

The final layer is the “fun layer,” the layer you can adapt your base arrangement to the themes of each holiday. For Thanksgiving, consider embellishments such as nuts, ornamental grasses, pinecones, tiny gourds or pumpkins, and perhaps even the most beautiful of your autumn leaves preserved in glycerin. As Christmas approaches, remove any drooping or brittle greens, and replenish them with fresh cuttings. Remove the fall-themed decorations and replace them with cranberries, winter berry, pyracantha, and pomegranates. Magnolia leaves are another traditional favorite. Face them up for glossy green accents, or down for velvety brown ones. If you wish to add lights, be sure they are the cooler-burning LED lights, or they could cook your arrangement and pose a fire threat. For that same reason, don’t put candles in or near these living decorations or place them too near a fireplace. In January, as the last of the wrapping paper has been gathered up, the houseguests have departed, and the Christmas tree has been bundled away, your arrangements don’t have to be taken down. Keep the post-holiday blues away by refreshing your base arrangements one more time. This time, focus on an entirely different theme or palette from the usual holiday reds. In keeping with the natural theme, think of dried flowers, interesting seedpods, lemons or limes, maybe even a pineapple. If you are especially green-thumbed, perhaps you could incorporate some forced blossoms such as quince or bulbs such as paperwhites, which will fill the house with a heavenly aroma very different from the December aromas of cinnamon and spruce. How could the cheerful colors of citrus and the beauty of dried flowers not elicit a smile and the realization that spring sunshine is not far off, even in January?

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Family and Fairytales At Home with Joan and Bobby Foster BY L au r e l F ein m an P h ot o g r a p hy by KG T hi e n e m a nn

Joan and Bobby Foster’s home on Woodland Avenue is known around the neighborhood as “the gingerbread house” thanks to its abundance of decorative exterior “stick work”—delightful ornamental wooden details on its porches and gable ends. Although the plaque on the front of the house dates the home to 1910, Joan and Bobby’s story in this historic house began 14 years ago. If the home’s outward expression doesn’t adequately indicate that fairy tales can come true in this cheerful home, then certainly, a tour of its interior will. Joan, a former schoolteacher, has a knack for vivid storytelling. So, with a twinkle in her eye, she explains, “Technically, it’s called an Eastern Stick-style house. It’s a particular type of Victorian architecture that features all those decorative exterior wooden details seen…or imagined…on storybook cottages.” Besides telltale ornamentation, stick-style homes are also known for having terrific porches and the Fosters’ is no exception. Joan says that during the neighborhood’s centennial celebration a few years ago, they learned that in the 1930s, the residents of Woodland Avenue used to meet every Friday afternoon for informal “porch parties.” Neighbors would share refreshments and take turns with the hosting duties. Joan says, “We all loved the idea so much, we brought back the porch parties! We get together every Friday, from about May to September. It’s a great way to share a neighborly spirit.” When it’s the Fosters’ turn to host, they welcome neighbors to their back porch, which overlooks a large, sloping backyard where their daughter’s wedding reception was held a few years ago. It’s no surprise that Joan would help spearhead such a fun activity for her neighborhood since around town, this former mayor, vice mayor and current member of city council (now entering her fourth four-year term!) is known for her talent in bringing people together through community-wide events. In fact, her home has often been used as the site where many such events are either planned or held. Joan likes to entertain and says she especially enjoys treating folks from the various civic groups she’s involved with to a big, home-cooked Italian dinner. She says, “I like to think of our house as the community’s house, where people are welcome to come and share their thoughts or concerns. I’ve always found that within the casual atmosphere of a home, and especially over a meal, people relax, let their guard down.” Bobby is also known for helping the members of his community, in a different but no less important way. Bobby is a longtime pharmacist, these days working at the Walmart pharmacy on Ward’s Road. An avid collector himself, Bobby says that he and Joan have always enjoyed collecting things together, and their home is indeed a showcase for their many collections. Almost every item in it has a special story and memory attached to it. Above all, it’s a happy and loving family home with that perfect blend of beauty, style and warmth. 5 0

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SCAN THIS PAGE TO SEE ADDITIONAL PHOTOS OF cTHIS v h o m eHOME maga zine .com

The Foyer

If you’ve ever visited Colonial Willamsburg during the holiday season, you’ve no doubt admired the traditional holiday decorations that use fresh fruits, vegetables and native greens to decorate entrances to homes as a prelude to the holiday spirit to be found inside. The Fosters’ front door features such a wreath, covered with the apples and other items from the local fall harvest, hanging on their front door. Joan says she used to buy her wreaths from Colonial Williamsburg but when she learned that the Farm Basket makes the same style of wreaths, she made a switch. Joan jokes, “The squirrels used to tear my old wreaths apart, but they haven’t bothered my Farm Basket wreaths. That’s certainly a case for buying local!” On the walls in the foyer, Sonny Harlow of Appomattox painted a mural of a pastoral scene depicting Long Mountain in Amherst County near the place where Bobby and Joan lived prior to moving to Lynchburg. Joan explains that she and Bobby purchased a home and a drug store in Amherst County when they were in their late 20s and they lived there for 23 years. If you look closely, you can even see a hedgerow of pink “Sweet Briar” roses. A regiment of colorful nutcrackers stand sentry for one final Christmas atop a beautifully inlaid antique bow-front chest that Joan purchased from her friend and former neighbor Mary Brockman, owner of Enchanted Antiques in downtown Lynchburg. Joan has been babysitting the nutcrackers while her son Robb and his wife Samantha have been away pursuing advanced degrees and internships. With new degrees in hand, the couple has now returned to Lynchburg and Joan says Robb, Samantha and the nutcrackers will celebrate Christmas this year in their new home in Lynchburg. Dining Room

To the right of the foyer is the large, comfortable dining room. Several large windows feature their original “wavy glass” windowpanes, while polished hardwood floors gleam underfoot. Blue and white toile slipcovers on the dining room chairs draw your eye to the center of the room, providing a lovely contrast against the other wood furnishings in the room. The arrangement on the Fosters’ dining room table perfectly exemplifies the way Joan and Bobby like to integrate their collectibles into their décor. Mixed among beautiful antiques are simple, homey touches and the effect is sentimental and gracious. Joan’s talented friend Lindsay Keith helped her set the antique dining table that sits beneath a sparkling crystal chandelier. Among the antique linens, sterling silver and a prized collection of vintage glassware called “candlewick glassware” is Joan’s set of imitation-Spode holiday dishes that she purchased on layaway from Rose’s department store when they were newlyweds and Bobby was still in pharmacy school. Joan says, “The greenery is from my daughter Hilary and sonin-law J.B.’s 50-acre farm in Bedford near The Sedalia Center.” Hilary and J.B. just moved back to the area from Washington State. Joan says, “J.B. and Hilary are the proud parents of a new baby, my first grandson, Wyatt, born on City Council Election Day. I had a lot to celebrate that day!” A small tilt-top table is one of the Fosters’ oldest antiques, dealer-verified as dating back to the early 1700s. Joan purchased the pair of tapestries hanging on the wall as well as the antique breakfront chest in the corner from Mary Brockman. 52

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On the sideboard next to a pair of handmade gingerbread houses is a special collection: Margaret Furlong porcelain ornaments, given to her by her children as gifts, starting in the 80s when the children were young and still living at home. Joan explains that she loves to decorate gingerbread houses and Christmas cookies with her granddaughters—eightyear-old Grace, and six-year-old twins, Lily and Annie—every year to help them get excited about the holiday season. Joan’s newest collection is the porcelain nativity set. Now adults, Joan’s children are giving her these figurines to help her complete her set. Joan says, “They no longer make the Margaret Furlong ornaments, but this nativity set reminds me of them. I love that my children are helping me build a collection once again.” Kitchen/Home Office

In the kitchen are several historical items of personal significance. The kitchen is at the back of the house, just beyond the dining room—a roomy, square-shaped space with a cozy spot for everyday dining. It has the feel of a vintage kitchen 5 4

that might have been original to the home, but is outfitted with modern-day appliances and amenities. The wooden red A&P bin in the kitchen would have originally stored coffee, and now serves as a nice reminder for Joan, whose parents both worked for the A&P Company. Sitting on its top is a miniature nativity scene of French Santons. A small aluminum tinsel tree is decorated with antique cookie cutters and kitchen tools. In the office, tucked into a vestibule between the kitchen and the living room, is a collection of antique apothecary items, of obvious interest to Bobby, given his vocation. A Lionel train collection reminds Bobby of his grandfather, who worked for the railroad. In fact, the lanterns displayed nearby actually belonged to his grandfather. The Fosters’ favorite story of all might be the one involving the vintage Hopalong Cassidy toy gun. Joan said that Bobby used to wistfully talk about the Hopalong Cassidy toy guns he and his brother got for Christmas when he was about nine years old, and how sorry he was that the toy guns had been lost. So, when Joan ran across an authentic Hopalong Cassidy toy

gun in an antique store, she knew she had to get it for Bobby. She says, “It’s like it was Christmas of 1955 all over again and worth every penny.” Living Room

The Christmas tree stands in front of the street-facing windows in the formally decorated living room. There is a delicate antique settee as well as beautiful antique tables in the room, and a comfortable wing back chair positioned to admire the fireplace. Upon the tree are many special ornaments, including several made of clothespins during Joan and Bobby’s “lean, newlywed years.” There’s an ornament of a fireman that Joan says reminds her of the first responders at Ground Zero on September 11, and an American flag that honors the soldiers who fought during Desert Storm. Carved wooden dolls from Russia sit atop an antique tea caddy—its lock a reminder that tea was once so precious, it had to be kept under lock and key. A beautiful antique miniature Christmas tree sits atop the coffee table in front of the fireplace, and from the mantel, a nativity scene made of Byer’s Choice handcrafted C e n t r a l V i r g i n i a h o m e H o l i d a y / W i n t e r 2 0 1 4

caroler figurines appear to announce the happiness of the Christmas story. Joan says she has a special appreciation for the handiwork involved in the row of needlepoint stockings that hang from the mantel. She says, “My hobby is a kind of needlework called crewelwork. Although I didn’t make the stockings myself, I can certainly appreciate what all must have been involved.” The Sitting Room

The sitting room is Joan’s favorite spot in the house because it is surrounded on three sides by large windows, allowing a maximum amount of natural light into the room. She especially likes the unique, vintage floor lamp standing in the corner. She explains that it is made out of a dentist’s office dental tool sterilizer, its drawers still filled with a full set of dental tools! Joan says, “We bought it at an antique store downtown and took it to Thorne McCraw of McCraw’s New and Used Furniture to work his magic on it and turn it into a floor lamp for us. The shelf is the perfect height to catch my coffee cup when I’m reading the paper in the morning.” c vhomemaga zine .com

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Bobbyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s vintage Hopalong Cassidy toy gun, a Christmas gift from Joan

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Handcarved wooden figurines from Russia

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This room, once an outdoor porch, doesn’t have a working fireplace but the Fosters added an old mantel from a house in Amherst County to the wall to create a focal point in the room and to hold collectibles. Of special note is the collection of a miniature lead cannon and tiny hand-painted lead soldiers. Joan Ad components cannot be moved, replaced or omitted. For example, a graphic cannot be moved from the top of the ad to theexplains bottom, nor can it their son-in-law Andrew, daughter Janna’s husband, that be replaced or removed without prior approval by Marketing Review. is a graduate of VMI and that they began collecting these military Minor rewrapping of text is allowed, but if the rewrapping is extensive— and especially if it involves moving footnotes, it must beitems approvedwith by him in mind. Joan says, “One day, the soldiers will Marketing Review prior to use. go live with Janna, Andrew and their three daughters—our precious granddaughters.”

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The Children’s Suite

In no other area of the house does Joan’s skill in storytelling come more alive than upstairs in the room where their three granddaughters stay when they come for frequent sleepovers. The children’s room is located on the same level as the master bedroom suite and two additional bedrooms. Even though Joan and Bobby’s adult children have local homes of their own, the grandchildren love coming to spend the night with Grandma and Grandpa, and it’s easy to see why. The children’s suite is a wonderland of antique toys and furnishings. Children and dolls alike may play games and host tea parties at child-sized (and doll-sized!) tables. Bookshelves are filled with beloved children’s books and vintage celluloid toys. Joan explains that celluloid is the pre-plastic material that toys were made of until about the late 1930s. Matching beds featuring white headboards and footboards line the room and are covered in cheerful red-checked bedclothes. There is even a window seat, set between two large bookcases. 5 8

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A child-sized vintage Santa sweater hangs on the back of the bathroom door to help decorate the room for the season. Joan is a former member of the Junior League of Lynchburg and she purchased it at Bargain Mart—an indoor rummage sale that the Junior League hosted as its premier fundraiser for many years. Joan says that all three granddaughters have taken turns wearing the sweater during the past few Christmas seasons. The Fosters’ home is full of collections, each one telling a unique story that starts with the storybook beginning when Joan and Bobby met on a blind date while they were students at Lynchburg College. There’s no doubt that a strong sense of community spirit has defined them, both as individuals and as a couple. The Fosters know how to create—or, shall we say “foster”—that community spirit of sharing goodwill with all those who enter their home.

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n LIVE GIFTS FROM THE KITCHEN

Gifts from the Kitchen NEW TAKES ON HOLIDAY TRADITIONS

By Lu cy Co o k

Picture the scene: December 20-something in the afternoon, your doorbell rings. You rush to the door expecting a uniformed delivery person, bringing that last, most important gift you ordered for your spouse. But no! Outside is your neighbor, clutching another beautiful bounty of her homemade specialty, and you, again, are unprepared…

This year, vow to be prepared with a beautiful homemade gift of your own. It’s easier than you think! Gifts from your kitchen—now, and any time of the year, really—demonstrate your thoughtfulness and planning, are generally affordable, and are usually very welcome. If you’ve ever been a teacher, you know the coffee mugs tend to stack up. I love getting little bags of goodies from friends; I can save them for myself, or share when other guests drop by. Reflecting on gifts I’ve loved over the years, the ones that come to mind fall into at least one of three categories: personal, immediately usable or beautifully packaged.

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Personal Gifts

The fun part of a homemade gift from the kitchen is that you’re sharing part of your family—an old family recipe or personal favorite. It’s fun, too, to see what others eat and choose to share during the holidays, and to get a glimpse of another family’s traditions. Are you known for your spaghetti sauce or barbecue rub? Does your family have a signature cookie or holiday treat that everyone loves? Give the people what they want: if everyone looks at you and thinks of your delicious ginger snaps or fabulous brownies, that’s what you should make. If you’ve made almond toffee for the past 10 years (and gotten compliments on it!), by all means, stick to what you are good at, and what you’re known for.

P h ot o gr a p hy by KG T hi e n e m a nn at T h e A r t B ox

Immediately Usable

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During the holidays, we all feel pressed for time, and nothing is better than an extra hand to help. A homemade coffee cake or a couple dozen frozen hors d’oeuvres would really fit the bill for someone who has a house full of guests. A container of soup or a pan of chicken enchiladas or lasagna would be the perfect gift for a busy family. Such dishes could be used right away, or frozen for the coming weeks. Beautifully Packaged

Half the fun of making and receiving the gift is the packing. There are endless possibilities both at local craft stores and online. Consider the item you intend to package. Is it fragile? Would it be best stored in the fridge or freezer; would it go stale sitting on the counter? Will you be mailing the item, or hand delivering? Each of these questions dictates a different kind of basic packaging. Take a trip to the craft store and hardware store to look at your packaging options. The best packages are gifts in themselves—a sturdy box or bowl that can be reused is a great container. There are endless ways to jazz up your packaging as well. Picture a plain cellophane bag or an aluminum pan wrapped with personalized ribbon (imprinted with holiday greetings and your name) to dress it up. Or consider creating custom labels; you can easily design your own using sticky labels available at the office supply store—which could include cooking instructions or recipe suggestions.

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Ready to start cooking? Don’t forget to be realistic. Figure out how many gifts you’ll need, then add two or three extra gifts for good luck—there’s always someone unexpected who shows up with a package—and you could take extra gifts to any holiday parties to which you may be invited. Figure out the cost of the recipe, and whether it will be affordable; sometimes holiday ingredients like nuts can be expensive. Next, make one batch of your gift—to make sure it’s good, and to see how long it will take. Test the packaging, and make any necessary adjustments. Keep the recipe and a list of recipients in your holiday file so that you don’t have to reinvent the wheel next year. It may also be a good idea to keep a list of gifts you received from friends to help remind you who you need to add to your list next year. I’ve included some recipes that I’ve enjoyed that make nice gifts, if you don’t already have one in mind. Happy Holidays and Happy Cooking!

Grainy Mustard (makes 2 cups) This would look great in a jar with a nice label. Everyone knows what to do with mustard, but you could add a recipe for a salad dressing made with the mustard for a nice addition to your gift. ¼ cup mustard seeds 1 cup Coleman’s mustard powder 4 tablespoons honey ¼ cup champagne vinegar 1 cup white wine Place the mustard seeds in a heavy zip-lock plastic bag and pound them 4 to 5 times with the bottom of a skillet to smash some of the seeds. In a medium bowl, combine the seeds, mustard powder, honey and vinegar. Stir until combined. Add the wine and stir. Put into a non-reactive jar (glass) and refrigerate for at least 24 hours before using. Mustard keeps, refrigerated, for one year—if it lasts that long! c vhomemaga zine .com

Mushroom Puffs (makes 36) These yummy hors d’oeuvres can be kept in the freezer up to three months. Just pop a few on a baking tray and reheat for a last-minute treat. Alternately, just make the filling and serve with toasted French bread rounds. 1 clove garlic, minced 2 tablespoons butter 1 pound mushrooms, chopped 1 8-ounce package cream cheese 1 package frozen puff pastry Sauté garlic in butter. Add mushrooms and cook over medium-high heat, until all the liquid has been absorbed. Cool slightly. Combine cream cheese and mushrooms in a food processor or mixer and blend completely.

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(At this point, you could refrigerate the mixture and serve with toasted French bread rounds.) To continue with making the appetizer, cut a sheet of puff pastry into 1½-inch squares. Press a square into each cavity of a mini muffin tin. Fill with a rounded teaspoon of the mushroom mixture. Bake at 400 degrees for 10 minutes until lightly browned. Serve, or cool then remove from pan and freeze for up to three months.

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These are great as a snack, or crumbled as an addition to a salad or on top of a bowl of ice cream. Butter (for greasing baking sheet) 1 cup sugar 1 tablespoon Chinese five-spice powder ½ teaspoon salt 4 tablespoons water 2 cups pecan halves Butter a foil-lined baking sheet. Preheat the oven to 350. In a heavy saucepan, bring the sugar, spices and water to a boil, stirring constantly until the mixture reaches 240 degrees (soft-ball stage) on a candy thermometer. Remove from heat and stir in the pecans. Pour the nut mixture onto the greased foil and bake in the oven for 10 minutes, until toasted and fragrant. Let cool, then break up into small pieces. Store in an airtight container for two weeks, or in your freezer for up to six months. C e n t r a l V i r g i n i a h o m e H o l i d a y / W i n t e r 2 0 1 4

Simple Truffles I learned early that the attraction to truffles is the taste and quality of the chocolate, so don’t skimp on this ingredient. Instead of the lengthy process of scooping and rolling the truffles into balls, try cutting them into decorative shapes (squares, rectangles, or small hearts or other cookie-cutter shapes). It looks attractive and saves lots of time! ½ cup heavy cream 1 pound bittersweet chocolate, chopped (use the best that you can find, like Lindt, Callebaut or other high-quality chocolate) 6 ounces (12 tablespoons) unsalted butter ½ cup sifted cocoa powder Line an 8x8 square pan with plastic wrap. Combine cream, chocolate and butter in a double boiler, and simmer over warm water until smooth and melted. Pour into the pan and chill. Use plastic wrap to lift out of the pan. Cut into desired shapes and dust with cocoa powder. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two months. Allow truffles to come to room temperature before serving.

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n GARDEN BIRD FEEDERS

Winter Garden, Bird Sanctuary By B ecky C alv er t

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ith all their twittering and fluttering about, birds add movement, sound and color to our landscape. The winter garden, while lacking the lushness the more hospitable growing seasons offer, can still be a sanctuary for birds. The harsh weather of the season is difficult for our feathered friends, making shelter, food and water harder to find. Thankfully, there are plenty of ways to make the garden a year-round bird haven—ways that are beneficial to our landscape as well. Hosting a variety of plantings in your yard is a good place to start. Diversity in plants provides a blend of colors, textures, shapes and sizes to the landscape that attract birds. Evergreens and shrubs provide ideal spots for birds to shelter themselves from predators and the elements during the colder months. American hollies, bayberries and junipers, as well as deciduous trees like the native dogwood and flowering crabapple, provide birds a great food source with their winter berries. Plant species native to the area will not only thrive in our growing conditions, but they also attract native birds that recognize them as food sources. When we prepare to entertain guests in our homes, we often put our best foot forward by straightening up the little messes of everyday life. Nature, however, is not as impressed with neatness. Little messes left in our yards welcome not just birds, but the bugs and larvae they feed on. Leave some of autumn’s fallen leaves in small piles in flowerbeds, and around trees, bushes and fences. The benefits of leaving this leaf litter reach far beyond creating a habitat for the insects that birds feast on. This litter helps control erosion and assist with water retention, while adding nutrients to the soil as it breaks down. The bugs that depend on this food source often work to spread these nutrients throughout the garden. Instead of deadheading the spent zinnias and coneflowers of last summer’s flowerbeds, leave them until spring. Leave some leaf litter among their stalks to create a winter smorgasbord of seeds and bugs as well as a naturally enriched plot come next spring. Birds are also attracted to small brush piles. A small pile, tucked away in a corner of the yard, is a sanctuary from predators and harsh weather. These piles offer shelter as well as materials for nest building. In warmer months, these piles can be covered with climbing vines such as morning glory or hyacinth

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bean, also providing nectar for butterflies and hummingbirds. Shelter can also be provided in the form of a birdhouse or nesting box you purchase at the garden center or hardware store. Providing a food source in a bird feeder is another way to attract birds to your winter garden. Feeders can be hung in any number of spots to attract a wider variety of birds. Some birds will feel comfortable coming to a feeder attached to a window, while others might prefer one hanging from a tree branch. Try to provide a secure spot, near shelter, and avoid hanging the feeder on low branches where small predators like cats may lurk. Wherever you choose to place a feeder, it is important to maintain the food supply, as birds will seek it out on a regular basis, especially in the harshest of weather. To deter other creatures such as squirrels from feasting at your buffet, consider mounting your feeder on a pole with a squirrel baffle (a device used to destabilize the climbing surface), or surround your feeders with a wire mesh through which squirrels are unable to chew. In order to keep warm, birds need to eat seeds higher in fat and protein. Beware of cheaper mixes containing grain and cracked corn contents, which act as filler. Cracked corn especially attracts undesirable birds such as starlings, an invasive species. Invasive species—those that have been introduced to the environment—often lack predators or other native controls on their population, and can crowd out native birds, leading to extinction. Sunflower chips, peanuts, thistle and black-oil sunflower seeds are among those highest in fat and protein, and are recommended to attract native birds to your feeders. Suet cakes are a good option as well, as long as they are 95 percent fat. C e n t r a l V i r g i n i a h o m e H o l i d a y / W i n t e r 2 0 1 4

With food and shelter options available, the last crucial element to attracting birds to your winter garden is a good water source. Ideally, a few shallow sources of water available for drinking and bathing should be located within 15 feet of shelter. Colder temperatures can mean standing water ices over easily, so small heaters or bubblers can be installed to help prevent this. Solar-powered or temperature-sensitive models are ideal because they do not depend on electricity and require little attention. Birds are more attracted to moving water than still, but any water source will do. A few small perches in and near the water, which can be as simple as small rocks, are much appreciated by birds. As with feeders, any water source offered to birds should be cleaned on a regular basis, ideally about once a week, to avoid spreading disease. The winter landscape, while more difficult for wildlife to navigate, can still be hospitable to our feathered friends. Thankfully, making your yard a yearround haven for birds is as easy to create and maintain as it is to enjoy.

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Lynchburg Christmas & Holiday Parade Get in the Holiday Spirit! Join Friends and Family Downtown Lynchburg • December 7th 5-7pm www.lynchburgchristmasparade.com Crystals • Pearls • Seed Beads Semi-Precious Stones • Findings Stringing Materials • Books Magazines and Tools

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BY L au r e l F ein m an P h ot o g r a p hy by A ll e g r a H e lms a n d KG T hi e n e m a nn

Catherine Madden fondly remembers what an honor it was to be asked by the nuns at the Villa Maria Academy to participate in the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Hanging of the Greensâ&#x20AC;? ceremony when she was a little girl. She says that experience made a lasting impression on her, one that continued to be fostered while she attended the College of William and Mary in Colonial Williamsburgâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;a place well known for proudly displaying its timeless holiday decorations. Catherine continues to call upon those early lessons, and has added her own personal twist to them, to create a remarkable setting for her family to celebrate the magic of Christmas. c vhomemaga zine .com

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Catherine and her husband Mike are the proud parents of two daughters and a son, a son-in-law and a new daughter-inlaw, and a rosy-cheeked granddaughter named Hattie. They also have a baby grandson who will be celebrating his first Christmas this year. Like many people in Lynchburg who live in an historic home, Catherine jokes that depending on who you ask, their home is known as either “the Leggett home” or “the Kirkpatrick home,” and that maybe one day it will become known as “the Madden home.” c vhomemaga zine .com

Catherine says, “It’s ideal to bake the gingerbread two weeks prior to decorating so it can dry and harden enough to support a rooftop full of candy and royal icing.”

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Each year on the day after Thanksgiving, the Maddens officially kick off their holiday traditions by decorating gingerbread houses together. Over the years, Catherine has built some extraordinary gingerbread houses. Twice, she has built detailed reproductions of the Miller-Claytor House; both were used as fundraisers for Jubilee Family Development Center and the Lynchburg Garden Club. She’s also made a replica of Point of Honor for their Day at the Point fundraising event, and once, Meriwether’s restaurant commissioned her to recreate the Norvell-Otey House in downtown Lynchburg. But these postThanksgiving houses that the Madden family makes together are just for fun. Should you desire to build a gingerbread house this year, there are plenty of recipes on the Internet, but they might not include those handy tips that can only be gleaned from years of experience—namely, that from-scratch gingerbread house making isn’t something you can expect to complete in a day. Catherine says, “It’s ideal to bake the gingerbread two weeks prior to decorating so it can dry and harden enough to support a rooftop full of candy and royal icing.”

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Catherine explains, “When I first started making gingerbread houses, the Internet wasn’t an available resource. I learned everything by trial and error and through family and friends who shared my interest.” In fact, one of Catherine’s friends made a gingerbread house template for her, and it has become her favorite. After she rolls the dough, she uses the template as a pattern, trimming the dough with a pizza cutter. One construction detail that’s hidden beneath the icing in the final product is basting thread sewn through the walls for added stability. Before baking, Catherine carefully measures the walls to make sure they will line up properly, then she pierces holes in the corners of the dough prior to baking. When it comes to decorating a gingerbread house, you are only limited by your own imagination. But, Catherine says if you plan to decorate with intricate designs, it’s best to do so while the walls are laying flat. You should also allow them to harden before moving on to the next step: assembling the house. Catherine likes to place a decorated “Christmas tree” inside the gingerbread house before the roof is added. Here’s a secret: underneath all the trimmings, it’s an ordinary ice cream cone! If you hope to keep prying fingers off of your gingerbread house, Catherine suggests keeping a candy jar near the gingerbread house, filled with the same types of goodies you used to decorate it. She learned this lesson many years ago, when she discovered that her children had taken all of the Hershey’s Kisses out of their wrappers and replaced them with cotton balls! (She still can’t decide if that was “naughty” or “nice.”) There’s no question that Catherine has a special expertise in hand-decorating tabletop-sized homes for Christmas, but her talent also extends into her family’s home. Her holiday decorations have been acquired over a lifetime, and each item holds a special memory and a sentiment. Catherine says, “Through your life, your tastes and interests change. Your decorations will reflect that and tell a story.” Many of Catherine’s favorite decorations have been collected when they’ve been on vacations. She has a few different nativity scenes from faraway places like Italy, Switzerland and France; each contains small details that reflect the unique character of those regions, either in the materials from which they are made, or the way the characters dress. Most notable are the figurines in her collection of hand-painted C e n t r a l V i r g i n i a h o m e H o l i d a y / W i n t e r 2 0 1 4

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“les santons de Provence” (which delightfully translates to “the little saints of Provence”), who wear the clothing of French Provencal peasants and include such everyday characters as a baker, a girl spinning wool, and a lavender seller. Even the Maddens’ collection of nutcrackers holds special meaning. Each year, one lucky member of the family is given a nutcracker that reflects something special that happened in the past year for that person. So, studying the line-up of wooden soldiers is a bit like reading the family’s history: one year, someone studied in Spain; another year, someone else had a personal achievement in golf; and so on. Catherine says that she takes pictures of her holiday decorations and keeps them in a book so she can remember what she did the year before. She says she doesn’t decorate exactly the same way from year to year, but that there are certain things she knows she has to put out—like her children’s favorite magnetic Nutcracker Advent Calendar, for instance. She says, “Even though everyone is now in their 20s and 30s, it’s still one of the first things they look for when they come home for the holidays.” Catherine also likes to make note of what she’ll need to replace before the next holiday season in her holiday notebook. “Last year, the ribbon on the front stairway needed replacing. I’m so glad I had made a note of that so I had plenty of time to find some new ribbon that would work there,” she says. Putting everything away properly at the end of the season makes the following year’s decorating go so much better. Catherine likes to take her time and decorate one room at a time. To stay organized, she labels the outside of her storage boxes with a list of its contents. She groups the boxes together and stores them with the other items that will go together in a particular room. Part of the magic of the holiday season is sharing such special times in your home with those nearest and dearest to you. Your holiday decorations can be an outward expression of your family’s unique personal experiences. Through the thoughtfully selected elements of a collection built over time, your decorations will not only keep a record of your family’s history, but also help create a magical set of traditions to look forward to each year.

P h ot o p rov i d e d by St . Paul ’s Ep isc o p a l Churc h , se e p a g e 8 8 fo r t h e b e au t if ul s t o r y b e hin d t his t re e .

n DESIGN CHRISTMAS TREES

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Tannenbaum! T I P S F O R H O L I D AY T R E E S

By M er i d i t h I n g r a m

Forget politics and religion: if you want to stir things up at your next holiday party, bring up the subject of Christmas trees. Everyone’s got an opinion. There’s the staunch “real tree, white lights” set, the smooth-talking “faux’s the way to go” advocates… not to mention other arguables like ornament placement, light stringing techniques, garland versus tinsel (or not). Even within families, there is likely to be a debate over whose way is the right way. But that’s the beautiful thing about Christmas trees: there is no right or wrong way, not really. It’s the act of putting up the tree that counts, of creating a holiday tableau around which other traditions are centered, literally and figuratively. But traditions can get stale if we don’t evaluate what we’re doing every now and then. This year, when putting up your Christmas tree, keep a few considerations in mind so the chore doesn’t outweigh the cheer. Perhaps a little knowledge and perspective might add a new dash of fun to your tree traditions.

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Real Versus Faux

According to the American Christmas Tree Association, there is no debate on this one: both fresh and artificial trees have their merits, and the group’s recent study showed that neither has a significantly different impact on the environment. So if we take environmental considerations off the table, and know the pros and cons of each (those that have been argued in families and at cocktail parties), you’ll just have to go with what works for your family and your season. If you’re buying a live tree this year, take the time to examine it for freshness so you can get a good four weeks out of it. If it’s encased in netting as many are at the tree lot, ask an employee to help remove it. Run your hand over the branches; if needles drop, move on to the next tree. Branches should feel supple and pliable. Also, if a tree feels lighter than it should, that’s a sign that the tree may be dried out—over half of the weight of a tree is water. Though prices vary, you can expect to pay about $10 per foot for a fresh tree, give or take. If you’re purchasing an artificial tree, consider it a multi-year investment and buy the best you can afford for the most pleasing results. The price for an artificial tree can range anywhere from two digits (mini and novelty trees) all the way up to four digits, and there are many things to consider: size, color, lights, density of branches and more. You should not be 8 6

able to see the center pole on a quality artificial tree, and if you choose a prelit tree, make sure it has enough lights to suit your taste. Securing the Tree

Most of us have “the spot” in our home where we place the tree, year after year. Maybe it’s displayed in a street-facing window in the formal living room, or tucked in a corner of the den where the family likes to congregate. Pick the place where you’ll get the most enjoyment out of it. If you’re considering shaking things up this year and relocating the tree—or better yet, adding another to your decorating scheme—be sure to measure your ceiling height so you know your tree will fit, and don’t forget to take into consideration both the height of the tree stand and your tree topper. Make sure you place it near an electrical outlet, but away from air ducts that will dry out a live tree. Keep both real and artificial trees away from fireplaces to avoid a fire hazard. Consider too, giving the tree enough berth so it doesn’t brush against drapes or scratch the paint on the wall. Don’t be afraid to move the furniture to accommodate your tree—that’s half the fun, having a great excuse to enjoy a new furniture layout for a few weeks of the year. Wherever you place it, make sure it’s sturdy and level before you begin to decorate it. We all have or have heard

the heartbreaking stories of tree collapse and broken heirloom ornaments. Start by assessing your tree stand; make sure it’s designed to hold a tree of the size you come home with. Take another line of defense with this trick: secure your tree to the wall or ceiling with a length of fishing line and a small screw hook. Got toddlers or pets? Here’s another trick: place your tree, not your children, in the play-yard, to avoid curious hands. Also don’t forget to place a small tarp under your fresh tree to avoid discovering water damage on the floor come January. Trimmings and Trappings

Trimming the tree is supposed to be fun! But burnt-out lights, garland shortage, and arguing over ornament placement can all spark ire in this process. Consider these tips for stress-free tree trimming. First, keep strands of lights plugged in as you work; it’s easier to see what you’re doing and you’ll know if all are in good working order. Decorate from the inside out, working from the trunk to the outer layers, and from top to bottom. Your taste dictates just how bright you want your tree to be, but a good rule of thumb is to use about 100 lights for about every foot of your tree. But don’t string more than three strands on one electrical circuit to avoid overload. There are a number of ways to string those lights. The traditional wave pattern—wrapping around the tree C e n t r a l V i r g i n i a h o m e H o l i d a y / W i n t e r 2 0 1 4

maypole-style—is probably the fastest and easiest. Another way is to mentally divide it into three triangular sections, from top to bottom, around the cone of the tree. Starting at the top, weave lights back and forth across that triangle all the way to the bottom of the tree, then repeat this process in the other two triangles. For the most meticulous of tree trimmers, there’s the branch wrapping method—wrapping each branch for a real glow-from-within look. Next comes the garland, if you are so inclined. You’ll need about nine feet of garland per foot of tree. It’s best hung gently swagged— or use it vertically, twisting down from the tree topper. And Then, The Ornaments

Retailers provide us great inspiration to bedeck our trees with carefully coordinated ornaments. But many of us also have salt dough and clothespin ornaments from seasons past that are among the most cherished. For the best of both worlds, consider one unifying element on your tree—say, simple glass ball ornaments in a color you love—and fill in with your treasures. Or consider incorporating another, smaller tree in a different location and deem that your “decorator tree” to do with what you choose. Think candy-themed ornaments on a mini-tree on the kitchen island, or bold and elegant metallics (glass balls, faux flowers) on a tall, thin tree tucked in the corner of the dining room where you’ll be entertaining. When trimming the tree, perhaps the best tip of all is to dim the lights, step back and take in the big picture to assess your work in progress. Sometimes you need that perspective to see what areas need work, and what is really beautiful from the right distance. And really, isn’t that great advice for the whole season?

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Angel Tree and Crèche Tell Christmas Story

ecorating the Christmas tree is a tradition enjoyed by families—but communities have traditions to share too. In 2006, inspired by the Angel Tree at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the congregation of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in historic downtown Lynchburg began the annual tradition of erecting an elaborate crèche scene complete with a large tree adorned with angel ornaments. The crèche and angels, fashioned in the Neapolitan style, are all gifts given by members and friends of the church to honor and remember friends and loved ones. Each year at the beginning of the Advent season, members of the congregation spend many hours assembling this breathtaking nativity scene, and even the children of the parish are invited to add a small stone or bit of moss to it. Hundreds of Italian-made angels in various shapes and sizes decorate the tree. The Cartapesta angels, each holding a musical instrument, are created by a paper overlay process. The intricately fashioned Cascini figures, made in several sizes, are crafted from terra cotta and dressed in silk, and exhibit beautifully detailed facial features. The tradition of recreating the story of the birth of Jesus is an ancient one. The idea of celebrating the first nativity is attributed to St. Francis of Assisi, who in 1223 used a manger and real animals as part of his celebration of midnight Mass. The crèche concept spread rapidly throughout Europe, and crèche art reached its crescendo in 18thcentury Naples. The Neapolitan royalty and aristocracy commissioned leading artists to fashion miniature nativity figures called presepio that were displayed in extravagant panoramas containing hundreds of these figures—including merchants, slaves, animals, and wealthy aristocrats adorned with precious gems and fine lace. Many of the figures represented actual townspeople dressed in current fashion attending to their trades. The Angel Tree and Crèche will be on display this year from December 7th through January 11th, 2015. Visitors from the community are welcome to view the tree and share in this beautiful tradition by attending a Sunday morning worship service at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church on the corner of Clay and 7th Street at either 8 or 10:30 a.m. For more information, please call (434) 845-7301 or visit stpaulslynchburg.org online.

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Know Your Branches Purchasing a live tree? According to the Virginia Christmas Tree Growers Association, the top-selling Christmas trees in Virginia are: Fir (Balsam, Dougl as, Fr aser, Noble):

These varieties are known for long-lasting, blue-green or dark green needles and firm branches that are ideal for heavier ornaments. Fir trees are also a lighter-weight species, making them a bit easier to transport. They also tend to be more fragrant than other varieties. Pine (Scotch, Virginia and White): Known for

brushy green needles and springy branches, this species isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t ideal for bulky garlands or heavy ornaments, but demonstrates excellent needle retention and is known to produce fewer reactions for allergy sufferers.

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n DESIGN CONCRETE FLOORING

CONCRETE

How to Warm and Brighten Those Cold, Gray Floors

By H e at h er B Hay es

Historically, the only design choice associated with a concrete floor in the home was how best to cover it up: carpet, wood, tile or vinyl? No longer. Bare concrete has become a popular flooring option as homeowners turn to new decorative concrete materials, techniques and processes to brighten and animate their unfinished basements and other inside spaces. Their choices include acid-staining the concrete, marbling it with warm or vibrant metallic coatings, scoring, sawing and stamping it to achieve all manner of patterns and artistic expression, and smoothing and polishing it to a glossy, mirror-like sheen. “With any kind of interior decorative concrete style, you get this beautiful, warm, finished floor that is easy to clean and maintain, and is allergy-free,” says Tim Seay, owner of Decorative Concrete of Virginia in Lynchburg. “A lot of people haven’t known that it’s an option, but the more decorative concrete floors we put in, the more calls we get for it. Other people see it and they want it too.” In fact, the trend is becoming so prevalent that it’s not just for current homeowners who want a waterproof but inspired flooring solution in their basements. Decorative concrete is increasingly being used in new home construction. And this floor choice is not relegated to basements. If your house is built on a slab foundation, decorative concrete is a practical but beautiful choice for c vhomemaga zine .com

kitchens, baths, foyers, living rooms and closed-in porches. And if you have wood subflooring? It’s still an option, though maybe not an ideal one. Installers can trawl a layer of concrete over wood and jazz it up with decorative processes. However, since wood is pliable, this type of concrete floor is even more prone to crack and not something Seay or other installers usually recommend. Colorful Options

For most homeowners, decorative concrete is an affordable way to give new life to old floors—and also create a unique look. And you don’t need to start from scratch or have perfect floors to get amazing results. “A lot of people think that because they have carpet or vinyl installed already or because their concrete has a lot of cracks

that they don’t have any options with decorative concrete,” says Seay. “But really, no matter what’s on the floor or even if the concrete isn’t smooth or has a lot of cracks in it, we can work with them to get a new look.” In fact, many homeowners first learn about stained concrete after a basement flood, leak or mold problem forces them to call in a specialist to rip out old carpet or wood and grind the original floor to remove old glue or paint. “Once we get it back down to bare concrete, we can do anything the homeowner wants,” Seay explains. The simplest—and most costeffective—option is acid-staining, which at $3 to $4 per square foot installed, is comparable to the price of average carpet and costs considerably less than wood or tile. 91

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To achieve the look, installers use a high-grade stain product that deeply penetrates the concrete and chemically changes the color. After letting it dry overnight, they seal the color first with a layer of professional-grade epoxy and then a layer of polyurethane, achieving a warm, rich floor that plays up the mottled tones and shades inherent in poured concrete. The color palette available with stained concrete is limited to warm earth tones, so homeowners who want a brighter, more primary coloring on their floors, including white, will need a metallic epoxy finish. This coloring technique, which generally costs between $5 and $7 per square foot, relies on an epoxy coating mixed with pigment and metal chips. The result? A marbled, semi-transparent appearance with more dimension and depth than a stained floor. Floor Art

When combined with professional techniques like sawing, scoring, stamping and engraving, these two coloring processes can help homeowners turn their concrete floors into glossy works of art. The possibilities for an imaginative, conversationsparking floor design are endless: irregular patterns, circular lines, geometric grids, and multi-color motifs. Some homeowners have even fashioned an original design, monogram or family crest in the center of a floor. You can also go with a more traditional look. Installers can create a faux-tiled floor by trawling an overlay of concrete onto existing concrete floors (or even wood subfloors), scoring or stamping the desired pattern and then individually coloring each block with acid-stain or metallic epoxy. These types of techniques can also be used to imitate other popular floor choices like wood, stone, slate, granite and brick. The benefits? You get the unique appearance, but not the shortcomings, of those options. You don’t have to worry about water damage like swelling, buckling and rotting. You don’t have to purchase higher-priced specialty cleaners, as concrete floors can be wiped clean with a mop and soapy water. And the surface is as impervious as a floor can be to scratches and scuffs from toys, pets and high heels. The one downside to concrete has always been that cracks can and do occur due to shrinkage. However, with decorative concrete techniques, these cracks are no longer an eyesore. For example, an older floor with numerous cracks or uneven spots can be smoothed over with a trawled concrete overlay 9 2

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P h ot o p rov i d e d by D e c o r at i ve C o n c ret e of V irgini a

(which actually makes the floor even harder) and then stained or colored and sealed. If the floor has one or a few cracks and you’re planning to use metallic epoxy, installers can use a saw or scoring tool to build color or an irregular pattern around the crack to help camouflage it. Really, though, there’s no need to try and hide the imperfections, Seay says. “Most of the time a crack will suck up more color than the rest of the floor, so the crack actually accentuates the color and gives it a natural look,” he explains. “It doesn’t look like a cracked floor, it just blends in and gives the floor some added character.” Finally, homeowners can give their concrete floors a final polish, with hardeners and diamond tooling used to achieve various levels of shine—from a matte finish to a wet look to a gloss so high that you can see your reflection in it. No matter what decorative concrete color, style or finish you choose, you’ll reap all the same benefits: a one-of-akind, refined, durable, allergy-friendly and easily maintained floor that your visitors will never recognize as concrete.

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n LIVE PET SHOPPING GUIDE

GIFTS FOR P TS Give them what they really want! Buying a gift for your furry best friend shouldn’t be any different than shopping for your other loved ones. Keep in mind what they enjoy doing and if they have any special preferences and shop accordingly. Remember, you’re buying the gift for them, not yourself. As with people, the best gift you can give your pet is something that’s a special indulgence or something that brings them comfort. We think any of these gifts will set tails wagging and elicit purrs aplenty.

Santa will definitely put your petite pooch on the “nice” list when she sits on his lap wearing this adorable Christmas tree sweater by Casual Canine. Prices vary by sizes and start with size XXS. Christmas sweater, $16.99, available at Petopia.

Everything tastes better when it’s served on a pretty dish! These dog bowls by Ethical Products, Inc. are sure to please your pet and complement your decor. Available in a variety of sizes, materials and colors. Dog bowls starting at $9.99, available at Petopia.

Piper Roth is staying warm and making spirits bright in her festive Arf Scarf. These sassy woven knit scarves come in a variety of colors and designs. Available in small, medium and large. $8, available at Accents.

During the holidays, there are so many good things to eat! These adorable placemats are just the thing to put under your dog or cat’s food bowl. Made in the USA, it has Microban protection to help prevent the growth of stain causing bacteria, making for a healthier furry friend and easier clean up for you. $3.50, available at Accents.

Your Devine Feline will surely feel as though she’s getting the royal treatment when she dines from this attractive feeding bowl. A removable stainless steel bowl rests inside a weighted ivory and gold container, for less mess during mealtime. $20, available at Accents. 9 4

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Cats love being in small spaces and your kitty will feel so cozy in a new Cat Cuddle Coil by Petstages. It folds flat and is open on one end, creating just the right snuggle spot for your cat. He might not ever want to leave! Available in a wide variety of colors, $29.00. Available at Petopia. Fashionable dogs love expressing their personal style with a Lupine pet collar— guaranteed for life, even if chewed! Designer collars, leads and step-in harnesses are available in a variety of colors and stylish prints for dogs (and cats!), sizes small to large. For the eco-conscious pet, Lupine even offers a line of products made from recycled plastic bottles. Prices start at $5 and range according to size, available at Pet and Aquatic Warehouse.

Make your feelings about your pet boldly known as you display her photograph in this sweet “Best.Dog. Ever” picture frame for all to see. Picture frame by Mud Pie, $27.50, available at Farmbasket. This dog-shaped platter by Mariposa is a shining example of one way you can commemorate your loyal companion and include his image in your home decor. Aluminum platter, $59, available at Farmbasket.

Harry Barker is known for creating toys and accessories for pets that deliver high style and quality. Some of the most popular toys for dogs this season include the rope Tug and Toss and chewing bone—durable enough for even the most enthusiastic chewers! Tug and Toss, $10. Chewing bone, $12.50. Both items are available at Farmbasket. c vhomemaga zine .com

M a j o r p h ot o gr a p hy by KG T hi e n e m a nn

Fill your best friend’s stocking with healthy, allnatural grain-free goodies. Seasonal blends available in Cranberry, Carob-Mint, Pumpkin and more. Pet treats available by special order in 8 ounce and 16 ounce bags $5.95-$9.55 available at Pet and Aquatic Warehouse.

Your pet has special friends outside of the family that they would like to thank: their pet sitters! Packaged in an attractive keepsake tin, the treats are for those special people who help care for your pets when you’re away. Vanilla fudge by Gardiner’s of Scotland, $12.95, available at Farmbasket. 95

n LIVE AROUND TOWN Downtown Lynchburg is the place to get in the spirit for the holidays! Shop, play and learn at one of several festive events to be held around town this holiday season. November 21

Downtown Diva Crawl, hosted by Lynch’s Landing Businesses in downtown Lynchburg will be providing refreshments and incentives to shop and dine all evening. Shopping starts at 5:30 p.m. and lasts until 9 p.m. Visit www.downtownlynchburg.com for details and a list of participating businesses. December 6

Wreath Making Workshop at Old City Cemetery Make your own natural holiday wreath with greenery from the cemetery grounds. All materials are provided. Seating is limited and pre-registration is required, call (434) 847-1465. 9:30 a.m.-12 p.m. $50. December 7

Christmas Parade, hosted by Lynchburg Retail Merchants Association The Lynchburg Retail Merchants Association proudly hosts the annual Christmas parade in historic downtown Lynchburg. Because the date coincides with Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day, the first portion of the parade will feature a tribute to our military. In addition, the parade will feature large balloons, live animals and an array of festive floats. 5 p.m.-7 p.m. Free. For more information visit lynchburgRMA.com. December 13

Wreaths Across America at Old City Cemetery The Blue Ridge and James River Chapters of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution sponsor the seventh annual wreath laying ceremony at Old City Cemetery. As part of a nationwide event, wreaths will be placed on the graves of veterans in memory of fallen soldiers and to honor those who are currently serving in the armed forces. The ceremony begins at noon in front of the chapel. Donations for the wreaths are welcomed. December 14

Holiday Open House & Concert at Old City Cemetery Stop by the Cemetery Center for hot cider and cookies and last minute gifts. Reservations required, call (434) 847-1465. 1 p.m.- 4 p.m. Holiday concert at 4 p.m. in the chapel. Free.

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Interfaith Outreach Association’s Hokie-Hoo Fundraiser “Turns the Heat on” A Well-Known College Rivalry

For the fourth year in a row, Interfaith Outreach Association is raffling four tickets to the Virginia Tech vs. University of Virginia football game in Blacksburg on November 30 as its sole fundraiser for its Emergency Heating Assistance for the Elderly program. The nonprofit organization serves families and individuals in the cities of Lynchburg and Bedford as well as the counties of Amherst, Appomattox, Bedford and Campbell. Executive Director Shawne Farmer says, “In the spirit of the rivalry between the two universities, we have chosen two local super fans to help us create enthusiasm for the fundraiser.” Dodd Harvey of Consensus Real Estate Services represents the “Hokies” of Virginia Tech and Laurel Feinman of HOME magazine represents the “Wahoos (‘Hoos)” of the University of Virginia. Farmer explains, “Together, they will challenge fans from each college to show their school spirit and support Interfaith Outreach by buying a raffle ticket and designating it in honor of the Hokies or the ‘Hoos. The team that raised the most money will be announced at the same time that the winning raffle ticket is drawn.” Farmer says that the biggest winners of this season’s football ticket raffle will be the families in Central Virginia in need of shelter and heat this winter. “We anticipate being overwhelmed with requests for assistance again this year, as all the early weather forecast predictions suggest we could be in for a colder than usual winter,” Farmer says. The cost of each raffle ticket is $10 and the drawing will be held on Tuesday, November 25. Tickets are available for purchase at the Interfaith Outreach Association office, the Depot Grille, The Cavalier Store and Pok-e-Joe’s. For more information about the fundraiser or Interfaith Outreach Association, please call (434) 846-6098 or visit www.interfaith.org. Greater Roanoke Home & Garden Show

Central Virginia Home is proud to sponsor the Greater Roanoke Home & Garden Show for its 6th annual show January 9th through 11th at The Berglund Center. The biggest home and gardening event of the year will be packed with ideas and inspiration just in time for spring home improvements featuring everything from the front door to the backyard, including the latest trends in kitchens, baths, furniture, fixtures and appliances. The venue will be packed with exhibits featuring garden displays, landscaping, water features, pools, spas, windows, doors, sunrooms and more. Get inspired by the huge Home Improvement Alley and thousands of square feet of landscaping and outdoor living displays. Get bids from the best local experts offering exclusive show-only deals. And get started on your next home projects using the tools and knowledge from vendors and Do-It-Yourself seminars scheduled throughout the entire weekend. Bring the entire family and enjoy shopping at the Art, Gift and Gourmet area or interactive kids activities at the Kids Zone. There’s so much to see and do, from cooking demonstrations to seminars, a Pet Zone to plant sales. There’s truly something for everyone. To learn more and save $1 off admission, visit www.RoanokeHomeAndGardenShow.com. C e n t r a l V i r g i n i a h o m e H o l i d a y / W i n t e r 2 0 1 4

resource gallery

n RESOURCE GALLERY

Leaf Removal - Snow Removal - Hauling Commercial - Residential

Clean Cut

Edward Jones - owner

Lawn Care & Excavation Services â&#x20AC;&#x153;We Take Pride in Your Yardâ&#x20AC;?

4963 Everett Road Forest, Virginia 24551

434-665-7905

e.jones.forest@verizon.net

Warinner Restoration and Preservation Services Specializing in Historic Restoration, Carpentry, Masonry Custom Cabinetry, Additions Bathroom and Kitchen Remodels

Class B Builder Licensed and Insured vahomerestoration.com

James Warinner

434-258-3934 jwarinner14@gmail.com

A Specialty Publications Company 434-386-5667 www.westwillowpublishing.com

c vhomemaga zine .com

n INDEX OF ADVERTISERS

HOME CENTRAL

DESIGN

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IMPROVE

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VIRGINIA

GARDEN

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LIVE

A Bead Abode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70 Accents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Bank of the James . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Blair Custom Woodworking . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Blanchette Orthodontics. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 Blickenstaff & Company Realtors. . . . . . . . . 22 Bowen Jewelers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Boxley. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93 Brownstone Properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92 Buy Local Lynchburg. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70 Centra Health Plastic Surgery Center . . . . . . . 3 Centra Home Health. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Centra Hospice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Centra PACE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Central Virginia Orthodontics . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Flint Property Group. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Rainfrost Nursery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

Foster Fuels. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87

Riley Dental. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62

Gary’s Garden Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69

RM Gantt. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Givens Books and Little Dickens. . . . . . . . . . 71

Roanoke Home and Garden Show. . . . . . . . . 90

Gladiola Girls. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Select Bank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

Gordon T. Cudd Construction Inc.. . . . . . . . 55

Sidney B. Allen Jr. Builder, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . 13

Grand Home Furnishings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Simply Clean by Stacy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71

Head and Neck Surgery. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

Southern Landscape Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98

Henderson’s Furniture. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 Isabella’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 James River Day School. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 James T. Davis. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77 Judy Frantz, Realtor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 La La’s Salon and Spa. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75 Land Tech Group of Virginia. . . . . . . . . . . . 100 Liberty Christian Academy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64

Smith Mountain Building Supply . . . . . . . . . 79 Spectrum Stone Design. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 St. Clair Eye Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Summit Mortgage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71 Terrell E. Moseley . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 The ARC Central Virginia. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97 The Art Box & Art on 12th. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60 The Cabinet Gallery. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79

Log Homes by Jack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70 The Columns. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Lou’s Auto Repair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67 The Framery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71 Lynchburg City Schools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Lynchburg Dental Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65

The Little Gallery. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 The Shoppes at Ashwood . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71

Children’s Dentistry & Orthodontics of Lynchburg. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Lynchburg Retail Merchants Association . . 70, 71

Cindy Bryant (Mary Kay) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70

Mable Hamlette-Franklin (Mary Kay Cosmetics). 97

CLC Christmas Décor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Magnolia Foods. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

CLC Incorporated. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Monogram Love/Universal T’s. . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Clean Cut Lawn Care & Excavation Services. 97

Nadine Blakely, Realtor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

Curtains, Blinds & Bath . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

National Pools of Roanoke, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . 14

Custom Structures. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17, 83

Outtasight Window Tinting . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89

Danny Anderson, THE PLUMBER . . . . . . . . 60

Outtasight Window Vehicle Wraps. . . . . . . . 12

Virginia Vein Specialists. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64

Decorating Den Interiors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

PIP Printing and Marketing Services. . . . . . . 70

Warinner Restoration and Preservation Services. 97

Decorative Concrete of Virginia . . . . . . . . . . 92

Peridontal Health Associates. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Watts Petroleum . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68

Divine Designs & Delights. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60

Perry Pools and Spas. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

Wellington Builders, Inc.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59

Embrace Home Loans - Lynchburg. . . . . . . . 37

Persian Rugs & More. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

Window and Door Design Gallery . . . . . . . . 79

Farmbasket. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28, 40, 48

Piedmont Eye Center. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Wired Up Electrical. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75

Fink’s. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Pinnacle Cabinetry & Design. . . . . . . . . . . . 55

Yellow Door Interiors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

First Bank & Trust Company . . . . . . . . . . . . 68

Prudential. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

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The Silver Thistle. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 The Summit at Wyndhurst. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63 The Travel Team . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60 The Vinyl Porch Rail Company. . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Tucker Hosting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97 Virginia Garden Supply. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67

C e n t r a l V i r g i n i a h o m e H o l i d a y / W i n t e r 2 0 1 4

imagine coming home to your own paradise next spring...

Start Planning Now to Enjoy your Own Personal Back Yard Paradise. Our national award-winning team can help you explore an array of exciting possibilities to transform YOUR back yard into the paradise youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve always dreamed of. Whether you are interested in an elegant patio, outdoor kitchen, fire pit, pool, pergola or complete outdoor living space, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll make your back yard your favorite destination.

Call us at 434.821.6004 or on the web at www.soscapes.com for a consultation.