The statistics for household childhood injuries are staggering. Over 3.4 million children experience some kind of accidental injury in the home each year. While there is no way to guarantee child safety at home, there are certainly many things you can do to help prevent accidents and injuries…especially during the holidays! 

Here are some tips for keeping little ones safe at home during the holiday season:

• CHOKING HAZARDS

Choking and swallowing small items is something you must be extra careful to prevent during the holidays. Young children are attracted to all things bright and shiny…and this time of year there is a lot of bright and shiny! Things like tree ornaments, ornament hooks, light bulbs, tinsel, and small toys are all potential choking hazards for small children because they may block the airway. If something is small enough to fit in a young child’s mouth, chances are it will find its way in! So, keep small items out of reach and watch little ones carefully!

• BE AWARE OF POISONING RISKS

You might not realize this, but many plants commonly used as decorations during the holidays are considered poisonous and should be kept out of reach of children. These include mistletoe, holly, poinsettias, and Jerusalem cherry plants. Symptoms of plant poisoning can include rashes, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. If you ever think your child has ingested part of a plant, immediately call your pediatrician or the national poison control center at 1-800-222-1222.

• FALLING CHRISTMAS TREE

Make sure your Christmas tree is very secure in its stand and can’t be pulled over easily. The last thing you want to find is your little one trapped under a fallen tree. And trust me, they will pull at it if given the opportunity.

• KITCHEN ACCIDENTS

Kitchen accidents increase during the holiday season. Many people spend a lot of extra time in the kitchen preparing special meals and baking sweets to share. Young children want to help…and they should. It can be a fun experience for the whole family! But be aware of potential hazards that can happen when you’re busy in the kitchen.

Again, while childproofing your home will not guarantee safety, it will go a long way toward protecting your children from injuries or worse. The peace of mind you will have knowing you have done everything you can to protect your children will be well worth the effort and time put into making sure your home is as safe as possible, especially during the holidays!

If you are in the market to buy or sell a home (or both), let Sandra Nickel and her Hat Team of Professionals assist you with all your real estate needs! Call them today at 334-834-1500 and check out https://www.homesforsaleinmontgomeryalabama.com for more information! 

Thanksgiving is just a day away, and most people will likely be feasting on turkey with their families. And chances are there might be lots of turkey leftover after the fabulous feast. You might find yourself wondering what to do with it all.

Here are some great ideas for ways to enjoy your terrific turkey after Thanksgiving is over:

• The Classic Turkey Sandwich

It doesn’t have to be just turkey and bread…there are lots of ways to dress up those turkey slices to make a scrumptious sandwich. Turkey Sandwiches That Are Even Better Than the Full Bird! 

• Turkey Tostadas

Feeling like a “fiesta” to continue the holiday season? How about making some turkey tostadas? Warm up some tortillas and top them with chopped or shredded turkey, lettuce, cheese and pico de gallo. For a finishing touch add a dollop of sour cream.

• Turkey Chili with Corn & Black Beans

Continue the fiesta with a warm bowl of turkey chili. Dark meat is especially good shredded and used to create this comforting dish. Add some kidney beans, tomato, bell pepper, garlic and spices to taste and enjoy with a side of tortilla chips and salsa!

• Turkey Hash

Turkey for breakfast! Dark meat works well for a delectable turkey hash and is delicious served up with a fried egg. Sauté some shredded potatoes, a medium onion, and diced green or red bell pepper in a bit of olive oil until the vegetables are golden brown. Add a cup of shredded dark meat from your Thanksgiving turkey and season to taste. Cook until crispy and top with a fried egg and shredded cheese. YUM!

• Turkey Pot Pie

If comfort food is what you desire, there is nothing better than a leftover Thanksgiving turkey pot pie! From the warm, savory filling to the crispy, flaky pie crust, this recipe is sure to delight everyone in your family! Classic Turkey Pot Pie

• Turkey Tetrazzini
  
  This scrumptious baked pasta recipe uses creamy, cheesy white wine sauce as the base. Cooked spaghetti, mushrooms, green peas, black olives, turkey, and bacon make this a casserole you can’t resist…especially after it is topped with panko breadcrumbs!  Turkey Tetrazzini Recipe

So, don’t let leftover turkey get you down. Just be creative, and you and your family will enjoy all different kinds of mouthwatering meals until the turkey is all gone!  Happy Thanksgiving!

If you are in the market to buy or sell a home (or both), let Sandra Nickel and her Hat Team of Professionals assist you with all your real estate needs! Call them today at 334-834-1500 and check out https://homesforsaleinmontgomeryalabama.com  for more information!

2215 Crossroads Pass, Pike Road, AL 36064

MLS# 549270

4 Bedrooms | 2 Baths | 1 Half Baths | 2,315 Square Feet | Villages of Pike Road

Welcome to the Villages of Pike Road! This like-new home is one of the larger, open floor plans with 2315 sq ft, 4 bedrooms and 2.5 baths. As soon as you walk through the front door you will be impressed with the thoughtful design that maximizes both functionality and aesthetics including beautiful crown molding, tall ceilings, and tons of natural light. The gorgeous kitchen has a huge island for gathering around while open to the living area. The downstairs master suite has a generous sized bedroom and bath with walk-in shower and soaking tub. Three spacious bedrooms upstairs with versatile space perfect for a home office and a door to the upstairs balcony where you can watch the sunset. The covered patio overlooks a pretty field. This charming neighborhood has a community pool and green space and is just 10 minutes from Vaughn Rd. Check it out today!

Marketed by Montgomery AL Realtor, Lauren Keen, Sandra Nickel Hat Team!

All is Bright Parade

Friday, November 17, 2023
6pm

The Shoppes at EastChase
7274 Eastchase Pkwy
Montgomery, AL

The MAGIC is returning this holiday season at The Shoppes at EastChase! Join in for All is Bright presented by MAX Credit Union!

Bring the entire family out on Friday, November 17 at 6 PM to help us welcome Santa to The Shoppes + enjoy a tree lighting ceremony!

During + following the parade, families can enjoy:

• Glow cotton candy
• Balloon twisting
• Photo booth
• Face painting
• Live band
• and maybe even a little snow!

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A Christmas Carol

November 16 - December 24, 2023

Alabama Shakespeare Festival
1 Festival Drive
Montgomery, AL 36117

ASF returns to a full production of Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol on the Festival Stage. When miserly Ebenezer Scrooge receives an unwanted visit from the ghost of his former business partner on Christmas Eve, an overnight voyage of epic proportions begins. Journey with Scrooge as he learns from his ghosts (and Bob, Tiny Tim, and the Cratchits) a heartwarming lesson in forgiveness and the change we can make around us. This play is a joyful Christmas tradition for the entire family!

Buy Tickets Here

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Turkey Day Classic

November 23, 2023
2pm

Hornet Stadium at Alabama State University
915 S Jackson St
Montgomery, AL 36104

ASU will welcome Tuskegee University back to the 99^th Turkey Day Classic Game, one of the nation’s oldest HBCU football classics.

TDC Parade
Downtown Montgomery
8:30 a.m., Pre-parade Entertainment
9 a.m. parade starts

Pre-Game Block Party
Harris Way, 11 am

Hornet Walk
Harris Way, 11:45 a.m. – noon

Tickets: visit www.ticketreturn.com or call 334-229-4551
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3^rd Annual Move Montgomery Gobble Wobble 5K Run/Walk

November 24, 2023 – 8:00 am to 12:00 pm

Vaughn Road Park
3620 Vaughn Rd.
Montgomery, AL 36106

Register online to be entered into the T-shirt Giveaway at the event!

Wobble is an event created by Move Montgomery as part of its mission to promote wellness in the River Region by encouraging Montgomery residents to live healthier, happier lives. The run/walk will allow participants to exercise at their own pace while staying healthy and having fun!

Registration for the event is FREE! 

REGISTER HERE!!
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Small Business Saturday

Saturday, November 25, 2023

Once Upon a Christmas

Thursday, November 30^th,  7pm
Saturday, Dec 2^nd,  2pm
Saturday, Dec 2^nd,  5pm
Sunday, Dec 3^rd,  2pm

Wetumpka Depot Players, Inc.
300 South Main St,
Historic Downtown Wetumpka

It’s December, and all the creatures on the river and in the Wild Wood are excited about Christmas…except Badger. Badger hates Christmas. Nothing but a bother, as far as he’s concerned, and he’s determined to enjoy a quiet holiday with Ratty and Mole.

But the three confirmed bachelors are in for a surprise. Otter has taken a bad tumble, and someone must care for his young pups. Otter's pups are brimful of energy and mischief. Are Badger and his friends up to the task? It’s Christmas on the river. Anything could happen! Join in for a musical adaptation of this beloved classic.

Buy Tickets Here!
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Christmas Lights Festival at the Montgomery Zoo

December 2, 2023 – December 25, 2023 – 6:00pm to 9:00 pm

Montgomery Zoo and Mann Wildlife Museum
2302 Coliseum Parkway
Montgomery, AL 36110

See the Montgomery Zoo transformed into a Winter Wonderland displaying thousands of sparkling and twinkling lights and festive decorations at the Christmas Lights Festival. Take a leisurely stroll or enjoy a brisk train ride. Safely visit Santa and the Christmas Tree Village as the Mann Museum, enjoy the live entertainment at the Overlook Café, and no winter’s night would be complete without some warming hot chocolate and fresh baked cookies from the Overlook Café. Make plans to swing by the Zoo and Museum Gift Shops for last minute gift purchases, souvenirs, and to participate in the Zoo Animal Angel Tree, helping conservation efforts at the Zoo and around the world.

Come out and enjoy this River Region holiday tradition!
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Christmas on the Riverfront

Tuesday, December 5, 2023
6-8pm

Riverfront Park
355 Commerce Street
Montgomery, Alabama 36104

Enjoy live music, real snow, Santa Claus, great food, and more! The evening will culminate with the lighting of the Christmas tree. 

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If you are in the market to buy or sell a home (or both), let Sandra Nickel and her Hat Team of Professionals assist you with all your real estate needs! Call them today at 334-834-1500 and check out https://homesforsaleinmontgomeryalabama.com  for more information!

The decision to move is a big one. Chances are a lot of time, thought and energy went into making it. But now that you have decided, it’s time to start thinking about getting ready for the move. You’ve already answered the “should I stay, or should I go” question, now it’s time to ask yourself “what should I bring with me and what should I get rid of”?  Whether you have kept a lot of things because of sentimental value, or you have let things accumulate over the years, it’s time to decide what to keep and what to let go.

Here are some things you should definitely “let go” of before you move:

CLOTHES YOU DON’T WEAR ANYMORE

You know…that dress that you don’t like, but keep just in case you need a dress for something, or that suit that fit a few years ago and might fit again if you can just lose a little weight? Yep. Time to go. Same with any clothes you simply don’t wear anymore, whether because of style or fit. There is no reason to drag them to your next home. If they are in good condition, place them in a donation bag and drop them off. And if they are trash, well…you get the idea.

GAG GIFTS AND FREE PROMOTIONAL ITEMS

Been to a golf tournament recently? If so, you likely came home with a “swag bag” of sorts. If you consider chip clips, notepads, pens, and plastic cups “swag”, then by all means, hang onto it. But if the bag has been sitting on the kitchen counter for weeks, it’s time to say goodbye. Same with any other similar items. Gag gifts are fun to open, but they just end up cluttering your junk drawer. Don’t take junk with you when you move. Trust me…you won’t miss it.

KITCHEN APPLIANCES YOUR RARELY (IF EVER) USE

Who even uses a “Fry Daddy” anymore? All that grease and fat? Yuck. Just because it was a wedding gift 25 years ago, doesn’t mean you should bring it along with every move. Any appliance that you haven’t used in over a year needs to go. Why take up space in your moving boxes with something you likely won’t use again? Bye-bye!

CHEAP ART

Maybe you were on a tight budget when you were decorating your current home, so you bought some inexpensive posters and art for your walls. If you’ve outgrown them, don’t take them with you.

MOST THINGS YOU HAVE MORE THAN ONE OF

I bet you’ve replaced a laptop or cell phone during the years you have lived in your current home. And how many new pairs of eyeglasses have you gotten during that time? I also bet that when you replaced those items, you didn’t get rid of the original items you were replacing. Am I right? Well, now is the time my friend. Outdated technology doesn’t have to end up in a landfill, nor does it need to stay with you forever. Take it to be recycled!  And you can donate all those old eyeglasses to Lion's Club International where they will distribute them to people in need.

ALL THE FANCY BATH PRODUCTS YOU HAVE RECEIVED AS GIFTS

Seriously. If you haven’t used them yet, you probably never will. If you have a stash of bath bombs and such that you’ve been waiting for the perfect time to use, either use them before you move or get rid of them.

STUFF YOU BORROWED FROM FRIENDS

As you’re cleaning out cupboards and closets you may come across items you borrowed long ago. Or items friends left at your house after a party or cook-out. GIVE THEM BACK. You might be a little embarrassed if a lot of time has passed, but your friends will appreciate it and it will be one (or two, or three) less things you have to pack and move.

ANYTHING YOU FORGOT YOU HAD TO BEGIN WITH

If you come across something that you have genuinely been missing and thought was lost forever, yay! That’s awesome. But if you come across something that you are surprised you ever had to begin with? It goes.

STUFFED ANIMALS

Sigh. Even as a grown-up this one can be tough. They are so cute and cuddly. But depending on how many there are, they can take up a lot of space. Pick a few favorites if you must and keep your childhood favorite. But if you have a huge collection (whether they are yours or your children’s) I recommend you weed out as many as possible. 

The bottom line is, the less you must pack, the less overwhelmed you will feel about your move. Less truly is more…more time, more energy, more peace of mind.

If you are in the market to buy or sell a home (or both), let Sandra Nickel and her Hat Team of Professionals assist you with all your real estate needs! Call them today at 334-834-1500 and check out https://homesforsaleinmontgomeryalabama.com for more information!

3155 Montezuma Road, Montgomery, AL 36106

MLS# 549020

3 Bedrooms | 2 Baths | 1 Half Baths | 2,275 Square Feet | Cloverdale/Idlewild

This Cloverdale gem boasts 3 bedrooms and 2.5 baths, AND there is an attached 1 bedroom/1BA apartment that can be rented out or used as a guest/in-law/adult child residence! Main part of house has spacious living room, dining room, sunroom, and paneled den/family room. The kitchen has newer appliances, quartz countertops, and plenty of storage. Breakfast nook has pantry space and room for an additional refrigerator or stand-up freezer. Out back there is a detached 2 car garage with storage, a greenhouse, and a lovely brick patio. The attached apartment has living room, kitchen, bedroom, and bath. Roof, HVAC, and water heater were replaced ~2018, as well as updated wiring. Main house could rent for $1,500/month, and apartment is bringing $600/month; so this would make a great investment property!

Marketed by Montgomery AL Realtor, Billy Young, Sandra Nickel Hat Team

Buying a home in the midst of the holiday season might sound like a crazy idea, but the truth is this time of year can be a great time to buy! 

Here are 5 good reasons to purchase a home during the holidays:

1. Less Real Estate Market Activity

Because fewer people are looking for houses this time of year, there is less competition for buyers. And with less competition, buyers have more leverage when negotiating purchases. People selling homes during the holidays must often lower asking prices or make other concessions to sell. So, if you buy this time of year, you might get a bargain!

2. Highly Motivated Sellers

If someone is selling their house at the end of the year, it’s because they need to. Usually, sellers avoid the end of the year due to shorter days and cold weather, so if they are selling this time of year they are likely under pressure and motivated to make a deal.

3. Tax Perks

Buy a house before the end of the year and you can deduct any points you paid upon closing. You can also deduct property taxes and mortgage interest. Learn about the tax benefits of buying a home and find out if it is to your advantage to buy before year’s end. While your decision to buy a home shouldn’t be made solely for tax reasons, you certainly want to take advantage of the perks that exist!

4. Faster Closings

Everybody involved in the home buying/selling process has incentive to complete transactions before the end of the year. Lenders want to close their books; Realtors want to receive their commissions before the new year and sellers are anxious to move on. Since everyone is so motivated, and there is less real estate activity, closings should happen quickly and efficiently.

So, if you’ve been thinking about buying a home, but thought you should wait until the new year, think again! NOW may just be the right time for you to find a new home for the holidays!

If you are in the market to buy or sell a home (or both), let Sandra Nickel and her Hat Team of Professionals assist you with all your real estate needs! Call them today at 334-834-1500 and check out https://homesforsaleinmontgomeryalabama.com for more information!

1148 S Lawrence Street, Montgomery, AL 36104

MLS# 548823

2 Bedrooms | 2 Baths | 1,542 Square Feet | Garden District

This 1925 Garden District cottage has been completely remodeled just in time for its 100th birthday (almost)! The charming brick exterior exudes old house charm, while the interior boasts a modern feel with its open floor plan and tons of natural light! Brand new flooring, fresh paint, new fixtures, new countertops, and a NEW roof! The master suite has a brand-new bath with a sleek double vanity, tiled shower, walk-in closet and second closet in the bedroom. The front bedroom suite has a spruced up original bath and washer/dryer connection in the hall. Check it out today!

Marketed by Montgomery AL Realtor, Lauren Keen, Sandra Nickel Hat Team!

1253 Magnolia Curve, Montgomery, AL 36106

MLS# 548675

4 Bedrooms | 2 Baths | 2,637 Square Feet | Cloverdale

It's the perfect time of year to FALL in love with this fantastic Cloverdale cottage!! You will love being within walking distance of Huntingdon College and Cloverdale's entertainment district! This spacious home boasts 4 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms so there's plenty of space for everyone! Upon entering this home, you will find a lovely entryway that leads you into the very brightly lit living room and dining room. You will also notice the crown molding, plantation shutters, high ceilings and lovely hardwood floors throughout the house. Custom cabinetry was recently added to the breakfast nook for all your kitchen storage needs. Plus, the soft-close cabinets and drawers are a kitchen lover’s dream! The master ensuite was recently modeled to include a nicely tiled walk-in shower. The detached garage is divided into 3 sections: 1 single car garage, an air-conditioned workshop and separate storage. Don't miss this opportunity to live on the beautifully tree-lined Magnolia Curve!!

Marketed by Montgomery AL Realtor, Ali Bertschy, Sandra Nickel Hat Team!

Have you ever wondered how Halloween started? Now that Halloween is just a few days away, it’s a good time to learn a little bit about the history of this scary, fun-filled, candy-coma inducing holiday!

When we think of Halloween, we think of candy, costumes, haunted houses, and trick-or-treating. But the word Halloween literally means “hallowed evening”. There was a time, long ago in Europe, when it was known as All Hallows’ Eve.  All Hallows’ Eve (celebrated on October 31) and All Saints’ Day (celebrated November 1) were both times to honor saints (“hallows” means “saints”). Eventually the two celebrations were combined in to one name – Halloween.

Halloween is celebrated on October 31st because the ancient Gaelic festival of Samhain, considered the earliest version of Halloween, occurred on that day. It was a time of year when the season changed and people believed that the wall between this world and the next became thin, allowing the two worlds to connect. The idea of being able to communicate with the dead lead to Halloween becoming known as a “haunted” holiday.

Back in the old days, people would dress up as saints and go door to door singing songs and reciting verses. Children would ask for “soul cakes” (similar to biscuits), which eventually evolved into trick-or-treating. It wasn’t until the early to mid-1900s that giving out candy became mainstream in the U.S. People would give candy (treats) in the hopes that it would prevent them from being the victims of holiday pranks (tricks).

Costumes also evolved from being tributes to saints to wearing scary-looking costumes in order to give unsuspecting neighbors a fright. This custom began with some young Scottish and Irish pranksters and thanks to them, now dressing up for Halloween has become a tradition of wearing spooky, funny, and creative costumes of all kinds.

Halloween is a popular holiday in America today, but it almost didn’t make it here. The Puritans disapproved of the holiday’s pagan roots and did not take part in Halloween celebrations. Then Irish and Scottish immigrants began arriving in America in great numbers, and with them came the celebration of this fun holiday where people would sing, dance and tell ghost stories to commemorate the upcoming harvest.

By the early 20th century, it is estimated that Halloween was celebrated by the majority of people across the nation. In fact, it is now the second largest holiday in our country based on consumer spending (second only to Christmas). This year will be no different!

However, you decided to celebrate this haunting holiday, stay safe and enjoy!

If you are in the market to buy or sell a home (or both), let Sandra Nickel and her Hat Team of Professionals assist you with all your real estate needs! Call them today at 334-834-1500 and check out https://homesforsaleinmontgomeryalabama.com for more information!