Your Home Magazine | Vol. 4 | Iss. 2 | Ronan Realty Group

YOUR HOME & Light ght ri B s e p i c Re

MAGAZINE®

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Healthy Cleaning Products

Organizing Your Kitchen Your Home Marketplace

Compliments of

MATTHEW J. RONAN Broker-Owner

561-213-5550 | Matt@RonanRealtyGroup.com

LOIS L. RONAN Realtor, CIPS

561-866-1259 | Loislronan@gmail.com

www.RonanRealtyGroup.com

ABOUT RONAN REALTY. Ronan Realty provides our clients with decades of dedicated, passionate and experienced Real Estate professionals who have deep roots in Boca Raton and South Florida. Ronan Realty was one of the original, oldest independently owned real estate firms in Boca Raton, operating as a full service, luxury boutique real estate firm.

It was originally founded by Ed Ronan and his wife Ruth after having moved to Boca Raton from Philadelphia in 1965. After Ed’s passing, his reputation for great integrity, honesty and his passion for real estate was passed on to his son Matthew Ronan and daughter in law Lois.

Ronan Realty Group prides itself on the gold standard of customer service, often going that extra mile (or two) in order that our clients feel satisfied that they have been represented by the best. Our group takes the time to genuinely getting to know our clients. We believe that strong relationships mean greater understanding, efficiency and better results.

We specialize in single family homes and also in helping investor-buyers find income producing properties throughout Florida.

LOIS L. RONAN

MATTHEW J. RONAN

Having been born in Miami, Florida, I’m considered to be a true native Floridian, though I’ve lived in both Chicago, and Toronto at one time, and have close ties to both Australia and New Zealand.

The past 45 years I’ve lived in Boca Raton, where I attended the local elementary, middle & high Schools; the same schools my 3 children attended and where I met my husband Matthew. Today, Boca Raton has become an International destination spot, but has also been able to keep its small-town feel. I know and love South Florida, I know it’s worth, and can offer you my expertise on the valuation of your current home or assist you in the purchase of your dream home in South Florida or anywhere in the world as I am a Certified International Property Specialist.

Call me today so we can build our Real Estate Relationship and get you the Results you want!

My name is Matthew Ronan, Licensed Realtor and Broker for over 30 years. Ronan Realty was started over 50+ years ago by my parents, Ed & Ruth Ronan, making Ronan Realty one of Boca Raton’s oldest independently owned & trusted real estate companies in South Florida. I hold a degree in Business Administration from Florida Atlantic University, and along with my wife Lois, have raised our 3 children here in Boca Raton. Ronan Realty Group specializes in luxury & exclusive listings as well as investment properties locally and throughout Florida as well as Internationally. We’re here to work hard for you, because we know buying & selling real estate can be one of the most important decisions you can make. We strive to build great Relationships in Real Estate in order to produce the best Results for you!

750 S. Dixie Hwy Boca Raton, FL 33432 561.213.5550 www.RonanRealtyGroup.com

contents

VOLUME 4 ISSUE 2

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4 2 digital dish Inspiration online and on social media

3 spring skin Clean beauty takes center stage with our skincare picks

4 modern living in a historic neighborhood Elevated design with unique finishes and features in this truly stunning home

44 12 kitchen clutter Organize and declutter your kitchen with helpful products and ideas

16 contemporary chateau This elegant estate home in Central Florida is sure to impress

24 toxic swap Natural cleaning products for your home

34 catch the vision Expertly designed and decorated home in a luxury lakefront community

42 your home marketplace Cozy finds for your home with our marketplace products

44 flavors of spring Easy and delicious seasonal recipes, full of fresh flavor

30 composting at home At home composting tips and tricks

YOU R HOME MAG AZ INE® | 1

Digital Dish

YOUR HOME

WHAT'S HAPPENING ON WWW.YHMAGAZINE.COM, SOCIAL MEDIA, AND BEYOND

MAGAZINE®

F U R NITUREP ICK

P UB LI SHER

IZZY PETITE ACCENT CHAIR

Channing Spano A R T D I RECTO R

More than an accent, this petite chair sets the tone for the entire room with a classic-meetsmodern silhouette and vibrant upholstery of cotton linen, velvet and voile. A comfortable, yet stylish piece perfect for anyone looking for that statement piece. Available at anthropologie.com for $698.

Tarra Wood P RESI D ENT

Tony Spano CO NT RI B UT I NG WRI T ER

Oliver Nash

W I S H L I ST

antiqued wire cage pendant light Complete your cottage-inspired theme with this farmhouse pendant with domed shade and wire cage that protects the clear glass diffuser. Finished in a rusty antiqued turquoise or red, this pendant looks like a vintage treasure. Available at shadesoflight.com for $230.

FAVO RI TETREN D

LET US FEATURE YOUR HOME PRODUCTS AND SERVICES We are always on the lookout for new and innovative products and services that our readers would enjoy knowing about for their fine homes. Give us a call at 239.235.3170 or email at info@yhmagazine.com to discuss how effective content marketing can be for your company.

Your Home Magazine® is sent to you courtesy of the real estate professional(s) that specialize in your neighborhood. If you’d like to change your mailing preferences, please email us at info@yhmagazine.com.

ECO CHIC DÉCOR These gorgeous rugs from Tantuvi are made of 100% hemp, which is naturally anti-bacterial; they’re rugged enough to withstand the outdoors and pretty enough that you’ll want to have them everywhere inside. Each one is hand-crafted and unique. Available in multiple sizes from food52.com for $120 to $480.

connect with us yhmagazine |

@yhmagazineinc |

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@yourhomemagazine | www.yhmagazine.com

Your Home Magazine® is published by Your Home Magazine, Inc © Copyright 2021. All right reserved. All prices, specs, and financing rates & terms are subject to change without notice. All real estate advertised herein is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act, which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin, or intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” We will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. All persons are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised are available on an equal opportunity basis. Advertisers in Your Home Magazine should not be considered referred or endorsed by Your Home Magazine or any other advertiser. If your home is currently listed, this is not an offer to sell your home.

SPRING SKIN

3

Who doesn’t want fresh skin, a youthful glow, and a dewy complexion? Spring has sprung and it’s time for us to take a look at our skincare routine, especially during a transition of seasons. As the weather changes so does our skin’s needs. Here are some wonderful natural products that will help you achieve amazing skin, while limiting the amount of harsh ingredients you apply to your face and body.

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1. Avalea Phyto Radiance Concentrate; $34.99; avaleaskincare.com 2. Beautycounter Countertime Ultra Renewal Eye Cream; $69; beautycounter.com 3. Ancient Greece Remedy by Bliss of Greece; $14.99; blissofgreece.com 4. Biossance 100% Squalane Oil; $32; biossance.com 5. Josh Rosebrook Active Enzyme Exfoliator; $65; credobeauty.com 6. Juice Beauty Stem Cellular Anti-Wrinkle Booster Serum; $80; juicebeauty.com 7. Dr. Bronner’s Organic Sugar Soap; $9.99; grove.com YOU R HOME MAG AZ INE® | 3

MODERN LIVING IN A HISTORIC NEIGHBORHOOD

BY OLIVER NASH | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SONYA REVELL

W

HEN CHOOSING A place to

build, Laurie Spector and her husband were drawn to the location, the history, and the family-friendly nature of Rio Vista, a waterfront community in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. “We purchased the property with the help of our architect Bob Tuthill, so the home was designed to sit on this lot,” says Spector, the owner as well as the listing Realtor for this beautiful property. “Purchasing the lot and then designing a home to fit allowed Bob to create a design that takes all aspects of the home’s location into consideration. From where the light is during the day, to the views

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outside, to the flow of the interior, the design is thoughtful and concise.” Featuring five bedrooms and six-and-a-half baths, the home boasts over 6,500 square feet of living space filled with natural light and gracious interior design.

Now ready for a new chapter, the family has decided to sell this custom home. According to Spector, they have loved living here and know that another family will enjoy this home as they have. “Beyond the great design of the home itself, we love this community. With movie nights, car shows, and holiday parties, there is an old-fashioned neighborhood feel to Rio

Vista. Neighbors want to create a community here and we feel like our kids have had a unique experience not found in a lot of neighborhoods these days.” The home’s location makes it central to the highway, airport, and the best dining and shopping Fort Lauderdale has to offer. Two streets over, the Lauderdale Yacht Club offers a traditional private club experience with a family-friendly environment.

E LEVATED D ESI G N

From the front of the home, the architectural details provide a beautiful view as you approach. “Our architect was able to combine elements to create something we call coastal Mid-century modern,” says Spector. “We wanted to create a design that fits with the community while offering something new to the neighborhood.” This coastal take at Mid-century modern was achieved through covered spaces, cantilevered awnings, and clean lines. While providing shade which helps to keep direct sunlight out of the many large windows, the cantilevered awnings also allowed the architect to forgo pillars, creating uninterrupted sightlines. Spector was adamant about using natural elements throughout the home. “Choosing real wood and stone whenever possible gives the home a more grounded, authentic presence,” she explains. One of the ways natural elements have been woven into the home is through the Cypress wood tongue and groove accents on the ceiling, both at the front and back of the home. The coastal feel is enhanced by lush landscaping with tropical date palms, gumbo limbo trees, a variety of indigenous plants, and large format limestone pavers.

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E NCHA NTING EN TRY

The entry and formal living room are filled with light thanks to the abundant floor to ceiling windows, something Spector and her husband knew they wanted as they set out to build the home. “The home’s setting demands natural light and we both love the look of windows that either wrap around or meet with minimal framing at a corner, so we added them wherever we could.” The main focal point of this space is the floating staircase. “Designed locally, there are no risers. Metal beams are secured into the concrete and then custom wood boxes were built to slide over the beams,” explains Spector. “We also chose frameless, glass railings throughout the home to keep light flowing and sightlines open.” Here, the natural limestone floors used in the main living areas create continuity between the interior and exterior of the home. In this space, the hand-blown Shakuff lighting feature adds visual interest without overpowering the room.

GE RMA N ENG I N EER I N G

The home’s fantastic kitchen is sleek yet functional, filled with custom touches and classic elements. “While the home is modern, everything we chose is purposefully timeless,” says Spector. “We felt it was important to showcase great design through familiar elements like glass, metal, stone, and wood used in a unique way.” Custom made cabinets from Eggersmann feature natural wood covered with lacquer for a high gloss finish. Above, opaque glass cabinets with hydraulic lift mechanisms offer a beautiful contrast. On the counters, a mix of metal and stone provide elegant surfaces for meal prep. “We brought in one seamless piece of brushed stainless steel from Germany for the island,” Spector explains. “There are so many materials and features in this home that you usually only see in an ultra-high-end build, but we felt it was viable to bring them into a home in this price range and the result has been an incredibly unique and special interior.” Carrara Marble was used throughout the rest of the kitchen and Miele and Gaggenau appliances finish the space.

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MI DC E NT U RY C HAR M

The great room is a comfortable space lacking nothing in design. The focal point of the room is the unique built-in with custom wood panels, cabinets from Eggersmann, and open shelving provides a place to display important and decorative items while creating a beautiful design feature. The home is set with a range of furniture pieces from around the world all perfectly designed to fit the home’s Midcentury aesthetic.

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LA N DING WEL L

The upstairs of the home is grounded with warm, European wide-plank Oak floors. From this view, the Shakuff lighting with hand-blown glass orbs is best seen. Natural light abounds through corner windows which mirror the pair directly below in the entry.

M ASTERFUL V I EWS

Working with a talented architect allowed Spector to create a home that welcomes natural light, while also taking into consideration energy efficiency in Florida’s warm climate. She explains, “The windows at the back of the home all face north which means most of the main areas are well lit and usable all day. You don’t have the harsh and hot Southern exposure which is so important when you build a home with such expansive windows.” In the master bedroom, a bank of floor-to-ceiling windows showcases the water views. The home sits on a lot with 100 feet of canal frontage, making it the perfect place for avid boaters looking to access the many waterbased activities Fort Lauderdale offers. Furniture is kept simple and elegant, in keeping with the feel of the rest of the home.

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C LO S E T E N VY

Unique glass sliding doors open to the master closet which provides natural light in the closet and again bring the outdoors in. Each space is thoughtfully designed with covered organization systems and cases to display curated fashion collections thanks to Eggersmann’s expert design. A floor length mirror, watch winder and built-in safe are all seamlessly integrated.

C L E AN L IN E S

Not wanting to distract from the views outside, the master bath’s palette is monochromatic, allowing the high-end finishes to really shine against the backdrop of the water. Four slabs of book-matched Calacatta Gold form a wall of marble behind the indoor and outdoor showers. The limestone flooring is run into the indoor shower to provide a cohesive look and Dornbracht fixtures create a spa-like experience. A volcanic-limestone tub with a matte finish and custom walnut cabinetry finish the master bath. “Part of creating this timeless look through modern design was choosing matte surfaces,” says Spector. “Other than the lacquer used on the cabinets and some mixed metals, we steered away from high polished surfaces.”

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OUTDO O R OASI S

From this angle, the outdoor shower with Calacatta Gold marble and the real wood ceiling inlays create a beautiful and relaxing upstairs patio space. “The shower is open right now but there are plenty of really wonderful ways to incorporate privacy and we are excited to see how the next owners put their personal touches on this space,” says Spector.

A L FRESCO LI FE

The lanai and pool deck offer space to lounge, dine, and swim, all overlooking the canal beyond. Under the Cypress wood tongue and groove ceiling, multiple seating areas provide the ultimate entertaining area. Furniture is kept minimal with low backs and clean lines. Limestone is used to tie the inside of the home together with the outdoor living spaces. The salt chlorinated pool features an infinity style hot tub with limestone stepping pads and is surrounded by lush landscaping. The home’s 80-foot dock and new seawall just beyond makes this backyard an amazing family playground.

This home is offered at $6,690,000. For more information on this home, or others like it in your area, contact the Realtor who sent you this publication.

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YOUR HOME MAG AZ INE® | 11

KITCHEN C LU T T E R Tips and Products to Help You Get Organized

I

t’s time to get organized and there is no better place to start than in your kitchen. The hub of the home, the most utilized room in your house, there is nothing more frustrating than a cluttered kitchen filled with things you can’t find or don’t even use. A wellorganized kitchen can help you create delicious dishes with less stress, so it’s important to really take a look at the items you have and how you are storing them. Here are a few tips to help you set up your kitchen in the most efficient way.

DECLUTTER

Do you need four sets of measuring spoons? Five ladles? Twenty mugs?

A thousand plastic bags stuffed into other plastic bags? No! Start your organization journey by decluttering your kitchen. Cabinet by cabinet, drawer by drawer, pull out all the contents and take stock of what you really have. Donate duplicates (when appropriate) and throw out or recycle broken items. Gather measuring cups and spoons together to make sure you have a full set, and if you find you are missing a spoon or cup, see if you can order one online before you throw out the whole set.

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REARRANGE

Now that you have the appropriate amount of items for you and your family, it’s time to put things back. As you start to place the items in cupboards and drawers, you might find it’s the perfect time to change the layout. This is an intuitive process based on the size and layout of your kitchen. Everyday items should be put near the dishwasher or sink for easy cleanup and to make it easier to unload the dishwasher.

Put mugs and coffee cups near your coffee maker. Cooking utensils should be in drawers next to your stove, and your most used and loved spices in an easily accessible cabinet, so you can season as you go.

ORGANIZE

Now that you have the items you want to keep and you know where they will be placed in your kitchen, it’s time to select some helpful organizing items. From drawers to the pantry, a few well-placed containers, trays, and caddies can create more space in smaller kitchens and help you keep your kitchen uncluttered and easy to use.

DRAWERS

Maybe the main source of angst in a kitchen are the drawers. Is anything more frustrating than trying to open a drawer only to have a spoon or potato masher stop you? Stop that from happening with these organizers that keep everything in its place and easily accessible as you cook.

IDESIGN LINUS DRAWER ORGANIZERS containerstore.com; $3.99 - $7.99

JOSEPH JOSEPH DRAWERSTORE KITCHEN DRAWER ORGANIZER TRAY amazon.com; $9.99

REV-A-SHELF WALNUT CUTLERY DRAWER ORGANIZER wayfair.com; $72.99

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COUNTERS

A trend this year will be the curated kitchen with counters topped with decorative canisters, elegantly displayed cookbooks, and floral arrangements. A few well-placed organizational items can help you keep your counters clear while adding some visual interest to your kitchen.

OLLIEROO 3 TIER COUNTERTOP ORGANIZER amazon.com; $33.99 COOKBOOK STAND crateandbarrel.com ; $39.95

WALNUT UTENSIL HOLDER williams-sonoma.com; $59.95

CABINETS

No matter how big or small a kitchen is, the cabinets always seem to be a black hole of sheet pans, pots, lids, and cutting boards. Use these organization items to keep your cupboards clutterfree and your cookware easy to access.

CABINET DRAWERS containerstore.com; $21.70 - $28.70 HEAVY-DUTY PAN AND POT ORGANIZER cuisinel.com; $36.95

YOUCOPIA EXPANDABLE COOKWARE RACK homedepot.com; $39.99

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PANTRY & FRIDGE

Perhaps the most unorganized area of your kitchen, your pantry, and refrigerator live behind closed doors—out of sight and out of mind until you need to actually find something.

Thankfully there are a wide range of products geared towards making these spaces visually appealing and user-friendly.

FRIDGE ORGANIZATION STARTER KIT containerstore.com; $233.81

GLASS STORAGE SET food52.com; $35 - $60

LINEN LINED CHICKEN WIRE BASKETS amazon.com; $50.77

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C O N T E M P O R A RY

CHATEAU

By Channing Spano | Photography by Sara Chang of Verity Images & Jean Allegri

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L O C AT E D I N W I N T E R PA R K , Florida, this elegant estate home sits on a lushly landscaped .66 acre lot filled with fruit trees. The home with five bedrooms, six baths, and 9,000 square feet of living space is located just minutes from the dining and shopping of downtown Winter Park. Basically a new build, the home was a dream project that never came to fruition

MODE RN E LE GA NC E “The exterior of the home changed a lot during the process to match what we felt buyers are looking for in this neighborhood,” explains Pool. The driveway, originally a single path in the middle of the home was redesigned to become a single driveway running between the two two-car garages.

Cedar siding was added to the sides of the garage, a faux balcony above the front was removed, and tiles were chosen for the roof to create a modern chateau. The color of the home was changed to a bright white to match the design selection inside.

Viburnum wraps the property accented by boxwoods and Italian Cypress.

for the original owners. After discovering the original owners had walked away from the project, Realtor Harry Pool contacted a developer and personal friend to discuss taking on the project themselves. “I knew this home could be something really special and we were able to realize the exact vision we had in mind because we found the project at such an early

stage in the build,” says Pool. “The location, the lot, and the size of the home made this the perfect fit for the developer who wanted to take on more projects in Florida.” After presenting the opportunity to the developer, the decision was made to move forward with the project with Pool acting as the local contact for the day-today operations of the project. “My involvement

as the local contact on the project became even more important as Covid unfolded,” says Pool. “The developer was unable to travel to the house, so I would spend hours each day FaceTiming him during the different phases of the home construction.” The end result was a unique home blending traditional design and architecture with modern elements.

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S ET THE T ONE Travertine pavers lead to beautiful arched metal and glass doors that welcome you into the home. The scheme of black and white is immediately introduced through white marble floors with black granite inlay. Chrome is also used throughout to add shine and the chandelier in the foyer is glamorous and modern.

HIS OFFICE “We have two office spaces in this home,” says Pool. “With so many people working from home now, we wanted to create a space for two studies but then decided to stage the second space as a lounge as well.

This is the perfect space to have a casual meeting or to entertain friends and family.”

Custom cabinets shipped in from New York are topped with a dramatic granite wall and floating glass shelves. A comfortable seating group brings in soft color.

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G REAT ESCA PE The focal point of the great room is the fireplace surrounded by two 1,500 pound slabs of Nero Marquina Marble. “It took a lot of effort to get those into the house and up on the wall but the final look is so great and it’s a conversation starter when buyers look at the home,” says Pool. The home’s color scheme of black and white is further enforced through Thassos marble floors with black granite inlays. Chrome is introduced through lighting and accent tables while furniture with clean lines and luxe fabrics add to the modern appeal of the home.

EN TE RTA IN ING IDE A S “The home has a more traditional layout while still being open and light,” Pool explains. “There is a great room, a dining room, and a family room which all flow together for entertaining.” Located off the great room and central to the rest of the home, the dining room is a modern and formal space, perfect for hosting dinner parties. Laser-cut, powder-coated steel inserts act as art while keeping the two entertaining spaces connected. An espresso-colored table is contrasted with white upholstered chairs.

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F O ODIE HE AV E N Calacatta marble and custom white and grey cabinetry come together in this elegant kitchen. Over the La Cornue range, a chrome hood adds sparkle to the room, while over the island a linear light fixture adds more shine. The high-gloss finish on the darker cabinets creates a beautiful contrast to the lower cabinets and the island. Glass-fronted shelves along the far wall are backlit and provide plenty of storage space while Wolf and Sub Zero appliances are the perfect addition to this well-designed kitchen.

COZY L IV ING The family room is a more intimate space with dark Oak wood floors topped with a comfortable chenille cover sectional. Mirrored furniture reflects light through the room while doors open to the 55-foot lanai and summer kitchen beyond.

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DESIGN FORWA R D The master bedroom is a modern retreat. Finishes are minimal so the unique stone surrounding the fireplace takes center stage. Pool says, “The finishes we chose for this home are simple but high-end. Everything has a luxurious feel to it which allowed us to focus on the elements that we wanted to highlight like the fireplaces and the custom cabinetry throughout the home.” Dark wide plank wood floors and grey and chrome furniture are comfortable and elegant. In the tray ceiling, a simple drum chandelier is the perfect addition to the room.

S PLISH SPLA S H The bathroom’s old-world feel collides with the modern elements used here. Unique granite vanities with chrome legs manage to be light and airy while still feeling grounded in the space.

Marble floors feature a decorative tile inlay. In the 12-foot zero entry shower, six jets and a rain head shower system provide a daily spa experience.

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PRIVATE PA RA DIS E The lanai and pool area offer a private space for entertaining and relaxing. Faux turf is used for easy upkeep and the home even offers a private putting green. The second-floor deck features dark travertine flooring and provides the perfect sunning location to sip a morning espresso.

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TOXIC

SWAP ALTERNATIVES TO HARSH HOME CHEMICALS A healthy home is more important than ever. A place that feels like a sanctuary from the world, a safe place to grow, work, and play. Keeping your home fresh and clean is a huge part of creating this sanctuary, especially when it comes to bacteria and viruses. Unfortunately, most of the products commonly used are filled with chemicals that can cause other health issues and pollute the environment. There are other options!

Green products that effectively clean and disinfect using natural, plant-based cleaners are available. Here are some great alternatives.

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AL L -P U R P OS E C L EA N ER S The cleaners you grab for your day-to-day activities can be filled with harmful chemicals. Simply wiping off a counter can expose you and your loved ones to chemicals like phthalates, perchloroethylene, triclosan, and 2-Butoxyethanol. Thankfully, there are substitutions for general house cleaners on the market and there are great, money-saving recipes for making your own.

NO N T OXI C S WA P If you plan on making your own cleaners, here are some important ingredients to have on hand. Most homes will already have many of these in their pantry making them a budget-friendly choice.

BAKING SODA Best used on proteins, grease, and animal messes, it’s only slightly abrasive, so you can clean surfaces without scratching, and it is a natural deodorizer.

DISTILLED WHITE VINEGAR Dissolves scale, inhibiting

mold, and cuts soap scum. Because it’s a mild acid, it removes stains from coffee, rust, and tea. Typically sold at a 5% concentration, it’s more effective at higher concentrations, so look at the label.

HYDROGEN PEROXIDE Just water with an extra oxygen molecule (H₂O₂) is an eco-friendly alternative to chlorine bleach.

BORAX Good for cutting grease, oil, and dirt, its old fashioned reputation doesn’t change its great cleaning abilities.

ESSENTIAL OILS Use for scenting homemade cleaners—tea tree,

lavender, eucalyptus, lemon, and lemongrass keep your home smelling fresh. Many oils are also naturally antibacterial.

CASTILE SOAP Available in liquid or bar form, castile is the base

of many home cleaning recipes. Made with olive oil or a vegetable base, it’s available unscented or scented.

Once you have your ingredients, here is a simple, but effective recipe for an all-purpose cleaner: • 3/4 cup hydrogen peroxide • 1/2 cup distilled white vinegar • 1 teaspoon unscented liquid castile soap • 10 drops tea tree oil • 20 drops lavender essential oil • 2 cups water Add all ingredients to a 24-ounce spray bottle; shake before use. Use for general cleaning needs. For removing mildew and soap buildup, spray, then sprinkle on baking soda and scrub with a sponge.

If you aren’t interested in making your own, try Better Life Natural AllPurpose Cleaner, Dr. Bronner’s Sal Suds Biodegradable Cleaner, or Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day Multi-Surface Everyday Cleaner. These three work just like the common cleaners and will leave the surfaces in your home truly clean and smelling great.

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BLEAC H Chlorine bleach is not only one of the oldest cleaners, it’s also one of the harshest. While it kills germs on contact, chlorine can be hard on your skin and clothes. It’s added to a wide variety of cleaning products, as well as some laundry and dishwasher detergents.

Chlorine bleach is also renowned for its mold-killing ability, but due to its frequent use, it is the most common cleaner accidentally swallowed by children. Chlorine also poses another danger. When mixed with ammonia, which is another common ingredient in cleaning products, and acidic cleaners, like toilet bowl cleaners, the mixture releases poisonous gasses. Since it’s hard to know what’s in every product, it’s best to simply not mix cleaning products at all. While it’s safe to pour old cleaning products down the drain, don’t pour more than one at a time.

NON T OXI C S WA P If you are interested in swapping out chlorine, you still can get those crisp white clothes or clean bathrooms by using a hydrogen peroxide-based bleach in your laundry or cleaning solutions instead of chlorine. Hydrogen peroxide kills mold and mildew, sanitizes counters and cutting boards, and removes stains from all kinds of surfaces. Hydrogen peroxide or vinegar also works to kill mold, so it’s great for tubs and showers and an old toothbrush will help you scrub those hard-to-clean tile corners. It’s also a great way to reuse an item you would otherwise throw away.

Chlorine-free products also help lessen the risks that cleaners pose to kids and to your home’s air quality so look for “chlorinefree” on the label. Even once you’ve gone Chlorine-free, just use one product at a time, and rinse surfaces thoroughly. You don’t need to create an accidental chemical reaction in your shower!

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OV E N C L EA N ERS Talk about toxic. Oven cleaners and degreasing products are some of the worst offenders when it comes to potentially harmful chemicals. Filled with lye, ethers, ethylene glycol, methylene chloride, sodium hydroxide, butoxydiglycol, and petroleum distillates, it’s hard to understand why we have been told it’s ok to expose our food to these elements.

Thankfully there are some really great options that will eliminate these chemicals.

NO N T OXI C S WA P An old stand by, baking soda can effectively clean your oven while keeping harsh chemicals at bay. Mix one pound Arm & Hammer™ Baking Soda with one tablespoon salt (regular table salt is fine) and two tablespoons water to make a thick, sandy paste, adding additional water 1/2 tablespoon at a time if needed. This recipe will make enough to deep clean an oven floor so triple the recipe if you are doing the whole oven.

To clean, remove the racks and use a spatula to cover the entire metal or glass surfaces with the paste. Shut the door and leave it overnight in the cold oven to give the paste time to harden. Leave this on overnight to give the solution 8+ hours to work. Once the paste is hard, use the rubber spatula and warm, wet paper towels to loosen and wipe up the baking soda to reveal stain-free surfaces.

While not an actual oven cleaner, products like ECOS Non-Toxic Orange All-Purpose Cleaner can be used to clean your oven. Probably better for regular maintenance rather than a deep cleaning, their powerful plant-based formula is free of ammonia, phosphates, chlorine, glycol, petroleum and relying on the superpowers of pure orange oil to cut grease and grime. You can also use this product to clean non-porous surfaces around your home including sealed stone, hardwood floors, porcelain, chrome, and stainless steel.

YOU R HOME MAG AZ INE® | 27

F L O O R CL E ANERS While it might not seem like a surface that needs a nontoxic cleaner, your floor is the biggest surface in your home and what you put on it matters. With pets, kids, and bare feet all touching your floors there’s no reason to use products that leave behind a chemical residue. Skip artificial dyes, synthetic fragrances, petrochemical derivatives, potentially carcinogenic substances, and triclosan, and choose products that use green elements derived from plants, minerals, and enzymes.

N O N T OX I C S WA P EARTH FRIENDLY PRODUCTS Gentle on the earth but tough on dirt and grease, this cleaner is made from plant-based, replenishable ingredients that won’t strip the wax or sealants off of your wood or laminate floors. Simply spray and mop, no rinsing required.

SIMPLE GREEN NATURALS FLOOR CARE With a beautiful, woodsy scent, this cleaner

is one you can simply spray on laminate, porcelain tile, slate, finished wood, or linoleum, and then mop up with a damp mop. It is 100 percent naturally-sourced and biodegradable formula that is Green Seal-certified and takes care of acidic and alkaline soils, as well as oily residues.

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L AU ND RY Your clothes touch your skin all day and all night, which means any of the chemicals on your clothes are being absorbed by your body. Many people find they are allergic to laundry detergent and have been told to switch to scent-free or gentle detergent. And it’s no wonder many are having these issues with what’s in our detergents. For example, 1,4-Dioxane, a chemical, found in paints and varnishes, is a compound used in leading brands. The EPA considers this solvent a human carcinogen, so it’s not something you want in your clothing.

NO N T OXI C S WA P

Use 2 tablespoons for a light load and 4 tablespoons for a large or dirty load.

Wash as normal.

HOMEMADE RINSE AID:

• 1 gallon distilled white vinegar • 25-30 drops essential oil (optional) • Add the drops to the container of vinegar. Use 1/4 cup in the rinse cycle.

If you are interested in purchasing laundry detergent, here are a few suggestions:

HOMEMADE LAUNDRY DETERGENT:

ROCKIN GREEN ACTIVEWEAR DETERGENT Made for activewear, it’s also great for your regular clothing. Broad-spectrum enzymes blend to remove stains and odors from fat, protein, and starch while naturally extending the life of activewear.

• 1 bar laundry soap (FelsNaptha, Pink Zote, or Dr. Bronner’s Castile Soap.)

COMMON GOOD 3X concentrated and powered by enzymes, their

As with most other cleaning products, there is a homemade option for people who want to know exactly what is going into their detergent.

• 1 cup borax • 1 cup washing soda • 1 cup oxygen bleach Grate bar of laundry soap; you should have about 2 cups of grated soap (or use soap flakes). Mix all ingredients in a large container. Store in a lidded jar.

plant-based laundry detergent gets your clothes clean without unnecessary irritants like optical brighteners and chlorine.

DROPPS Eco-responsible packaging designed with the intention to

reduce single-use plastic makes this brand unique. An all-in-one powerhouse helps remove odors and stubborn stains, keeps fabrics smelling fresh, and helps colors stay bold and bright.

YOUR HOME MAG AZ INE® | 29

COMPOSTING

AT H O M E

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E

ACH TIM E YO U cook, there is waste of some kind.

Whether that’s bread crust, broccoli stems, garlic skins, or eggshells, your kitchen is a huge source of home trash. This waste makes its way into your garbage disposal or your trash can and then is either cleaned out of the water supply or is put into a landfill where it sits in plastic garbage bags. The real shame is many of these scraps could be used to build soil, fertilize plants, and increase water retention if they were simply composted. The idea of composting can conjure up images of flies, farming, and rotting food, but it is actually a clean and natural process you can do in your own kitchen, patio, or backyard. Here are some tips and products that will make your kitchen

more green and your soil healthy as you keep food waste out of landfills.

The easiest way to compost is to allow someone else to do it for you. As composting has grown in popularity, companies have sprung up to meet the demand for organic composting and more sustainable living. Even smaller markets have these options, so a quick internet search will help you find your local choices. Most companies will provide you with a bin to throw your kitchen waste in and will have a weekly collection schedule so it’s mess- and work-free for you. These companies will also provide you with compost for your own yard periodically throughout the year or, if you don’t have a need for the compost, they will use your food scraps to help other people create a robust yard or garden.

YOU R HOME MAG AZ INE® | 31

If you want to get a little more hands-on, you can purchase a kitchen compost bin like the Aerobin® 400 Insulated Composter (pictured left) from burpee.com. This revolutionary, insulated composting bin requires minimal effort while it transforms all your kitchen scraps into nutrient-rich compost. With plenty of ventilation, The Aerobin® has a selfdraining floor to ensure the perfect balance of air, moisture, and temperature. The doublewall polypropylene enclosure has removable doors on both front and back for easy access.

The base section releases “compost tea,” a rich liquid your plants will love.

Another, and perhaps surprising, option is to let earthworms do the work for you.

Vermicomposting is a fun and easy way to turn food into fertilizer and it can be done in your own home as worms transform your food scraps into nutrient-rich fertilizer. While you can create a large setup in the backyard with storage bins or wood containers, a Worm Farm Composter from gardeners.com is a stylish option for your kitchen, laundry room, hallway, or pantry. Once the vermicompost process is running at full capacity, you can add up to a half-pound of scraps per day to the worm composter—the average food waste a family of four produces. Finished compost takes about a month to age and the spigot on the bottom dispenses nutrient-rich compost tea for houseplants and garden plants.

For people wanting to dive into composting, and for those who have the room, a backyard composting system is the next step. There is a slight learning curve, as you need to get two components right to make compost—carbon and nitrogen. Carbon-rich matter includes things like branches, dried leaves, peels, shredded brown paper bags, corn stalks,

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coffee filters and grounds, and eggshells. These elements are used to give compost its light, fluffy body which allows oxygen to penetrate and nourish the organisms doing the work of breaking down your scraps and creating soil.

Nitrogen comes from protein-rich matter like manures, green lawn clippings, kitchen waste, and green leaves, and provides raw materials for making enzymes. Too much nitrogen and your compost will rot. Following the rule of one-third green and two-thirds brown materials will help you create actual compost, not sludge. Always cover fresh, nitrogen-rich material with carbon.

Remember, a healthy compost pile should have much more carbon than nitrogen. If in doubt, add more carbon!

When it comes to choosing how you will compost in your backyard, it comes down to time, space, and aesthetics. The simplest (not attractive) way is to just pick a sunny, warm corner of your backyard and create a compost pile. Layer nitrogen-rich scraps with carbon, dampen, and cover with a tarp. Turn and water the compost pile daily and you will have rich fertilizer for your garden and landscaping beds in no time.

If you would rather hide your composting, you can purchase or make a three-bin compost system.

The three bin compost system follows the phases of compost development, which means you use each bin for a particular stage of composting. They also create a more “professional” looking setup in your backyard.

Last but not least, compost tumblers offer an easy way for people to create soil and fertilizer in their own backyard or patio. These tumblers hide the waste materials, contain any smells (which shouldn’t happen in healthy compost), and make turning the compost easy. Just water and spin the bin every day or two to keep things oxygenated.

For more information on composting, check out gardeners.com and their article Composting 101.

YOU R HOME MAG AZ INE® | 33

Vision C ATC H THE

T H E LAT E ST WORK FROM D IANA H ALL D E SIGN

L

By Channing Spano | Photography by Rick Bethem Photography

OCATED IN WILDBLUE, a new, luxury lakefront community in Estero, this model home is the perfect introduction to the laid back lifestyle this community offers. At WildBlue, calm clear waters and miles of deep freshwater lakes offer kayaking and boating opportunities for the whole family. A clubhouse with indoor and outdoor dining, a resort-style pool, fitness center, tennis courts, pickleball, and bocce courts, create the perfect active retreat. Called upon to envision an iconic home for this unique community, Diana Hall and Elizabeth Manchego of Diana Hall Design used color and texture to create a beautiful interior that embraces the home’s waterside setting.

Offered by Lennar, the Iris model embraces the seamless indoor/outdoor living that so many want in their Florida home, offering a 799-square-foot lanai with an optional outdoor kitchen and plenty of space for alfresco dining and lounging. Perfect for a growing family, this home offers four bedrooms and three full baths. A formal foyer leads into the airy great room, dining room, and kitchen, which features an expansive island and cozy breakfast nook. The split design of the home places the owner’s suite apart from the main living areas for privacy and features two walk-in closets, dual sinks, a shower, and soaking tub. The Iris is complete with a three-car garage and 2,964 square feet of air-conditioned living space.

C OA STA L C O O L

“We wanted owners to be able to envision the really fabulous potential this home offers, so we created a special foyer that sets the stage for the rest of the home,” explains Hall. To help prospective owners see how beautiful this home can be, Hall and Manchego used background details throughout the home, starting with the wainscoting on the walls of the entryway. “We love the tone this sets for the home—comfortable but sophisticated,” explains Manchego. The fresh, clean, and sophisticated beachside feel of the home is enhanced with wood floors finished in a driftwood tone and crisp walls in Sherwin Williams Extra White. The furniture features “mixed media” elements such as stone, wood, glass, and metal, all combined to give the home a contemporary edge that keeps the beachy theme interesting and timeless. A sturdy bench is contrasted with a lighter entry table and hand-painted coral artwork with a sanded finish from Trowbridge in England. On the opposite walls, John Richard geodes in plexiglass frames add depth without calling too much attention away from the other details of the room, like the wood and metal chandelier that pulls the colors of the floor up into the room.

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YOUR HOME MAG AZ INE® | 35

G ATHER TOGE TH E R

In the great room, Hall and Manchego chose a natural color palette, enhanced with pops of blue and metallic shine. “We wanted to show owners they could create a modern built-in on this otherwise flat wall to add some visual interests to the space,” says Manchego. Floor-to-ceiling floating wood shelves are finished with a glaze and lit to enhance the depth of the space. The shelves have been accented with coral and ceramics that offer a sophisticated take on beachy design. “So many people want to incorporate seaside elements, but don’t want their home to feel kitschy,” explains Hall. “Keep it neutral and don’t use too much. There are so many beautiful cream, soft grey, or white faux coral accent options that keep your design elevated.” Between the builtins, a Theodore Alexander media console with chagrin finish and chrome highlights is backed by six-inch-wide planks that give the look of shiplap, but offer a modern appeal. The abstract art is by local favorite, Jessica Crabtree. Furniture in the room was selected for its mix of elements and comfortable seating options. “The armchairs by Bernhardt add so much interest with wood and chrome backs,” says Manchego. “The shape is modern, which keeps the design sophisticated as it emphasizes texture and design.” A Vanguard sectional is topped with Ryan Studio pillows that bring in soft blues and yellows which become the color theme for other rooms in the home. On the ceiling, box beams add to the relaxed feel and a chrome chandelier offers sparkle.

Color-blocked drapes draw the eye to the water beyond.

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CLEAN & CRISP

The light and bright kitchen is complete with white, shaker-style cabinets and white stone countertops. The open and bright design and its location off of the great room make it the perfect entertaining spot. Chrome and glass pendant lights, along with woven-back stools complement the great room and tie into the nook beyond.

FAMILY TIM E

Adjacent to the kitchen and great room, Hall and Manchego created a family-friendly nook with a unique table that seats six. “We loved the idea of a square table in this space. It’s a different and unexpected shape in a nook and the weight of the chunky table adds to the highend feel, while the color keeps it coastal,” explains Hall. The Bermex table has been given two different color treatments with a cooler grey on the table and a warmer grey shade on the benches. Chairs with woven backs and Teak-like legs create a relaxed and natural look, while also complementing the beautiful woven basket chandelier above the table. The focal point of the room is the 96-inch tall, Lucite art piece with soft blues and greys that match the table and chairs.

YOUR HOME MAG AZ INE® | 37

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D INING DE TA ILS

Details from the other main rooms are carried through the dining room and given their own special spin. Walls painted in City Loft have been enhanced with applied molding and a ledge detail added to create serving space.

According to Hall, “The dimensions of the room made it difficult to find storage or a serving piece, so this ledge was a creative fix. It also creates a faux built-in effect, which is accented by art from Wendover Art.” The liveedge, wooden table with glass panel base is surrounded by Bernhardt and Universal chairs with host chairs sporting linen fabric and nailhead details.

“The design of the bar cart from Worlds Away is important due to the lack of space. The glass keeps the feel of the cart light while chrome details complement the industrial light fixture,” says Manchego. At the end of the room, color-blocked drapes use the same color and fabric found in the great room but have been given their own pattern.

A ST UDY I N C O LO R

Hall and Manchego show their masterful use of color in the home’s office. “As you look around you will notice that orange is used only in a few accent pieces, but the color makes such a wonderful impact it really drives the story in this space,” explains Hall. The added wainscoting is painted in a beautiful grey by Sherwin Williams and the use of semi-gloss and flat finishes create a subtle but visually interesting contrast. Vintage artwork adds charm to the room and is a favorite feature when people come to visit the home. The sleeper sofa is flanked by two Johnston Casual metal and glass end tables with sleek profiles and are topped with chrome lamps from Wilson Lighting.

Across the room, the glass and chrome desk from Bernhardt keep sight lines open. Above, the modern light is a fun touch that contrasts beautifully with the organic feel of the natural fiber rug and the woven stool.

YOUR HOME MAG AZ INE® | 39

SL EEP TIGHT

“The main request we receive when creating a master suite is to make the space serene and spa-like,” Hall comments. “Knowing that’s what buyers are looking for, we made this master bedroom a space that helps people envision what winding down and relaxing in their own home could feel like.” Starting with the background detail on the headboard wall, Hall and Manchego built the space around soft mushroom and greige tones. “The wood detail has been applied in 12-inch spaces to keep it from feeling busy while still having a nice visual presence in the room,” Manchego explains. The Bernhardt bed with wood trim is elegant and neutral, topped with simple and washable bedding from Kravet. One long pillow with a geometric pattern is Hall’s trick to keeping things uncomplicated when it comes to pillows and bedding. “The long pillow is elegant while keeping your morning routine simple. No more stacking a plethora of pillows to get that finished look!” Next to the bed, mirrored nightstands throw natural light back into the room. Window treatments have been kept simple with sheer, pleated fabric. An accent chair and hammered metal drink table create a comfortable seating area accented by a large art piece.

Above the grey wood and chrome dresser from Universal, a mirror surrounded with mother of pearl detail complements the other sea life accessories and artwork while adding shimmer.

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W E LC O M E D GUEST

Sunny tones make this guest room a special place for family and friends. “We used hints of yellow in other rooms, so we had fun pulling the color into this space in a more prominent way,” says Hall. A storage bed from Universal is finished in light, wood trim with oil-rubbed bronze legs, and simple bedding accented by pillows with geometric patterns. Espresso-colored nightstands and lamps from Wilson Lighting add a deeper tone to the room. On the wall, the coastal theme is continued with sea urchin sculptures and serene art. The drum-shaped light above the room features an organza outer shade and linen interior.

SUN & SH I N E

On the lanai, two sofas from CABANACOAST maximize this important seating area. “We love how this seating collection mixes textures with metal frames, Teak arms, and woven rope details to create modern outdoor seating that feels like it could work inside as well,” Manchego says. The concrete cocktail table has a floating effect with a small pedestal and chunky top that coordinates with the console behind one of the sofas. Grey and soft yellow tie into the living areas of the home. Next to the pool, chaise lounges with grey sling design are accented with an ombré garden stool. The aluminum, outdoor dining table is surrounded by parson-style chairs, from the same CABANACOAST collection, with rope backs and faux teak details.

YOUR HOME MAG AZ INE® | 41

YOUR HOME MARKETPLACE

100% FINE EUROPEAN LINEN SHEET SET $279

cozy finds A little something for every room in the house, these neutral and natural finds are the first from the new Your Home Marketplace. To learn more about these items, visit this issue's collection at yourhomemarketplace.com or scan the QR code with your smartphone camera.

NORDIC MODERN HANGING PENDANT LIGHTS $299

AGORA JAR BASKETS (SET OF 2) $189

FLYTE BUCKMINSTER LEVITATING LIGHT $349

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100% ORGANIC COTTON SOLID KNIT THROW BLANKET $95

BLACK METAL AND COPPER ADJUSTABLE DESK LAMP $258.02

WIM CANDLESTICK $45 DAYA DENIM FOLDABLE BASKETS (SET OF 2) $159

YOUR HOME MAG AZ INE® | 43

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flavors of spring bacon wrapped asparagus 1 pound asparagus spears trimmed (about 20 to 24 spears) 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 8-10 strips thick-cut bacon

Place a rack in the center of your oven and preheat the oven to 400°F. In a large bowl, drizzle asparagus with the olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Toss to coat. Gather spears (about four, depending upon their thickness) and hold them together in a single bundle. Starting midway to the top, wrap the bundle with one piece of bacon and place the bundle on the baking sheet, seamside down. Repeat with the remaining spears.

Bake until the bacon is crisp and the asparagus is tender, about 22 to 28 minutes, depending upon the thickness of your bacon and how crisp you like it.

pasta primavera 3 carrots, peeled and cut into thin strips

1 tablespoon dried Italian herbs

2 medium zucchini, cut into thin strips

1 pound farfalle pasta

1 onion, thinly sliced

15 cherry tomatoes, halved

2 cups broccoli florets

1 handful fresh baby spinach

1/4 cup olive oil

2/3 cup english peas

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

1/2 cup grated Parmesan

Preheat the oven to 450°F. On a large heavy baking sheet, toss the carrots, zucchini and broccoli with the oil, salt, pepper, and dried herbs to coat. Arrange so the vegetables are spread out and use a second pan if needed. Bake until the carrots are tender and the vegetables begin to brown, stirring after the first 10 minutes, about 20 minutes total.

Meanwhile, cook the pasta in a large pot of boiling salted water until al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain, reserving 1 cup of the cooking liquid. Toss the pasta with the vegetable mixtures in a large bowl to combine.

Add in the cherry tomatoes, peas, and enough reserved cooking liquid to moisten.

Season the pasta with salt and pepper, to taste. Sprinkle with the Parmesan, add in the spinach, and serve immediately.

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rosemary greyhound 1 cup sugar 4 tablespoons fresh rosemary leaves 6 ounces grapefruit juice 2 ounces vodka or gin grapefruit slices and rosemary sprigs for garnish

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For the rosemary simple syrup: Combine the sugar, rosemary leaves and 2 cups water in a saucepan over medium heat. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved. Remove from the heat and let the rosemary infuse for 20 minutes. Strain the syrup, discarding the rosemary. Let cool to room temperature.

For the rosemary greyhound: Place the grapefruit juice, liquor of choice and 1 ounce rosemary simple syrup in a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake vigorously.

Serve on the rocks, garnished with a grapefruit slice and sprig of rosemary.

easy chicken piccata 4 chicken breasts pounded to about 1/2 inch thick or cut in half crosswise 1/2 cup flour 1 lemon zested 2 tablespoons olive oil more as needed salt & pepper to taste For the Sauce: 1/4 cup butter 11/2 tablespoons flour 1 cup chicken broth 1/2 lemon juiced (about 11/2 tablespoons) 1/2 cup white wine or chicken stock 3 tablespoons capers drained 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped

Combine the flour, lemon zest, salt and pepper. Dredge the chicken in flour mixture.

Heat olive oil over medium-high heat and cook chicken about 4-5 minutes per side or until cooked through. Cook in batches if you cannot fit into pan. Remove from pan and set aside. In the same pan, melt 1/4 cup butter and add flour to create a roux. Whisk until smooth.

Cook 1-2 minutes.

Gradually stir in chicken broth, whisking until smooth. Add lemon juice, white wine and capers.

Simmer 3 minutes, whisking occasionally.

Add chicken back to pan and simmer for two minutes. Stir in parsley and serve over pasta if desired.

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key lime panna cotta 2 cups heavy whipping cream ½ cup granulated sugar 1 packet gelatin 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1½ teaspoons key lime zest 2½ teaspoons fresh key lime juice

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In a small bowl combine the packet of gelatin with 3 tablespoons of cold water; whisk and set aside.

In a medium saucepan, combine the cream, sugar, and vanilla over medium-low heat. Stir until sugar is fully dissolved. Add gelatin mixture (which will be solidified); whisk to dissolve gelatin mixture and combine with cream mixture. Stir in lime zest and juice.

Pour equally into 6 serving vessels or ramekins. Place in the refrigerator for 3-4 hours until fully set.

Should you choose to turn out the panna cotta onto individual serving plates instead of serving in a bowl as shown here, place the containers with panna cotta in a pan of hot water that is deep enough to warm the outside of the bowls but not so deep it will enter the bowls. Allow to sit a few minutes then remove and place an individual serving dish face down on the top of the panna cotta bowl. Gently invert and shake the panna cotta bowl slightly to allow the panna cotta to release onto the plate. If it will not release, repeat again.

Center Stage STAGING TO SELL When selling your home, take a cue from the master, William Shakespeare, and remind yourself, “All the world is a stage”. A few home-staging tricks of the trade can separate your home from the plethora of competition on the market, and have you taking a final bow—contract in hand. Here are some easy tips to get your home ready for center stage.

The exterior of the home is what potential buyers will see when they first approach your driveway, so make sure it is clean and well kept. Start by cleaning the outside windows. Condo owners, make sure your screens are fit in place. Replace the mailbox, and the house numbers if they are peeling or faded. Have everything pressure washed--walks, driveway, porches, decks, and walls (which should also be checked for damage). Set out new welcome mats. Remember, it will cost you more to lower the asking price of your home than it will to invest in some minor home improvements. With that in mind, it may be a good idea to paint the exterior of your home, especially there are chips or extensive fading. While that may seem a tad extensive, it will only raise the value of your home and help your real estate professional expedite a sale.

Pay attention to your home’s landscaping. Have overgrown trees, shrubs and bushes trimmed, stray leaves and palm fronds removed, and unused garden beds attractively mulched. Plant colorful flowers in beds, window boxes, and in pretty container pots near your doors.

On the interior, take the time to scrub every surface, from ceiling moldings to baseboards and floors. Have the carpets professionally cleaned, or replace and update your floors if they are beyond cleaning. Make all the windows sparkle. Don’t forget to clean the vents, fans and behind appliances. Replace any missing caulking around plumbing, tubs, and sinks.

Donate or throw away extra clothing, furnishings, and décor that you may have accumulated over the years reducing clutter. Donate, sell, or give-away unnecessary items instead of cluttering the garage or basement. This will make your home appear larger, while saving you time during your move once your real estate professional sells you home.

Give each room a fresh coat of paint. Go for neutral colors with complementary accents on moldings and baseboards, so that the

MATTHEW J. RONAN Broker-Owner Matt@RonanRealtyGroup.com

Supplied by Home Staging Expert, Megan Morris, author of “Stageology”

buyer can easily envision their furnishings in the home.

Accents like trendy, colored pillows or an African Violet collection will present your home as modern and stylish and help buyers to remember how much they liked your home when making their final purchase.

When staging rooms, go for a strong balance of hard and soft surfaces. Avoid combining cushy sofas, overstuffed recliners, and a hassock used as a table on a fluffy carpet. The room will look like it’s sinking.

Use artistic accessories in groupings of threes. On hard surfaces, place three items displayed in a triangle like a plant, a book, and a lamp. Take your dozen-or-so picture frames off the piano. More than three items is too crowded and overwhelming in design.

Fragrance you home so it smells warm and inviting. Spray your rooms with a light floral scent. Keep scented wipes for quick cleaning. Put a sliced lemon down the disposal for fresh “breath”, and light a cinnamon bun-scented candle in the kitchen. You can even pop a tray of your favorite cookies into the oven before a showing, so buyers will feel immediately at home when they walk through your front door.

Once you are done staging, walk to the doorway to see what buyers will first notice when they enter. Remember, your potential buyers will get their first impression of your home the second they walk in the door. Make adjustments, and then stand back while your real estate professional works his or her magic.

For more expert information on staging your home, purchase Megan Morris’ book “Stageology”, online or at your local bookstore.

561.213.5550 www.RonanRealtyGroup.com

LOIS L. RONAN Realtor, CIPS Loislronan@gmail.com

MATTHEW J. RONAN Broker-Owner 561-213-5550 Matt@RonanRealtyGroup.com

LOIS L. RONAN Realtor, CIPS 561-866-1259 Loislronan@gmail.com