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Perfect Bake Pro. Courtesy photo

By SUZETTE FOX
Los Alamos

If there one thing that’s hotter than ever right now, it’s a Smart home. Once a year I write about the hottest technology in a wired home, but this list is quite interesting – especially if you like to cook, bake, clean, or like to live a healthy lifestyle.  Here are a few of the best smart home devices of 2017.

COOKING

Char-Broil Digital Electric Smoker with SmartChef Technology $200
When it comes to smoking ribs or other meats in the backyard, you’ve typically got two choices, charcoal or gas, and neither is perfect. It’s possible that Read More

Fourth of July picnic. Courtesy photo

By SUZETTE FOX
Los Alamos

Can you believe we are mid-summer already? It’s our country’s birthday and time to celebrate! My family loves fireworks. We are blessed enough to watch them from our deck, so the day will be filled with good eats – ribs on the barbeque, lawn games, probably even a trip to the pool.

It doesn’t take much to decorate for Independence Day. You can decorate with food, flowers, and lawn decorations. Follow these guidelines for a red, white and blue, patriotic celebration.

Red, White and Blue Refreshments
Think of cold beverages Read More

Wallpaper is back! Courtesy photo

By SUZETTE FOX
Los Alamos

Home design trends are all about creating lush spaces by taking traditional designs and making them modern with unique color texture and material choices. As the saying goes “everything old is new again” rings true, especially in décor. The 1980’s and 1990’s are back again — this time with a 21st-century spin.

Floral wallpaper
The patterns may have changed, but it’s safe to say that wallpaper is experiencing a major renaissance in design. The key is to use an updated pattern in a small dose — like in a powder room or on a bedroom accent Read More

Outdoor home theater. Courtesy photo

By SUZETTE FOX
Los Alamos

Although around 350 still exist across the United States, the drive-in survives on a smaller scale thanks to a growing number of people who have taken the concept to the backyard.

Can it be done without spending a fortune? Not only is it possible, it is an amazing amount of fun as long as you follow some common sense rules.

Don’t be That Neighbor…
Depending on where you live, the concept of a backyard home theater may be a non-starter due to noise restrictions, safety regulations, or because you live in an apartment and it is unlikely Read More

Outdoor kitchen. Courtesy photo

By SUZETTE FOX
Los Alamos

It’s my favorite time of year to be outdoors – it’s not too hot, the evenings are cool and lets face it, our sunsets are the very best in the United States. Why not create a relaxing, stylish outdoor living space? It will greatly increase the appeal and value of your home while providing an oasis for friends and family to enjoy.

Purpose. How are you going to use your outdoor space? You most likely will need an entertainment area, cooking area and dining area. Some of you will want a garden that might include vegetables, play area for kids, Read More

Stunning lighting. Courtesy photo

By SUZETTE FOX
Los Alamos

Here we are in the third part of the series of remodeling a living room. We‘ve discussed getting started, considering your lifestyle, determining your needs, identifying your style, budgets, floor plans and layout. Now we will dive into lighting, flooring and architectural details. Look closely at the photos I’ve chosen and pay attention to these characteristics – lighting, flooring, fireplace and architectural details – in each of them.

Living Room Lighting Tips
Homeowners often forget about the importance Read More