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April 16 2012

Not For The Faint Of Heart

By Sheri Apprille | Corporate Office, Corporate Furnished, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Maine, Lifestyle, Community, | (1) Comments

16 wins is all it takes.

16 wins to achieve the National Hockey League's most coveted award - the Stanley Cup! The Stanley Cup is an exceptional trophy in that every player, coach and training staff member gets his name engraved on it when they win.

There is only 1 Stanley Cup.

When a team is presented the Stanley Cup, it is THE Stanley Cup, the same one that all of the players who have won it in the past have hoisted over their heads and drank champagne from! It's an amazing tradition.

Now, I know what you are thinking, "Just 16 wins? Is that all? How hard can that be?"

It is the most difficult trophy to achieve in all of sports. It is the most grueling. It is the most demanding. And it is by far, the most emotionally draining - not only for the players and coaches but for the fans, as well.

Let's break this all down for a minute so those of you who may not follow the sport can truly appreciate what these players go through.

Every NHL team plays 82 regular season games over a period of 7 months. Then the top 16 teams (8 in each conference) are seeded by their record and the number 1 seed team plays the number 8 seed, number 2 plays number 7, number 3 plays number 6 and numbers 4 and 5 play each other in the best of 7 series. Best of 7 means the team that wins 4 games in the series moves on to the next round and the loser goes home. Keep in mind that each series could potentially last 2 weeks. 2 weeks and 7 potential games with the same opponent.

Round 1 - The Conference Quarter-Finals (best of 7 series) - the winners of this round move on and the losers go home. 8 teams remain.

Round 2 - The Conference Semi-Finals (best of 7 series) the winners of this round move on and the losers go home. 4 teams remain.

Round 3 - (my heart is beating faster just thinking about all of this!) The Conference Finals (best of 7 series) - the winners of this round move on to play each other for the Stanley Cup and the losers go home. 2 teams remain. 1 cup. 1 dream.

Round 4 - The Stanley Cup Finals - (best of 7 series) - winner takes all!

This entire process takes 2 months. 2 months! 2 months of intense, grueling, physically and emotionally draining, gut-wrenching, heart-pounding hockey that produces some of the greatest rivalries and highlights in all of sports history.

Another factor in all of this is that if a game is tied at the end of regulation, they will play until the next goal is scored. A period of hockey is 20 minutes. So if it goes into overtime, they play as many 20 minute overtime periods as it takes until a goal is scored. Sudden death overtime. It is the most nerve-wracking, intense and exciting thing to watch. A team could win on a wicked slapshot from the point or on a finesse-type breakaway or in most cases, a fluky goal.

Anything can happen.

And the longer the game goes on, the higher the chances are someone will make a mistake due to fatigue that will cost his team the game. You simply cannot sit back and relax and watch a playoff hockey game that is in overtime. I have seen a game that lasted 5 overtime periods. That is almost TWO additional hockey games played in addition to the first 3 periods of regulation. How do these guys do this?!

This is the time of year where the players lay it all out on the line. They play hurt, they play tired, they are battered, bruised and bloody. They travel (as far as 3,000 miles) 3 times per series, if the series goes 7 games. The highs are so high and the lows are beyond low. It is truly an emotional roller coaster. The stakes are so much higher than the regular season. It's like watching an entirely different type of sport.

In 2011, my beloved Boston Bruins won the Stanley Cup! A feat I have waited my entire life for (I was too young in '72 which was the last time they had won prior to). The first round vs. the Montreal Canadiens, went 7 games AND game 7 was decided in overtime (3 of those games were won in overtime) . The second round they swept the Philadelphia Flyers in 4 games (1 was won in overtime). The third round vs. the Tampa Bay Lightning went 7 games and game 7 was decided by a score of 1-0. The Stanley Cup Finals vs. the number 1 overall team in the league, Vancouver Canucks, also went 7 games before the Bruins decided to let me breathe a little easier during the game 7, 4-0 win to capture the Stanley Cup!

This year, they are back at it again. Round 1 - they are playing the Washington Capitals and won the first game 1-0 in overtime. They lost the second game 2-1 in double overtime. Game 3 is tonight. Anything can happen. It's a long road to the Cup and this is just the beginning. Hopefully in June, the streets of Boston will be flooded with fans and lined with Duck Boats full of Bruins again for another fabulous Stanley Cup celebration!

Playoff hockey. There is nothing else like it.

read up on the tradition of the Stanley Cup - http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stanley_Cup

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April 14 2012

Apartment Parties: Yay or Nay?

By Kristen Donovan | Massachusetts, Multifamily, Apartment Living, Marketing, Health, Food, Lifestyle, Community, | (2) Comments

At some point in almost every social butterfly's life, we're going to want to invite people into our home for food, drink, and fun. When that home is an apartment, however, lots of questions come up. Am I allowed to have a group of people in my apartment? Will people want to actually come and hang out in my little space? Do I even have enough space for a party? How loud can the music be? Is this really a good idea? With a little creativity and a lot of consideration for your neighbors, you can probably pull off a lovely apartment party - so read on for some tips to make it marvelous!

- First, don't go overboard and invite anyone & everyone. Keep the guest list small and keep your small space in mind!
- Next, check in with your management office. Let them know what you're planning and find out if it's actually ok. You don't really want to risk that phone call from them the next day, do you? You know the one: "Good morning, Miss Party Pants. I'm calling because I received several complaints from your neighbors about an apparent ruckus in your apartment last night..."
- Speaking of your neighbors, you should also check in with them, too - all of them. The ones across the hall, to your left, to your right, above, and/or below you. And don't spring it on them the day of your gathering; give them a couple of days' notice! Tell them you're having guests and ask them to come directly to you if they're being bothered. Wouldn't you rather see neighbor Mary in her nightgown at your door than Officer Killjoy? Yep, you would.
- Don't forget about your neighbors after you've told them about the party. Keep the music at a reasonable volume and gently remind guests not to scream like banshees.
- Use your space wisely! Keep the food and beverages in an area where there's enough room for people to move about easily and make sure there's plenty of seating so people don't feel on top of each other.
- Don't skimp on the food options! Having more food than you need and getting stuck with leftovers is better than your guests needing to stop for fast food on the way home.
- More bodies in your apartment means it's going to get a little warm in there...but if you open the windows, you could freeze everyone out. Be aware of how hot or cold it is and watch for shivering or melting party guests.
- Have some music playing in the background, just in case you run into the dreaded awkward silence (which you won't, because your friends are awesome - right?). Just in case.
- Did we mention that you should be conscious of your neighbors?

Sounds like a lot of work, but it's all absolutely worth it and can make for a wonderful night in!

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April 12 2012

Dick and June’s Ice Cream

By Jen D'Apice | Corporate Office, Massachusetts, Food, | (2) Comments

As the weather is starting to improve, I am so excited to see my favorite ice cream shop now open for the season. For the past 3 years, my husband and I will treat ourselves to this delicious homemade ice cream. Dick and June’s are located on Elliott St in Beverly and serve many different flavors as well as frozen yogurt. While there are only a few picnic tables available, the majority of people enjoy standing and socializing as they have their tasty summertime treat. My personal favorite is mint chocolate chip while my husband loves the butter toffee flavor. If you are ever in the Beverly area I certainly suggest stopping by!
What is your favorite flavor? I bet they serve it at Dick and June’s!

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April 12 2012

Comfort in the Big Apple

By Terry Flahive | Corporate Office, Apartment Living, Travel, Corporate Furnished, | (1) Comments

Last weekend my wife and I joined my daughter in New York. She was there with her husband for a month on an extended business assignment and had rented a corporate apartment in midtown. For years I have been promoting the benefits of staying in a furnished apartment for extended stay, but have not actually stayed in one myself for quite some time. Now was my chance.

Well, it was great. The apartment was comfortable and had everything. We made coffee in the morning and on Friday night ate in. It was very helpful having a kitchen, although we did manage to go to an outstanding Italian restaurant in the East Village, Lavagna (lavagnanyc.com). After a long day of walking around NY from Times Square to Central Park, we collapsed back in the living room with a beer to watch the Masters.

My advice, if you are going to New York, or for that matter anywhere, for an extended period, try to stay in a corporate furnished apartment.

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April 11 2012

Borrowed Time

By Tracy Hilker | Massachusetts, Lifestyle, | (2) Comments

I hope this blog doesn't bum anyone out, that is definately not my intention in writing it. I am writing about this subject to remind everyone just exactly how precious life is, and that each day is absolutely a gift and not a given right.
Just yesterday one of my parent's best friends passed away. He had a very long and hard fight with cancer. In fact, he was diagnosed almost 7 years ago with pancreatic cancer. It was stage four. And yes, this cancer is one of the stronger forms that normally ends a life with in months. He was so much stronger than that, and was on what some would say "borrowed time" for the past 7 years. I say he was blessed and a fighter. Of course we are going to miss him very much, but we are so happy that he is no longer in pain.
Times like these always make you think about those important to you and those around you. I think instead of sad things happening to make you truely value life, we should try to live every day as though it was your last, and to realize every day is a gift and not everyone gets one.
Here are some ways that I am going to try to enjoy the "present" of today:
Smile more, it takes too much work to frown and it isn't very pretty.
Pay it forward. This doesn't mean you have to spend money, but it can be in the little things... donating clothes, paying for a strangers coffee at Dunkins, help someone with thier groceries, bring in extra left overs for you and your co-workers to share, pick someone flowers!
If you love someone or many people, tell them. Don't wait. Why wait?
Stop and smell the roses. SLOW DOWN. we are always running here, doing this.. just slow down.
Enjoy life. Quit thinking of the things you don't have or wish you had, and enjoy the people and things in your life.
I know that "D", my parent's friend, definately lived his life to the absolute fullest. Enjoyed his friends, family, and his church. Surrounded himself with an amazing support system and he truely did shine. Even at his lowest point, he still smiled, paid it forward, loved, slowed down, and enjoyed life.
Remember to embrace today, it is called the "present" because it is just that, a present.

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April 11 2012

How To Get Started On Your Apartment Garden.

By Kathy Sutherland | Massachusetts, Apartment Living, | (1) Comments

Looking for a new hobby? Apartment gardening is a great way to spend time and decorate your home. A yard is not required for growing some great plants, flowers or herbs. All you need are some containers with drainage holes on the bottom and you are open to many options for growing a variety of plants.

Location is the first consideration. A balcony or patio is the obvious choice, however, putting plants by a window or selecting shade tolerant varieties also works well.

The size of the container is also something to consider. Small containers will restrict the root system and negatively impact the plant’s growth. They also retain less water so your garden will require frequent watering. Adding pebbles or mulch will help to keep in the moisture.

Container gardening is practical for small spaces and also allows for a lot of experimentation without a lot of investment. You can easily move your plants around to see what looks best and which plants thrive in the shade. Most types of plants can grow in containers, however, some will thrive better than others. Annuals are a good choice. Herbs are great for small containers and can be kept in the kitchen.

A trellis or hanging pole is a great way to add depth to your garden without taking up a lot of space. These are great for food plants like beans, peas and tomatoes which can be stalked to grow vertically.

Most gardening websites have information on container gardening and are a great place to start when considering starting your apartment garden.

For more information, go to http://ohmyapt.apartmentratings.com/gardening.html

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April 10 2012

Making the most of your outdoor space

By Virginia Partridge | Massachusetts, Apartment Living, | (3) Comments

Living without a yard can have its drawbacks. However, even apartment dwellers can make their patio or balcony into an outdoor oasis. Target is selling “small spaces” patio sets which are functional, comfortable, and cute! Plus, you could invest in a decorative space heater – it’s like sitting beside a fire pit on those breezy summer nights. To spruce up the area, plant some annuals like daisies and evergreen in bright colored pots. If you like to entertain, you can pick up some sturdy wicker cubes that can be tucked under your patio chairs, used for storage, and topped with a pillow for extra seating. Bring out portable speakers for your iPod, wrap some twinkle lights around your banisters, and you’ve got all of the makings for a relaxing summer afternoon!

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April 09 2012

Salad on a Stick

By Sarah Greenough | Corporate Office, Food, | (7) Comments

During a recent visit to a friend's house, I stumbled upon a simple, easy and more importantly, yummy appetizer. I am a huge fan of caprese salad and anything dipped in balsamic vinegar so this recipe was just perfect! Let me introduce the caprese salad skewer. Salads are near impossible to serve as a party appetizer, but salad on a stick?! That is genius! Using skewers was super fun and really easy to clean-up. I was such a fan of this appetizer that I recreated it over the Easter holiday, the caprese skewers were the hit of the party, a simple and colorful appetizer. Try it!

Ingredients:
Cherry Tomatoes
Fresh Mozzarella Balls (small, roughly the same size as the Cherry Tomatoes)
Olive Oil (we used blood orange olive oil, but any style will due)
Fresh Basil
Balsamic Vinegar
Salt and Pepper
Pitted Black Olives
Skewers or Long Toothpicks

1. Drizzle serving plate with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.

2. Chop/Tear up the Basil into bite sized pieces

3. Skewer tomato, mozzarella, olive and piece of basil. Repeat

4. Drizzle lightly with olive oil and balsamic. Sprinkle with a little salt and pepper.

Voila, Caprese Skewers!

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April 06 2012

Your Destiny is in Your Own Hands

By Casey Swan | Corporate Office, Corporate Furnished, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Maine, Georgia, Lifestyle, Casey Swan, | (2) Comments

In her 1973 Journal of a Solitude, May Sarton declares, "We write toward what we will become from where we are." Sarton acknowledges in this simple sentence that writing is essential to both dreaming and doing.

The act of writing is a powerful tool; the need to slow down our thoughts while committing them to paper helps us to focus on what we truly feel, to make a contract with ourselves about what we want, and to celebrate our achievements. Writing can prompt moments of inspiration or it can reveal a hidden desire.

Our ancestors relied on the cycles of the Moon for their agricultural endeavors, and indeed, the New Moon promoted growth and strong beginnings. Jan Spiller, author of New Moon Astrology, maintains that the 48 hours following the New Moon are especially potent for planting the seeds of what we would like to obtain in our lives. And when the New Moon is combined with the Spring Equinox, a traditional time of new beginnings, the power to creatively visualize out hopes and dreams is especially strong.

Spiller recommends creating a collage or "Treasure Map" using images and words cut from magazines and newspapers that represent our goals and dreams. The mapping should take place within 48 hours of April's New Moon, which occurs this year at 2:20 a.m. on April 21.

Whether or not you believe the New Moon holds any mystical influence, the act of putting your aspirations into writing, or graphically representing them in a collage, helps to focus and clarify these dreams. Brain researchers believe that writing down our goals trains the brain like exercise trains muscles. In this way, by visually recording our wishes, we create an agreement with ourselves that, subconsciously, we are engaged to fulfill. As Tal Ben-Shahar notes in his book, Happier, "[s]etting a goal is about making a commitment in words, and words have the power to create a better future."

This spring, experiment with something new; identify your dreams and take steps toward making them a reality!

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April 06 2012

Looking for the Best Thai food in the Portland area… Well it’s a bit to the north.

By Nathan Strange | Corporate Office, Corporate Furnished, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Maine, Georgia, Health, Travel, Food, Lifestyle, | (2) Comments

Looking for the Best Thai food in the Portland area… Well it’s a bit to the north?

When you are done shopping the outlets in Freeport, Maine stop by Thai Garden located at 491 US Route 1 Freeport, ME 04032.

The family owned restaurant has a welcoming atmosphere, fun bustling energy, and quick take-out. The main draw for me is the authentic family recipes passed down from generations. Thai Garden has the best sweet and sour, dumpling, and satay peanut sauce I have ever tasted. I have tried to make my own sauces, even with my extensive culinary background, and can not even come close. 5 stars in my book!

My favorite picks are: Fresh Shrimp Spring Rolls -$5.95- served with sweet and sour sauce, Tempura Vegetables - $5.75- (usually consisting of carrots, broccoli, sweet potato, acorn squash, summer squash, green bean, red and green peppers, and a huge onion ring) –served with sweet and sour sauce, Kanom Keap-$5.50- (pork and chicken mixed with green peas and water chestnuts wrapped in a wonton skin and steamed) - served with a ginger sauce, and Chicken Satay -$6.75- (chicken marinated in Thai herbs and spices with coconut milk) served with a creamy peanut sauce, Pad Thai with Vegetables -$9.25, Paad Pik-King - $9.25 – stir fried string bean, carrot, and lime leaves in a hot pik-king coconut sauce, and Lemongrass Roasted Duck -$16.95 – thinly sliced fresh lemongrass, onion, red and green peppers, and mushrooms in a spicy lemongrass sauce over roasted duck.

More of a Chinese food fan but tired of the MSG hangover?...Try the Chicken Lo Mein -$10.50 , Spicy Shrimp Fried Rice -$1195 , and Crab Rangoons - $6.50.

After completing 8 years of sampling I have concluded that Thai Garden is hands down the best Thai food in the area. They combine fresh ingredients, extensive authentic menu choices, and reasonable prices. Open Monday-Saturday 11:00Am to 9:00pm, and Sunday 4:00PM – 9:00PM, 207-865-6005 Check them out!

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April 05 2012

Corporate Furnished Apartment Homes for All!

By Tammy Jackson | Corporate Furnished, Multifamily, Apartment Living, Corporate Furnished, | (1) Comments

Corporate housing or Temporary housing, Furnished apartments or Serviced apartments. No matter how you refer to it, the concept is the same: provide an apartment that has furniture, linens, kitchen accessories, electronics, and all the utilities to someone in need of a stay of 30 days or longer.

Though the concept may be the same, the guest has changed. Corporate housing, considered the alternative to hotel living for the corporate traveler, has an ever-changing face these days. No longer are we solely providing corporate housing to the business traveler; we are seeing a trend of homeowners, divorcees, vacationers, etc.

As a Corporate Sales person for Princeton Properties Management Inc, I often find that the average person inquiring about corporate housing isn’t familiar with all that’s offered with a furnished apartment home. The short-term lease itself is what is initially inquired about, and then they’re wowed with the furnishings and utilities to be included at one competitive price. This is a concept that makes so much sense for so many but, ironically, not enough people know it even exists.

Employees inquiring about corporate housing generally have assistance from someone in their office (an HR representative or someone in a corporate travel department, for example) to help them choose accommodations that are both comfortable for the employee and budget-friendly for the company. But how do you inform everyone else? How do the many other departments of companies find out about this great benefit?

It’s time to make corporate housing as well-known a concept as hotels!

With all that’s included – including convenience – wouldn’t you want to know more?

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April 05 2012

A Not So Secret Recipe

By Claire Collins | Corporate Office, Food, | (2) Comments

Though cafeteria food isn’t anyone’s idea of high cuisine, Piccadilly Cafeterias throughout the south are the go-to place for great comfort food. One of Picadilly’s signature items, the infamous carrot soufflé, is loved even by people who wouldn’t eat a carrot stick to save themselves. (This describes most of my family.) It’s lightly sweet, golden brown, powdered sugar-dusted deliciousness. Everyone goes back for seconds of this casserole. (This also describes most of my family!)

My mom is acquainted a member of the family that founded Piccadilly in Baton Rouge in 1944. When the topic of the carrot soufflé recipe has come up, the lady has insisted that the original recipe is a secret. That may be the case, but this recipe is very, very close. If you’re looking for something new to serve with ham for Easter, give it a try!

Carrot Souffle

1 1/2 pounds peeled carrots (about 9 medium)
1/2 cup (1 stick) melted butter
1 1/2 cups sugar
1/3 cup flour
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla
4 eggs
1 tablespoon confectioners' sugar

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add carrots and cook until very soft, about 20 minutes. Drain and mash.

To the warm carrots add melted butter, sugar, flour, baking powder, vanilla extract and eggs, beating with an electric mixer until smooth.

Transfer the mixture to a buttered 2 quart casserole dish. Bake for 1 hour or until top is light golden brown. Sprinkle lightly with confectioners' sugar before serving.

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April 05 2012

Draw Something is Drawsome!

By Shannon Flannery | Corporate Office, Marketing, Lifestyle, | (1) Comments

It’s official: The world is obsessed with Draw Something…myself included!

The game, which asks you to sketch objects and pop culture references on your smartphone or tablet for your friends to guess, has become a dominating force on the social graph. It has earned the number-one best seller slot in many countries, in both the iOS App Store and Android Market. It has sold 37 million times worldwide and is completely addicting!

The app is basically a smartphone or tablet version of Pictionary. I’m no Picasso but so far I have managed to put my art skills to the test and have created great replicas of pop culture references such as “The Jersey Shore”, “President Obama” and “Lady Gaga.” If you haven’t downloaded this app yet I suggest you do!

Be careful though – you will get addicted!

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April 02 2012

QR Codes in Action

By Dan Harvey | Massachusetts, Marketing, Lifestyle, Dan Harvey, | (1) Comments

A QR code or “Quick Response code” is a matrix barcode similar to UPC codes scanned by cash registers. These codes are designed to provide immediate access for any type of data the designer chooses. While some see QR codes as a marketing fad I think that they have a practical place in our lives. We crave instant information and as long as QR codes meet that need I think they will be around for while.

Here are a few QR placements in action:

1. Rock the vote. In the 2010 presidential election about 91 million American’s voted out of a total 217,342,419 eligible voters,
while around 122 million voted for the next American Idol. Until we can text in our votes for president, Rock the vote
volunteers have outfitted themselves with t-shirts featuring a QR code. People interested in voting simply scan the shirt and
are brought to a site where they can register, adding a little life to a process that can seem like drudgery to the gen-y crowd.
http://www.psfk.com/2012/03/t-shirt-voter-registration.html


2. The Home Depot has started using QR codes in a practical way. They have started placing QR codes on items that are
commonly purchased in large quantities by commercial customers. Maintenance technicians can download the app and
scan everything from shower heads to tubes of caulking. Once scanned these items are placed in their online shopping cart
taking the time out of managing inventory and ordering.
http://hdsupplysolutions.com/shop/home

3. QR codes just can be just for fun. There is a team at Facebook that is working to paint huge QR codes on the roofs of
buildings around the US. There is nothing practical about this, just good old nerdy fun.
http://www.adweek.com/adfreak/facebook-paints-giant-useless-qr-code- roof-headquarters-139202

4. A Portuguese artist Nuno Serrao is using QR codes to accompany pieces of art. People coming to view these works can
scan the code to access a soundscape that accompanies the piece, creating a unique experience for gallery visitors.
http://mashable.com/2012/02/25/qr-codes-art-music/


5. Soon Princeton Place Apartments in Worcester MA will be placing QR codes throughout corporate furnished apartments.
These codes once scanned will bring guests to a tutorial video for the item they scanned. You’ll find them on thermostats,
TV remote, appliance, anything that residents might need a little help using.

Where have you seen noteworthy QR code placement recently?

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QR Code, Rock the Vote, The Home Depot, Facebook, Princeton Place Apartment, American Idol

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March 31 2012

Calling all Beauty Junkies...

By Virginia Partridge | Massachusetts, Health, Lifestyle, | (4) Comments

As a hobby esthetician I LOVE trying out tons of new skincare, bodycare and makeup, but I always find myself going back to my tried and true products. Although everyone's skin is different, and everyone's makeup preferences are different, I have this nagging need to share my favorite products so that someone else with dry, sensitive skin and zero free time might stubble upon this and fall in love with "my" products too. So, without further ado, here it is:

• Fresh Soy Face Wash - so gentle, but gets everything off!
• Kate Somerville ExfoliKate Gentle – fruit enzymes and a scrub in one step…
• Kinerase Intensive Eye Cream (the ONLY one that keeps my eyes smooth)
• Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer
• Guerlain Terra Cotta bronzer
• Bobby Brown Shimmer Brick highlighter
• Bare Minerals eye shadows – the widest array of colors, can be used dry or wet, last forever and are all natural...
• Dior Diorshow Blackout mascara
• Aveda Hand Relief - smells amazing, stays on through hand washing, but doesn't feel greasy!
• Korres Guava Body Cream
• Fresh Sugar Lip Balm (keeps chapped lips at bay)

There are a couple of items I’m still up in the air about, as far as claiming them as my all-time favorites. Serums and Moisturizers tend to be a big problem for me. Currently I’m digging Caudalie Vinoperfect Radiance Serum and Aveda Green Science Firming Face Cream. What are your favorite products? Any suggestions??

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March 31 2012

Are You Bathing Suit Ready?

By Ashley Anger | Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Maine, Georgia, Health, Travel, Food, Lifestyle, | (0) Comments

Alot of people made resolutions this New Years. One of the most popular resolutions is to lose weight. Most of us by now have given up or forgotten all about it. But with summer around the corner, are you ready to be seen in that bathing suit just yet? In reading Cosmo magazine this month, they had an amazing article on how to burn fat with foods that we all thought were bad for us. Click the link below to find out how that cookie you had for breakfast was actually good for you!

http://www.cosmopolitan.com/advice/health/surprising-weight-loss-tricks#slide-1

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March 30 2012

Great place at the Pickering Wharf!

By Victoria Senft | Massachusetts, Food, | (2) Comments

So I have lived in Salem for 5 years and have eaten at Finz many times……Well the other day I came across the most fabulous appetizer ever! It is the “Far East” shrimp! Paired with one of their signature martinis like the “Seafoam” makes it even better. You have to try this restaurant and their scrumptious appetizers.

You can visit their website at www.hipfinz.com

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March 30 2012

Survival Tips for Busy Moms...

By Kristen Aquaros | | (1) Comments

Being a single working mom is a tough job. Whether it be running out the door in the morning to make it to work on time or rushing to daycare in the evening to pick up my son on time, Im always on the go. Thanks to my busy schedule im constantly looking for tips on how to manage the little time I do have when Im not working and still have time with my son. I recently came across an article on ivillage.com that had some great tips on how to manage a hectic work schedule and parenthood.

1. Get Organized! Spend a weekend getting your things organized. Think about how often you waste time looking for your keys in the morning, picking out clothes, or looking for shoes. Prepare things the night before, set yourself up for a smooth morning.

2. Find Your Timewasters. Keep track for one week of all the ways you waste time. Do you spend 10 minutes finding your keys? If so, make a key hook by your door, and use it. Do you forget "that one item" when you go to the store? Keep a list on your refrigerator and, each time you empty something, add it to the list.

3. Write Things Down. Always, keep a small notepad on hand. When you think of something you need to do, jot down a reminder. This will save you endless minutes recalling just what you were supposed to do.

4. Get An Engagement Calendar. Get a calendar to write down all your engagements, addresses and phone numbers. By keeping all the information in one place, you won't have to dig for it later.

5. Keep A Notepad By Your Phone. How many times have you written a note on a loose piece of paper, never to see it again? Record those notes on a pad of paper to keep them from walking away.

6. Designate Days. Choose a day or night to do your grocery shopping and errand running each week. Choose a day to clean your home. Stick to your schedule and forget about these responsibilities the rest of the week.

7. Do Things In Bulk. When possible, buy groceries and drugstore items in bulk to save a trip to the store. This can apply to dinners as well, I make extra and freeze it. That way on nights when Im exhausted I already have a meal prepared.

8. Teach Your Child. I dont see anything wrong with teaching your child how to prepare a drink mix, do laundry, empty the dishwasher and clean his room. An extra set of hands goes a long way.

9. Finish What Your Start. When you start a project, see it through to the end. Leaving many unfinished projects causes anxiety about finishing each, and soon you'll be spinning your wheels.

10. Maximize Your Trips. On your way to work, are there errands you can run so you don't have to do them at night or on the weekends?

11. Make A File System. Buy a cardboard file box and folders. Make folders for bills, insurance, letters, bank statements and anything else you may need at hand.

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March 29 2012

What would you do with $540 MILLION?

By Jessica Costanzo | Corporate Office, Corporate Furnished, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Maine, Georgia, Apartment Living, Lifestyle, Community, | (3) Comments

$540 MILLION AND RISING!!! That is what the jackpot is up to right now!! Can you imagine?? People all over the country are waiting in line today to get a chance to win one of the largest jackpots ever. What numbers would you play? There are some strategies out there that you can follow to better your chances. ( So they say) Pick your own numbers instead of letting the computer pick them for you. Also, do your research. Find out what numbers have come up in the past and what numbers have not. Playing those numbers that haven’t come up in a while may be your best bet.
Now…what would you do with a half a billion dollars?? That’s the question!! Would you continue working? Would you go on a massive shopping spree? Travel around the world? Donate to charity? Its nearly impossible to even imagine! But get out there and buy your tickets!! Remember, you can’t win if you don’t play!! GOOD LUCK!

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March 29 2012

Duathlon – Just “Du” it!

By Sarah Greenough | Corporate Office, Health, Lifestyle, Sarah Greenough, | (3) Comments

I recently participated in my first Duathlon in Central Park, New York City. What is a Duathlon? It is a competition that is composed of running and biking. The usual format for a duathlon is run-bike-run, meaning you start with a run, then transition to the bike, then transition back to running again. My race was: 2 mile run - 12 mile bike - 2 mile run. Duathlon ‘s are suited to anyone who enjoys biking and running and, much like a triathlon, caters for all age groups. It is the perfect endurance sport for those who are less inclined to swim, as a form of cross training. I decided to challenge myself to this task in hopes of “getting in shape” but I took away much more than just fitness. It was both a physical and mental challenge. I'm sharing my experience in hopes of encouraging you to set your own challenges!

When starting to train, consider your strengths and weaknesses in running and biking. Then focus on your needs. For me, I was not a runner so I spend most of my training time focused on the run. Just a few short month's ago I could not run 1 mile without taking a break, now I am able to run 2 miles without issue. Remember to not train at a high intensity all the time; it's equally important to have adequate recovery time build into your schedule. Your body will tell you how much you should train and how much you must rest. Listen to it. There are many duathlons in our area, check out the Trifind website for more info!

24-hour countdown to race day (If your race begins at noon, this is what the preceding 24 hours should look like):
24 hours to go
If you can, travel to the race venue the day before to avoid any surprises. Make sure your bike is in good working order.
18 hours to go
Dinner the night before the race. There's no need to try to eat your body weight in carbohydrates.
If you already eat a healthy, well-balanced diet, stick to what you are comfortable with. Try to avoid food that may take a long time to digest, such as large portions of red meat or too much fiber. Be sure you drink plenty of fluids (not beer) to stay hydrated.
3 hours to go
Time for breakfast, a nutritious carbohydrate breakfast is a prerequisite, (i.e. bagel, granola bar, muesli, toast and peanut butter, bananas.) Avoid fatty foods or lots of fiber.
1 hour to go
Arrive at transition, find your spot and sort out your kit. Check your bike is in an appropriate gear for leaving transition and starting the ride. Check that the tires are properly inflated and make sure you stay hydrated. You can also have an energy bar or similar to take in those last few preferred calories. Now is also a good time to go for a 10-min jog to warm up.
20 mins to go
Avoid further carbohydrates, as you will not be able to digest them prior to the run start.
1 min to go
Get ready, get steady... and you're off! This is the moment you've trained for. Enjoy it! I certainly did.

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March 27 2012

Tuesday Tip: Be Thrifty

By Kristen Donovan | Massachusetts, Apartment Living, Marketing, Development, Lifestyle, Community, | (1) Comments

If you've avoided flea markets, it's time to take another look. As evidence, check out these tips from Casey at Princeton Green Apartments, who also writes the interior design blog Loft & Cottage.

If budgets are tight and you don't mind a little hands-on work to freshen up your discoveries, there are some great finds to be had at salvage shops, flea markets, antique stores, and thrift shops.

Find Furniture
There are not many problems that paint cannot solve. Give an old piece of furniture a fresh look and feel with a few coats. Try wallpapering the drawer fronts and adding new hardware too.

Find Lighting
Look twice at thrift store lighting. Spray paint and a new shade may be all it needs.

Find Art
Old postcards in new store-bought frames make for interesting, inexpensive art. Think wide mats and skinny frames for an updated look. Rene from Cottage & Vine created a gorgeous art wall with Goodwill plates and some spray paint. Check her out and for more Tuesday Tips, check out Casey's blog Loft & Cottage.

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March 26 2012

Oh Those Dreaded Allergies!

By Ashley Anger | Massachusetts, Health, Environmental, | (1) Comments

Tis the season for allergies to begin for most of us. According to reports, because we had a mild Winter (not that we are complaining) it wasn’t cold enough to completely kill all of the mold. Scientist say that this may be one of the worst seasons for allergies.

Check out this link for some great tips to help alleviate common allergy symptoms!
http://tlc.howstuffworks.com/family/10-home-remedies-for-allergies.htm

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March 26 2012

Colorful Spring Flower Plantings

By Andrea Palermo | Maine, Lifestyle, Community, | (1) Comments

When warm weather slowly starts to re-appear, a 70-degree day here, a 65-degree day there, the snow is all but gone and the sun begins to really feel warm on your face, it’s a great time to start thinking about some spring flower plantings.

Flower boxes are an easy, vibrant way to brighten up windows, a front porch railing or place a planter near an entry way. I have two flower boxes that hang over my front porch railings, two flower boxes outside my kitchen windows and always have a planter decorating my front porch.

Since filling a small space such as a flower box or an urn is inexpensive and doesn’t require too many plants, you can really get creative. Mix in colors, flowers that will cascade over the edge, and fillers with tons of green. Go with pastels or deep colors, mix them all in together or stay with one shade. Take colors from opposite ends of the spectrum by pairing up yellow with purple or blue with orange to really have some contrast. Whatever appeals to your eye, you really can’t go wrong. Just be sure you are choosing flowers that can withstand sun or need shade, depending on where you plan to have your display.

With regular care and maintenance your flowers will fill in beautifully and some plants may even last all summer. Be sure to wait to plant until there is no chance of frost at night, water regularly, remove dead blooms and feed with plant food as needed.

Enjoy your creativity and the fruits of your labor each time you arrive home!

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March 22 2012

Don't Take Cupcakes, Make Some Cake Balls

By Claire Collins | Corporate Office, Food, | (1) Comments

The first time I attempted this recipe it was a disaster and I was swearing at Paula Deen for making it sound so easy. I was eager to hop on this new food trend, and red velvet cake balls coated in white chocolate seemed like such a good idea for the teachers for Valentine’s Day. It was an absolute mess. It took me a year to consider trying again, and this time with a few changes the results were fantastic! With the addition of some mint extract and green food coloring, my shamrock cake balls were a big hit for St.Patrick's Day at my son's school.

Here’s how to achieve the just about perfect cake ball and impress your friends the next time you need to bring a dessert to a party.

CAKE BALLS
1 cake mix, and ingredients required for preparation
4 ½ cups powdered sugar
4 tablespoons shortening
4 tablespoons butter
3 tablespoons milk
½ teaspoon vanilla extract, or other flavoring
2 bags candy coating wafers DO NOT substitute chocolate chips. Trust me on this.
Optional: sprinkles, colored sugar, chopped nuts for topping

Prepare the cake according to the package directions, reducing the oil by half. When baked, and it’s better to over-bake a bit, allow the cake to cool completely.

Make frosting by combining the powdered sugar, shortening, butter, milk, and vanilla extract in a large bowl, beating with an electric mixer until smooth. You may see recipes that call for canned frosting. DON’T do it! That stuff tastes like the container it comes in and makes the dough difficult to work with.

Shred the cake into the frosting, and beat until it becomes a smooth mixture. Refrigerate the dough for an hour or longer.

Form the dough into balls approximately the size of a walnut, then refrigerate for another hour.

For best results, melt the candy coating in a double boiler. It can also be melted in the microwave, though this often results in it getting too hot and clumping, or burning. Yes, I had that problem the first time too!

Using a toothpick, spear the cake balls and dip them in the melted candy coating. Place them on a waxed paper lined cookie sheet. There will be a small hole from the toothpick. Take a bit of coating on the back of a spoon and swirl on the top to cover it. Sprinkle with topping before the coating sets, and cool in the refrigerator.

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March 21 2012

7 Unconventional Stain Remedies: New Uses for Household Items!

By Kara Silva | Massachusetts, Multifamily, Apartment Living, Lifestyle, | (3) Comments

These unexpected stain fighters are items that nearly everyone already has in their home. Read on to learn about double-duty household items and how to use them!


1) For sweat stains, use a dash of White Vinegar and a sprinkle of Meat Tenderizer. Soak stains in white vinegar and then wash in hot water. If the stain remains sprinkle it with a little meat tenderizer, let it sit for 30 minutes and then wash again.

2) Got deodorant on your shirt? Baby Wipes are an easy fix to lift those hard to remove marks!

3) Lipstick and Ink Stains are tough, but a little Hair Spray can change that! If the fabric is machine washable, saturate the stain with hair spray, let it sit for 10 minutes, then dab with a damp cloth or sponge. Clean as usual to wash away any residual stain and spray.

4) Not just for fingernails anymore, use an Emory Board to remove small stains on suede items! Gently rub an Emory board across the stain a few times to get rid of the blemish and refresh the nap of the suede.

5) Spill red wine on your new blouse? Shake some Salt on it! On washable fabric, immediately blot and then pour cold water over the stain. Next, cover the stain with salt, then stretch the fabric over a bowl and carefully pour boiling water over it, from a height of 6 - 8 inches. If the stain doesn't come out after following the steps above, soak the item in a solution of one part vinegar to two parts water. Once the stain lightens, launder the item as usual.

6) To keep your kicks lookin’ fresh, spray Starch on sneakers to help repel dirt and grime!

7) WD-40 has yet another use, removing crayon marks! Place the garment stain-side down on a stack of paper towels. Spray with WD-40 and let sit for 5 minutes. Flip garment over and spray again. Rinse well. Rub liquid dish soap into the stain and rinse again. If any stain remains, apply a stick or spray stain remover and machine wash as usual.

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March 21 2012

Great Local courses to play golf or mini golf!

By Cheryl Popp | Corporate Office, Health, Lifestyle, | (2) Comments

Is it time for golf yet?? Now that the first day of spring has passed and we are in 80 degree weather..Should we break out our golf clubs? I say, "Yes".. it is never too early to get a couple of practice sessions in before the season officially begins. I have been an avid golfer for 15 years and love it. The game is great for so many reasons: exercise, going out with the family, meeting and making new friends, competition and even to use for business deals..

New England is known for many of their golf courses but I am just going to mention a few that you may want to try out. Even if you don't have clubs, many of these facilities will rent them to you... Now there are no excuses!

~Green Meadow Golf Club, Hudson, NH.- This is a public course that boasts 2- 18 hole golf courses. There is also a golf shop, driving range and golf instruction.
~Tyngsboro Country Club, Tyngsboro, MA.- This is also a public course and great for beginners or new players.
~Long Meadow CC, Mt. Pleasant CC and also Vesper CC are all private courses in the Lowell area and are well worth the money for golfing at anytime with no tee times and tons of amenities...great for families too!
On the other hand,
If you prefer the more leisurely round of golf, try Max's Golf in Tyngsboro, Ma. for mini golf, batting cages and ice cream
OR
My all time favorite place... Kimball's Farm in Westford, where you can enjoy mini golf, a driving range, a short par 3 course, ice cream and great food!
Any way you look at golf you can have fun with the family and get some exercise!
So dust off the clubs and get out there!!

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March 20 2012

CHPA: A Harbinger of Economic Recovery

By Terry Flahive | Corporate Office, Corporate Furnished, Multifamily, Apartment Living, Development, | (1) Comments

Sixteen years ago, Tim Dugan and Gavan James, formerly of Oakwood Corporate Housing, now CEO of Nomad, had a crazy idea. Why not start a professional trade association to support corporate housing providers. With a handful of furnished housing providers (I am proud to say Princeton was one of the early members), they founded the Association of Temporary Housing Providers (ATHP) and several years later renamed it to the Corporate Housing Providers Association (CHPA).

Two weeks ago in Miami, CHPA had its largest conference in history with over 480 attendees from around the world. The mood was upbeat and very positive. With increasing corporate relocations and special consulting projects, the need for short term furnished apartments is growing. The common theme from every session was that demand for corporate housing will be strong for the foreseeable future.

Perhaps, the increase in furnished housing is a harbinger of an overall national economic recovery.

For more information on CHPA click on www.chpaonline.org.

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March 16 2012

Cell Phone Protection and Security Tips

By Tammy Jackson | | (4) Comments

I am sure many have experienced losing a cell phone or, as in my case, having a cell phone stolen. While away on a business trip, I left my phone to charge in a room being used by the organization. I did leave the phone unattended, which brings me to rule #1 – DO NOT leave phone unattended! Yes, by the time I returned… someone had decided they needed my phone more than I did.

My life was gone. My contacts, my emails, my Facebook, my photos – gone. Panic set in, and the thought of some stranger accessing all my information bring me to rule #2 – create a password for your phone so strangers can’t access it! But another thought crossed my mind: It’s a smart phone, so couldn’t I just use the GPS to find out if it’s still in the hotel? No! According to my service provider, apparently they can’t risk you being the crazy ex trying to track down the one that wronged you.

In my state of shock, I kept asking, “Of what use is my phone to anyone other than me?” I would get answers like, “Well, it’s an easy way for them to make long-distance calls on your dime,” “The SD cards are worth $40-$50,” “Some carriers will activate your phone – because they don’t care where it came from – and they’re just happy to have a new service contract.” Interesting. So, if I lock my phone and remove the SD card, I may be able to eliminate two situations… but I’m still without a phone! I guess having the SD card may be a benefit.

Is there anything to deter a “would-be” phone thief? I suppose the answer is no, but with a few quick changes, you may prevent one from wreaking havoc on your phone, your email, Facebook, etc.

I started looking to the internet for answers on how to prevent this from happening and, if it should happen, steps you should take immediately. There were some helpful tips, but nothing available all at one location. So this is my gift to you.

I hope you find this of no use… because I hope you never have your phone stolen.

Prevention tips:
Never leave your phone unattended.
Create a secure code to lock the phone when not in use.
Activate a Gmail account.
Remove SD card while charging.
Register your phone with your network operator

If your phone is stolen:
Contact the local authorities to file a report (this is helpful should there be excessive charges to the phone during the time it was still active).
Contact your provider to have the phone disabled, not the account.

There are also many anti-theft programs to look into, so one may be right for you.
Some of the many I found were Gadget Trak, Theft Aware, Mobile Me, and Phone Guardian. I have no experience with any of these, so I would recommend researching further. Good luck!

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March 16 2012

Got Beer? The origin of St. Patrick's Day.

By Sarah Greenough | Corporate Office, Food, Lifestyle, Sarah Greenough, | (1) Comments

St. Patrick’s Day is upon us and this Irish girl is excited! Time to dust off my best green, orange & white clothing and it is also time to drink a green beer! We all know that St. Patty’s day is a fun annual event but what is the origin of this festive day? Saint Patrick's Day is a cultural and religious holiday celebrated on the 17th of March. It commemorates Saint Patrick (c. AD 387–461), the most commonly recognized of the patron Saints of Ireland, and the arrival of Christianity in Ireland. It is observed by the Catholic Church, the Anglican Communion (especially the Church of Ireland), the Eastern Orthodox Church and Lutheran Church. Saint Patrick's Day was made an official feast day in the early seventeenth century, and has gradually become a celebration of Irish culture in general. The day is generally characterized by wearing green attire, eating traditional Irish fair such as corn beef and cabbage, drinking a few pints of beer and perhaps attending a church service. Saint Patrick's Day is a public holiday widely celebrated by the Irish diaspora, especially in places such as the United States, Ireland, Northern Ireland, Great Britain, Canada, Argentina, Australia, and New Zealand, among others. Today, St. Patrick's Day is probably the most widely celebrated Saint's day in the world. So go put on your finest Irish duds and raise your Guinness glass! Sláinte!!

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March 14 2012

Warm Winter Weather vs Ticks.

By Kathy Sutherland | New Hampshire, Multifamily, Apartment Living, Health, Environmental, | (2) Comments

This year’s mild winter comes with the price of ticks making an early arrival. The winter weather usually brings the benefit of keeping ticks away. But the relatively warm winter we have enjoyed this year means the Lyme disease-carrying pests could be arriving earlier than usual this year.

Ticks bring with them the risk of Lyme disease for both pets and humans. Symptoms of Lyme disease include fever, headache, fatigue, skin rash, and muscle and/or joint pain that can last for weeks.

According to the state Department of Health and Human Services, younger ticks are active in the spring and summer months while the older ticks are more active in the fall. The younger ones are more likely to bring the threat of infecting a person with Lyme disease. It is important to wear protective clothing and use insect repellents containing DEET to help prevent the ticks from biting and spreading the disease.

It is also important for pet owners to protect their pets with the proper medications to ward of these pests. It is best to consult a Veterinarian and start a monthly treatment plan. Most over the counter remedies have been around so long that ticks have become resistant to them.

(Information taken from an article published in the Union Leader on March 9, 2012.

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March 13 2012

Pinterest Addiction

By Virginia Partridge | Massachusetts, Marketing, Lifestyle, Community, | (2) Comments

Who isn't addicted to Pinterest by now? Whenever someone asks me what the heck this new-fangled website is, I describe it this way: take an entire wall in your bedroom and put up as many cork or pin-boards as you have "categories" of ideas floating around in your head, then every time you have an idea (see a picture you like, think of a recipe you want to remember, want to add a book to your reading list) you put it on your massive wall of pin-boards - Pinterest is like that, but nice and compactly, cleanly online! I literally feel like I am organizing my brain when I log on and pin away. It's the next best thing since Facebook (c'mon, Google+ was fooling themselves...)! So, if you haven't already, consider taking a peek at Pinterest. If you want an invitation to join I'd be MORE than glad to send you one - if only so I don't feel like the only wacko spending Friday and Saturday nights "pinning" pictures and links...
Happy Pinning!

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March 13 2012

St. Patrick's Day Traditions

By Heather Libby | New Hampshire, Lifestyle, Community, | (2) Comments

St Patrick’s Day is an Irish American holiday that comes every year on March 17th. Many people mostly Irish and Irish-American see it as a day to wear green, watch parades, decorate with three leaf clovers better known as shamrocks, look for leprechaun’s and drink green beer. So what significance do any of these things have to St. Patrick or being Irish?

Green is the color to wear on St. Patrick’s Day, but it wasn’t always green. A long time ago blue was the color used to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. However the Irish soldiers thought that by wearing green they would stand out more and be recognized easier so they wore green. Green was also the color of clovers which in Ireland are known to be lucky.

Three leaf clovers as known as Shamrocks are another symbol of St. Patrick’s Day and Ireland. Three leaf clovers were known to bring luck to the Irish. This is because when there was no snow or frost the clovers will harvest well along with all the other crops. This is now a St. Patrick’s Day traditional symbol because Patrick used them in evangelism to explain the Christian holy trinity: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.

Other traditional St. Patrick Day things like drinking green beer, looking to catch a leprechaun, watching your local cities parade, and even experiencing your cities river turned green are all just fun American traditions. So if you are Irish, Irish American or just a French man looking for an excuse to green drink beer St Patrick’s Day is the day to celebrate and enjoy!

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March 12 2012

When NOT to be Frugal

By Kristen Donovan | Massachusetts, Multifamily, Apartment Living, Health, Environmental, Food, Lifestyle, Community, | (2) Comments

Times are tough, and we're all looking for ways to save money. We're couponing in ways so extreme that a reality show was created about it. We sign up to receive email deals from our favorite clothing stores and practically give ourselves carpal tunnel syndrome from logging in so many times a day to check for new deals. And sometimes we even figure out the BJ's sampling schedule and make it a point to only shop when there's a sample station at the end of every aisle so we don't need to worry about dinner (or is that just me? I cannot be the only one who does this!). Whatever lengths you go to, you really can save a few bucks if you put a little thought and effort into your shopping. That being said, there are times when you should, at all costs, avoid a so-called deal. Yahoo! Finance posted 8 Things You Should Never Buy Used, a list that's definitely worth checking out. Below are two big ones to keep in mind - especially if you live in an apartment community!

- Mattresses - I once saw someone leave a mattress by the side of the road and, only five minutes later, saw someone pick it up as though they'd just struck gold. What?! How could someone just pluck it from the side of the road, having no idea how old it is or where it came from or if there were ever any monkeys jumping on it (just making sure you're reading)? In all seriousness, any time you buy - or take - a used mattress, you're running the risk of bringing those dreaded bedbugs into your home. And if you live in an apartment home, you're not the only one at stake; those little critters will happily hop into your neighbors' apartments and nibble on them for a while, too. I know mattresses aren't exactly cheap, but it's also not like they're something you have to buy often. When you spend $300-$700 (a price range I got from the Jordan's Furniture website) on a mattress, it's not just going to last you a few years - it's going to be a nightly reassurance that you're the only one who's ever crawled into it.

- Couches and Upholstered Furniture - The same logic that applies to mattresses applies to your living room and accent furniture. As the Yahoo! article cutely says, "They'd change the name [of bedbugs], but 'upholstered furniture bugs' just doesn't have the same ring to it." So while it can be a good idea to poke around on Craigslist for a gently-used dining room set or an antique mirror, it's a decidedly bad idea to try to find a big comfy couch... that someone else's entire family has been spending years flopping down into. And spilling who-knows-what on. And grooming the dog on. And... ok, you get the point. Upholstered furniture sees a lot of action and can just as easily become home to bedbugs. Go to Bob's Discount Furniture and buy your own living room set. And while you're there, ask who Kathy is and why she's in all the commercials, please.

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March 12 2012

Organizing Your Work Space

By Shannon Flannery | Corporate Office, Apartment Living, Lifestyle, | (2) Comments

With spring time comes spring cleaning. Everyone makes plans to organize and clean their homes but why not clean your office and desk while you’re at it? Now is the perfect time to start sorting that paperwork that has been piling up and get your desk drawers in tip top shape! Here are some tips on how to clean up your office so you can become more organized and productive at work…

1. Get Rid of Old Papers
When you are sorting through stacks of papers, begin asking yourself: Do I need this? Why? Where will I look for it when I need it? Then, create a filing system that best fits your needs.

2. Keep Usernames & Password in One Location
It’s easy to forget all of the different usernames and passwords you use while doing your job. Keep it all in one place by creating an Excel sheet. Each time you update or change your password, take the time to revisit your sheet and save your updates. This will save you time in the future!

3. Keep Supplies and Often-Used Items Out
Daily-use items that you’ll likely need throughout the course of a day like pens, planner, and Post-It Notes, all deserve a spot on your desk. Other items, such as tape, stapler, paper clips, and envelopes, should be neatly stored inside your desk.

4. Organize Your Computer
When your favorite desktop background starts getting covered with icons, it’s time to clean it up! File away documents that you’ll need again, then send everything else on your desktop to the recycle bin.

5. Keep it Clean & Stick to It!
One of the biggest pitfalls to organization is getting lazy. Once you’ve established a system that works for you, stick to it! Spending a few seconds to return items to a designated spot will help you save lots of time in the long run.

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March 07 2012

Where To Get a Good Cup of Coffee

By Daniel Endyke | Corporate Office, Health, Food, Community, | (4) Comments

After my second child arrived, life went into crazy mode for a while. My number one coping mechanism was coffee. I found it to be common for me to drink 3-4 cups a day, everyday. I loved it and I was addicted to it. My coffee overload concerned me enough to respond to my doctor during a routine physical when he asked me, “anything noteworthy change with your health during the past year?” I mentioned that I had been drinking coffee almost as often as I take a breath. To my surprise, he turned to me and said “Keep it up, drink as much coffee as you can without it freaking you out…there is a lot of good evidence that coffee is beneficial to your overall health” I felt like Rocky Balboa when Adrian whispered to him from the hospital bed….”WIN, Rocky!” The movie theme started playing in my head and all bets were off. I have been drinking coffee like Jim Morrison drank, well just drank, for the past five years.

Enough of the introduction, lets talk about the best places to get a good cup of coffee. I was going to rank them, but that is proving to be too difficult.

Dunkin Donuts (Everywhere): This is a good, consistent roast that is decent tasting with only milk. Many of the stronger coffees really need cream to balance out the flavor, not Dunkin. Plus those styro-foam cups keep the coffee hot for 3-4 hours. Magical.

Starbucks (Almost Everywhere): Coffee is better than Dunkin, but the atmosphere still makes me feel pretentious. My wife tells me it should not. They just started serving a lighter roast and call it “blonde”. Try ordering that next to your childhood friends from Methuen. But I like the coffee enough to go back a lot and think the have good quality control.

Heav’nly Donuts (Methuen): This is an old time favorite. I swear they changed the blend from when I was in college to now and it has lost most of its allure. Regardless, when in Methuen I still like to get a small coffee in the famous paper cup.

Café Fresh Bagel (Needham): My wife likes this coffee. To me, it is like drinking a light beer. I still get a caffeine headache after drinking 20oz of this heated water.

Whole Foods Coffee Bars (Dedham and Wellesley): This is just really good coffee, might be the best on-the-go coffee around.

Caribou Coffee (Buckhead, GA): This place is a Starbucks knockoff but not as creepy – coffee is not as strong as Starbucks and comes with an almost smoky flavor. Good place. Our management assignment in Norcross, GA introduced me to Caribou.

Espresso Royale (Boston – near BU): I like Espresso Royale. The various coffee blends are distinctive. If you order a latte or something else frothy, they make some designs in the froth that you will not expect to see. The knock on ER is that many times the temperature of the coffee is just not hot enough.

Sebastian’s Café on the Common (Waltham): One of our newer management agreements (Waltham Watch Factory Lofts) requires me to be in Waltham one morning a week. I stumbled onto Café on the Common before a meeting a few months ago and have been a semi-regular ever since. It is the antithesis of Starbucks – completely unpretentious and really good coffee. Currently, my favorite place.

While my primary care doctor thinks coffee is great, my dentist looked me dead in the eye at my last appointment and said: “You have some deep dark staining on your molars….” I explained that I drink a lot of coffee. He was not pleased with my addiction. He went so far as to insinuate that I was masking a “closet-smoking” habit. Good times!

Do you have a favorite place for coffee? If so, please share. As I get older, finding a good coffee shop has become one of life’s great pleasures.

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March 07 2012

Play An Instrument In Your Apartment? Sound Proofing Tips

By Janet Leazer | Massachusetts, Multifamily, Apartment Living, | (0) Comments

Everyone loves music, but not everyone loves living near a musician. You may think your wailing solos sound great, but those who live near you may not agree. In an apartment, sound proofing your space can be vital if you don’t want to win your building’s “Most Hated Neighbor” award.

Apartment sound proofing can run into some money, and since you don’t own your home, you won’t want to make a major investment in it. However, there are easy ways to cut down on the amount of noise your neighbors hear.
First, make one room your practice room, and concentrate your apartment sound proofing efforts on it. This will be much easier than tackling the whole apartment. Choose a small room (or even a walk-in closet) that is as far from your neighbors as you can get. Then try these apartment sound proofing tips.

Walls - Egg-crate foam panels are a good form of apartment sound proofing. Cut sheets of inexpensive wallboard to fit your walls. Attach the smooth side of the foam to the boards with a staple gun or adhesive. Tack the wallboard to the walls. For extra sound dampening, cover the panels with heavy fabric, tapestries, or curtains. Foam panels may be used on the ceiling as well.

Floor - A heavy rug will help with apartment sound proofing. For best results, it should cover the entire floor. Use a thick foam underpad to help reduce noise transmission.
Door. Don’t forget that a lot of sound can leak through a door. For inexpensive apartment sound proofing, use weather-stripping foam tape on the top and sides of the doorway and install a sweep on the bottom edge. For additional noise reduction, hang a heavy curtain over the door.
The success of apartment sound proofing may be limited, so always be considerate of your neighbors. Find out if they are away from home at regular times, and try to practice then. Explore ways to reduce the sound your instrument makes. Mutes are available for many stringed and wind instruments. You can get electric keyboards, guitars, even drums and use headphones when you practice.

If apartment sound proofing simply doesn’t work, it may be time to pack up your instrument!

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March 07 2012

St. Patrick’s Day Inspired Cupcakes!

By Kara Silva | Massachusetts, Food, | (3) Comments

When people think St. Patrick’s Day foods they think of Corned Beef and Cabbage, but what about the most part of any meal…Dessert?! Satisfy your St. Patrick’s Day sweet tooth with Mudslide Cupcakes topped with Irish Cream Frosting!

Mudslide Cupcake Recipe (Makes 12 cupcakes)
• 2/3 C sugar
• 2 C flour
• 1 1/2 t baking powder
• 1/2 t baking soda
• 3 T ground coffee
• 3/4 C unsalted butter, room temperature
• 2 eggs
• 2/3 C melted vanilla ice cream (coffee or mocha ice cream work too!)
• 1/4 C Coffee Liqueur (i.e. Kahlua)
• 1/4 C Irish Cream Liqueur (i.e. Bailey’s)

1. Whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, and coffee in a bowl.
2. Beat butter and sugar in a large bowl for 1 minute until light and fluffy.
3. Beat eggs, ice cream, coffee liqueur, and Irish cream liqueur into the butter/sugar mixture until blended.
4. Fold in flour mixture.
5. Fill cupcake liners 3/4 full.
6. Bake at 350 F for about 25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out of the cupcake clean.

Irish Whipped Cream Frosting (*Note: If you like lots of frosting, double the recipe!)
• 2 C heavy whipping cream
• 2/3 C sugar
• 2 T Irish Cream liqueur

1. Whip heavy whipping cream until it looks like whipped cream.
2. Mix in sugar and Irish Cream until just combined.

Optional - Top off with Chocolate Sprinkles or Chocolate Syrup (or BOTH!)
Insert Pirouette Cookies as decorative "straws"

SLÁINTE!

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March 07 2012

There's always something happening in Salem!

By Jen D'Apice | Massachusetts, Travel, Lifestyle, Community, | (1) Comments

Working and residing next to Salem can always be such a treat! The excitement doesn’t just end in October, there’s always something going on. For instance, The Peabody Essex Museum has an exhibit that is causing quite a stir around town. It is called, Ripple Effect, The Art of H2O and is on display through July 8, 2012. The Ripple Effect is described as highlighting water as a medium for an artistic expression and hands-on exploration. Visitors will encounter water in all its different states - solid, liquid and gas - as they investigate artworks inspired by rivers, geysers, snowflakes, fog and more.
Salem State Theater Presents, The Shadow Box this month as well. This drama is about three families dealing with terminal cancer and how their lives intertwine. From reading the reviews, the students have been putting on a remarkable show.

Shapeshifting, one of the largest Native American Art exhibitions to open in North America in more than 30 years is also on view at The Peabody Essex Museum. Nearly 80 works from public and private collections worldwide offer a far-reaching exploration of Native American art as historic and contemporary.
The following website has the calendar of events for Salem that I found useful and would like to share with you. Does anyone else have a suggestion of an event they went to at Salem?

http://www.salem.org/cgi-bin/calendar/calendar.pl

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March 07 2012

Day light savings time! Turn your clocks forward!

By Carrie Agusto | Corporate Office, Massachusetts, Apartment Living, Travel, Environmental, Community, | (2) Comments

Spring ahead: 2012 Daylight Saving Time means time to turn the clocks forward

Warm weather across the New England area is a reminder that Spring is right around the corner. With nicer weather also brings longer days.

Daylight Saving Time is quickly coming for 2012.

Since 2007, Daylight Saving Time, or DST for short, begins on the second Sunday in March and ends on the first Sunday in November.

For 2012, that means it is time to 'spring ahead' this weekend.

This Saturday night, It is time to change our clocks. March 11 is the second Sunday in March this year, so at 2:00 Sunday morning, you will turn your clocks ahead one hour, marking the return to Daylight Saving Time.

As the old expression goes, "spring ahead, fall back," meaning before bed on Saturday night, set your clock AHEAD one hour. You'll also be 'losing' one hour of time (the same hour you "gained" last Fall).

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March 06 2012

The 26 Happiest Animals In The World

By Dan Harvey | Massachusetts, Apartment Living, Lifestyle, Dan Harvey, | (1) Comments

The internet is an invaluable tool with countless ways to improve our daily lives. Arguably one of the best uses of the internet is the ability to view cute animal pictures.

Check out the 26 happiest animals posted by BuzzFeed @ http://www.buzzfeed.com/animals/happiest-animals-in-the-world

Number 10 is my favorite, what is yours?


Enjoy!

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March 02 2012

Passing Our Goal

By Tracy Hilker | Massachusetts, Community, | (0) Comments

I found this year that fundraising was not easy. Normally when I run Daffodil Days for the American Cancer Society, we can reach our goal fairly quickly with time to spare. This year was a bit different.. Maybe it is because times are tough, maybe because our goal was higher.

At first I was starting to get discouraged. It is not an easy thing asking people for money even if it is going to such a great cause as finding a cure for cancer. Once again I am always touched at repeat supporters, and also the many residents that we have at River Place that donate whenever and whatever they can. And I love hearing thier stories, about cancer survivors in thier lives or about those that they donate in memory of.

The support of my peers and co-workers has been awesome! I actually opened up the donating to friends and family on my personal Facebook page, and was pleasantly touched when some people I have not actually met in person, but are Facebook friends, (mostly from my Disney family) sent in money to help us reach our goal!

We set a goal of $1500, and passed it by reaching $1660. I am proud to be a part of this cause, and to help where I can. I am thankful for all those who did help and support me in this year after year. The one thing I always find after doing a fundraiser, people will say, "I would have done it, but you never asked me!" So this year, I asked... and I asked everyone. If you are doing any kind of fundraiser, that is my advice to you, Just Ask.. You never know who has been touched by what you are standing behind and you never know if they want to help or not.

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February 29 2012

Bring on the Fluffy White Stuff!!

By Jessica Costanzo | Massachusetts, Environmental, Lifestyle, Community, | (0) Comments

So here we are, February 29th and I can’t believe my eyes!! What is that fluffy white stuff falling from the sky?? Could it actually be accumulating SNOW? Hard to believe this is only our SECOND snowstorm of the year. This winter has been THE most mild winter I can remember! I mean, we hit almost 60 degrees this month!! Now I know that most people here in New England are LOVING the mild weather and lack of snow we have received this year. Riding bikes and enjoying afternoon walks have replaced iceskating and sledding. Me, I prefer to see the beautiful snow falling! As a snow lover, it is such a magical feeling to see that first snow of the season. To go out and make snowangels and build snowmen! That’s what winter is all about here in the Northeast! Mother Nature has decided to spare us from all that fun this year…until today that is! Up to 10 inches is expected through tomorrow. So all of you fellow snow lovers, get on out there and enjoy it!

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February 29 2012

Easy Ways to Spruce up for Spring

By Jenilee Provencal | Maine, Apartment Living, Lifestyle, | (1) Comments

Even though snow is in the forecast for this week, spring is really only two weeks away. There are some very easy things you can do to spruce up your home for spring.

Take down your heavy winter curtains and put up some sheer panels. They are wonderfully breezy and let in lots of sunlight.

Incorporate some fresh flowers inside. Trader Joe’s has some beautiful inexpensive bunches that can really brighten up your kitchen table or even your nightstand. It’s a treat to wake up to fresh flowers.

Change out some of your wall artwork easily and inexpensively. If you are crafty you can take a blank canvas and paint a unique design in bright colors. Or take the same canvas and cover it with a fresh spring fabric.

There can be lots of inspiration at the grocery store as well. Lemons and limes are some of the brightest, longest lasting fruit you can find. Pile them into a large glass vase and display on your coffee table. Plus they smell great too!

Bring in fresh white accents. White really brightens a space and can draw your eye. Strategically place white accent pieces around the room to keep your eyes moving throughout the space. The easiest way to do this is by using white pots for your houseplants, or white frames with black and white photos in them.

Any way you decide to bring a little spring into your home I guarantee it will make you smile. Now let's bring on summer!!!

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February 29 2012

We live in L'Andover!

By Debbie Melino | Massachusetts, Apartment Living, Lifestyle, Community, | (1) Comments

Where is L’Andover? If you’re from “The Valley” then you’re already in the know! For all others, let me explain…..L’Andover is the lovingly coined identifier for that sweet spot known as the “Mt. Vernon Neighborhood”. Although we do not know the origin for the term, we can make the assumption that this nickname grew out of the location’s close proximity to the Andover town line. L’Andover, just steps away from Andover, has so many wonderful things to offer such as public transportation, easy access to major highways, and a 25 minute commute to Boston, the seacoast, New Hampshire’s mountain region, as well as fine dining and great shopping. L’Andover is the place to be, offering quality living without the price.

Over the years, the Merrimack Valley, better know as “The Valley” has experienced many changes in its cities and towns, which stretch from Manchester, New Hampshire to Lowell Massachusetts. In particular, the City of Lawrence once known for its industry and ingenuity had attracted thousands of immigrants from countries all over the world. The evolution of Lawrence has once again opened the door to many newcomers, once abandoned mill buildings have been refurbished and are now the home to many restaurants and businesses. Though years of economic highs and lows have changed the landscape of this once booming city, one thing still remains, and that is that the heart of Lawrence remains in its history and its people.

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February 28 2012

Spring into Retro 2012 Trends!

By Carla Jacobson | Massachusetts, Lifestyle, | (1) Comments

Like fashion, Spring has arrived earlier then ever this year! It is time to put away our wool coats and mittens and invite the Spring to New England! As we all know, it proves to be difficult looking at magazines and celebraties for "realistic" advice as to what is "in" this season. Although we would all like to be able to afford the latest Gucci or Armoni, the reality of purchasing a single pair of slacks for $500 is unrealistic for the average consumer. But not to worry, there are many alternatives to dressing the part of a Trend Setter! Ann Taylor, WhiteHouse/Black Market, and even TJMAXX and Marshell's all provide us with trend setting appareal to fullfill everyone's unique personalities and needs. With the recession hitting on everyone's pocket, the higher end retail stores such as Ann Taylor and White House/Black Market have resorted to daily promotions to keep up their clientele; while department stores are slashing their prices and broadening their selections!

So what to look for when you are browsing amoungst the goods? In 2012, Bold Print, dramatic seam work, and Color, Color, Color are piled up high on the shelves! Graphic, Bold Missoni is being brought back in full force from the 70's in all widths, shapes, colors, and sizes. Jazz inspired drop-waist dresses with a-line neckline allows for a cool, sleek look and maximum comfort. For the cooler weather, Tuxedo, wide leg trouser's pair nicely with any casual or formal attire. Draping in tonal blue-grey florals allows for a dramatic and moody feel and is easily paired with bold, vibrant oranges or soft hue pastels; the color pallet for 2012. And, as always, it is classic to have the boyfriend cut jacket as a part of you wardrobe along with a classic pencil skirt, kitten heeled shoes, and your favorite trench raincoat. As for accessories, not much has changed. We still are finding the large, dramatic chunky jewels as our "go to pieces" to complete the total package as well as our oversized, belt purses are must haves.

So, what is the biggest fad of 2012? Off the shoulder, in every form! Dresses, shirts, and even jackets are coming with one or two bare shoulders. But realistically, as we can all see, anything now a day goes! Pair almost any of these fads together and call it your own! Yes, you too can become "That Girl" or "That Guy" who has it together and the total package by obiding by these fashion guidelines! And thanks to Great promotions and reasonable retailer's, everyone can become their own trend setter this year!

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February 27 2012

Just Do it... Yourself!

By Kristen Donovan | Massachusetts, Multifamily, Apartment Living, Food, Lifestyle, Community, | (3) Comments

Whether you rent, own, or are just squatting on a friend's couch for a few months, there's nothing like having beautiful things to look at when you're at home. The harsh truth, though, is that not everyone's adept at the whole home-decor thing; in fact, it can cause a bit of panic for some for lots of reasons. Does this odd metal wall "sculpture" really speak to who I am - or is it just appealing because it's on sale at HomeGoods? Do I like this weird painting just because it's $650 and looks like "real" art? Does this random frame with a quote in it really represent me or am I only getting it because quotes are "in" right now? It doesn't need to be so difficult! You can make your place look beautiful - and like you - using things you already have, whether they're actual things or just inspiration from something you have or love.

I realized this when I was frantically searching for something to hang on the wall above my couch. I was agonizing over it for weeks, wondering if I should splurge on the vintage prints I found online because they looked cool or if I should buy a cheap canvas set I saw on some artsy website. The stuff I was considering would have been ok for me, but I decided that I really prefer to have art that means something, not just a random, mass-produced something-or-other. So I drove to the three most meaningful places that my husband and I share (aww) and took some photos. (Ok, you want details? I went to the three restaurants located at each of the meaningful places we share. We love to eat - what can I say?! You can choose any photo(s) you want, I promise!) Anyway, I took a bunch of pictures, picked my favorites, uploaded them to a photo website (I use Kodak Gallery, but any site will do), ordered prints, found some inexpensive frames at Target, and am impatiently waiting for the prints to be delivered so I can complete my project. I'm getting giddy just writing about it! I never felt this way after looking at the framed "Live. Laugh. Love." poster, let me tell you.

So my advice to you is this: If you can't find art/decor/anything that makes you crazy-happy when you look at it, get creative and make it yourself! Take some photos, have your kids work on some drawings, frame the menu from your favorite restaurant (see my theme here? Sorry!), cut a piece of your favorite fabric and put it in a frame, frame your most cherished greeting card... the list is endless if you really take the time to think about it!

Already tried your hand at creating your own artwork? Share your project(s) with us!

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DIY, art, HomeGoods, Target, creative, apartment, home, decor, decorations, projects

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February 24 2012

Frozurt Craze!

By Maggie Ledgard | Massachusetts, Health, Food, Community, | (2) Comments

When I was visiting my older brother in Long Island this summer he took me to a place that I have repeatedly dreamed about revisiting. It is a frozen yogurt shop called “16 Handles” where there are 16 ever-changing flavors and toppings to choose from. The shop is set up self-serve style where you choose your cup size, yogurt flavors, and toppings before paying for your treat by the ounce. If you’re craving a simple chocolate and vanilla mix with sprinkles, have at it. If you’re feeling a little more adventurous go ahead and add a little bit of red velvet yogurt, a hint of mango yogurt, a sprinkle of coconut yogurt, and top it all off with fresh pineapple and Oreos.

Slowly but surely we’re hopping on the band wagon here in Lowell. As I was leaving the gym the other night and headed to the ATM on Rte. 110 I couldn’t help but notice a glowing sign that read “FROZURT” and was begging for me to go and see what it was all about. Nothing like a little treat after the gym, right?

When I walked inside I started talking to the owner, Odom Eang, who said he opened up the shop a few months ago and was already starting to see success even through the colder months. There was a younger worker there to offer samples of the 6 flavors of the week that are available and walk you through the process if you have any questions.

They offer a variety of over 40 toppings ranging from fresh fruits including blackberries, strawberries, kiwi and pineapple, to all kinds of candy bars including butterfingers, heath bars, snickers, and even raw cookie dough. For the health conscious “frogurter” there are nuts and granola as well.

Once you’ve completed your masterpiece you head to the register where you’re charged by weight, $0.42/oz, I find a typical serving size (not FDA approved that is) to cost around $4-5.00 a cup. They only take CASH, but are conveniently located next door to a Bank of America. They’re open 7 days a week 12pm-10pm and are located at 724 Chelmsford Street in Lowell. I highly suggest checking this place out. I returned for my second time Thursday night at 8pm and the place was packed, there weren’t any seats available and a line to start filling your cup…everyone must agree with me that it’s always fun to feel good about eating frozen yogurt and then loading it up with chocolate candy bars!

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February 24 2012

Wish you had more space?

By Virginia Partridge | Massachusetts, Apartment Living, Lifestyle, | (2) Comments

As new parents living in a two bedroom apartment, my fiancé and I have found our quarters getting a bit cramped as of late. Although the space was more than enough when it was just the two of us, a baby takes up a surprising amount of room – we found ourselves wondering: Where would we put guests? Where would the desk go? What about all of those Christmas decorations? Where will the dog sleep?
After running into, and stubbing my toes on, multiple boxes, toys, pieces of furniture, etc. I decided something needed to be done! I turned to Google (as with most problems I have…), and searched for “small space solutions.” The results were a lifesaver. So, below is a list of some decorating tips I found extremely helpful to turn our space back into an organized home.

1. Turn your closet into a work space.
2. Practice smart storage by investing in city-sized multi-use furniture like sofa beds, storage ottomans, under-bed drawers, or even using window ledges as shelves for pictures, plants and lighting.
3. Use wall space, vertically and horizontally – for example, why not hang your pots and pans from a wall mounted pot rack? And, “hello!” wall mounted shelving!
4. If you haven’t used something for the past three months, throw it out!!
5. Practice the major design rules for small spaces: light! Create a larger feeling by using mirrors, light colors and a neutral palette with pops of color.

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design, small space, apartment living, storage

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February 24 2012

Drowning in Junk Mail

By Shannon Flannery | Corporate Office, Apartment Living, Lifestyle, | (2) Comments

This morning I was talking with some of the lovely ladies in the corporate office about mail. We all get it and we all seem to hate it! Unwanted junk mail and bills make for clutter in our kitchens, home offices and dining room tables. I don’t know about you but in my house we need to find a fix for our serious mail pile problem! I have a file cabinet and a paper shredder in my home office but they don’t seem to be doing the trick. I need a space to organize my mail in the kitchen so it can stay off my countertops!

I did some research on some blogs and on Pinterest recently and have come up with some pretty crafty solutions! You can check out the DIY steps for one of my favorite options here http://www.noodle-head.com/2010/05/mail-organizer-tutorial.html.

If you are like me you hate getting mail from mortgage, credit card and insurance companies soliciting special deals and promotions. Save your kitchen countertops and some trees by registering your name on these lists… http://environment.about.com/od/greenlivingdesign/a/junkmail.htm

How do YOU organize your mail? Feel free to share your tips on organization with all of us!

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February 24 2012

Champagne with the Oscars

By Kristen Wellington | | (1) Comments

The Oscars will be airing on Sunday, February 26, 2012 and to celebrate, I plan on sharing a wonderful seafood recipe with the very best of company. But, one cannot forget pairing it with an equally delicious bottle of wine or champagne (the latter is my personal choice with seafood). Yet, while standing in the grocery isle, I blankly stare at the Champagne selection and find myself asking, “Which one did I love before? Was it Brut? Extra Dry?” And what does it all mean, anyway? Well, here are some basic tips so you’re better prepared when shopping for your next bottle of bubbly.

First, for a wine to be called Champagne, it must come from that particular region of France that is located 90 miles east of Paris in the rolling hills near the towns of Epernay, Reims, and Sézanne. Anyone in the world can make a sparkling wine in the méthode champenoise, but only the Champenoise can make Champagne. And you’re asking, “Now I have to learn French?” Well, no. But, I felt its origin was important enough to include here.

Based on your personal taste, Champagne is tiered according to sweetness (or lack thereof). They are as follows:

(Sweet)
•Doux
•Demi Sec
•Sec
•Extra Dry
•Brut
•Extra Brut
(Driest)

Once you’ve found your favorite, you no longer have to worry about the blank stare of confusion! Even if you wish to try something different, you’ll at least be better informed in your decision.

To all that will be watching the stars this Sunday, be sure to include that special star in your eyes and toast to your favorite nominee. Just like Napoleon says, "In victory you deserve it, in defeat you need it." So even if your favorite nominee doesn’t take home an Oscar, you still have … Champagne! Cheers!

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February 24 2012

A Special Day, a Special Man

By Terry Flahive | Corporate Office, Lifestyle, | (1) Comments

Last Friday I met an old friend at Crotched Mountain in Francestown, NH to ski and with him was Fran Lathrop. We all jumped on the lift, went to the top and started down. Out of the corner of my eye, I could see Fran skiing fast and strong. When we stopped, for some reason, I blurted out “how old are you?” With a firm voice he said “90!”

I started thinking about a wonderful book about the 10th Mountain Division and its heroic role in the Second World War. I said, “You wouldn’t have been in WWII by any chance?” Of course the answer was yes, and Fran was one of the original soldiers of this division. Fran graduated from Williams College, joined the Army and was assigned to the 10th Mountain Division. He trained in Colorado under the most brutal mountain conditions fighting on skis and snowshoes and living in a snow hut. In 1944 the Division was shipped to Italy for the push north to Berlin and the defeat of Nazi Germany.

And here I was, skiing on a beautiful New Hampshire day with a true hero.

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February 23 2012

Bintliffs 2011 Best Brunch Portland Maine

By Caitlyn Irving | Maine, Health, Travel, Food, Lifestyle, Community, | (1) Comments

I have always been such a huge brunch fan. My favorite brunch restaurant in Portland Maine is Bintliff’s. Bintliff’s has been in business in Portland for 18 years and is located on Portland St. Joe Catoggio has been the owner of Bintliff’s in Portland since December 2002. Nicole Neal has been the Head Chef since April of 2010. They have created a wonderful and delicious dining experience that anyone of all ages will enjoy!

Bintliff’s has a cozy, eclectic yet elegant style. The atmosphere is very warm and the employees are very friendly. The building itself is two stories, there are some tables on the first floor, but the majority of the tables and booths are on the second floor. When the weather gets warmer they open up their deck and patio. Just imagine, eating an absolutely scrumptious meal and sitting on the patio, on a beautiful summer day!

Bintliff’s is open seven days a week from 7:00 am to 2:00 pm. Whenever I have gone I try to get there early, right when they open because it gets very busy, very quickly. But even if you have to wait, it definitely is worth every minute and is not too long!

The menu features breakfast and lunch items including wide variety of French toast, waffles, pancakes, egg dishes, soup, sandwiches, wraps, salads and many more creative entrees. Working with local farms and businesses, Bintliff's has created fun dishes on a superbly delicious menu. Bintliff’s is proud serving their patrons lighter fare and grilled meats, fresh local seafood, and vegetarian delights. Bintliff’s serves local produce, seafood, 100% pure Maine maple syrup, locally made wines and Portland’s own Coffee By Design.

Some of the Local Purveyors Include:

Bartlett Maine Estate Winery
Coffee by Design Portland, ME
Crown O'Maine Organic Coop, ME
Grandy Oats, Brownfield, ME
Harbor Fish Market Portland, ME
Native Maine Produce Portland, ME
Strawberry Hills Farm Skowhegan, ME


Bintliffs is a true Maine Gem of a restaurant. It was voted BEST BRUNCH from 2002-2009 and then again in 2011 by the Portland Phoenix. The location is ideal, after a nice big brunch, take a walk through Deering Oaks Park, or walk around the Bay. You could even make a day of it, enjoy a yummy meal at Bintliffs and check out a Pirates or a Sea Dogs Game!

Is your mouth watering yet? Go check it out and maybe you will see me there too!!!

www.bintliffscafe.com

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February 23 2012

Give your furniture a FABULOUS makeover~Introducing Annie Sloan Chalkpaint!

By Jessica Costanzo | Massachusetts, Apartment Living, Lifestyle, | (1) Comments

Ok all of you decorators out there..I am going to introduce to you the most amazing product that I have found. I myself LOVE to decorate and repurpose junk furniture or furniture I already have at home. However, I DESPISE sanding and priming all the messy preparation! Well, hold on to your seats, there is a paint out there that doesn’t require ANY of that! It is called…drumroll please….ANNIE SLOAN CHALK PAINT! It is quite possibly the best paint EVER!! This paint can go on nearly ANY surface at all with no sanding, no priming, no prep work at all! It was designed for furniture specifically but can be used on floors, walls, metals and even glass! It also comes in 24 of the most GORGEOUS colors! Now, there are many different looks you can achieve using the paint and it is worth checking out her website www.anniesloan.com to view her different techniques. She also has a blogspot called “Paints & Colour” that you can follow. I painted my VERY DARK dining room set just a few weeks ago with this paint in Pure White. I will admit that I was extremely skeptical. BUT, after 2 coats and just a little bit of sanding to give it that distressed look I was going for, I was totally impressed! It was so easy! What a beautiful new set I have after just 2 days and the cost of 1 quart of paint! This paint is meant to give character to any piece. The only catch is that Miss Annie Sloan is from England and it can be a little pricey to order the paint online and have it shipped. However, there a few places here in Massachusetts that have begun to sell it. Counting Sheep in Clinton MA and A Vintage Chic in Newburyport MA are 2 places that I know of that currently sell the paint. I highly recommend giving it a whirl yourself. It was fun to work with and a super easy way to take an old piece of furniture and give it a fabulous, QUICK, makeover!

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February 23 2012

Unique Home Remedies For A Cold

By Sarah Greenough | Corporate Office, Health, Lifestyle, Sarah Greenough, | (3) Comments

It seems like the head cold is really making its rounds these days…whether I’m at the gym, at work or at home I can hear sniffling and sneezing (myself included). The nasal congestion finally made its way to my nose this week so I started to research home remedies, optimistically hoping to clear up my sniffles at a rapid pace without the help of DayQuil. I came across many homeopathic remedies; here are two that intrigued me the most. I’m sure to give them a try.

What are some of your favorite home remedies?


Tomato Tea Recipe:
• Add 1 cup tomato juice,
• 1 tsp chopped fresh garlic,
• 1/2 tsp of hot sauce,
• 1 tsp lemon juice,
• and a pinch or two of celery salt for flavor

Heat ingredients and drink hot. After drinking this recipe, your sinus congestion will disappear quickly. All of these ingredients not only work on the immediate symptoms, but add plenty of vitamin C to fight a cold, and garlic to fight infection.

Gin-Soaked Golden Raisins Recipe:

• Add 1/2 cup gin,
• 1 handful golden raisins

Put golden raisins in a shallow bowl and barely cover with gin. Soak for a minimum of one hour. Allow the gin to evaporate; then eat approximately nine raisins. After evaporation, nine raisins contain about one drop of alcohol. Gin soaked golden raisins is an old natural home remedy for head congestion. It is very effective and works quickly. Chew the raisins and the natural aroma of the raisins with gin will open your airways and relieve head congestion. Just eat in moderation!

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Nasal congestion, head cold, home remedies, homeopatihic, recipe

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February 20 2012

Airport Traveling Tips During School Vacation

By Heather Libby | New Hampshire, Lifestyle, | (0) Comments

School vacation is here and for many lucky families this means warm, sunny destinations, quick get-a-ways and airports. With gas prices so high, some cities still close to $4 a gallon, flying for most families is the best money saving way to travel. Here are a few tips when it comes to traveling in airports over school vacation.


Plan ahead.
Are you a list maker or one who throws everything in a bag and buys what you need or forget when you get to your destination? Either way it’s best to pack a day or more before your flight to avoid the last minute run around of “where did I put this and where’s that?” To make things even easier many airlines offer the convenience of checking in to your flight 24 hours in advance. You can even printing your tickets from home if you have a printer. This will save lots of time at the airport of waiting in long lines just to get your boarding passes.

Don’t forget your doctor’s notes and always remember 3-1-1
Airports in the last 10 years have cracked down on what can and cannot be brought on an airplane especially liquids. 3-1-1 is the best way to remember what is allowed in your carry on so you’re no throwing away that brand new bottle of Pantene you bought for the trip. All liquids must be 3oz containers or less. These containers must be in 1 quart sized clear zip lock bag and taken out of your carry on luggage and placed on the security belt. Each passenger is allowed only 1 zip lock bag. Some exceptions can be made if you are traveling with infants or have a doctor’s note requiring other wise so be sure you have that on hand with your ID and boarding pass at security.


Safe money on those high airport parking fees!
Although many large airports like Boston Logan Airport are offering huge savings on long term parking over February vacation you have other choices! Why spend and extra $200 on parking when you could spend it on the parks!? Ask a friend or relative that might not be going away on vacation if they would be willing to bring you. I usually offer to let them use my car (and my full tank of gas) for the week in exchange. If this option is not available take a bus or an airport service shuttle. Many of the airport shuttles are free for kids under the age of 12 and can still save hundreds.

Arrive an hour to two before your flight is due to board.
The last thing you’ll want to do is miss your flight so plan to arrive early for any and all those unexpected delays that airports bring. Checking luggage can easily be done at the curb rather than wait in a long line inside but make sure you have the $2 per bag to tip to ensure you’re luggage arrives at the right place and on time. Be ready when you get up to security with your ID, boarding passes, and any doctors notes that you would need. Wear not only comfortable shoes but something that will be easy to slip on and off easily as security will make you remove shoes, belts, and anything in your pockets. (I always bring an extra pair of socks to change into after my once clean socks become dirty from walk on the airport floor).

Bring a book or your homework for the plane or delays.
Arriving early for your flight is the safe bet but some times this can leave you with a lot of down time. You’ll want something to keep you and the kids occupied while waiting and on the plane ride to make it go by faster so if you enjoy reading or crosswords this is the place to do it! When I was younger my parents always had me bring my homework. Many children, once they’ve reach middle school will have homework over vacation this is the time to get it done. It might be a struggle at first but they will thank you later when they can just enjoy vacation.


Lastly, you’re on vacation, enjoy your time off don’t bring the office or stresses of home with you.

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February 18 2012

Etsy.com ~The World's Handmade Marketplace!

By Jessica Costanzo | Massachusetts, Marketing, Lifestyle, | (3) Comments

How many of you have been onto Etsy.com? If not, I want to introduce you to one of the most FABULOUS websites to visit! Etsy is a site that focuses on handmade and vintage items as well as arts & craft supplies. It is truly the world’s most AMAZING handmade marketplace! You can find anything from unique jewelry to handmade clothing to repurposed furniture! It is really quite an experience! On Etsy you have the ability to contact the sellers with questions and leave feedback after you have received your purchase. It’s like a creative cross between Amazon and Ebay. You have the option to pay by credit card or through paypal as well, making it super easy to make your purchases! You can search amongst the 800,000 amazingly creative sellers and find just about anything and everything you can imagine. What I love about Etsy is that there are so many unique items to purchase! If any of you have been on pinterest, A LOT of those pieces you see are available on Etsy. You can’t imagine the things you will find! It is such an addictive site so I must warn you, once you visit Etsy it is VERY hard to leave!! Happy Shopping!!

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February 17 2012

Worcester hospitality, Niche style.

By Dan Harvey | Massachusetts, Apartment Living, Food, Dan Harvey, | (2) Comments

Worcester, Massachusetts has many charms and none are more appreciated than the collection of unique restaurants and eateries. Foodies come from near and far to enjoy the offerings of these culinary hot spots. One restaurant group stands out among the rest, Niche Hospitality Group has 5 restaurants throughout Worcester each catering to specific taste. I could go on and on about all of the different locations but for now we’ll talk Mexican food.


When I’m craving the perfect margarita and Mexican food this is the place to go. They have an impressive cocktail menu but I recommend the house margarita, upgrade to 1800 tequila and you won’t be disappointed. Next I go for the guacamole flight, three types of guac feature fruit, corn nuts and the original. Did I mention it is made fresh and served traditionally in a molcajete? As for the main meal you can’t go wrong. Most recently I enjoyed the Salmon Vera Cruz, perfectly cooked salmon simmered with bell pepper and served with mint tomato salsa, simply amazing!

Mezcal Tequila Cantina- 166 Shrewsbury Street, Worcester. http://www.nichehospitality.com/

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February 17 2012

Tips For Sleeping Better

By Ashley Anger | Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Maine, Georgia, Apartment Living, Health, Lifestyle, | (1) Comments

Did you know that just about two-thirds of Americans do not get enough sleep? Seems true enough since everyone I practically know lives off of coffee. In reading the January issue of Shape Magazine they have some fantastic tips to getting a better sleep.

Gym Time- Go to the gym in the morning instead of evening. Working out can increase your core temperature, making it hard to doze off.

Cool It Down- Sleeping in a cool room helps your body stay comfortable without freezing or sweating.

Unplug It- Turn off all of your electronics. Although it’s tempting to stay on Pinterest and Facebook all night, turning off your devices will help your anxiety level, making it easy to relax.

Caffeine- Although a lot of people “live” off of caffeine, you may want to rethink that afternoon cup. Did you know that caffeine can stay in your system for up to 12 hours? That means if you turn to that afternoon pick me up, it can keep you awake into the wee hours of the morning.

No Alcohol- Some people rely on a glass of wine or a strong cocktail after work to help unwind. Make sure if you do treat yourself to some wine, it is only one glass and at least three hours before you turn in for the night.

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February 16 2012

Are You Getting Enough?

By Sheri Apprille | Maine, Multifamily, Apartment Living, Health, Food, Lifestyle, | (3) Comments

Water, that is.

You know where to find it. It's everywhere. It's the most accessible beverage on the planet. So why is it that most Americans are not getting enough? I hear people say, "Water is so boring. I can't just drink plain water." Yes you can and you should! Our bodies are in constant need of water replenishment. They depend on it to function properly. I found the following article online to be very informative. I would encourage you to click on it and seriously think about your own "water habits".

http://www.shapefit.com/water-benefits.html

If you are not drinking water regularly everyday, you need to start. Bring a large water bottle with you to work - 20 oz or larger. Set a goal for the time that you are going to finish it by. Then refill it and set another time goal. It will be difficult in the beginning and you will feel like there is no way you can get through all of that water. But if you stick to it every day, you will be amazed and won't even realize how much you are drinking anymore. It will become habit. Your body will adapt to it. Yes, you will find yourself heading to the restroom a little more frequently, but it is good for your body to get up and move throughout the day, which can be difficult when you work behind a desk all day. So welcome the chance to move and stretch your body.

My water bottle is 32 oz. I drink a minimum of 3 of these every day. Do the math. That's 96 oz or more everyday. That does not include the water I drink during my workouts. I try to have the first round done by 11am, the 2nd round done by 2pm and the 3rd round done - or close to being done by the end of the work day. There are some days where I never even have to think about it and then there are others where I am really busy and realize that I haven't been drinking enough water that day. So it's good to have a schedule to stay on track with.

I'm not saying you have to drink 96oz of water everyday like me. But you should be drinking at least 8 - 8oz glasses every day. The other thing to remember is that is should be spread out during the day. Your body needs the constant replenishment. So don't try to get it all in at the same time. You will see in no time you will be drinking water without even thinking about it. Then, you will start craving it! Imagine that!!

So I challenge you today....if you are not drinking enough water - start right now!

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February 15 2012

Adventure is out there

By Tracy Hilker | Massachusetts, Lifestyle, | (3) Comments

I'm a Disney freak. I love everything Disney, especially Pixar. One of my all time favorite love stories is UP. (even though Carl and Ellie are only in it together for about ten minutes into the movie) The main point of the movie is adventure, and going on adventures while you can enjoy them in life, not waiting until it is too late.

Here is my latest adventure. We are going on vacation in a few weeks, (18 days to be exact, but who is counting...) to, you guessed it, Disney World, YES, again... I told you I love Disney. Anyway, while we are there, we are celebrating a late Valentine's Day and early anniversary, by going to Queen Victoria's Room at The Grand Floridian Resort. This is a very exclusive and expensive, once in my life time experience. It is an elegant 4 hour event with a 10 course meal, your own butler, and many foreign foods... Well, foreign to me. (such as quail, elk, sweetbreads, caviar) Here is something you may not know. I am a wicked picky eater. I am one of a few New Englanders who HATE seafood. I love all vegetables and fruits, but when it comes to meat, if it's not chicken or beef, i cringe and have a VERY hard time trying anything different. In fact, I tried lamb for the first time a couple weeks ago. Even though it was tasty, I could not get into the whole "mind over matter" and it took everything I had not to spit it out. I know, awful right?

I was talking to a friend regarding this dinner, and how I am actually a bit nervous, as I really do want to try different things, but I don't know how to train my brain so to speak, to let me enjoy them. She could not comprehend this as she would try pretty much any kind of food. I told her that I just want to be able to try things with out getting the urge to get it out of my mouth because of what it is, not on how it tastes. She showed me an article in a magazine talking about self control and how to try new things. This article said to open doors, brush your teeth, drink, with the opposite hand that you use on a daily basis. After you can do that comfortably and get over those small hurdles, jumping the hills won't seem so bad.

This may sound so silly to some of you... (you can stop laughing now...) but it's huge to me. So, adventure is out there, and I am ready to find it! Or taste it...I want to be sure to fill up my adventure book with new sights, new sounds, new tastes, and new memories!

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February 15 2012

Positivity Is Contagious!

By Nicole Paulino | Health, Development, Lifestyle, | (1) Comments

Positivity is Contagious!

We all know how to be positive, but actually following through with this action all of the time is a different story. I have been lucky enough to attend several housing seminars & expos with phenomenal motivational speakers. I am truly grateful because this has inspired me to spread positivity to others. Every person has the power to gain control of any difficult situation and turn it around. If a negative situation occurs, the end result is all how you choose to perceive it. If you learn and train yourself to only see the positive side of things, your life will be a happier and more successful place.

One of my favorite motivational speakers is life coach Connie Pedesta. She has made such a huge impact on me and I would like to share my story of why. While on a break during A Fall Expo sitting in Starbucks, Connie approached me and a few other lovely Princeton employees. This was following her presentation as she was exiting the building to catch a flight with luggage in hand. She simply walked over and sat down asking us if there is anything at all she can advise us on in our life right now? I was really taken back that such a successful woman would take the time to speak with complete strangers out of no where. She genuinely wanted to help us, and guide us as best she could. Connie truly inspired me beyond belief, and I have been a huge fan ever since. This goes to show how one person can make a difference! I recommend her website @ http://conniepodesta.com/
You can also find her, and like her page on Facebook by searching Connie Pedesta Presents, or use this link: https://www.facebook.com/#!/Connie.Speaks

Here is a link to an article which will give you a refresher on positive thinking, and how it can benefit not only you, but everyone you come in contact with. A positive attitude goes a long way in the world today!

http://www.successconsciousness.com/index_000009.htm

"A pessimist is one who makes difficulties of his opportunities and an optimist is one who makes opportunities of his difficulties" -Harry Truman

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February 14 2012

Colors in Your Home and What They Mean

By Stacey Rocheville | Massachusetts, Multifamily, Apartment Living, Marketing, Lifestyle, Community, | (1) Comments

Colors in your home and what they mean…

I am always looking to find little things that turn ordinary space into the feeling of being home…I came across an article that I have enjoyed and thought to share it with all of you!

According to Benjamin Moore & Co., “Color affects our moods whether it is our living and working environments or the clothing we wear. We feel energized and uplifted by some colors, calmed and quieted by others.”

RED stimulates the appetite, raises blood pressure, attracts attention, creates excitement and takes control. It is forceful, bold, extreme, aggressive, impulsive, and energetic. Red suggests physical strength, rejuvenation, self confidence, love, passion, sensuousness, danger, courage, vitality. It is the first color the eyes see upon awakening.

ORANGE is friendly, cheerful, happy, associated with the thirst and refreshment, an energy color associated with movement. It creates a sense of order and equality without power and control. Orange is an antidepressant, conferring respiratory and intestinal health. It is bold, decreases hostility and irritability, with a social, gregarious, active, extroverted side.

YELLOW stimulates memory, mental clarity, with uplifting feelings of optimism, warmth, cheerfulness, wisdom and brightness. It aids digestion and stimulates circulation. Yellow is the most difficult color for the eye to process and see.

GREEN confers a sense of relaxation and comfort, represents health and prosperity, and refreshes the spirit. It is most well liked color and easiest color for the eye to see. It suggests balance, harmony, replenishment, heart health, growth, wealth, refreshment, compassion, rejuvenation, balance, moderation, concentration, security.

BLUE is non-threatening, and is symbol of trust and longevity. It is refreshing, soothing, calm, dependable, anti inflammatory, and insomnia and headache relief. It slows metabolism, lowers blood pressure, decreases heartburn and indigestion, and is associated with authority and strength. Blue is the most popular color in the United States.

PURPLE contains element of surprise and magic. It is philosophical and represents loyalty. It suggests romance, imagination, passion. It suppresses appetite and fosters love, wisdom, reverence, inspiration, spirituality, an enlightened feeling and quietness. Purple eases the mind and overactive glands, conveying elegance and artistic creativity.

BLACK suggests sophistication, elegance, dignity, power, worldliness, aloofness and mystery.

WHITE indicates purity, innocence, cleanliness, youth and naïveté.

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February 14 2012

Get Up & Get Moving!

By Kristen Donovan | Massachusetts, Multifamily, Apartment Living, Marketing, Health, Environmental, Lifestyle, Community, | (3) Comments

It's February. New Year resolutions are all but forgotten, it's cold outside, getting out of bed early is practically impossible, and it's way more tempting to go straight home after work and curl up under a blanket on the couch in front of the TV than it is to do anything else. Don't get me wrong - it feels incredible to hit the snooze button for 45 minutes straight and to be in your pajamas 30 seconds after you walk in the door at the end of the day (you can't really disagree with me on this, come on). But what good is any of that? Your days turn into nothing more than a pretty lazy sequence of events: you get up out of bed after sleeping 8 hours (ok, more like 5 or 6 for most people, I bet), you sit in your car and drive to work, you sit at your desk and do your work, you sit in your car on the way home from work, and you sit on the couch after work until you go to bed and sleep for several more hours before you get up and repeat the same cycle the very next day. Hello, inactivity! When you look at things that way, don't you think it's time to get up & get moving?

A year ago, after seeing how sedentary my life had become, I decided to get up and just do something. Don't get me wrong - I'm no gym rat by any standards; I don't even have a gym membership! For me, the answer was walking. Walking seemed like a no-brainer because it's pretty easy and the price - free - is definitely right. I started off with a turtle's-pace, 3-mile stroll around my neighborhood and, before I knew it, I worked my way up to 5-mile power walks several times a week. For me, it's just what I need to erase the sluggish feeling of body and mind that comes with inactivity.

What works for one person, however, may not cut it for another. I've talked to plenty of people who tell me there's no way they could feel they've had a workout just by walking; they need to run or lift weights or play a sport to feel they've accomplished something. So I did a little digging to see what kind of programs and options are out there for fitness buffs in the Metro West area. Turns out - there's a lot you could do! Check out the links below and tell me: What do YOU like to do besides channel surf the nights away?

- Breathe Wellness is on Cook Lane in Marlborough. I pass by it when I'm out for my walks and the parking lot is always full, so they must be doing something right! Yoga's on my to-try list for this year - any words of advice?

- New Life Health & Wellness is in the Courtyard Marriott on Felton Street in Marlborough. They offer personal training, corporate fitness, and group classes - including Zumba, my other to-try for this year. Everyone else seems to love it; do you?

- Wayside Raquet & Swim Club is on Broadmeadow Street in Marlborough (right around the corner from Princeton Green Apartments!). Their offerings include raquetball & tennis, aquatics, and lots of youth programs to help get your kids away from their game consoles. What a novel idea!

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February 12 2012

Cool things to do while visiting Worcester!

By Carrie Agusto | Massachusetts, Apartment Living, Corporate Furnished, | (2) Comments

These are just some of the fun things to do while your visiting the Worcester area. Most of these can be reached on just one tank of gas!

• Ecotarium - Lots of educational material and some live animals. It is right here in Worcester
• Discovery Museums - Located in Acton, MA (about one half an hour from Worcester, MA). The Science Discovery Museum offers more hands-on science than
it would seem possible to fit into the building - a fun time for the little scientist.
• New England Aquarium - Located in Boston, MA (about one hour from Worcester, MA).
• Museum of Science - Located in Boston, MA (about one hour from Worcester, MA).
• Science Centers on Nessie - The New England Space Science Initiative in Education provides an index by area to science centers.


For the animal lovers here are the area Zoos and Animal Farms:
• Barnyard Farm at Green Hill Park in Worcester - the easy way to see animals in the City.
• Overlook Farm - an educational farm in Rutland, MA (20 minutes from Saint George Church).
• Davis' Farmland - Petting zoo and recreation area in Sterling, MA (about 20 minutes from Worcester, MA).
• Southwick's Zoo - Located in Mendon, MA (about 35 minutes from Worcester, MA).
• Franklin Park Zoo - Located in Boston, MA (about one hour from Worcester, MA).
• Roger Williams Park Zoo - Located in Providence, RI (about one hour from Worcester, MA), this is the biggest and best zoo this close to Worcester.
Amusement Parks

Here are a few theme parks that are just a short ride away:

• Canobie Lake Park - Located in Salem, NH (about one hour from Worcester, MA).
• Six Flags New England - Located in Springfield, MA (just under one hour from Worcester, MA).

You can check out more by visiting http://www.pack91.info/See_and_Do.htm

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February 10 2012

Tweeting for Love (And a Good Cause)

By Shannon Flannery | Corporate Office, Marketing, Lifestyle, | (2) Comments

Does everyone remember Ted Williams?

No, not the Red Sox star. I’m talking about the former homeless man with the “golden voice” that had YouTube fame back in early 2011. Well he’s back for a Twitter-based Valentine’s Day campaign for Kraft Macaroni & Cheese.

From February 12 to the 14th, Williams will shoot 100 videos for Kraft’s “Golden Voice of Love” campaign. The videos will feature Williams himself reading select tweets using the hashtag #VoiceOfLove. The winners will then be able to send the video of their Tweet being read by Williams to their special someone. Who wouldn’t want a unique Valentine’s Day message spoken by the man with the “golden voice?” Kraft will tweet messages to the winners to notify them.

As an added bonus, there is a philanthropic component to this contest! Each tweet will trigger a donation of 100 food boxes to Feeding America, a homeless advocacy group. So let’s all jump on the bandwagon and support Ted Williams as well as America’s hungry this Valentine’s Day! Are you with me?

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February 10 2012

Be Prepared and Protect Your Pet From the Cold Weather!

By Kathy Sutherland | New Hampshire, Apartment Living, Health, | (1) Comments

Protecting pets from the cold weather should be on the mind's of all pet owners during the winter months. This information was taken from an article written by Janet Tobiassen Crosby, DVM

All pet owners should have a basic supply list of items that will last a few days in the event the weather could prevent local travel. This list includes items such as pet food, litter, fresh water supply, soft warm bedding and any medications your pet may take regularly.

All pets should have adequate shelter and should not be left outside for long periods of time in freezing temperatures. Animals can suffer from hypothermia and frostbite. If the pet is to be sheltered outside, it is not a good idea to use heating devices such as space heaters as these are a burn and fire hazard. Some pet supply stores sell heated mats that would be more appropriate to keep your pet warm. They also provide heated bowls which will prevent your pet's water supply from freezing and allow your pet to have fresh water at all times.

Foot care is important for your pet also. A dogs' hair should be clipped between their pads to prevent ice balls from forming which can cause difficulty walking. Salt and chemical de-icers cause dry, chapped and painful paws. This could result in a dog licking their paws and ingesting chemicals which can cause gastrointestinal problems. So be sure to wash your pet's paws after being outside.

Anti-freeze is also a danger to pets. Only a few licks can be fatal so be sure to lock up such chemicals, especially if your pet sleeps in the garage.

For more helpful information for you and your pet, go to http://vetmedecine.about.com

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February 09 2012

The Challenge of Furnishing Smaller Spaces

By Jocelyn Gill | Massachusetts, Multifamily, Apartment Living, Lifestyle, Community, | (1) Comments

Apartment living can be challenging for those who have lots of “stuff” that they’ve collected over the years. Many times, even the most fabulous apartment with gorgeous features just doesn’t have the room for a huge overstuffed sectional, and every last hat, scarf, magazine, book, blanket, CD, DVD, and every other little thing that you may have collected over the years. Not to mention how expensive finding perfect new furniture can be as well.

Facing this exact challenge, I began a Google search for “affordable apartment sized furniture with storage,” or some other variation of those words with the same idea. After scouring through the various links that came up in my search, I stumbled upon this amazing company called “Home Reserve.”

I am so impressed with Home Reserve that I don’t even know where to start. Not only do they have the space conscious furniture with storage that I was looking for, but they pride themselves on how affordable they are too. They have everything from ottomans to sectionals, 8 different collections, over 100 fabrics to choose from, including leather and pet friendly fabrics, and their sofas start at only $299!

I know what you’re thinking though-“If the prices are this low, then they must be poorly made, or there’s some other catch.” But the quality is outstanding, and the “catch” is that yes, you do have to put the furniture together. However, the instructions were the easiest instructions I’ve ever laid eyes on, they have multiple videos on their website to help you if you need further instruction, and the finished product is AMAZING.

My husband and I bought their “Tux” sofa and ottoman and I can’t tell you how many compliments we get on them. They are incredibly comfortable, we regularly take naps on them, and since they don’t have any sharp corners, we don’t even have to worry about our little one hurting himself as he learns how to walk. But the real marriage saver is the STORAGE! Now our winter accessories have a home, our blankets can be hidden away when we aren’t using them, and we have somewhere to store all of our DVDs and CDs that we don’t want to see cluttering up our small living room anymore.

So if you are facing the trial of finding stylish, quality furniture that will fit the smaller spaces that we sometimes find in apartment living, and you need more space to store your personal belongings as well, look no further! Check out Home Reserve! They make the challenge of furnishing a small space EASY!

http://www.homereserve.com/

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February 08 2012

Might as well face it I'm addicted to love!

By Tracy Hilker | | (0) Comments

I'm a total sucker... When it comes to dealings of the heart! As a teen going to a VERY small school where you grew up with the same kids you car pooled with as grade school chums, and graduating in a class of only nine people, it was hard to find a date. We all hung out together for EVERYTHING, so all the boys were like brothers to me, and after being with the same kids for 14 years, ya kinda get sick of each other.
So when I met my husband, and he came into my life and like a true knight in shining armor WOULD treat a princess, and swept me off my feet, I fell completely head over heels. (most of you who know me know I truly do fall, walk into walls, or slip on ice, so this was easy for me to do.)

Then came our first Valentine's day. My first Valentine's day with a boyfriend. I was nervous because like most singles who loathe a day when we see everyone act all lovey and gushy and we are just sitting there bitter and mopey (not saying I EVER did that... ), I had no idea what to expect. We had only been dating about a month, but he went over and above, and had me meet him in Boston where we took a bus to New York City, my first NYC trip ever! It was an awesome day! We did all the normal touristy stuff, and decided right then and there we would go back the next year and make it a tradition.

So here comes Valentine's Day number two. This year, he had something up his sleeve, literally. We decided to let my sister and my friend tag along with us for a weekend trip to NYC. This year was different. I'm pretty sure it was the year of the bear, cause that is what I was acting like. I was out of control, in a horrible mood, and just a mean person, hey, we all have our bad days (or weeks) right?

Let me set the scene for you... It was well below zero, we had 834 pieces of luggage, we had just gotten off the bus, after being on there for 4 hours, with Gabby McGabberson who talked on her phone in our ears from 6am-10am, cause who has other people up at that time of day that they can talk to??? Anyway... I was tired, didn't sleep, didn't eat, had to use the ladies room, wicked cold, blah blah blah... yeah it was that kind of day!

We got to the bus station at Times Square and Jeff asked me if I wanted to go across the street and have my friend stay on the other side and take some pictures. I gave him a very evil list of every single reason why I did not want to do that, and how it was stupid that our friend was going to take pictures with a video camera. (This was back in 2004 when technology was just not at it's finest...) I gave in, and we went across the street.

He looks over at my friend, gives him the thumbs up for him to start video taping, and gets down on one knee to ask me if I would be his wife...
Well... didn't I feel like a real jerk! I said yes of course! and had an amazing weekend from that moment on. I was happy, nothing was wrong in the world, I had a diamond on my finger, and a great man by my side!

Later on the stories came out, about how he called his mom and told her he didn't know what to do cause I was trying to ruin everything and was being mean... and that the night before we left my mum said many a prayer because she figured I was going to continue to be mean and ruin this special day... He even wrote in our photo book, we ordered one every Valentine's trip, "I hope you always remember this day, as I will always remember how you treated me that week..." HA! Whatever, I was having a bad one.

Anyway, I know some people get all, "I hate Valentine's Day, its SOOO commercial!" and "Valentine's day is stupid" but I just love it! I call it engagement day. Actually, when we were picking a wedding date, my husband suggested we pick August 14th... That way, every Valentine's Day is the 6 month mark to our anniversary. Sorry ladies, he's taken!

So that's the story of my favorite Valentine's Day... What about you?

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February 08 2012

Facebook Timeline now MANDATORY~Are you ready??

By Jessica Costanzo | Corporate Office, Corporate Furnished, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Maine, Georgia, Lifestyle, | (2) Comments

So all of you Facebook users out there, have you switched over to the new timeline yet? If not, get ready! According to a Facebook blog post, in the next few weeks it will become mandatory for ALL Facebook users!! Now, what the new timeline does is list all of your Facebook activities by date. Your home page will have a whole new look! You will have the chance to add Life Events or for some, CLEAN UP PAST EVENTS! With this new timeline, all of your past activity will be out there for people to see. So those past posts that you thought were not visible any longer, well WATCH OUT! They will be there FOR ALL TO SEE! You will be given 7 days to add or clean up your Facebook activities before it goes live. This doesn’t seem like much time to rewrite your life does it?? Just another change that Facebook is rolling out! And it seems that there are A LOT of people out there that are not happy about it!! According to Forbes magazine a surprising 70% of people said they didn’t like timeline. What do you think?? Now, I have switched to the timeline but boy do I miss the old Facebook. No tickers, no timelines…just a nice break from your day to check in on what everyone else is doing!;)

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February 07 2012

Feeling Stressed? Take a Walk on the Beach!

By Andrea Palermo | Maine, Health, Lifestyle, | (2) Comments

In our nice little city of Portland, Maine, there are many things to do and see. There are local artist’s works to view, excellent restaurants to enjoy, unique shops to peruse and many historical sites to see.

One of my favorite things to do, though, is simple, free and exhilarating. It’s a way to de-stress, free my mind and in this day and age of fast-paced living, a way to take some quiet time just for myself. A nice, long walk on the beach, winter, spring, summer or fall is sometimes just what the doctor ordered.

Luckily, given the area in which I live, I have many options of places to do this. My favorite place, however, is Pine Point Beach in Scarborough, Maine. A short drive from Portland, I am at the beach in less than 30 minutes. I drive there and when I come up over the hill on Pine Point Road, my first sight of the glimmering Atlantic immediately puts my mind at ease.

In the winter, the beach is empty, usually just a few hearty souls walking their dogs. In spring there are more locals, some jogging, some sitting enjoying the view but still bundled up to stay warm. In summer, the beach is packed with people, colorful beach umbrellas abound, beach blankets, chairs and tourists everywhere. In the fall, there are still people walking or sitting in groups talking, trying to soak up the last few days of warmth.

My favorite time to go is when the beach is empty, either in the winter or late in the afternoon in the summer when most people have gone home for dinner. I can walk and just watch the ocean shimmer, alive with motion, while the waves break in rhythmic time. Pine Point offers miles of beach to do this, for as long or as short of a time as one would like. Walk, run, collect shells or just sit lost in thought.

Check out more at http://pinepointbeach.com/

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February 07 2012

Home Remedies My Mother Told Me…..

By Tammy Jackson | Massachusetts, Multifamily, Health, Lifestyle, | (2) Comments

So, in case the Tales weren’t enough. How about some fun remedies from mom, as she says, “passed down from generations”?

Do you remember coming home with a bee sting and being told to put mud on it? What about drinking hot lemon drink if you have a sore throat? There are so many I can remember, so I thought I would share a few.

Here is a few that I still laugh about:

1. Have a pimple = put a dab of toothpaste on it.
2. Have a hickey = rub it with the bottom of a spoon
3. Have an earache = dip cotton ball in warm cooking oil and put in your ear
4. Baby teething = rub gums with whiskey

I can’t say I have ever tried these, nor do I recommend them, but if you feel the need….

Here are a few good ones that work:

1. Sunburn = dab milk soaked sponge or cloth on it.
2. Stain on clothing or upholstery = spot clean with luke warm water and baking soda, then pat dry.
3. Puffy eyes = dab with hemorrhoid cream (Okay, so using hemorrhoid cream on your face sounds funny, but it really works).

When you think of all the things you experienced as a kid and how many times you heard “try this”, there had to be some truth to these “Home Remedies”, because they always seemed to work.

I am sure everyone has experienced a few home remedies, passed down from mom. Do you have any tried and true of your own?

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February 06 2012

Do you Check In?

By Sarah Greenough | Corporate Office, Massachusetts, Marketing, Lifestyle, Community, Sarah Greenough, | (4) Comments

Have you noticed "Check-In" requests at some of your favorite stores recently? I've been noticing signs similar to the one in this post more and more. I was vacationing in Saratoga Springs this weekend, when I went to the register to pay for my merchandise I noticed a "Please Check-In" sign that offered to give me 5% off my purchase. Pretty cool! I was motivated by the potential discount so I checked in on Facebook. This simple and fun act rewarded me with a discount and the establishment received some very valuable and free advertising!
If you think about it, most of us have 100's of people on our Facebook pages. When you check in somewhere, these friends see the name of the establishment pop up on their news feed with your "stamp of approval". This is a fun and creative way to get the word out about a place you enjoy. Next time you're out shopping, look around, there may be an opportunity to check in and save! If not, ask the establishment to start the program. Free advertising for Free merchandise! Its a win win!

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February 05 2012

The Power of the Pen

By Janet Leazer | Health, Lifestyle, | (1) Comments

How daily writing enhances lives and relationships…….

Writing down your thoughts is a good way to maintain emotional and physical health, according to numerous studies on the benefits of therapeutic writing. People who write daily about their experiences “go to the doctor less and are psychologically healthier,” says James Pennebaker, author of Writing to Heal. For his tips on how to improve your life thorough the written word, visit www.americanprofile.com/writing

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February 04 2012

So-called Cures for the Common Cold

By Kristen Donovan | Massachusetts, Multifamily, Apartment Living, Health, Environmental, Lifestyle, Community, | (2) Comments

It's that wonderfully gross time of year when everyone you know seems to be roaming around with tissues sticking out of their sleeves and cough drops in their pockets: Cold season. Sadly, I'm one of those people right now; everyone that hears my nasally voice slowly backs away from me and asks if I'm ok (read: contagious). In the grand scheme of things, I'm fine; colds are just annoying. That being said, I'm always on the hunt for a new way to nurse myself to better health as soon as possible, so I decided to ask some residents what their go-to "cures" are for the common cold. Some of these I may try... others I'm more than a little wary of (sorry guys!):

- Luzia: Add lemon and honey to a hot cup of tea and drink it all before it cools down. Repeat every 90 minutes. This sounds like it involves me getting off the couch more often than I want to, but I bet it would soothe my sore throat!

- Jay: Boil water on the stove. Stand over stove, drape a towel over your head, and breathe in deeply for several minutes. The steam is supposed to clear the sinuses, which sounds great. Maybe I'm just accident-prone, but I'm pretty sure I'd set myself on fire if I did this. Try at your own risk!

- Andrea: Put Vik's Vapor Rub under your nose instead of just on your chest. If you can handle the intensity of the smell being directly under your nostrils, than give this a whirl and you could be better by tomorrow, according to this resident!

- Kleyton: Gargle several times a day with salt water. He says his mother made him do it when he got sick and, to this day, it always makes him feel better. Hmm.

I tend to drink plenty of hot tea all day, every day, when I'm sick. I take DayQuil when I'm feeling really crummy, though I do try to avoid loading up on medicine during the day because nothing helps me sleep better with a cold than my always-trusted NyQuil at night! What are some of your favorite home remedies?

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February 03 2012

The power of Green Tea

By Kristen Wellington | New Hampshire, Health, Lifestyle, | (1) Comments

Tis the season for the common cold and different strains of flu to emerge, and what I’ve found works well for me personally, is regularly drinking Green Tea. Here are some fun facts to hopefully encourage you to better health!

Green Tea originates from China, and it possesses antioxidents called catechins. Catechins scavenge for free radicals that can damage DNA and contribute to cancer, blood clots, and atherosclerosis. Grapes and berries, red wine, and dark chocolate also have potent antioxidants. And isn’t this great news for that Valentine you’re planning on spoiling?

The health benefits are largely due to its high content of flavonoids — plant-derived compounds that are antioxidants. Green Tea is the best food source of the catechins group. In test tubes, catechins are more powerful than vitamins C and E in halting oxidative damage to cells and appear to have other disease-fighting properties. Studies have found an association between consuming Green Tea and a reduced risk for several cancers, including, skin, breast, lung, colon, esophageal, and bladder. This evidence certainly suggests that incorporating at least a few cups of green tea every day will positively affect your health," says Diane McKay, PhD, a Tufts University scientist who studies antioxidants.

So, cheers to good health! And don’t forget to stock up on your Green Tea!

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February 03 2012

Things I would Rather Do...

By Tracy Hilker | Massachusetts, Lifestyle, | (4) Comments

I know I am going to get slack for this... But, I do not care about the Super Bowl this weekend. There... I said it! But it's true. I'm just not into sports, and as much as I have tried, I just can't stand watching them.

However, I will watch the Super Bowl this weekend with my husband, because I love him and he loves football and the Patriots and it is something he enjoys... (plus he will be using the good tv so... my options get small at that point.) And trust me, he will go to musicals and plays with me, so I suppose I should return the favor.

Here is a list of things I would rather do than watch the Super Bowl:

1. Reorganize my tupperware drawer
2. Take a long nap
3. Go out to dinner, I bet I wouldn't have to make a reservation!
4. Find all the matches to my missing socks... (last count I had 67 single socks, how does that even happen? )
5. Pinch my arm till it turns purple... over and over and over again
6. Untangle a ball of yarn
7. Play 52 pick up
8. Enter work orders into AMSI
9. Go to the movies, I can sit in the best seat in the house!! Middle of theater, middle row, middle seat. Just saying..
10. Have a baby. Oh wait... thats just Beth here in the office... So I guess I cant use THAT excuse...

Well, I hope you die hard fans have a great time watching! I'll be looking around my apartment dreaming of things I'd rather do and listening to my husband hoot, hollar and cheer.

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February 03 2012

Pack Like A Pro

By Ashley Anger | Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Maine, Georgia, Travel, | (2) Comments

‘Tis the season for traveling and going away to warmer weather. Packing is probably the worst part about traveling, no matter the trip. Here are a few great tips that will make packing the easiest part of it all.

Jewelry- Wear your most valuable jewelry on the day you leave. For your costume bling, wrap them up individually in small Ziploc bags to avoid tangling.

Clothing- Roll your clothing instead of folding. This will maximize the amount of space in your suitcase!

Cosmetics/Toiletries- Pack liquid products into clear refillable bottles. It will make it easier when you go through airport security. Make sure to put them in an exterior pocket for easier access.

Wrinkle Free Care- For crease-prone garments, lay them on a few sheets of tissue paper and fold them up. You want to make sure to pack these on top of the rest of your clothing.

The bulk of it- For larger, bulkier items, pack them first and at the bottom of your suitcase. That way you can pack clothes between the odd nooks.

With these simple tips, you're going to want to do more traveling. And you no longer have to dread the packing process. Happy traveling!

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February 03 2012

Superbowl 2012, by the numbers

By Dan Harvey | | (2) Comments

Superbowl by the numbers...

Even for a non football fan like me the pull of the superbowl is inescapable. I too with the other 151 million people will watch the game, or parts of it. It's interesting to dissect this world wide phenomenon we call the Superbowl.

46: Don’t let those pesky Roman numerals trick you. This is Super Bowl 46.

1.25 billion: Of course, with that many chicken wings expected to get consumed on Sunday, it may serve a napkin advertiser well to get some ad time.

68,000: Seats inside Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, the home of the NFL’s Colts and host of the Super Bowl. Of those tickets, 17.5% were given to each team to sell to their fans.

$4,000: The average price that Super Bowl tickets are hovering around, if you missed out on the $800 to $1,200 face value price in the initial offering.

19: Hours of live Super Bowl coverage you can subject yourself to, if you dare.

$25,000: Cost of the Vince Lombardi Trophy, given to the Super Bowl winners, made by Tiffany & Co. of New York.

13,000: Hotel rooms in Indianapolis. All are booked for the weekend and some at a 1,700% higher price than the conventional fee.

2,000: Tuesday’s media day was a standing-room-only event, with 2,000 media credentials granted and another 7,000 tickets sold to fans wanting to watch the circus.

150: Super Bowl rings the NFL pays for, at $5,000 each, for the winning team to hand out to players and staff.

$3.5 million to $4 million: That average price tag for a 30-second Super Bowl commercial time slot during NBC’s telecast of the game didn’t dissuade potential advertisers, since the majority of the slots have been sold out since November. But can they wow audiences and generate lasting buzz? That’s the $3.5 million bet.

87 percent: Increase in the price of a 30-second commercial slot in the last 40 years.

111 million: Anticipated television viewers tuning in for the game, meaning that advertisers don’t have any qualms about dropping $3.5 million on the chance to get their product/service in front of that many eyes for 30 seconds. And with two teams from two large markets, don’t expect a drop in total viewers this year.

48: Minutes of commercials during last year’s Super Bowl on FOX. You can expect something similar this year.

1: Times Indianapolis has hosted the Super Bowl. Yeah, the Midwest city will make its first Super Bowl impression on Sunday. Will it fare better than last year’s iced-in, ticket-fiasco-marred Dallas Super Bowl?

17-14: Winning score for the Giants when they defeated the then-unbeaten Patriots in the 2008 Super Bowl in Phoenix.

$11 billion: Amount consumers are expected to spend on the Super Bowl (hey, those chicken wings aren’t free, people) each year.

3: Songs Madonna is expected to perform during her set at halftime of the game.

6:30(ish) p.m. Eastern: The actual game (and good commercials) don’t happen for all 19 hours. Expect kickoff to come just a couple of minutes after 6:30 p.m. Eastern and then last well into the evening. You may want to cook up some more wings.


Read more: http://newsfeed.time.com/2012/02/02/the-2012-super-bowl-by-the-numbers/#ixzz1lKqtIuUZ

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February 02 2012

Bow Wow Trivia!

By Leeann Stella | Massachusetts, Multifamily, Apartment Living, Lifestyle, Community, | (2) Comments

For all you dog lovers looking to make a difference, check this out. Get your daily dose of trivia and feed a shelter dog while you’re at it with just a click. At Freekibble.com, it’s that easy! Guess the daily trivia question and 10 pieces of kibble are donated to feed shelter dogs. You don't have to be a doggie expert to make a difference. Right or wrong, your answer counts. Every dog deserves a good daily meal while they wait for their forever homes. Don't worry cat lovers, there is kitty trivia too.

This concept was developed in 2008 by Mimi Ausland. She was 11 years old at the time. Since the launch of Freekibble.com, they have gained Halo, Purely for Pets (Ellen Degeneres is a co-owner) as a kibble sponsor. Together Mimi, sponsors and everyone out in cyber land that play their daily Bow Wow Trivia, have contributed more than 698,002,300 pieces of kibble that have been enjoyed by shelter cats and dogs all over the US (including Boston cats and dogs).

Mimi’s story and mission made it on the Nightly News with Brian Williams. This story sheds light on the growing foreclosure epidemic in America and the efforts to help the pets that have been affected.

http://www.freekibble.com/press-nightly-news.asp

http://freekibble.com/default.asp

Join me in playing Bow Wow Trivia and lets help give these down on their luck dogs a good meal.

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February 01 2012

Gas Buddy~ THIS APP IS A MUST!!

By Jessica Costanzo | Massachusetts, Travel, Lifestyle, | (1) Comments

OK everyone….I’ve got a great app for you to download! It’s called Gas Buddy and it is SO COOL! If you are anything like me and drive your car until you are running on fumes because you HATE to stop for gas, this app is a MUST! Once you’ve downloaded the app, you will need to put in your information…nothing too personal! Then you can start your search for not only the nearest gas station, but it actually gives you all the gas prices too!! How great is that!! You can even search for a particular gas station! Me personally, I like to fill up at Irving to save on my lift tickets. Once you’ve chosen a particular gas station, you click on it and it tells you everything they have there, including atm, restroom, and restaurant! I mean it doesn’t get any easier than that! How convenient when you are unfamiliar to an area, to have all of that information…right at your fingertips!! So go ahead and make your life just a little bit easier!! Check out Gas Buddy and then come back and tell me what you thought!

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February 01 2012

Importance of Voting

By Lisa Bettencourt | Massachusetts, Lifestyle, Community, | (1) Comments

How many of us have at one time or another said something like, “If I was president, I would…”? Well, we may never get the chance to be president, but we do have a say when we vote. I hope that all of you do get out there and vote, but to those who don’t, I want to express why it is important to do so.
Many people think that their vote does not matter. Well that is the far from the truth. There have been many elections, and not just on a local level, that have been decided by less than 100 votes. So thinking that your vote does not count could not be farther from the truth. Maybe you think that it doesn’t matter who gets picked, they’re all the same. That’s not true either. Please keep in mind that who becomes President has the power to nominate new Supreme Court Justices, who remain in office for life or until they retire. The Supreme Court Justices are the ones who interpret the constitution, and consequently determine how each American will live his or her life. So basically, which candidate would you prefer to choose the most influential position in this country?
If it’s not the social issues that you care most about then maybe it’s the financial issues that are most important to you. The politicians we elect decide how much we pay in taxes and how that money is spent. Propositions on the ballot determine whether your property taxes or sales taxes will rise. Also, Health care, Social Security and defense spending are important but significant financial strains on our economy. Vote for leaders and actions that will spend money the way you want it spent.
The votes you make will impact your children, grandchildren and all the generations that follow. Vote to improve the world they will live in. Please educate yourselves on the candidates and what issues they are for or against. If you don't vote, you have no right to complain about the way the country is being run. If you haven’t already done so, register to vote now! November will be here before you know it.

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January 31 2012

Sweet Victory - A Twist on a Classic Game Time Snack!

By Laurel Schneider | Massachusetts, Food, Lifestyle, | (2) Comments

Sick of the same old chips and salsa combo when you’re watching the game? Try this sweet twist on a classic!

FRUIT SALSA & CINNAMON CHIPS

Ingredients
• 2 kiwis, peeled and diced
• 2 Golden Delicious apples - peeled, cored and diced
• 8 ounces raspberries
• 1 pound strawberries
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 3 tablespoons fruit preserves, any flavor
• 10 (10 inch) flour tortillas
• butter flavored cooking spray
• 2 tablespoons cinnamon sugar

Directions
1. In a large bowl, thoroughly mix kiwis, Golden Delicious apples, raspberries, strawberries, brown sugar and fruit preserves. Cover and chill in the refrigerator at least 15 minutes.
2. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
3. Coat one side of each flour tortilla with butter flavored cooking spray. Cut into wedges and arrange in a single layer on a large baking sheet. Sprinkle wedges with desired amount of cinnamon sugar. Spray again with cooking spray.
4. Bake in the preheated oven 8 to 10 minutes. Repeat with any remaining tortilla wedges. Allow to cool approximately 15 minutes. Serve with chilled fruit mixture.

Don’t have time to bake your own tortilla chips? No problem! Grab a bag of cinnamon pita chips at the grocery store!

GO PATS!!!

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January 31 2012

The Dirty Dozen and Clean 15

By Nathan Strange | Maine, Health, Food, Lifestyle, | (1) Comments

The Dirty Dozen

With much of the current focus of a healthy “Green” lifestyle leading consumers to all-natural and organic foods, here are some tips on eating healthy while saving some money.

The dirty dozen is a list of the 12 fruits and vegetables that contain the most pesticides, chemical fertilizers, and are the least sustainable crops.

Try to avoid buying conventional fruits and veggies from the list below.

Here is a list of The Dirty Dozen:

1. Apples
2. Celery
3. Strawberries
4. Peaches
5. Spinach
6. Nectarines (Imported)
7. Grapes (Imported)
8. Bell Peppers
9. Potatoes
10. Blueberries
11. Lettuce
12. Kale / Collard Greens


There is little doubt that organic foods are better for you, but not everyone has an open-ended budget. So, what conventional foods can you buy and still reap the benefits of the nutrients, and save some dough?

When eating a 100% organic diet doesn’t fit into your weekly budget, consider saving a little money on fruits and veggies that conventionally contain small amounts of pesticides, chemical fertilizers, and are more sustainable crops.

To save money try buying conventional fruits and veggies from the list below.

Here is a list of the Clean 15:

1. Onions
2. Corn
3. Pineapple
4. Avocado
5. Asparagus
6. Peas
7. Mango
8. Eggplant
9. Cantaloupe (Domestic)
10. Kiwi
11. Cabbage
12. Watermelon
13. Sweet Potato
14. Grapefruit
15. Mushroom

Eating organic and saving money can be possible. I shop for food at 4 different stores, 3 on a weekly basis, in order to save money and eat healthy.

I have found Trader Joes to have the lowest prices on organic items like apples, oranges, onions, green peppers, broccoli, lettuce, baby carrots, mushrooms, spinach, chicken sausage (natural), eggs, dairy, dried fruit and nuts, pasta, and rice, and meats (when buying meat from a local natural butcher is not an option).

Hannaford tends to have the lowest price on organic foods like bananas, chicken (natural) keifer (natural), coffee, juice, salsa, frozen vegetables, popcorn.

Your local health food store prices might surprise you. I buy most of my bulk items like spices (granulated garlic, salt, pepper, fresh cayenne pepper, Italian herbs, rosemary, etc…), exotic dried fruit and nuts, Japanese sweet potatoes, local summer vegetables, bulk cheeses, bulk coffee, oils, wild caught canned tuna, and honey at my local health food store. The prices of items at local health food stores are often controlled by the season. You can get great deals from local farms during the summer on fruits and vegetables.

Happy Shopping!

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January 31 2012

The Super Bowl - It's Not Just About Football!

By Shannon Flannery | Corporate Office, Marketing, Lifestyle, | (4) Comments

The Super Bowl isn’t just about football. It’s also about advertising! Ads airing during Super Bowl XLVI cost an average of $3.5 million per 30-second spot on Sunday night’s NBC telecast. That’s a big chunk of change for 30 seconds! Companies are notorious for pulling out the big guns with their Super Bowl ads. Some are great while others just aren’t worth the money!

Every year, more and more companies are releasing their Super Bowl ads early — reasoning that even though this WILL spoil the surprise for some viewers, it will generate even greater value in the added online and social media buzz.

Car manufacturers seem to be the ones opening their pockets this year. Some ads to keep an eye out for this year include Audi’s “Vampire Party” ad, Chevy’s “Happy Grad” ad and my personal favorite so far; Honda’s “Ferris Bueller” ad (seen above). Enjoy the game (and the ads), everyone!

Go Pats!

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January 28 2012

Countdown to V-Day

By Kristen Donovan | Corporate Office, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Maine, Georgia, Apartment Living, Marketing, Health, Travel, Food, Lifestyle, Community, | (2) Comments

Ok, so maybe the title of this blog post made you cringe, but let's face it - whether we like it or not, Valentine's Day is doing its best to sneak up on us pretty quickly. The stores are overflowing with sappy cards, boxes of chocolate, and sweet little stuffed animals that make kissing sounds...and if I see one more commercial for a piece of jewelry called the "Red Hot Love Bead," I don't think I'll make it to February 14th. All the commercial stuff aside, it can be a fun little holiday whether you're part of a couple or not. Boston.com has provided a great list of 14 date ideas for Valentine's Day that are definitely worth looking into. Here are some of my favorites from the list:

- For all the single ladies, there's the Princess & the Frog Speed Dating event on February 11th. Don't be too intimidated to try this! A certain someone I know who shall remain nameless because I don't want to embarrass her happened to meet the man of her dreams at one such event - so give it a try!

- How about a cruise on the Spirit of Boston? Afraid it might be too cheesy? Don't be silly! Yours truly actually went on this cruise last year and it was a very impressive and romantic evening (aww). The dinner is delicious, the music is perfect, and the scenery couldn't be better (helllooo Boston skyline!).

- Oooor you could go on a Naked Scavenger Hunt at the MFA. I picked this one because the name is slightly scandalous but the actual event is quite tame: you'll simply be searching for works of art in the museum that feature nudity. Couples or singles can giggle away as you find the, err, "love" in each masterpiece. Could be fun!

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January 28 2012

Do you GROUPON?

By Jessica Costanzo | Corporate Office, Corporate Furnished, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Maine, Georgia, Lifestyle, Community, | (2) Comments

How many of you out there have heard of Groupon? For those of you who have not…YOU ARE MISSING OUT!! Groupon is one of many different sites out there that offer daily deals to local businesses. GREAT deals too! I’m talking anywhere from 50-90% off ! It’s easy too…all you need to do is go to their website, www.groupon.com and put in a little bit of information about yourself. Once you’re signed up, you will start receiving daily emails with great deals from LOTS of local businesses. Based on the information you give to groupon, they will send you deals that they think will be of interest to YOU. It is a great way for not only you to get some fabulous deals, but for local businesses to get their name out there. You can access these great deals right from your mobile device making it even easier for you to save! Check out the Groupon app on your iphone or Android phone. You can redeem your deals right from your phone anytime(without killing trees)!!! Now get on out there and join the rest of us Happy Groupon Customers!!

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January 28 2012

The Best Way To Prevent The Flu & Other Common Viruses

By Heather Libby | | (1) Comments

Every year Influenza (the flu) effects up to 20% of the population and even hospitalizes on average 200,000 people. It is easily spread from person to person and can even be spread by touching something with the virus on it and touching your mouth or nose afterward. Did you know the average person touches there face 3-4 times per minute! I bet your thinking about touching your face right now even. Good news though, Influenza is not the plague. It can be treated and better yet, prevented.

The best way to prevent The Flu:

Get vaccinated. This is the first and best step in preventing the Flu. A doctor’s appointment can be easily scheduled and most local pharmacies such as Walgreens, CVS, and RiteAid offer flu shots.

Wash your hands often with warm water and antibacterial soap. Using an alcohol based hand sanitizer when you are unable to wash your hands is the next best thing.

Avoiding touching your mouth, your nose, and putting hands or fingers in your mouth when ever you can. During Flu season it is even best to avoid eating those fun finger foods with your fingers. If you must eat with your fingers washer your hands right before and avoid touching anything else in between.

Stay hydrated and takes vitamins. Drinking water and taking a daily vitamin is an easy way to keep the body and immune system healthy. It’s a simple and yummy as drinking water and eating an orange!

Get plenty of sleep. A lack of sleep can lower the immune system causing you to become more susceptible to the flu and other viruses. Try to get the recommended 8 hours of sleep per day.

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January 27 2012

Great Houseplants for Apartments

By Ashley Anger | Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Maine, Georgia, Apartment Living, Health, Environmental, | (2) Comments

Many common houseplants not only add attractiveness to your home, but they emit oxygen and are natural air purifiers. This is especially important when homes are closed tight during winter!

Some of these plants require little maintenance and can adapt well to low light. Houseplants are not expensive and can be found at local nurseries and grocery stores.

Heartleaf Philodendron- Also known as the sweetheart vine, is a common houseplant with heart-shaped green leaves that prefers low light. This is a great plant for beginners as it is tolerant of many conditions and super easy to grow.

Spider Plant- Also known as airplane plants, they have long, skinny green leaves that have a white stripe going down the center of each leaf. This is an attractive plant that does best in a pot that allows the leaves to fall out around the edge of the pot.

Janet Craig- Also called the green corn plant, this common houseplant helps purify the air. It is a bushy plant that has long green leaves. It is a slow growing plant that requires low to medium light.

Peace Lily- This plant has long green foliage with white, half-shaped blooms. For best results, keep this plant within 5- 8 feet from a window. Keep the plant away from drafts and clean the leaves regularly.

Snake Plant- Also called the devil’s tongue, this plant has sword shaped leaves that are green and feature a variety of patterns. The snake plant is an air purifier that that will remove xylene, toluene and formaldehyde from the atmosphere.
These are just a few easy to grow plants. For more information on houseplants, please visit these websites.

http://www.plantcare.com/
http://www.PlantOasis.com/

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January 27 2012

Feeling Lucky?

By Maggie Ledgard | | (1) Comments

Scratch tickets are a guilty pleasure to many in this state, myself
included. The allure of making millions of dollars for doing virtually
nothing is too powerful to walk away from, even if the odds are
incredibly outweighed. It is the antithesis of the American Dream. So
what are you really buying into and what is the underlying benefit for
the state of Massachusetts?

The 2012 budget for the state has $985 billion coming from lottery
profits, which makes up about 7.6% of their non-tax revenue. Without
these contributions, the state would be making some significant
changes to their fiscal budget. It is also a great way to stimulate an
economy. If someone gave you millions of dollars for scratching a
ticket with a quarter, what would you do with the money? Put it in a
savings account and just stare at it? Hell no, you’re going to buy a
new house, that fresh new Lamborghini, and take your friends to Vegas
for a week. All of this money is just being pumped back into the
economy. Not to mention the fact that the state and federal government will tax
your income for the winnings too.
(http://www.massbudget.org/)

When you buy a scratch ticket you are supporting a system which will
unlikely produce any real tangible benefit for you, but helps support
businesses throughout the state. But wouldn’t you want to decide where
your money goes?

So on second thought, don’t play the lottery, donate that money to some organization
that really needs help, like the American Cancer Society Daffodil Days!
https://secure3.convio.net/tacs/site/Donation?ACTION=SHOW_DONATION_OPTIONS&CAMPAIGN_ID=16379&PROXY_ID=1843881&PROXY_TYPE=20&FR_ID=42853
...on those days that you're feeling extra lucky though, it's worth a shot

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January 27 2012

Go Green!

By Lyndsay Geer | Health, Environmental, Lifestyle, Community, | (1) Comments

I am very proud to say I work for a company that has taken many proactive steps to “go green.” I have a lot of pride when talking to future residents concerning the steps Princeton has taken at the Billerica community. (e.g., solar panels, energy efficient lights & thermostats, as well water aerators!)

Ever since I was young, I was taught to respect the environment and strive to keep its natural beauty intact. This could be partially due to the fact that my dad has worked for the Massachusetts Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs for 30 years  However, I do make a conscious effort to take positive steps to protect the environment. (e.g., shorter showers, always turning lights off, recycling, etc.)

While researching “going green” tips I came across a lot of effective ways to help our environment. Although, many businesses and people practice environment friendly strategies, it is vital that more and more individuals start to implement little yet helpful techniques to protect the future of humans, animals, and our beautiful planet!

http://simplemom.net/tips-to-go-green-at-home/?doing_wp_cron=1327679879

“When green is all there is to be, it can make you wonder why, but why wonder. I’m green and it’ll do fine, it’s beautiful, and I think it’s what I want to be.” –Kermit the Frog.

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January 27 2012

Can't decide on dinner? Let Otto cook for you!

By Tim Richard | Maine, Apartment Living, Food, Lifestyle, Community, | (1) Comments

Everyone loves a good slice of pizza. For many, pizza is the essential comfort food. It is also often used as payment to friends who might help you move into your new place or as the go to meal if you haven’t unpacked your cooking stuff yet. For a long time in Portland, the choices for pizza were limited to either a chain (i.e. Pizza Hut, Dominoes etc) store or a local pizza/sub shop. Both options left much to be desired, generally exhibiting limp, lifeless crust, shredded cheese out of a plastic bag and topped haphazardly with little thought to how toppings taste together.

Then, suddenly, out of nowhere, in June of 2009 Otto opened its doors at 576 Congress Street amid the art galleries, watering holes and music venues at the heart of downtown. Otto began offering a truly superior slice to the masses, with topping combinations that focus on amazing taste combinations, plays on old stand-by topping combos and new flavors I had never seen on a pie in Portland. Otto was putting out gourmet style pies in a very unassuming way (you get you slice or two on a paper plate)in a very unpretentious atmosphere. Otto’s thin crust has an almost cracker-like crunch to it when it is pulled hot from the ovens at the back of the store, but also exhibits a satisfying chewiness at the rim. Their mashed potato, bacon and scallion slice stood out to me on my first visit as a very different taste for a pizza, but one that thoroughly amazed. A soggy slice of pepperoni would no longer suffice, knowing that Otto would supply a pizza that can make you roll your eyes and mumble “Oh, gawd that’s good,” through a shameless mouthful of warm tastiness.

You can either put together your own combination of toppings on either a red or white sauced pie or go with one of the 24 house favorites on their menu. Their dough is always made in-house and is perfectly fresh. Their toppings are all prepared fresh and using the freshest and locally sourced ingredients. Otto’s take on the Hawaiian pizza, traditionally made with ham and pineapple, features tender pulled pork made on-site and chunks of sweet mango adding a tartness to balance the richness of the pork.

Check out their menu at ottoportland.com. Or just head over to one of their two locations in Portland, one small shop at the head of Forest Ave has very little seating, but you can sit down at Enzo, the space next to Otto, where beer and wine is sold and the friendly wait staff will bring your pizza over to you. The other location is at the bottom of Munjoy Hill near the intersection of Washington Ave and Congress St (225 Congress). This location features a full bar and sit down service. Just recently Otto has expanded and opened a location in Harvard Square in Cambridge, MA (1432 Mass. Ave.) so all you folks in the Boston area can now experience what I believe will be your new favorite slice!

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January 27 2012

Ditch the Workout and Join the Party!

By Sheri Apprille | Corporate Office, Corporate Furnished, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Maine, Georgia, Apartment Living, Health, Lifestyle, Community, | (0) Comments

Are you bored with the treadmill? Tired of waiting for a machine at the gym? Or just looking for something different to spice up your work out? I have one word for you.....ZUMBA!



Zumba is a latin-inspired dance fitness program that is taking the world by storm. Since its inception in 2001, the Zumba program has grown to become the world's largest – and most successful – dance-fitness program with more than 12 million people of all shapes, sizes and ages taking weekly Zumba classes in over 110,000 locations across more than 125 countries.

Now, I know what you are probably thinking. "Well, that sounds great, but I can't dance, I have no rhythm, I'm not coordinated, I'm out of shape...blah, blah, blah." These are nothing but excuses, people! It sounds intimidating, but I promise you, it is not. It is NOT about the steps! It is NOT a dance class! It is a workout that is for everyone – no matter what level of fitness you are at! Classes are judgment free and all levels are encouraged to participate.

It is the most fun you will ever have while working out. It is a proven fact that you can burn up to 1,000 calories per hour doing Zumba. The music is fun! The moves are fun! And it really does feel like a party.

I started taking Zumba in May 2010. I quickly became addicted to it and was taking it 4 times per week. I couldn't get enough! By December 2010, I knew I had to take it to the next level and I became a certified Zumba Instructor. I have been teaching my own classes for the past year (2 nights per week) and I attend other Zumba classes at least 1 to 2 nights in addition to my own classes. Zumba has helped me lose over 50 lbs! I have lost a total of 97lbs, but along the way I had hit a plateau. During that plateau, I discovered Zumba and it blasted me right through it! I lost 9lbs in the first month!

Zumba is now showing up in night clubs across the country. The music is so popular and inviting that you can’t help but move to it. You can also find Zumba for the Wii, Playstation 3 and X-Box! If you are not comfortable enough to take a class, then you can certainly do it in the privacy of your own home!

You will be surprised, however, at how many people (men and women) are just like you in a Zumba class! You go at your own pace and you do what you can – that is encouraged! The bottom line is you are out there, doing something fun that is good for you, no, make that, GREAT for you!

Don’t take my word for it, try it yourself! You owe it to yourself to at least try it once! Go to http://www.zumba.com to find a class near you!

I know this sounds cliché, but it is 100% true, if I can do this, you can do this! Still not convinced? Ask yourself this, when was the last time you smiled and laughed during a workout? Don’t wait any longer! Join the party today!

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January 26 2012

Extreme Couponing

By Victoria Senft | Corporate Office, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Maine, Georgia, Lifestyle, | (0) Comments

There are now a lot more people interested in using coupons, thanks in part to the new reality TV show called Extreme Couponing. Many people can find couponing very overwhelming or simply just don’t know how to begin. Hopefully this information will help get you started so that you can start saving! The first order of business is to get your hands on some coupons.

I would suggest starting very small and working your way up. I do not recommend running out and buying 20 copies of your local newspaper and clipping coupons, since experience has taught me that this can be an incredibly time consuming task.
So there are two primary ways to get coupons; the Sunday paper and the internet.

Begin by researching the newspapers in your area, some newspapers may have different inserts or double the amount of coupons than other newspapers, so it is important that you check out all your options. Before you go crazy ordering tons of subscriptions, I would suggest using coupons for a while until you get comfortable with the process. I know some sites will recommend getting 10 or more papers a week, but that can be very difficult to manage.

When you receive the Sunday paper clip as many coupons as you can, then tuck them away in your little pouch and wait for the right time to use it to get the biggest bang for your buck. You want to make sure you hold onto these coupons because you never know when they will come in handy. Some coupons may expire in 30 days and some might not expire for an entire year. We can talk more about fabulous ways to organize all your coupons later, but for now, let’s get saving!

Next, start collecting internet coupons, the first time you print from most coupon sources like coupons.com, smart source or red plum, they will require that you download coupon printer software. Each coupon has a unique barcode, so that is why you need this download. If you install the software once you should not have to do it again. As you become more experienced you will quickly recognize and print hot coupons. Hot coupons are exactly that “hot” or “the most wanted” coupons and can disappear very quickly, they may even have limits set on how many can be printed. So procrastinating will get you no where! Also, you can usually get two copies of the coupon by using your back bar to go back and the coupon should spool a second time. Don’t cheat yourself out of your second copy by forgetting to do that. If you want additional coupons, you either need access to more computers or you will need to sweet talk a friend into printing coupons for you. It is never okay to photocopy coupons it is a crime with stiff fines.Remember, coupons can be found everywhere! Grocery stores even have machines that spit out coupons, if it is a product you normally use, be sure to grab more than one and tuck it away for later use.

Lastly, you will want to understand the coupon policies for each of the stores you will be visiting. Each store has slightly different policies which could prevent you from getting the best deal. You can research this on the store website or simply visit the customer service desk in the store. Remember these policies can change at any time so be sure you check back every few months for updates.
So there you have it! You have officially completed Couponing 101, so start clipping and begin saving!

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January 26 2012

Tips for Renters to Save Energy and Money Starting Today!

By Kathy Sutherland | Corporate Office, Corporate Furnished, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Maine, Georgia, Multifamily, Apartment Living, Environmental, Corporate Furnished, Community, | (1) Comments

An energy-efficient home is something that everyone should strive for. It will provide a comfortable living environment while saving you money. There are many ways renters and homeowners can save money and energy by simply incorporating a few simple changes to their everyday routine. Below, are a few simple low-cost and no-cost ways to start saving today:
• Turn things off when you are not in the room such as lights, TV’s, entertainment systems, and your computer and monitor
• Plug home electronics into power strips and turn the strips off when the equipment is not in use
• Take short showers instead of baths
• Be sure your dishwasher is full, not overloaded, when in use
• Air dry dishes instead of using the dishwasher’s drying cycle
• Use less water and use cooler water when washing clothes
• Air dry clothes
• Attach heavy-duty, clear plastic sheets to the inside of your window frames to reduce drafts
• Close curtains and shades at night to keep out drafts and open them during the day to let in the warm sunlight
• Install energy efficient light bulbs

For more energy-saving ideas, visit energysavers.gov

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January 25 2012

Tales My Mother Told Me

By Tammy Jackson | Massachusetts, | (4) Comments

Sitting down to dinner recently, the topic of “Where did that come from?” came up when I blurted out, “See, that’s what you get; god is punishing you!” I know that sounds like a terrible thing to say, but the funny part is that it has been said many times over - and not by just me, but by my mom, my nana, and maybe even you.

So we all chimed in with tales our mothers told us:

1. If you have an itchy palm…money is coming your way.

2. If you have ringing in your ears…someone is talking about you.

3. If you swallow your gum…it will get tangled up in your ribs.

4. If you cross your eyes…they will stay like that.

I’m sure you have some of your own, but let’s think about these things for a minute! Honestly, how would gum get tangled up in your ribs? Have you ever gotten money when your palm started to itch? Where do these things come from? How is it that so many people have heard them?

I know there are plenty more. Do you have some favorite tales your mother told you?

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January 25 2012

Super Bowl Rematch

By Cathy Vilardi | Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Maine, Georgia, Lifestyle, Community, | (2) Comments

A Super Bowl rematch between the New England Patriots and New York Giants is expected to be well worth the price of admission. On Sunday February 5th millions of people will tune in to see two of the best quarterbacks in the NFL, Tom Brady and Eli Manning, go head to head. Brady is making his fifth Super Bowl appearance and going for his fourth championship, which would tie an NFL record. Manning is going for his second Super Bowl victory over Brady, and is out to prove without a doubt that he is among the game's elite QBs.

The Patriots are looking to avenge its 2008 defeat to the Giants in Super Bowl XLII when the Pats had their undefeated season (18 -0) abruptly end when Giants quarterback Eli Manning led his team to a 17-14 victory. In doing so, the Giants became the first NFC wild card team to win a Super Bowl. The Patriots now have a chance for redemption.

Passionate Pats and Giants fans are both predicting a win as this game is expected to rival any Sox / Yankee playoff. Vegas bettors may have New England as three-point favorite, but I think it's anyone's game.

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January 23 2012

Resolution Redux

By Dayna Thomson | Corporate Office, Corporate Furnished, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Maine, Georgia, Health, Lifestyle, | (2) Comments

New Year’s Resolutions. OK, ok, I’ve read the lists, and I’ve written my own lists, year after year. I mean to do the right things. I resolve and strive to be kinder, more patient, more forgiving…

But to be honest, it seems very unlikely that I am going to:

• Achieve more “balance” in my life
• Save more and improve my long term financial planning
• Clean and color code my closet (and purge those items that just don’t fit)
• Get back into my skinny jeans (see above)

The middle of January has already passed, the number of parking spaces at the gym is back to more or less ready availability, and (backsliders unite!) the likelihood of keeping resolutions so carefully and earnestly made at the beginning of the new year is fading from dubious, to seemingly unattainable.

So, because I am constitutionally unable to do all the things I should, instead I will focus on one thing. This one thing won’t improve my financial life, make me more organized, or assure any reduction in weight, but it will significantly:

• Reduce likelihood of my developing Alzheimer’s and dementia, diabetes, arthritic joint pain, or late-in-life fractures.
• Reduce anxiety and depression.
• Reduce fatigue.
• Reduce risk of death.

In short, I can dramatically improve my quality of life by not just resolving but doing one simple thing that is “limiting sitting and sleeping to just 23½ hours per day”.

The following link (with a quick 9 minute video presentation )is both fun to watch and compelling:

http://andrewsullivan.thedailybeast.com/2011/12/walking-is-mans-best-medicine.html

So, I am resolving just this one thing. Oh, and I am going to strive to be kinder, more patient, and more forgiving toward myself. And, to that end, I am getting rid of those skinny jeans…

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January 21 2012

Let's Get Out of Here

By Kristen Donovan | Massachusetts, Marketing, Health, Travel, Development, Food, Lifestyle, Community, | (1) Comments

We all should admit we've been pretty lucky with the weather this winter. That being said, I'm still not a fan of the snow. I know, I know - it looks kind of pretty and this particular storm we're in the middle of today isn't exactly a record setter. But I just don't like it... so I decided to look into tropical vacations (don't worry, boss - it's all in the name of blogging, which is work-related!) on a variety of travel websites. I'm not traveling any time soon, but that doesn't mean I can't dream and mentally escape what's happening outside my window. I've managed to narrow it down to my top 3 picks (which are in no particular order because I am somewhat incapable of making decisions easily), so here goes nothing:

1.) Southern Caribbean cruise, via Carnival Cruise Lines. A cruise would be a great way to explore a few places I've never been. That's right - I've never been to the Caribbean. That's slightly pathetic, I know. But I want to go, so that's a step in the right direction. The cruise I'd book this minute if I could sails from San Juan and stops in St. Thomas, Barbados, St. Lucia, and St. Maarten. Where's my boarding pass?

2.) A week in Mexico, courtesy of Trip Advisor. Honestly, would sitting on a beach in Mexico for a week be a bad thing? With places named something like "Playa Fiesta" (Party Beach) and more, I don't think it would. And it turns out Playa Fiesta is more than a cool name; it's a gorgeous hotel. Dios mio!

3.) A Hawaiian adventure, thanks to Expedia. Sure it takes a long time to get there, but when you step off the plane and are greeted with smiling people saying "Aloha" and draping leis around your neck, isn't it instantly worth it? I've never experienced it personally, but something tells me it is definitely worth it. Sign me up.

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January 20 2012

Tax Refund

By Vanessa Bush | | (1) Comments

4 Smart Ways to Spend Your Tax Refund
An income tax refund can never come at a bad time. The only hard thing about getting "free" money is deciding how to spend it. You could always blow it on some gadget you'll forget about in a month. Or, you can spend your tax refund on something that will benefit you in the long run - like, your finances.


Start an emergency fund
Putting your refund away for a rainy day is a wise decision. It keeps you from having to use your credit card whenever a financial emergency arises.

Make an extra Rent payment
Why not make an extra Rent payment. By doing this you will always be ahead of the month and it’s a great way to start some savings.

Take care of a collection account
Unpaid collections are one of the worst things for your credit score. As long as your collection remains unpaid, you'll have a hard time getting approved for new credit cards and loans. A paid collection won't necessarily boost your credit score, but it will make it easier to get new applications approved.

Treat yourself, but don't overdo it
How fun would life be if you only spent your money on bills? It's ok to spend money leisurely, but remember, there's a balance. The key is to take care of your responsibilities first, then enjoy your money second.

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January 20 2012

Time is on our Side... Yes it is... Or is it...

By Tracy Hilker | Massachusetts, Apartment Living, Lifestyle, | (1) Comments

I am constantly running out of time... with my job, or jobs, housework, and fun, it's true... I run out of time. Oh and I love to sleep, so that doesn't really help. I am always trying to think of some ways to save time, multi-task, and do the best I can at getting everything and anything done in a timely manner.

I figured I would try to come up with some... and here they are, my time saving tips:

1. When cooking a meal, make extras for lunch left overs. I'm Italian, so I always go over and above anyway! (anyone needs a meal, let me know!)
2. While making said meal, throw the laundry in at the same time. (not in the bowl where you are cooking, I mean in the washing machine!)
That way you have to do two chores in half the time.
3. While getting undressed, or getting ready for a shower, dance! Exercise, and you are using your time wisely
4. Sing in the shower. While getting so fresh and so clean, you are also practicing your American Idol routine.
5. While watching tv, fold the laundry... nah.. forget that one, just leave it in the basket.
Well, I hoped these tips helped you out... or made you think of some of your own, care to share?
Disclaimer: do not wash your baby in dirty dish water... ew.

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January 20 2012

Dog Days are Here !!!

By Kimberly Shields | Massachusetts, Apartment Living, Lifestyle, Community, | (3) Comments

Are you looking for a pet to bring home? I found a site that shows the top 50 most popular apartment dogs. It is a very big decision to bring a new loved one into your home. This informative website provides a couple of good options. Before making a big commitment make sure you have enough time to exercise with them, even small dogs need to be taken out for daily walks!

High energy dogs can comfortably live in an apartment if you continue to take them on long walks, bike rides or jogs. Know where your local parks and/or dog parks are; even consider a doggie daycare! Enough exercise is the key to keeping any dog stable and happy.

Before you start your search always check with your Leasing Office to find out what the policies are concerning breed, weight and age. Also, you may need to be aware of any additional deposits and fees. Most apartment communities do not accept dogs under the age of one year old. There are many different rescue leagues in your area that have older dogs just looking for a forever, loving home!!


http://movingtoanapartment.com/pet-friendly-apartments/top-50-most-popular-apartment-dogs.htm

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January 20 2012

How do you avoid social media overload?

By Dan Harvey | Massachusetts, Lifestyle, Dan Harvey, | (2) Comments

How do you avoid social media overload?

Social media can be totally overwhelming when you’re trying to keep up with the latest posts on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, LinkedIn, Youtube and your favorite blogs. Not only do we have to keep up with all of these sources but we have our own digital identities to maintain both personally and professionally. Social media has changed how the world communicates in such a short time. It’s easy to get a digital hangover but it’s even easier to find simple ways to keep up.

1. Set expectations & goals. Why do you want to tweet, or maintain a profile on LinkedIn or connect with people on Facebook? Think about each platform and how it can bring value into your life, and if it doesn’t bring any value then don’t use it. Instead of diluting your social media experience focus on the sites that are relevant and enjoyable to you. Just like anything in life if your interest and effort isn’t genuine then it isn’t worth doing.

2. Time Management. I’ve realized that I like other have developed a symbiotic relationship with my ipad and iphone. These new appendages allow us to be updated and participant all of the time which can lead to burnout. Try to set specific times throughout the day to check in, maybe read your favorite blogs every morning while on the elliptical or set specific check in times each day to check in with facebook.

3. Use a social media management tool. These types of tools allow you to manage multiple social profiles from one interface. Just to name two, my favorites are www.hootsuite.com & www.flipboard.com.

What are some of the ways that you keep up?

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January 19 2012

Free iTunes Apps

By Sarah Greenough | Corporate Office, Massachusetts, Marketing, Food, Lifestyle, Sarah Greenough, | (2) Comments

Starbucks and Apple - two of my favorite companies have done it again! Did you know that Starbucks now offers free iTunes apps? They provide a "Pick of the Week" card in participating Starbucks stores. This week I was able to download Tetris (the awesomely addictive block stacking game) for free!
In addition to providing a really creative "add value" to their customer base, Starbucks and Apple have done a smashing job of cross promotion! When companies play well with others, it makes me want to frequent their establishments more often. Well done Starbucks and Apple. That being said, head into your neighborhood Starbucks for a Tazo and Tetris!

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January 19 2012

Bingo Mania

By Sonja Kreh | Massachusetts, Apartment Living, Community, | (1) Comments

It all starts with the hush of the winter wind and a chill to the air; if you pause you can feel the excitement. Bingo-Mania has begun here at Princeton Place. It arrives for the 6 coldest weeks of winter. It is definitely something that brightens even the darkest days of January and February. Every day we draw a new bingo number, post it on facebook and on our master bingo card in the office.
Our residents can win free rent, carpet cleans, and new mini-blinds, maid service, gift cards and the list goes on and on. It really is something everyone looks forward to especially our seasoned residents that have won in the past. We see a dramatic increase of activity and friends on our facebook page, along with daily visits to the office to see the master BINGO card.

If you’d like to try B-I-N-G-O at your property here are some easy steps to follow:

1. Count down on facebook how many days until the Bingo kick off
2. A few days before bingo begins deliver directions with a bingo card to each apartment (1 per apartment).
3. Daily drawings of bingo numbers begin, post the daily numbers on facebook and in the office.
4. It usually takes a week or 2 before your first winner walks in the door.
5. Distribute prices. You can let them choose from your prize’s or you can use a large bingo board (see photo) for them to choose from.

If you have any questions or need some guidance you can call us at 508-754-6777 and we can help your property get started, now let’s play some B-I-N-G-O!

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January 19 2012

GET IN TOUCH WITH YOUR WILD SIDE!

By Mary Jo Early | Massachusetts, Travel, | (2) Comments

If you are tired of sitting on the beach or going camping, you might like to escape to a vacation that you will never forget. A few years ago we took an expedition to Alaska. Words cannot describe the beauty that surrounded us. It was breathtaking to watch humpback whales feeding, taking a dingy to go Anan Creek where you not only see bears searching for salmon, but the most spectacular viewing of bald eagles. The most memorable experience was not only seeing the beautiful glaciers but also hearing the thunderous crack of ice as it falls into the sea below. It is definitely a check off my “bucket list”.



http://travel.nationalgeographic.com/travel/united-states/alaska-guide/

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January 19 2012

It's Winter Time ~ TIME TO SKI!! Here's some great ways to save $$ at the mountains!!

By Jessica Costanzo | Corporate Office, Corporate Furnished, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Maine, Travel, Lifestyle, | (1) Comments

Winter has finally arrived here in the Northeast and there is still time to get out there and enjoy it! If you are a skier or snowboarder, you know how important it is to get out there just as much as possible because the season goes by quick! But they don’t make it easy! It’s EXPENSIVE!! For a family of 4 to go skiing for the day, it can cost up over $200…and that doesn’t include eating that deliciously fattening food from the lodge! I have found a few ways of saving some $$ next time you want to head up to the mountains. First thing you want to do is check the mountain websites. I know that LOTS of the popular mountains offer 2 for1 deals on certain days during the week. Also, check out Liftopia.com…I stumbled across this website last week and found some FABULOUS deals!! My family and I saved a lot of money for a day of riding at Bretton Woods! And another way that many of you may not know about…. fill up your car at Irving Stations!! For every 3 times you put at least 10 gallons of gas in your car, you will receive a voucher for a free adult lift ticket with the purchase of one! Just save your receipts when you fill up! We did this quite a few times last year and saved LOADS of cash!! Just check out their website for details www.theirving.com .
We are blessed enough to live close to some great mountains...now GET OUT THERE AND HAVE FUN!!

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January 18 2012

Time Saving Tips From a Working Mom - Morning time!

By Shannon Earley | New Hampshire, Multifamily, Apartment Living, Food, Lifestyle, Community, | (1) Comments

I am the mother of a toddler with another little one on the way, and a full time job that I love! I also, really like to be ON TIME, but with a toddler, sometimes that is just impossible! So here are some time saving tips that can help you get out the door in the morning, on time and unflustered! I cannot guarantee you that you will always make it – I didn’t succeed yesterday - but remember every day is a new day and a new chance to make being on time for you and your little ones a great new habit!

1. Plan what you are wearing the night before – For both of you!
My three year old is much less likely to fight me on what she is wearing if SHE picked it out the night before, and I save those 5 minutes of staring at my closet, or sorting through my jewelry box, looking for the sweater I thought was clean and the earrings I know will be great, if only I can find them!

2. Food Prep Early
Have your lunches packed and in the fridge the night before. And the same goes for breakfast! Having the table set with cereal, fruit, bowls, and utensils will save you time in the morning, so all you have to do is pull the milk and your lunch from the fridge at the same time. Food is ready!

3. Build in a buffer
This morning we had a shoe melt-down. Suddenly the shoes that were approved last night, were not to be tolerated this morning! Giving yourself an extra 10 or 15 minutes will make you calmer and more able to deal with the sudden hysterics, and save you from the stress of, “Oh no, I am going to be late again!” Even 5 minutes can relieve the panic you feel coming on and you will have a much more productive day if you can start it off in the right way!

And finally, don’t sweat it if everything falls apart. Sometimes things just happen and no amount of prior planning could have prevented your awful morning. So smile and move on – things have a great chance to go better tomorrow!

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January 18 2012

Doodle 4 Google

By Shannon Flannery | Corporate Office, Marketing, | (2) Comments

Your child could be the next star of Google – that is, if he or she is a K-12 student living in the United States!

Google has announced 2012’s theme for the fifth annual Doodle 4 Google Contest The theme is “If I could travel in time, I’d visit….” Doodles can reflect traveling in the past, present or future so kids can set their imaginations free and visit any place they’d like!

There will be a winner from every state — five state finalists will be chosen and one state champ will be named. From the fifty winners, five National Finalists will be chosen leading up to the lucky National Winner. The winner will not only have their doodle appear on Google’s homepage, but also on a special edition Crayola crayon box.

Entries can be submitted from Jan. 18 to Mar. 23. Online voting will determine the finalist and the winning doodle will be displayed on Google’s homepage on May 18.

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January 18 2012

Hey It's Your Birthday

By Jenilee Provencal | Maine, Food, Lifestyle, | (1) Comments

Oh wow it’s your birthday! Fancy that it’s my birthday too! And what is better on your birthday than a slice of cake and a glass of champagne… champagne cake that’s what!


For my birthday I made a pink champagne cake. Here is the recipe.

Pink Champagne Cake
Ingredients
3 cups (360 g/12 oz) cake flour
1 1/2 teaspoon (7.5 g) baking powder
3/4 teaspoon (5 g) baking soda
3/4 teaspoon (6 g) salt
1 1/2 sticks (3/4 cup/ 170 g/ 6 oz) unsalted butter, softened
2 cups (400 g/13.5 oz) sugar
6 (~180 g/6 oz) egg whites, room temperature
1 teaspoon (5 mL) pure vanilla extract
2 cups (475 mL) champagne, room temperature
Red food coloring (optional)

Method
1. In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream butter and sugar until pale and fluffy on medium speed, about 5 minutes.

2. While the butter and sugar are blending, sift all dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt) together and set aside.

3. Gradually add egg whites to creamed mixture with mixer on medium speed, followed by the vanilla.

4. Add and alternate dry ingredients and champagne, beginning and ending with dry (3 dry additions and 2 wet) and mix until fully incorporated, but be sure to not over mix.

5. Even distribute batter between the two prepared pans (use a digital kitchen scale for perfectly even layers), and smooth tops with an offset palette knife.

6. Bake at 350°F until a toothpick or cake tester inserted comes out clean (don’t open the oven door before 25 minutes)–approximately 35 minutes, but ovens vary greatly, so be sure to keep a close eye. The top of the cake should bounce back when gently touched. Let sit in pan on wire rack for 10 minutes before gently removing from pan. Let cakes rest on wire rack until completely cool.

For the frosting I also used the champagne recipe

Whipped Champagne Frosting
Ingredients
3 sticks + 2 tablespoons (375 grams/13 ounces) unsalted butter, softened and cut into cubes
3 cups sifted (480 grams/1 lb + 1 ounce) confectioners’ sugar (icing, powdered)
1/4 cup champagne
1 teaspoon (5 mL) pure vanilla extract
pinch of salt
few drops of red food coloring (optional)

Method
1. In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, whip butter for 8 minutes on medium speed (I use “4″ on my KitchenAid). Butter will become very pale & creamy.

2. Add remaining ingredients and mix on low speed for 1 minute, then on medium speed for 6 minutes. Frosting will be very light, creamy, and fluffy.


Overall I would say that it was pretty good, however I do have a few tips for next time. Be sure to get the sugar and butter to be really fluffy so your cake is fluffy. Also a better champagne is they way to go since you really can taste it. And if all else fails just scrape the frosting off and eat that! It’s the best part anyway.

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January 15 2012

Tea Is Actually Healthier Than You Think!

By Ashley Anger | Massachusetts, Multifamily, Apartment Living, Health, Food, Lifestyle, | (1) Comments

The New Year has come and gone, along with our resolutions. Making that resolution to be healthier can be a tough one to keep, especially with Valentine’s Day just a short month away. Did you know there is a common drink that can actually make you healthier with each sip?

Tea is found to be one of the healthiest drinks for you. It reduces the risk of heart disease, dementia and cancer. The healthiest of teas include black, green, oolong, and white. These types of tea consist of polyphenols that protect your cells from damage. Not only will tea keep you warm this winter, but it will keep you healthy at the same time!


Read this article to find out more! http://www.foxnews.com/health/2011/11/14/truth-about-health-benefits-tea/

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January 13 2012

Renting Vs. Owning - Did You Know?

By Vanessa Bush | Georgia, Apartment Living, Environmental, | (1) Comments

DID YOU KNOW?
Renting vs Owning
Apartment or House


Benefits
Many apartment complexes have amenities that you will not have if you rent a house, such as a pool, tennis court, laundry services and even community gems. Most of these items are available to you at no extra charge. In some cases, utilities will be included in the monthly rental cost when you rent an apartment. Generally, rental apartments also provide appliances like refrigerators, stoves, dishwashers and even washers and dryers. However, rental homes may require you to supply your own, which can be expensive if you don’t already own these items.


Maximum Flexibility
Renting provides an enormous amount of flexibility. You can pack up and leave immediately at the end of your lease (which can be monthly or yearly, whatever best suits your lifestyle) - there's no waiting to sell and no agonizing about the housing market before you move. For many people, the freedom to live where you want and when you want is a huge benefit that simply cannot be overlooked.


Minimum Risk
For homeowners, the stakes are enormously high should their finances crumble. When they can't pay the mortgage, the lender has great leverage - the house and all the equity invested in it could be in jeopardy. That's not to say there aren't consequences if a tenant can't pay the rent - but the financial devastation that comes with losing your home is far greater than being evicted from your apartment.

In addition, there are several social service programs that are run by all levels of government to help people in need pay their rent so they won't be evicted. Are the banks as lenient or supportive when it comes time to pay the mortgage?

Ultimately, making the decision to either rent an apartment or buy a home involves much more than simply comparing rental rates, mortgage payments, lease lengths and tax breaks. It's a combination of all of the personal circumstances happening in your life - both now and several years down the road.

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January 13 2012

"Healthy" Cookie Dough?!

By Kristen Donovan | Massachusetts, Multifamily, Apartment Living, Health, Food, Lifestyle, Community, | (2) Comments

I recently jumped on the Pinterest bandwagon and, though I wasn't all that into it at first, I've become completely addicted. Constantly looking at people's boards and oohing and aahing over eat-your-heart-out homes, look-at-me outfits, and to-die-for artwork. My latest discovery is nothing short of oh-my-god: Sugar-free cookie dough. Is that even possible?! A couple of clicks landed me over at a little blog called Chocolate Covered Katie and I learned that yes, it is possible! Check out this recipe and tell me you're not impressed with its creativity and its possibilities! I challenge you, dear blog readers, to make this dish over the long weekend and to share comments with me on Tuesday as to whether it was a delicious success, a disgusting failure, or just not your cup of cookie dough. I'm dying to know - and I'll be trying to make it myself, so you'll get my two cents, too (lucky you).

■ 1 1/2 cups chickpeas (1 can, drained) (250g)
■ heaping 1/8 tsp salt
■ tiny bit over 1/8 tsp baking soda
■ 1 T plus 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
■ 1/4 cup nut butter
■ 1 and 1/4 cup pitted dates (think SunMaid, from a regular grocery store)
■ 1/3 cup chocolate chips (sugar-free)
■ nondairy milk as needed (depending on the consistency you want.)


In a bowl, cover the dates with 1/2 cup water. Let this sit for at least 8 hours. Then add all ingredients (including the dates’ soaking liquid), except chocolate chips, to a food processor and blend until very smooth. Add in chocolate chips and PRESTO! Enjoy!

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January 13 2012

Here’s a guilt free snack anyone can make at home.

By Dan Harvey | Massachusetts, Apartment Living, Food, Dan Harvey, | (2) Comments

I don’t think anyone would disagree that chips are one of the most loved snacks in existence. They are salty, crunchy and once you start eating them it just becomes compulsory to eat more. I’ve had all kinds of chips, potato, sweat potato, veggie and most recently kale chips.

Kale chips might be the only true guilt free snack that packs the same satisfying salty crunch as their original potato counterpart. I saw this amazing recipe while Food Networks, Secrets of a restaurant chef during which Chef Anne Burrell made Tuscan kale chips. It’s surprising how easy these are to make and even more amazing how delicious they are.

Here how you do it:

Ingredients

•1 large bunch Tuscan kale
•Extra-virgin olive oil
•Kosher salt
•Pinch crushed red pepper

Directions

Preheat the oven to 250 degrees F.
Remove the tough lower stems of the kale. Toss the kale generously with olive oil, salt and crushed red pepper.
Lay the dressed leaves in a single layer on a sheet tray (use more than one if you need to!) and place in the oven. Roast the kale or until the leaves are crispy, 30 to 35 minutes.

See the recipe for yourself at http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/anne-burrell/crispy-tuscan-kale-recipe/index.html

What other super foods can we make chips out of?

Happy Snacking!

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January 13 2012

Helpful winter tips for your car and home

By Kristen Wellington | | (1) Comments

Aside from driving cautiously as we look forward to some wintry weather, there are a number of things you can do to make sure that your car, (as well as your home), are prepared and protected this winter.

Fully Evaluate Your Car: Make sure you have ice scrapers, blankets, extra gloves, a small shovel to remove snow from around your tires. Salt or snow-melting chemicals are also beneficial. Have a mechanic check fluid levels, including the coolant, to be sure reservoirs are full and able to withstand freezing temperatures. Do your windshield wipers need to be replaced? Are defrosters and heaters working? Is there enough tread left on the tires for safe driving?

Have a Contingency Plan: Create emergency kits for your home and car,
and make sure you have a plan in case of a power outage, car failure, or other issue. An emergency kit should contain bottled water, a first aid kit, battery-operated radio, fresh batteries, candles, matches and non-perishable food.

An ounce of prevention is worth a pound. Safe travels to all this New Year!

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January 13 2012

Numbers...

By Tracy Hilker | | (0) Comments

Eight...One Thousand Thirty Five... One Thousand Five Hundred... Fifteen... Countless...

These numbers may not mean anything to you, but here is what they mean to me...

Eight: How many years I have been privileged to be the Princeton Properties coordinator of the Daffodil Days for the American Cancer Society.

One Thousand Thirty Five: The amount that Princeton Properties, along with the residents of River Place Towers and some friends and family were able to raise for the ACS through Daffodil Days.

One Thousand Five Hundred: Our goal for this year. I know we can reach it!

Fifteen: How many bunches of daffodils I was able to give out, from those who donated, to cancer patients and their families over at Lowell General Cancer Center.

Countless: The lives that are touched by your donation.

To visit Princeton's team page, please click here, http://main.acsevents.org/site/TR/DaffodilDays/DDFY12NE?pg=team&fr_id=42853&team_id=1072671
If you have any questions, please email me, .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

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January 12 2012

Kristin's Bakery Opens in West Keene!

By Cathy Cooper | New Hampshire, Food, | (2) Comments

Warning! If losing weight is one of your New Years resolutions you may not want to read this! Kristin’s Bakery a popular downtown Keene bakery located on Washington Street has opened a branch in west Keene appropriately called, “Kristin’s West”.

Kristin’s West features DELICIOUS home made cookies, muffins, bars, scones and more and that is just in the bakery. You can also enjoy a number of creative deli sandwiches, Moroccan chili and unbelievable soup. Everything is prepared right on site, in a new state of the art kitchen. Coffee lovers will enjoy the coffee bar and the warm ambience of the dinning area. Our Westwood residents have the distinct advantage of having this amazing bakery located within walking distance. To ease your guilt stop at Kristin’s and enjoy the yummy goodies and great atmosphere and then walk to the brand new YMCA for a work out or a nice swim!

Kristin’s West
830 Park Avenue
Keene, New Hampshire 03431
603-357-5705
Tues-Fri 6AM-5PM
Sat-Sun 8AM-1PM
Closed Mondays
Lunch Served Tues-Fri 11AM-4:30PM

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January 12 2012

A Quick and Easy Dinner!

By Jen D'Apice | Massachusetts, Food, | (2) Comments

Deciding on what to have for dinner is always a challenge, but finding the time to make it is yet a bigger one. Let’s face it! After a long day of work who has time to cook? These days it is becoming much easier to swing by the nearest fast food chain to pick up a quick meal, but overtime, this shortcut will cost you many hours at the gym. That is why I love my crock pot! Crock pot cooking is a simple and healthy choice for today’s busy lifestyle. In the morning, I quickly add a few ingredients to my crock pot…set the timer and Presto! A hot and delicious meal is awaiting my return.

A friend recommended a great website for crock pot recipes www.getcrocked.com. The recipes are posted by The Crock Pot Girl, she also has a Facebook page.

I would like to share one of my favorite recipes with you. It is Crock Pot Pumpkin Chili. Enjoy!

• 2 lbs. ground beef
• 32 oz. kidney beans, canned, drained
• 12 oz. can crushed tomato sauce
• 2 c. V8 juice
• 29 oz. pumpkin, canned
• Yellow & red peppers cut up
• 1 onion, chopped
• dash of cloves
• 1 tsp. cinnamon
• 1 tsp. nutmeg
• 1/3 c. sugar
• Dash salt
• Dash of favorite hot sauce
Brown ground beef in a skillet, drain and then set aside. Combine the remaining ingredients along with the prepared ground beef in the crock pot and mix. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours.
Do you have a favorite recipe you would like to share?

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January 12 2012

Soma Massage and Wellness Makes Lasting Impressions

By Caitlyn Irving | Maine, Lifestyle, Community, | (3) Comments

What a better way to destress than by going to get a massage. I booked an appointment at Soma Massage and Wellness in South Portland ME. I had never been there before and have not gotten a massage in a while. The moment I walked into Soma Massage and Wellness, I knew it was going to be quite an experience. I was very impressed with the receptionist, the therapists, the décor, and music in the back ground. It was not what I expected, it was much more.

I was given a tour of the all the different massage rooms. Each room has its own style with dim lighting and soft music. The overall atmosphere of Soma Massage and Wellness makes you feel; calm, relaxed and at ease.

The different treatments they offer are:

Soma WELLNESS Massage
Deep Tissue Massage
Soma Blend Massage
Neuromuscular Therapy
Maine Massage
Pregnancy Massage
Hot Stone Massage
Polarity Massage
Couples Massage
Soma…On the GO!
Reflexology
Acupuncture & Traditional Chinese Medicine

They offer something for everyone!

I chose the Soma Wellness Massage and again felt very pleased with treatment I was given. After the massage the therapist went over self-care recommendations in between massage treatments.

Soma Massage is definitely worth checking out, whether you live in the area or on vacation! The experience was wonderful and I cannot wait to go back. I am really looking forward to try the Acupuncture and Hot Stone Massage.

http://somamassageandwellness.com/
Soma Massage & Wellness, 6 Cottage Roa

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January 12 2012

New year ~ New You with P90x ~ Get started TODAY!

By Jessica Costanzo | Massachusetts, Health, Lifestyle, | (4) Comments

Alright...how many of you out there have started your New Year’s resolution to work out? How many of you have actually stuck with it? That’s the hard part right? Staying motivated to get to the gym can be really difficult for a lot of people, including myself! Ever considered doing your work out right in your living room? I have started doing my own work outs in the comfort of my own home, and I have actually been sticking with it!

One program that I have done is P90x. I’m sure many of you have heard about this program. It is NOT an easy one, but you get results FAST! I did it for the first time last summer and I saw results in less than 30 days! Which is what most of us want to see!

The website www.beachbody.com has loads of information about not only this program, but lots of others that are less strenuous but just as effective. Check it out it's worth it.

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January 10 2012

Books Gone Hollywood!

By Debbie Melino | Corporate Office, Massachusetts, Lifestyle, Community, | (1) Comments

How do you feel about seeing a movie made from your favorite book? Here at Mt. Vernon, we really enjoyed the book "The Help" written by Katheryn Stockett, we loved the movie too, however the book is usually much better. We are looking forward to the movie release of "One For the Money" written by Janet Evanovich.

Do you have a favorite book? Did it go “Hollywood?” Did you like the movie? Let us know!

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January 10 2012

Oh How Pinteresting!

By Shannon Flannery | Corporate Office, Marketing, Lifestyle, | (0) Comments

Is Pinterest the next big thing in social media?

If you haven’t heard of Pinterest yet you might live under a rock. I am a self-proclaimed “pinning addict” and I love everything this new social media platform offers. Pinterest is a fun way to organize and share all the beautiful things you find on the web! People use pinboards to plan their weddings, decorate their homes, and organize their favorite recipes.

Best of all, Pinterest allows you to browse pinboards created by other people. Browsing pinboards is a fun way to discover new things and get inspiration from people who share your interests. Did you know that Princeton Properties is now officially a Pinterest member? You can check out our pin boards here… http://pinterest.com/princetonapts/

If you aren't a member of Pinterest yet and would like to join this exciting community you can request an official invite here...http://pinterest.com/landing/


Happy Pinning, Everyone!

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January 09 2012

Interesting Places to Visit in 2012

By Sandra Farrell | Massachusetts, Maine, Lifestyle, | (0) Comments

The Seashore Trolley Museum located in Kennebunkport, Maine 04046 on Log Cabin Road has the world’s largest collection of antique trolley cars and other transportation vehicles from all over the USA, Canada and many foreign countries. 250 countries in total. A 3 mile Trolley Ride on vintage equipment is offered to the public.

The Museum is open 7 days a week from Memorial Day through to Columbus Day, Saturdays and Sundays in May and October.

Admission:

Adults
$8.00

Children
Ages 6 to 16
$5.50

Age 5 and under
free

Senior Citizens (age 60 and up)
$6.00

There is a gift shop, a number of displays explaining how the electric railway industry developed American cities and businesses. Several display car barns are available to view the restored and operating trolleys. Over fifty vehicles from the Boston transit system alone are on display there. There is even a restoration shop where the trolleys are rebuilt and donations are always encouraged to help the museum operate. There are many nearby beaches and restaurants to take the family to after visiting the museum. Located about 72 miles north of the Merrimack Valley area, Kennebunk exit off of the Maine Turnpike. Their website is www.trolleymuseum.org for further information.

The National Streetcar Museum at Lowell, MA, a subsidiary of the Seashore Trolley Museum, located at 25 Shattuck Street, Lowell, MA Here you will find a static display, two floors with a children’s play area which outlines how trolleys developed in the American Cities and in particular in the Merrimack Valley including Lowell. A small admission fee is charged to view the museum that includes vintage artifacts and video interactive presentations. This museum is open year round; every Saturday and Sunday from 11:00AM to 4:00PM. For more information on the National Streetcar Museum in Lowell go to www.trolleymuseum.org/lowell/

Adjoining the museum is the Lowell National Park which has an operating trolley system March through November of each year. Rides are free of charge. In addition the National Streetcar museum operates New Orleans trolley #966 from March through November in conjunction with the Lowell National Park. During the season there are canal boat rides and walking interpretive tours of the park provided by the National Park Service. For more information on the Lowell National Park go to www.nps.gov/lowell/index.htm

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January 09 2012

Riding for a Cure

By Terry Flahive | Corporate Office, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Health, Lifestyle, Community, Terry Flahive, | (3) Comments

For the last several years in early January I debate with myself whether I have the drive and motivation to ride the Pan Mass Challenge. And, each year I always decide that I do.

The PMC (as it is known) is a 190 mile bike ride the first weekend of August from Sturbridge Mass. to the tip of Cape Cod in Provincetown. I will join more than 5000 other cyclists and our goal is to raise $36,000,000 for the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in Boston. This unique event raised $35,000,000 last year and 100% of all our funds raised went directly to DFCI.

We have all been touched in some terrible way by this insidious disease. It must be stopped. I know I could have decided not to ride and let others do the work, but it is too important and personal not to try. With all our efforts there will be a cure. PMC here I come!

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January 08 2012

Top 10 Vacation Destinations to visit in 2012!

By Carrie Agusto | Corporate Furnished, Massachusetts, Travel, Food, Lifestyle, | (2) Comments

1. Las Vegas: Las Vegas has a little something for everyone. Whether your vacation is geared towards gambling at a casino, live shows and entertainment such as Cirque du Soleil or a Gondola Ride at the Bellagio, or just shopping at the outlets and designer stores.

2. Mexico: Mexico offers a perfect combination of historical interest, beaches, and the crazy night life. Mexico has various beautiful landscapes, including mountains, deserts, tropical jungles, and quaint villages and resorts for tourists.

3. Hawaii: Hawaii's warm hospitality, stunning volcanoes, but first of all for its beautiful beaches. There are plenty of tourist spots on the islands, but try to really experience the island by hiking the volcanoes or by flying over the islands in a helicopter.

4. Los Angeles, California: Due to the beautiful Californian sunshine year round, it is the home of a large number of celebrities, and is the center of the TV and movie industry. You can take a tour of the stars' homes or visit the bohemian zones. There are also plenty of different and even authentic cuisine restaurants ranging from Chinese to Mexican.

5. Haute Route, Swiss Alps: Switzerland holds the famous Swiss Alps hiking adventure. Take the traditional Haute Route to see the largest mountain in Western Europe, the Matterhorn.

6. New York City: New York is something that everyone should do at least once in their life. For the City that Never Sleeps, New York is truly a sight to behold. Be sure to take the time to visit the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and the Empire State Building and Broadway plays.

7. Aruba: The Sunny climate of Aruba, which boasts an 82 degree temperature on the white sandy beaches for most of the year. On the western and southern coasts you'll find a lot of sheltered beaches. This spot is a great alternative to the Caribbean.

8. Thailand: Thailand has a lot to offer visitors. Whatever you are looking for, you will be fascinated by the ancient civilization and the glorious culture. There are wonderful sights, including exotic open-air markets and sparkling temples. There are endless souvenirs and cuisine at bargain prices. visit a luxurious health spa to regenerate your body and psyche. Also try to relax on a golden beach and enjoy the tropical sunshine and deep turquoise sea.

9. Machu Picchu in Peru: Hikers and tourists have visited the fascinating Inca civilization since its discovery in the early 1900s. Many call the experience magical. Visit the Inca temples and villages. Blending in with the hillside itself, many say the area creates a seamless and elegant green paradise,

10. France: The country has a lot of beautiful attractions and cultural structures to visit. It is bustling with activity, full of large cities like Paris and beautiful small villages and vineyard country side. The countryside still holds a strong impression of Old World feelings and hospitality.

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January 07 2012

Fabulous ideas for decorating...on a budget!!

By Jessica Costanzo | Corporate Office, Corporate Furnished, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Maine, Georgia, Apartment Living, Lifestyle, | (1) Comments

Start the New Year off right! With a fresh new look in your apartment! After you’ve cleaned and decluttered from the holiday craze, think about adding some spark to your living space. Redecorating, or adding to your already fabulous décor doesn’t have to be pricey. SHOP LOCAL!! Check out the nearby thrift shops or antique stores (there are TONS here in the Northeast!) and you will be pleasantly surprised with not only what you’ll find, but with how much you can save! You don’t need to be an antique connoisseur to pick out some really neat pieces that will add charm and character to your apartment home! Just use your imagination and let your creative juices flow!

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January 07 2012

A MUST Read Or Watch in 2012!

By Nicole Paulino | Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Maine, Georgia, Lifestyle, Community, | (1) Comments

A MUST Read or Watch in 2012!

I would like to capture everyone’s attention to read a book (Or watch the movie) that can change your life forever! Not only is it a motivator, The Secret has inspired me beyond belief to believe anything is possible!

This is one of the most life changing books, and I absolutely recommend it to everyone! Even if one person reads, or watches “The Secret” this was worth writing about!! It is the kind of book/movie that you can read more than once to refresh a positive outlook and thinking process!

The Secret- This shows you how the power of positive thinking really works! And if you put your mind to it you can have or do anything you want, Literally!!! I highly recommend reading or watching this sometime soon in 2012!

http://thesecret.tv/

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January 06 2012

"Out with the old, and in with the new"

By Vanessa Bush | Corporate Office, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Maine, Georgia, Lifestyle, | (0) Comments

Happy New Year!

A new year brings new beginnings...and new gadgets! The team at Highland Reserve in Atlanta, Georgia would like to talk about a few gadgets we are interested in!!!


Webster dictionary defines a gadget as “an often small mechanical or electronic device with a practical use but often thought of as a novelty.”



Whether it is using our cellular devices or computers, everybody's lives are constantly impacted through these new technological innovations.


Tablets

Electronics makers have been chasing after Apple's iPad for two years, and the racetrack is expected to get more crowded next week. Tablets are easy to handle and are light weight, very ideal for the person on the go.

Internet TVs that also do 3-D

TVs have long been the centerpiece of the consumer electronics industry as a whole. For the last few years, the big push has been in three-dimensional viewing technology. Can you imagine watching your favorite television show on 3-D with out the uncomfortable glasses?

Apps

Sure, CES is about gadgets, but the programs that run on them have become a key selling point. Many electronics makers have apparently decided that each new phone, tablet, car or refrigerator should allow owners to update their Facebook statuses. Do you own a smart phone, how many apps do you have? I actually have a few that make my life easier and some that are just for fun.

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January 06 2012

Where Can You Get a Good Meal Around Here?

By Kristen Donovan | Massachusetts, Apartment Living, Marketing, Food, Lifestyle, Community, | (2) Comments

Let's face it - moving can be tough. Packing is stressful ("How did I accumulate all this stuff?!"), figuring out how to arrange your new place feels like a homework assignment ("Should the couch go against this wall or over there?"), and trying to meet your new neighbors can be awkward ("Oh, you live here? Umm, yeah...Me. Too."). You get so caught up in it all that you forget one of the toughest things you'll have to do until you have to do it: find new favorites. Where will you grocery shop? Who's going to cut your hair like Gina used to? And, most importantly, where on Earth are you going to eat? Having recently moved myself, (ok, it was over a year ago, but it still feels recent), I've found that finding food has been the real challenge. I knew exactly which number to call when I was craving Chinese food in my old neighborhood - and I knew it was going to be amazing when I ate it. Now? I've been through close to a dozen places and have yet to find a Pork Fried Rice that even comes close to what I was used to. It was more than a little frustrating to constantly be getting my hopes up only to have them dashed by yet another mediocre meal. So I gave up for a little while.

But I'm trying something new.

I'm keeping an open mind and giving my new neighborhood a real try. I'm ordering from new places and popping into hole-in-the-wall restaurants. I'm asking my awesome new neighbors which places they've tried and which they recommend. And ya know what? I'm finding some new favorites. Check out the places below if you haven't already:

Yummy Kitchen

Joy Asia

Marlborough Super Buffet

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Dining out, restaurants, grocery shopping, interior design, hairdressers, neighbors, friends

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January 06 2012

Healthy Sweet Treats for the New Year!

By Kara Silva | Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Maine, Georgia, Health, Food, Lifestyle, | (5) Comments

Did you resolve to be healthier in 2012, but find yourself craving something sweet at the end of the day? Well look no further than these delicious fudge brownies! These yummy brownies come in at less than 150 calories by reducing the amount of butter and using a combination of cocoa and melted dark chocolate.

Ingredients
• 4 1/2 ounces all-purpose flour (1 cup)
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/3 cup butter
• 2 ounces dark chocolate, chopped
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup 1% low-fat milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 large egg yolks
• 1 large egg
• Cooking spray

Preparation
1. Preheat oven to 350°.
2. Weigh or lightly spoon flour into a dry measuring cup; level with a knife. Combine flour, cocoa, and salt in a medium bowl; stir with a whisk.
3. Place butter and chocolate in a medium microwave-safe bowl, and microwave at HIGH for 45 seconds, stirring every 15 seconds. Stir until smooth, and set aside. Cool slightly. Add 1 cup sugar, milk, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, egg yolks, and egg; stir with a whisk to combine. Add butter mixture to flour mixture, stirring just until combined. Pour batter into an 8-inch square metal baking pan coated with cooking spray. Bake at 350° for 20 minutes or until a wooden pick inserted in center comes out almost clean.

So go ahead and indulge yourself while still sticking to your resolution!

ENJOY!

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January 06 2012

Great Ways to Organize Your Closet & Keep It That Way!

By Ashley Anger | Massachusetts, Apartment Living, Lifestyle, | (1) Comments

In reading Kelly's recent post, I wanted to touch upon resolution number 9: Get Organized. Closets are anyone's cleaning nightmare. For most of us, closets are the answer of hiding unwanted clutter and closing the door, hoping it'll go away by itself. Don't fret! Cleaning out your closets are actually alot easier than you think! I recently came across this great website I have to share with everyone with fantastic organizing ideas for any size closet on a budget. I think alot of us can benefit from this site in one way or another.

http://www.realsimple.com/home-organizing/organizing/closets/inspirational-closets-00000000013792/index.html

Another great way to get ideas on organizing your closet space is to check out your local Home Depot. January is their organizing month and they are offering free workshops every Sunday. Click the link below to check your local Home Depot schedule.

http://www.homeimproverclub.com/default.aspx?

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January 06 2012

The Gift of Giving

By Tracy Hilker | Massachusetts, Lifestyle, Community, | (1) Comments

I want to tell you something... I am rich... WAIT! Don't shake your head, it's true! No, this doesn't mean I have a lot of money in the bank or that I have fancy cars and a great big house. I am rich in other ways. I am rich with blessings. And I will tell you why...

When I was 16 years old, I was asked if I would volunteer at a camp for the blind as a guide. There was no pay involved, but I did get complimentary room and board while I was there. Hesitantly I said yes, even though I had never even met someone before who was visually impaired. When I asked my friend when the camp was, thinking I would be able to prepare myself and frame of mind, she let me know that I actually better pack my bags because we leave in the morning. That phone call changed my life.

I had never experienced the joy of giving your time selflessly over to someone else for their own use and good. I was nervous at first, and was afraid I would say the wrong thing to someone like, "Oh look at that..." or "If you could see..." I met with the people that I would be guiding and realized, they were exactly like me, but just without their vision. They didn't care if I said the words look, see, or eyes. The week went on, and I learned how to correctly guide someone, how to show them where the bowls where on the dinner table, and how to describe to them what I saw, so they could take every minute of their camp experience in.

Never before had I known the gift of truly giving until that week was over. I sat back and learned it was ME who was changed, ME who gained the greatest gift from helping them. Some of these people have become life long friends. I returned every year for the next 6 years until the camp was unfortunately closed. Since then, I have volunteered many times with the Lowell association for the blind.

Giving of yourself does not have to do with taking up an entire week of your life. There are many ways you can give. I am always touched by the generosity of our River Place residents and their giving. This holiday season, together with employees at River Place, our residents were able to donate a few hundred dollars worth of canned goods and toys, along with a $500 check to the Lazarus House, a woman and children's shelter in Lawrence, MA. I was so proud to be able to drop the items off and present the check to them. So proud of our giving residents.

So this January, as you start your new year, why don't you count your blessing to see how truly rich you are. Feeling a little low on blessing funds? Why not open your eyes a little more to your surroundings and see how you can help others. From giving a hug to someone who is down, to sharing a lunch with a coworker who may seem to be struggling, to helping a child read at your local library, to bringing the winter jacket that has been sitting in your closet and you wore once to your local shelter.

Unlike many resolutions that fizzle out come mid February, this is something that will enrich your life so much that when an opportunity comes up, you jump at it. So yeah, I'm rich... How about you?

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January 06 2012

Small Space Ideas for your Apartment Home

By Lisa Bettencourt | Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Maine, Georgia, Multifamily, Apartment Living, Lifestyle, | (3) Comments

Do you ever feel cramped or uncomfortable in your own home? Whether you have had to downsize or expanding your family, you never seem to have enough room. Living in small spaces should not be tough if you know how to make the best of your living space.

I came across this great article from Better Homes and Gardens that I just had to share:
http://www.bhg.com/decorating/small-spaces/strategies/ideas-to-steal-for-your-apartment/

If you have any other great ideas to add I would love to hear them. Enjoy re-decorating, I know I am.

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January 06 2012

New Years Resolutions

By Kelly Melendez | | (0) Comments

New Years Resolutions

The New Year is a great opportunity to start over and do those things you’ve been talking about all year. Hundreds of thousands of people make new years resolutions every year.

The top 10 most common New Years Resolutions are:
1. Spend More Time with Family & Friends, 2. Exercise More, 3. Quit Smoking,
4. Enjoy Life More, 5. Quit Drinking, 6. Get Out of Debt, 7. Learn Something New
8. Help Others, 9. Get Organized, 10. Stay Positive

A lot of the time these resolutions we set for ourselves become overwhelming or seem like more of a chore than an easy lifestyle change. The truth is that we all have the ability to keep our New Year’s Resolutions, and make important changes in our lives. The problem is that we often lack the strategies needed to see them through. If you truly want to be successful set your goals realistically.
Tell us what your New Years Resolution is?

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January 03 2012

You Can Do It!

By Sheri Apprille | Corporate Office, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Maine, Georgia, Health, Food, Lifestyle, Community, | (5) Comments

You. Yes, you!

It was exactly 2 years ago that I began my weight loss journey. I started out thinking I would lose 20 -30 lbs, get back into some old clothes and feel better about myself. I had no idea just how much my life was about to change. I started counting calories and doing some "at-home" dvds. I lost 11 lbs right out of the gate doing Jillian Michaels' 30 Day Shred (EVERY day for 30 days straight). It was HARD. But it was worth the effort. I had a difficult time getting up and down the stairs for the first few days, but after that, I really started to feel progress. I had never done anything like this before. My exercise routines were mostly treadmills and ellipticals or walking outside. Nothing ever quite this intense. But Jillian started to get into my head and I felt like I was working personally with her and I didn't want to let her down. I pushed through the pain and sweat and felt like I had accomplished the world when I was done those 30 days.

A few months later after I had lost 30lbs, I started to plateau. Normally, this is where I would have stopped. But I didn't. Something was different this time. I wanted to keep going and the fact that I was now only down to losing 3 lbs in a month did not discourage me (like it would have in the past). I started taking Zumba classes and LOVED it! I couldn't believe how much it made me sweat! I couldn't believe that any stress I walked in with was completely GONE - I mean, as if it never even existed - when I walked out. After 6 months of taking Zumba classes 4 times a week, I got certified to teach. This is something I never, ever would have envisioned myself doing in January 2010. But here it was December 2010 and I was going to teach Zumba. What a difference a year makes.

I also started working with a personal trainer, which to me, was key in all of this. If you have the opportunity and means to hire a personal trainer, it is so well worth it! I kept going over my finances and thinking, "Is this frivolous? Can I really afford to do this?" And my answer was, "Can I afford NOT to do this?" This wasn't about money anymore, this was about saving my life. And it did. SHE did. Literally. Because of her, I believed in myself enough to get on ice skates for the first time in 21 years. Because of her I believed in myself enough to run a 4 mile road race in 36 minutes (I hadn't done any kind of running in over 20 years). Because of her, I believed in myself enough to purchase and wear a dress that stopped above my knees and was sleeveless (I hadn't worn a dress in over 12 years and NEVER sleeveless!)

2011 brought me to within 3lbs of my goal weight (which would have equated to 100lbs lost). All of a sudden everyone started telling me I had lost enough weight. My family was telling me I had lost TOO much weight (this seemed absurd to me because I had never heard those words before in my life - it was always, "You have to lose weight"). My doctor even told me to stop losing weight. I told her I only had 9 more lbs to go and she said "No". So I asked if I could at least lose 3 more lbs to hit the "100 lbs lost" mark. She said, "Ok, but that's it!" That just seemed crazy to me! It wasn't like I was weighing in at 115 lbs or something, I was still at a weight that was, by the charts, considered "overweight". So I guess I started believing everyone and so I just stopped. I have since gained back some weight (approximately 20lbs) but I refused to let it continue and had to find a way to refocus. There was no way this was going to be another one of those times where I lost weight and then gained it all and then some back. This journey is different.

So here we are In 2012, 2 years later and I am determined to get to my goal weight. I know I will do it. This road has not always been easy. It has been a journey full of lessons - some harder than others to learn. But the bottom line is that I am staying focused and positive and I hope to motivate and encourage others to join me along the way.

It's time to take back your life! Believe in yourself! Don't worry about the stops and starts - you need to just keep moving forward! Stop thinking about it. Stop analyzing it. Just do it. Patience. Faith. Determination. You can do it. If I can do this, believe me, anyone can.

Happy and Healthy 2012!

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January 03 2012

Decorative Ways to Document Your 2012 Resolutions

By Dan Harvey | Apartment Living, Marketing, Health, Travel, Corporate Furnished, Lifestyle, Community, Dan Harvey, | (3) Comments

In the last 48 hours I have been asked by nearly everyone if I had any New Year’s resolutions and up until a few hours ago I didn’t. That was until I stumbled upon something on Pinterest while playing catch up on all of the twitter feeds, facebook posts… via Flipboard. Creating Clever is a blog by Aileen and recently she posted a decorative way to document resolution / manifesto. If you are a fan of the Holstee Manifesto then you will like this.

http://creatingclever.com/the-aileen-manifesto

Happy New Year-

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December 28 2011

"Where did you get that great island?"

By Claire Collins | Corporate Office, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Maine, Georgia, Multifamily, Apartment Living, Lifestyle, Claire Collins, | (1) Comments

At River Place Towers in Lowell we always get compliments on the kitchen island that the interior designer selected for the model apartment. It has great storage, and doubles as a table with room for a stool. The popular piece was purchased several years ago at IKEA, and sadly it is no longer offered. There’s a similarly functional item available at Target.com for $249.99, and right now it’s 15% off with free shipping. (FREE is my favorite four letter word.)

This island is perfect for small kitchens that could use a little more counter space and for floor plans with open concept kitchens that flow into living areas. Visit Target.com and search for “Kitchen Island – White.” It’s also available in black.

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December 28 2011

Fun New Year's Eve Superstitions

By Janet Leazer | Corporate Office, Corporate Furnished, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Maine, Georgia, Multifamily, Apartment Living, Marketing, Health, Food, Lifestyle, Community, | (0) Comments

Celebrate New Year's Eve by learning or simply revisiting some of the most fabulous New Year's Eve superstitions. Start the New Year right by reading these seven superstitions.

12 Grapes

A popular superstition in the Mediterranean and Latin American countries, many revelers suggest eating 12 grapes at midnight to ensure good luck for each month of the coming year. Be sure to have plenty of grapes on hand for your guests.

Bring on the Noise!

New Year's wouldn't be complete without noisemakers! Tradition holds that making lots of noise at midnight will ward off evil spirits from entering the New Year.

Black Eyed Peas

This tradition began in the south when poor farmers were forced to eat their livestock feed (black eyed peas) in order to survive a brutal winter. This superstition holds true today, with many believing that eating black eyed peas on New Years day will ensure a prosperous and safe new year.

Money in Your Pocket

Be sure to keep some change in your pocket at midnight to bring good fortune and wealth in the New Year. Just before midnight, pass around a roll of coins to your guests to make sure everyone is prepared!

Wear Something New (and Red!)

Forecast your fashion fortune in the coming months and wear a new outfit on New Year's. Even if it is one piece like a fancy new skirt for you or tie for you guy, this superstition is a perfect excuse for a little shopping.

Put Pork on the Menu

When planning your dinner menu, focus on pork. Since pigs eat their food moving forward, enjoying pork on New Year's will assure the year ahead will be bountiful.

The Midnight Kiss

We all know how important that first kiss at midnight is, especially so for spouses and significant others. That first kiss ensures intimacy and a close relationship throughout the New Year. Pucker up!

Wishing everyone good health, lots of happiness, and much prosperity in 2012!

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December 28 2011

Top 10 Twitter Trends of 2011!

By Shannon Flannery | Corporate Office, Marketing, Lifestyle, | (0) Comments

Twitter had quite a year with record breaking tweet surges, a growing active user base and some serious celebrity gossip. Mashable.com reports that the topics and trends people talked about most on Twitter remained fairly consistent this past year. Celebrities, sports and holidays took the cake in 2011! See below for the Top 10 Twitter Trends…

#10 One Direction – The British- Irish Boy Band formed in the 7th season of the UK’s X-Factor.

#9 Japan Earthquake – A 9.0 Earthquake hit the coast of Japan on Friday, March 11th 2011 resulting in a tsunami.

#8 Britney Spears – Spears had 4 hit singles coming off of her 2011 album Femme Fatale.

#7 Super Junior – The 9 member South Korean boy band is known throughout Asia for their Super Show.

#6 Christmas – Christmas-themed trends began to chart in November.

#5 Jonas Brothers – Fans kept this band trending in 2011 while all of the brothers pursued solo careers.

#4 NBA – The basketball season culminated in June 2011 with the Dallas Mavericks defeating the Miami Heat for the championship.

#3 Lady Gaga – The flamboyant singer toured the world in 2011 promoting her album Born this Way.

#2 Soccer/Football – Women’s FIFA World Cup was the second-most tweeted topic in 2011.

#1 Justin Bieber – The record-crushing teen dream released 2 albums in 2011; Never Say Never and Under the Mistletoe launching him to 1st place.

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December 22 2011

Don’t Fear Holiday Savings Tips are Here!!!

By Vanessa Bush | Georgia, Lifestyle, Community, | (0) Comments

Quiana & Rhiannan at Highland Reserve Apartment Homes here in Atlanta Georgia would like to share with you some of our Holiday Saving tips. The holiday season can be joyous, hectic, celebratory — and expensive. They also say that "money is the root of all evil." Whether this is complete truth or partial exaggeration, this statement has been proven many times throughout history. While you probably enjoy hosting family gatherings and giving presents to your loved ones, you’ll find these things even more pleasurable if they don’t add a lot more weight to your debt load. That’s why you’ll want to follow some smart money-management techniques.


•As a guiding principal, set a budget and stick to it.

•Be honest with your self about your financial situation. Do not make sacrifices for the Holiday’s that can be detrimental to your
finances later.

•You don’t need to find the most expensive presents or overwhelm recipients with the sheer volume of your gifts.

•Spread out your purchases, you may be able to pay for them from your normal cash flow. But if that’s not possible, you might
want to consider “plastic” — your credit card. Just try to minimize your credit card usage over the holidays and pay off your
card as soon as you can.

Finally, just relax its just the Holidays have fun, enjoy your loved ones and eat some great holiday treats. Just remember, following some common-sense money-management practices can help you get through the holiday season in financial shape. “Save more and spend less”. Follow this one guideline and you will get your new year off to a positive start.

Happy Holidays!!
•

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December 21 2011

Popular New Year's Resolutions - What's Yours?

By Sarah Greenough | Corporate Office, Corporate Furnished, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Maine, Georgia, Health, Environmental, Lifestyle, Community, Sarah Greenough, | (0) Comments

Taken from the USA.gov website, here are some New Year's resolutions that seem to be popular year after year. Have you made any resolutions? Are they on this list?

Popular New Year's Resolutions:

• Drink Less Alcohol
• Get a Better Education
• Get a Better Job
• Get Fit
• Lose Weight
• Manage Debt
• Manage Stress
• Quit Smoking
• Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle
• Save Money
• Take a Trip
• Volunteer to Help Others

Okay, now that you’ve made a resolution, how do you make it happen in the New Year? Taken from the Wikipedia.org website, here are a few suggestions for following through with your resolutions! Good luck and Happy New Year.

How to be successful:

The desire of improving, the commitment to outperform is somehow inherent to the human being. However, most of these resolutions fail. Making a resolution is not enough, you need to structure a work plan to be successful and define the resolutions with a well thought methodology. We can create this roadmap with the following 7 steps:

 Having the right mindset
 Category identification
 Selecting the resolution
 Quantifying the resolution
 Setting intermediate milestones
 Setting the tracking tool
 The tough decision: Abandon or persevere

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December 20 2011

Last Minute Holiday Gift Ideas

By Heather Libby | Corporate Office, Corporate Furnished, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Maine, Georgia, Lifestyle, Community, | (1) Comments

With only a few more days left until Christmas the last thing you want to be doing is running to the mall, sitting in traffic, and waiting in lines. If you’re looking for those last minute gifts for that co-worker you almost forgot, the party invites you just received, or for your Great Aunt Suzie that just called to say she was popping in for dinner on Christmas day, there’s still hope! Here are a couple quick, inexpensive, last minute gift ideas...

Food is always a favorite and the perfect thing to bring to the party you just got invited to for Saturday night. Try ordering some chocolate covered strawberries, cookies, pretzels or gift baskets from a trusted online site like Edible Arrangements. These delicious treats start at only $25 and can be picked up at the closest store or delivered in just a couple of days. www.ediblearrangements.com

A bottle of wine and a bow is always appreciated as a gift or a holiday party or event. Pick up a bottle of wine at the grocery store or local liquor store on your way to your event is quick and easy. Here’s a list of the top 10 most common wines at a great price www.foodandwine.com/articles/top-holiday-wine-picks

Personalize mugs, ornaments, photo books, and calendars are one of those quick gifts that seems like they took months to come up with. They can be easily created online and can be picked up at your local CVS, Walgreens, or Rite Aid. Just upload your favorite pictures and follow the step by step directions. In most cases you can pick up the next day or even sometimes the same day!

Hopefully these few tips will help make your holiday a little easier and less stressful. Have a safe and happy holiday season!

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December 19 2011

Tips on How to Keep Your Pets Safe This Holiday Season

By Dan Harvey | Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Maine, Georgia, Multifamily, Apartment Living, Health, Food, Lifestyle, Community, Dan Harvey, | (1) Comments

The Holidays are a wonderful time of year. We spend time traveling, visiting with family and friends. It’s the time of year to make our dogs wear silly Santa hats, antlers and bows. While our four legged family members should be included in all of the festivities, there are a few things to be aware of so that the holidays are fun and safe for everyone.

Here are a few tips to keep your pets safe during the holidays.

Food safety:

• Don't give your dog scraps from the table or holiday buffet. Cookies and pies, macaroni salads and stuffing,
potato chips and fancy hors d'oeuvres, are inappropriate foods for dogs and may make them sick. Alcohol
and chocolate are toxic for dogs, even in small amounts. Keep unhealthy, sweet treats and seasonal
goodies out of reach. Keep an eye on the holiday table and secure leftovers and garbage to
prevent your dog from foraging among the holiday foods. Holly, mistletoe and poinsettia plants are also
poisonous to dogs.


Entertaining:

• If you host a party, remember that some guests may be uncomfortable around dogs. Your dog may, in turn,
be uncomfortable or frightened around a large group of unfamiliar people. You may want to confine him in a
crate or a room that will not be used by guests. Otherwise, keep him by your side, or with another family
member, to keep him from getting into trouble or underfoot.Remind guests not to feed your dog anything
from the table.

• If traveling, remember to bring his bed and favorite toys. Remember to give your dog plenty of exercise.
Don't leave your dog outside in the cold for long periods of time. Wind chill makes days colder than actual
temperature readings. Be attentive to your dog's body temperature, and limit its time outdoors. Remember
that dogs still need plenty of fresh water available even during winter time.

Decorating:

• Both live and artificial tree needles are sharp and indigestible. Keep your tree blocked off (with a playpen or
other "fence") or in a room that is not accessible to your dog. Tinsel can be dangerous for dogs, it may
obstruct circulation and, if swallowed, block the intestines.

Do not put lights on the lower branches of your tree as they may get very hot and burn your dog.

• Watch out for electrical cords. Pets often try to chew them and get badly shocked or electrocuted so place
them out of reach. Avoid lass ornaments, which break easily and may cut a dog's feet or mouth. Do not
use edible ornaments, or cranberry or popcorn strings.

Your dog may knock the tree over in an attempt to reach them. Keep other ornaments off the lower
branches; if your dog chews or eats an ornament, he can be made sick by the materials or paint. It is
safest to never leave your dog unattended in the room with tree.

ASPAC Poison Control Center:

• If you think that your pet has consumed something poisonous or dangerous don’t wait to call your vet or
local animal hospital. If you have general questions contact the ASPCA Poison control center at
888-426-4435 or visit http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/poison-control/ .

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December 14 2011

Tis The Season...For Yankee Swaps!

By Shannon Flannery | Corporate Office, Corporate Furnished, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Maine, Georgia, Lifestyle, Community, | (2) Comments

An odd name for a gift exchange game, the Yankee Swap supposedly derived its name from the Civil War days. It seems that the Yankees and the Confederates at some point swapped prisoners as a sort of game to lighten up the atmosphere, hence the name “Yankee Swap.” How the term was adopted to gift giving is up for speculation.

Here are some tips for Yankee Swap Etiquette…

1.Once you open a gift, you have to keep it where everyone can see it. No trying to hide that sweet snow cone maker under the table!

2.Once you touch a gift from the pile, that’s the one you get. No shaking and weighing the gifts… you’re not picking out a cantaloupe!

3.If you take too long to pick a gift, the group can elect to count down your time limit (which is up to the mob). If time runs out, you get the gift closest to you… and someone will probably throw it at you.

Happy Swapping, Everyone!

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December 14 2011

Princeton Place Apartments presents the “Ugly Christmas Sweater Contest”

By Dan Harvey | Massachusetts, Marketing, Food, Lifestyle, Community, Dan Harvey, | (0) Comments

The contest runs December 12th thru December 31st:

• Visit our Facebook fan page at: http://www.facebook.com/princetonplaceapts

• Simply upload a photo of yourself donning your “ugliest” Christmas sweater.

• The three photos receiving the most likes during the contest time period will win!
We are excited to be giving away 1st, 2nd and 3rd place prizes in conjunction with our generous sponsors.

• All of the winners will be announced on Tuesday, January 3rd, 2012. So break out your festive sweaters and start posting pictures!


Special Thanks to our neighborhood prize sponsors:

Brew City, Shrewsbury Street, Worcester
http://www.brew-city.com/

D'Iorio's, Plantation Street, Worcester
http://dioriossalon.com/

The Ecotarium, Harrington Way, Worcester
http://www.ecotarium.org/

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December 13 2011

If Anyone Ever Tells You That Renting is Throwing Money Away...

By Claire Collins | Corporate Office, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Maine, Georgia, Multifamily, Apartment Living, Lifestyle, Community, | (0) Comments

Dear Abby has an answer for why it makes sense to rent in her December 9, 2011 column:

DEAR ABBY: I am a divorced, childless, independent and financially secure woman. I live happily in my upscale apartment.
How do I respond to family members, co-workers and friends who constantly ask, "Why don't you buy a house and quit throwing your money away paying rent?"

I don't want to buy a house and be tied to a 30-year mortgage. I'm perfectly happy the way things are. What is a proper response to those questions? Saying, "I don't want to" hasn't been enough. -- HAPPY RENTER IN HOUSTON

DEAR HAPPY RENTER: The responsibilities of home ownership aren't for everyone, and many individuals have realized it as bills for plumbers, electricians, roofers, insurance and property taxes mounted up. You might mention that to the inquirers, although your response to your well-meaning friends, relatives and co-workers should have been sufficient. A way to change the subject would be to say, "Now, let's talk about something else."

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December 13 2011

Shop Til You Drop…

By Sheri Apprille | Corporate Office, Corporate Furnished, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Maine, Georgia, Health, Food, Lifestyle, | (0) Comments

…those unwanted pounds, that is.

Don’t have time this holiday season to exercise? Make the most of the time you have!

Don’t put it off until the New Year. Start today! Make small changes that will lead up to lifestyle changes and you will see the results without realizing you have made any changes.

You say you can’t exercise because you have to shop? Here are some small changes to help you burn a few more calories while you shop this holiday season:

• Park further away from the mall/store entrance (yea, like you have a choice! Ha!)
• Take a brisk lap or 2 around the inside of the entire mall before you even start to shop (No stopping, no texting and no talking on the phone!)
• Eat dinner before you go to avoid the fast food meal at the food court
• Drink water to help keep you full
• Take the stairs up and down instead of elevators and/or escalators
• Bring your bag from each purchase out to the car when you are done at each store (this will create multiple trips to and from your car – sounds kind of annoying, but you will be burning calories!!)
• Try to avoid snacking/eating after 7pm – chew gum if you are hungry or crave sweets
• If you can manage an hour somewhere in there for yourself, take a local class (Zumba, Kickboxing, Yoga, etc)! It will knock the stress
right out of you and help you sleep better!

Happy Holidays and Good Health for 2012!!

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December 13 2011

Top Three Unique Gift Websites

By Sarah Greenough | Corporate Office, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Maine, Georgia, Apartment Living, Lifestyle, Community, Sarah Greenough, | (0) Comments

Tis the season for major Internet shopping. We are just days away from Christmas; it’s "crunch time" to finish up your holiday shopping. As many of you, I've been spending a good amount of time shopping online and have stumbled upon some pretty unique gift websites. I’d like to share three of my favorites with you all. Here are web links to my top unique gift websites. I would also love to hear about some of your favorite gift sites. I’m sure there are many more fun and unique sites to discover! Happy shopping and happy holidays!

1. Destination Dinners - offers dinner party gift sets highlighting cuisine from around the globe. A great find for the "foodie" in your life!


2. Have you ever wanted to be the main character in a book? Well, here is the opportunity to land the starring roll in the novel of your choice using the U Star Novels website! This makes for a very cool & personalize gift.


3. Uncrate is a really fun website for those on your list who seem to "have everything" or are merely gadget obsessed - the tag line of the site states they provide awesome new things - they do!

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December 13 2011

Winter Energy Saving Tips For Residents

By Andrea Savoy | Corporate Office, Corporate Furnished, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Maine, Georgia, Multifamily, Apartment Living, Lifestyle, | (0) Comments

Keeping your apartment warm and comfortable this winter doesn’t mean you have to spend more on your utility bills. Reducing your heating needs and controlling your thermostat temperature settings will keep costs down without sacrificing comfort! Heating your apartment will be your biggest energy cost during the winter. Paying attention to just a few details will help you manage your costs.

Here are some tips on how to keep the heat in…

- If you have storm windows, make sure they are completely closed.
- Install covers on window and through-the-wall air conditioners.
- If you have a fireplace, close the damper when you are not using it.
- Pull your shades or close your drapes at night.

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August 12 2011

How to be green in your apartment.

By Dan Harvey | Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Maine, Georgia, Multifamily, Apartment Living, Environmental, Lifestyle, Dan Harvey, | (0) Comments

How to be green in your apartment:

Everything has gone green these days and I’m hoping that this trend continues as we evolve toward environmentally conscious lifestyles.  The great news about going “green” is that it’s so easy to make a few small changes to your personal habits that will have a huge impact on the environment.  Apartment living is already a naturally green lifestyle;  sharing space and common resources leaves a much smaller carbon footprint than if every person had their own single-family home.  Apartment management companies have also made great strides in providing energy-efficient and earth-friendly communities.  A great example of this is Princeton Properties’ new website dedicated to demonstrating how much electricity is actually being saved with their solar panels (check it out at http://princetonproperties.powerdash.com/home/). When I thought about making my apartment “greener,” I started with the obvious things like recycling and switching to energy-efficient bulbs.  After a quick Google search, I turned up thousands of ways to go green. 

Here are just a few simple ways to make your apartment a greener one:

Save Money & Energy:

Interesting Fact: Standby power in the average household consumes 1,000 kilowatt hours of electricity annually. That’s enough energy to power an entire apartment for more than two months!

• Unplug the hidden energy eaters in your apartment: Look at TVs, VCRs, DVD players, cable TV boxes, computers and printers, microwave ovens, cell phone chargers, digital cameras, and anything else that is plugged in. Most electronic equipment, including anything that uses a remote control, is designed to consume energy when it is turned off; that “off” setting is actually a “standby” mode. Unplug everything that you can while it is not being used.

• Swap out incandescent bulbs for compact fluorescent bulbs. CFs use about 66% less energy and last up to 10 times longer.

• Turn down your thermostat by two degrees in the winter and up two degrees in the summer. You’ll save 2,000 pounds of carbon dioxide this year!

• Use cold-water washing, which saves 80% on laundry energy.

• Only run full loads in the dishwasher and the laundry machine. You use the same amount of energy to power these machines if you have a 1/2 load or a full one- so wait a couple of days to make sure you have a full load.

• Be careful not to leave the water running when you brush your teeth or wash the dishes.

• Scrape - don’t rinse! When using a dishwasher, pre-rinsing is no longer necessary with today’s technology and detergents. You may be using more water to pre-rinse than the dishwasher uses for a full wash cycle.

• Use less and Recycle more: Fun Fact: Recycling just one aluminum can saves the amount of energy required to run a TV for three hours!

• Seek out your apartment community’s recycling facilities. Even if they aren’t within the apartment community, there will be facilities nearby.

• When you go out for coffee, bring a reusable, insulated mug.

• Many computers, monitors, cell phones and other electronics include toxic materials that should not sit in landfills. There are a ton of companies that will take these items off of your hands. Visit the Environmental Protection Agency (link: http://www.epa.gov/) to find local electronics recyclers.

• Stop getting junk mail - 100 million trees’ worth are sent out each year. Visit http://www.dmachoice.org/MPS/ to opt out of the Direct Marketing Association’s member mailings.

 

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August 02 2011

Summer E-Reader Sweepstakes Winners Announced!

By Sarah Greenough | Lifestyle, Community, Sarah Greenough, | (0) Comments

Three winners of our E-Reader Sweepstakes were announced this month. We were thrilled to congratulate the winners:

Michael H. (of Princeton Park) won the iPad2,
Natalya N. (of Princeton Crossing) won the Nook and
Erin S. (of Pheasant Run) won the Kindle.

Congratulations to our winners and thank you to everyone for participating. Be on the look out for more fun Princeton Properties Facebook contests!

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August 02 2011

Nothing Beats an Outdoor Concert During Summer Time!

By Dan Harvey | Massachusetts, Lifestyle, Community, Dan Harvey, | (0) Comments

Nothing beats an outdoor concert during summer time!

It’s summer in New England and we need to enjoy every second because it will be over before we realize it. So many cities and towns offer a variety of music festivals and summer concerts, learn about a few of them at the links below.

Out to lunch concerts on the common, Worcester MA. Every Friday July 1st - September 9th on Worcester Common 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. This season's series will include expanded food offerings as well as artisans & crafters, and a farmers' market. Enjoy live performances by sensational acts. http://www.worcestermass.org/calendar-of-events/?id=128203


Summer Concert Series, Marlborough MA. Every Thursday from 7:00PM-9:00PM Marlborough hosts free outdoor concerts. http://www.marlborough-ma.gov/Gen/MarlboroughMA_Recreation/summerconcerts


Tsongas Center backyard music series, Lowell MA. Thursday evenings through August behind the Tsongas Arena.
http://www.lowellma.gov/depts/parks-recreation/Tsongas


Check out your cities website for a complete schedule. The best part is that these concerts are FREE!

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August 02 2011

Home Sweet Apartment – Why You Might Not Want to Buy

By Claire Collins | | (0) Comments

You have to love Suze Orman. She dispenses practical financial advice, often that you often don’t want to hear, but know you should take. Much in the way that your mother told you “eat your broccoli” Suze says “eliminate your credit card debt.” Hard to swallow, but you know she’s right. Aside from the way she addresses callers to her show as “Lovebug” she’s got a lot of good things to say.

We have an affinity for the rental lifestyle in our business, so I was glad to read Ms. Orman’s advice on for renting vs. buying on oprah.com:

4 Signs You Should Rent Instead of Buy a Home

Just because you can buy a home or condo doesn't mean you should. Here are some instances in which renting makes more sense.

1. You have credit card debt or you have yet to save 10 to 20 percent for a down payment. I know FHA-insured loans allow down payments of just 3.5 percent. But I have a higher bar for you to clear: If you have credit card debt and haven't saved for a sizable down payment, you are not yet ready to own.

2. You envision moving within five to seven years. When you buy a home, you owe the real estate agent nothing. When you sell, however, you pay the full agent's fee, which is typically 6 percent. Add in the other costs of closing a sale and the cost of moving, and it's very possible that leaving your home too soon could eat up close to 10 percent of its sale price. Here's something else to consider: Depending on where you live, it could still be a year or two before home prices stabilize. And even once they rebound, it's wise to anticipate average annual increases in line with or slightly ahead of the rate of inflation, or about 3 percent. So if you have to sell a home in fewer than five years or so, the cost of selling may exceed any potential price appreciation during the time you owned.

3. Your calculations show that the cost of renting is a better deal than the cost of buying. The New York Times has a terrific free online calculator that shows how many years you'd need to own before your home "pays off" relative to renting.

4. You don't really want the responsibilities and risks associated with being a homeowner. There's absolutely no rule that says you must own. Whatever feels right to you is the right move—as long as you can afford it.

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