Home Sweet Construction Zone

The ups, downs and endless dust of living in your home during a renovation can be quite an adventure. Your familiar, peaceful space quickly transforms into an active construction zone, with sounds of hammers and drills becoming your new background music. While the process might seem overwhelming, there's also an undeniable thrill in watching your vision take shape, knowing the result will be well worth the wait. Here's how to navigate the process, stay sane and even enjoy the renovation ride.

Communicate with your contractors. Be clear about your expectations regarding noise levels, working hours and cleanliness. Establishing a timeline will help you plan around the most disruptive phases of the construction, like demolition or painting, which may require you to vacate certain rooms temporarily.

Create alternate living areas. If your kitchen is being renovated, consider setting up a kitchenette with essentials such as a microwave, hot plate and mini fridge. Similarly, if your bedroom is under construction, carve out a comfortable corner in another room for sleeping. This helps you preserve a level of normalcy and makes your day-to-day needs more manageable.

Control dust and debris as best you can. Seal off construction zones with plastic sheeting and use air purifiers to minimize the spread of dust throughout the house. Regularly wipe down and vacuum heavily affected areas.

Maintain a positive mindset. You know renovations can be stressful, but keeping the final result in mind — an updated environment where you'll enjoy spending time — can help you stay enthused. Patience and flexibility are essential as you look forward to making memories in your new and improved space.

Simple Steps To Welcome Holiday Guests

Prepare your home in advance for holiday guests so you can settle in to enjoy the celebrations. With these easy tips, you'll create a comfortable atmosphere that leaves everyone feeling right at home.

If guests are staying overnight, set up a private, cozy space for them. Make the bed with fresh sheets and blankets, and offer a dresser or closet for their belongings. Provide extra toiletries like toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, and soap, and make sure they have access to any necessary codes or passwords to ensure an enjoyable stay.

Clean high-traffic areas, including the kitchen, bathrooms and living room. Give each room a thorough dusting and wipe down all surfaces. Mop or vacuum flooring and empty trash cans throughout the house. Don't forget your home's exterior — spruce up the entryway with seasonal decor and make sure walkways and driveways are clear and well-lit.

Cozy Pet Nooks

Turn unused space in your house into a dream sanctuary for your furry friend. With a touch of creativity, you can craft a cozy, personalized retreat your pet will love.

Look around your house for small, underutilized spaces that can be transformed into a comfortable nook for your pet to relax such as a closet under the stairs, a built-in window seat, or just an empty corner of a room. For smaller animals, you can even upcycle a piece of furniture. Simply empty the bottom shelf of a bookcase or remove the doors from an armoire to create a snug haven for them to cuddle up.

Now that you've decided on the perfect place, add a comfy cushion and plush blanket, then fill the area with your pet's favorite toys. You can even upgrade the space by adding a food and water station. If there's enough room, cats will enjoy a small climbing tree.

Your pet's new hideaway is a simple addition to your home that may quickly become their favorite spot.

Unique Stocking Holders

Stockings hung by the chimney with care are a lasting holiday tradition. If you're looking to ditch store-bought stocking hooks for a more distinctive look, here are some clever ideas that will elevate your seasonal decor.

• Hide small stocking hooks underneath lighted greenery or the white "snow" of a traditional holiday village display.
• Add dimension and height to your stocking display by hanging them from the rungs of a blanket ladder.
• Eliminate hooks entirely by clipping stockings to a rustic branch or a long piece of twine, then attach it to your mantle or hang it on a wall. For a more festive touch, decorate it with garland, ornaments and string lights.

Roasted Chicken Drumsticks

Ingredients
8 chicken drumsticks
1 zucchini
1 sweet potato
1 lb. red potatoes, quartered
2 shallots, quartered
2 cups broccoli florets
4 garlic cloves, minced
¼ cup avocado oil
1 tsp. dried rosemary
1 tsp. onion powder
½ tsp. paprika
¼ tsp. crushed red pepper
½ tsp. salt
¼ tsp. pepper
Fresh rosemary

Directions
Preheat oven to 400^° F. Pat drumsticks dry. Line a 9x13-inch baking dish with parchment paper. Cut zucchini and sweet potato into large chunks, then place drumsticks and vegetables in baking dish.

In a small bowl, whisk together garlic, oil, dried rosemary, onion powder, paprika, crushed red pepper, salt, and pepper. Pour over chicken and vegetables and toss to coat. Bake uncovered for 30–40 minutes, or until drumsticks reach 165^° F. Garnish with fresh rosemary.