It's That Time! Here's A Holiday Recipe!

Posted on October 27, 2017


The holidays are a time for family, for fun and for food! But deciding what to bring to your family’s gathering is often easier said than done, which is why the 39th Annual San Antonio Christmas Showcase presented by At Home® is bringing you a place to shop for those delicious dishes and treats that will leave everyone asking you for the recipe. Like the local Texas Brew Blue n’ Blackberry Sauce, a rich blend of blackberry puree and blueberries with a hint of lavender is bold, yet delicate. Delicate enough to transform a blasé, run of the mill, store bought, frozen cheesecake into a dessert scrumptious and beautiful enough to serve at any event. Imagine a beautiful cheesecake drizzled with Blue n’ Blackberry Sauce topped with fresh blueberries and whipped cream. The possibilities are endless. In a hurry, how about making beautiful parfaits or simply pouring over ice cream. Or, perhaps, with a little more effort, preparing a Texas Brew Seared Blue n’ Blackberry Pork Tenderloin.
 
Texas Brew Seared Blue/Blackberry Pork Tenderloin
1 small pork tenderloin
Adams Reserve All Purpose House Rub
Texas Brew Blue N’ Blackberry Sauce

  1. Preheat oven to 500°F
  2. Sprinkle roast liberally with AR All Purpose House Rub and sear in a hot skillet.
  3. Place tenderloin on baking sheet and baste with Texas Brew Blue n’ Blackberry Sauce
  4. Bake till internal temp reaches 145° to 160°. Remove from oven and rest. (about 15 minutes depending on size of tenderloin
  5. Serve sliced and drizzled with warmed TB Blue N’ Blackberry Sauce

 
Baking times will vary due to the size of your tenderloin and preferred method of cooking.
To get your hands on a jar of Texas Brew Blue n’ Blackberry Sauce come down to “The Big One”, the 39th Annual Christmas Showcase November 18th-19th at the Freeman Coliseum. Get a jump on your holiday shopping, with hundreds of unique gifts and a package check for those bulky items you don’t want to carry while you finish shopping. Create holiday memories at Craft Workshops or at the Kids Zone, grab a bite at the Holiday Food Court or with Wine or Tamale tasting. It’s the best way to make your list and check it twice!
About Texas Brew
Texas Brew Products a multiple award winning company, founded by Brenda Craig prides itself in uniqueness, freshness and quality. In addition to producing very unique Fire Roasted Kale and Bloody Mary Salsas we are most proud of our newest sauces: Blue n’ Blackberry, Strawberry Chipotle and Baja Pina Colada. Exquisite and versatile enough to be used on and in delicate desserts to finishing or glazing sauces for virtually any protein.
Brenda grew up on a farm abundant with fresh vegetables and blackberries, her favorite fruit. Her love of fresh veggies and fruit has inspired her to create many scrumptious salsas and sauces. Her mother taught her to cook from a very young age but it wasn’t till a few years ago she began creating exclusive salsas and sauces for HEB.

10 Weeks 'Til Christmas?!

Posted on October 20, 2017


That’s right! But don’t panic! The At Home Christmas Showcase in San Antonio is back and bigger than ever!! And it is now produced by the same folks as your favorite Home & Garden Show!!
November 18 & 19, 2017 check off your Christmas list all in one place!
Find unique gifts for everyone on your Christmas list in one place. With over 500 booths featuring holiday decorations, Texas artisans, jewlery and apparel you can get a jump start on your holiday list. Plus, this event is fun and chock full of holiday cheer. You won’t want to miss out on craft workshops, a holiday food court with everything from strudel to lobster, even a package check to store those must-have items while you continue shopping! And there is something for everyone, with a kids zone to entertain even the youngest members of your family. The at home Christmas showcase, November 18th and 19th at the freeman coliseum. Get your tickets today at Christmas showcase dot com.
Don’t miss out, see you there!

That Surface Can Be Slip-Resistant!

Posted on October 6, 2017


 
Imagine a slip-resistant surface that not only enhances the look of your playground, splash pad, pool deck, patio, entrance or walkway but also provides comfort, resilience and style!
Rubaroc® combines proprietary high tech polymer resins with high quality colorfast rubber granules. It is poured-in-place then hand troweled to create a beautiful, resilient, non-skid surface that is virtually indestructible.
Originally innovated as poured-in-place Rubber Safety Surfacing for swimming pool decks, Rubaroc® quickly grew its applications and today you will find Rubaroc® Rubber Safety Surfaces being used in a wide variety of applications from water parks, playgrounds, schools, childcare facilities, golf clubs and hotels, private and public housing associations and so much more.
Rubaroc is skid-resistant when wet, much like your bath mat, which makes rubber surfacing perfect for wet deck applications. The surface is comfortable to walk on in bare feet, even on the hottest summer day.
Rubaroc is professionally installed by Rubaroc Professionals over your new or existing surface. When finished, it expands and contracts to accommodate temperature changes and ground movement. Rubaroc bonds directly to any solid substrate material including concrete, asphalt, epoxy stone, brick, wood, steel, tarmac, chipboard, and aluminum.
Find solutions to your home projects like this one and many more at the Show Technology Home & Garden Shows across the nation! Click Here For Show Schedule

Surfin' for Turf?

Posted on September 15, 2017

What are factors that I should consider in choosing an artificial grass for my garden?

With many environmental and economic concerns in mind, artificial grass is becoming an increasingly popular solution for both commercial and residential properties alike. However, it is important to consider several factors when choosing the right artificial grass to create the garden of your dreams. Here are some important factors you should consider:
1. Your budget – If you are going to make an investment into artificial turf for your garden you want to make sure you are staying within your own spending comfort level. Make sure and create a reasonable range of prices to help stick to your budget.
2. Durability and the warranty provided – Always ask about the durability of the grass you are researching and how long the warranty is to make sure you get the most bang for your grass buck.
3. How you use your garden – Are you going to play a game of soccer on your grass or have a relaxing summer picnic? How your garden is going to be used is crucial to what type of grass you choose.
4. Who uses your garden – Do you have young children or pets? If so, you should take that into consideration when choosing your grass.
5. How you want it to look – You should love the way your new grass looks and it should add to the overall aesthetics of your residence. Choosing samples of grass can help you decide what you want before buying.
To learn more about this and get all your Home & Garden #projectssolved, come to the San Antonio Fall Home & Garden Show Sept. 29-Oct. 1st at the Alamodome. This article was provided by Hill Horticulture who will be there to consult on turfgrass and many other landscaping options!

How To Choose an Outdoor Lighting Professional

Posted on September 8, 2017


Professional outdoor lighting for your home can provide several benefits. It offers curb appeal and enhanced safety for pathways, walkways and steps. Outdoor lighting allows you to extend the enjoyment of your outdoor living spaces long after the sun goes down and adds a layer of security against unwanted visitors.
When considering outdoor lighting there are several options to choose from. DIY products are available in big box stores and online. Solar lights are everywhere, but don’t provide a sufficient amount of light output to light a pathway properly. Line voltage lighting is an option, but a licensed electrician must install it and bulbs tend to burn out quickly.
(Not to mention a higher electricity bill.)
The Basics
A legitimate professional outdoor lighting system installation will include:
• A custom design plan
• Quality products (fixtures, transformer, cable, etc.)
• Thorough, meticulous installation
• Ongoing service to ensure that the system always performs in perfect condition
Outdoor Lighting Design Elements
Less is more with landscape lighting. Over lamping and poor placement of fixtures can wash out landscaping and create unnecessary glare for the homeowner. When working with a professional designer a needs analysis should be developed to determine the goals for the homeowner.
Pathway Lighting
Energy efficient path lights direct light downward to showcase pathways and highlight low flowerbeds. Avoid placing the fixtures in a straight line and be sure to choose quality fixtures that have a large light spread.
Up-Lighting and Grazing
Create that welcome home feeling in the evening hours by evenly up-lighting your home. Be sure to highlight those special architectural details that set your home apart. Extend the look of your home and add a pop of color by highlighting some specimen trees in the front yard.
Lighting for Outdoor Living Spaces
Daylight savings may be around the corner but a well-designed lighting plan will help extend your outdoor living into all four seasons of the year. Don’t forget the perimeter trees to create some depth in your backyard. You will most likely find that the evening hours are soon to be your most cherished!
Deck and Step Lighting
There are great options for under mount deck lights that don’t show much by day, but certainly give off a great deal of light at night. Rope lighting almost completely disappears by day when installed properly underneath a deck rail. It gives off a soft glow in the evening hours. Step lighting is an ideal way to keep your stairs safe by placing lights in the stairs themselves.
Festive and Holiday Lighting
What a great way to spice up your patio or pergola to create the perfect space to entertain. Your local lighting professionals have just the lighting solutions for you to get the party started whether you are shopping for temporary or permanent lighting solutions.
Choosing A Provider
Now that you have a basic understanding of what’s involved and what to expect relative to lighting solutions, do your homework. Come to the 5th Annual Collin County Home & Garden Show, Sept. 15-17 to talk to pros like And trust the pros, like Outdoor Lighting Perspectives of Dallas, America’s most trusted source for professional outdoor lighting.

Designing & Remodeling a Space in 5 Easy Steps

Posted on August 18, 2017

Article Provided By: Lauren Clements, SODO HOME Design Center

Step 1: Determine a color scheme.
When doing this, keep in mind you’ll want to notice a difference between old and new – but not a drastic difference – unless you really dislike the old! *Make sure to take before photos.*
Step 2: Determine budget.
This will help you when selecting materials. It is a good idea to break out your budget into different parts. For example, flooring materials, cabinets, fixtures, countertops and backsplash should all be separate allowance line items. This will help to keep quality consistent throughout your project. Oftentimes, clients spend more on materials that are purchased at the beginning of a project, skimping on quality by the end due to budgeting issues.
Step 3: Select materials and contractors – or a contractor who handles materials – like SODO Home Design Center!
You will save yourself time and money by hiring a contractor who purchases, acquires and installs materials for you. This also puts all the responsibility in someone else’s hands – just make sure that someone else is licensed and insured!
Step 4: Get started!
WARNING – this part is NOT FUN. Your house will look like a small child’s room that is being re-organized for the first time in 5 years. If you don’t have kids… imagine taking everything off your walls and floors, out of drawers, etc. and placing it all in one room of your home. Essentially you are volunteering your home to be a construction zone – but you won’t quite know what you signed up for until you experience it.
Step 5: Complete the project!
Before you step into your completed space, take a look at some before photos. Especially if you lived in the home during the renovation. It can be hard to remember exactly what the old place looked like when you watched it change over time. Last, but certainly not least, take after photos and review your project. Post the photos for others to see and review your contactor online – others considering a project with that contractor will benefit greatly. Enjoy your new home!
To find out more about how to get started on these 5 Easy Steps, stop by the 8th Annual Orlando Fall Home & Garden Show, August 25th-27th at the Orange County Convention Center, West Concourse. Get inspired by 5,000 sq. ft. of Designer Rooms, tour the SODO HOME Designer Center, get tips from an Interior Design Panel and seminars and more. Meet celebrities like, Ahmed Hassan, Celebrity Landscaper as seen on DIY Network’s Yard Crashers and Skip Bedell, Co-host of Spike TV’s Catch A Contractor.
Learn more and get a discounted ticket at OrlandoHomeAndGardenShow.com.

7 Ways to Stay Cool and Save Money As the Temperatures Rise

Posted on March 31, 2017


 
Americans spend up to 70% of their summer electricity bills on air conditioning. All that juice adds up to $11 billion a year, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. That’s more than the yearly operating budget of Oklahoma — and about a dozen other states.
Air conditioning keeps us comfortable, but it also creates a lot of waste and costs a lot of money. Sure, you could shut off your A/C altogether, if you don’t mind being ridiculously (and dangerously) hot. Like most problems, the best solution is somewhere in the middle.
Here are a few expert tips for dialing back the A/C, saving cash and staying cool this summer.
UP YOUR AIRFLOW
The breeze from an ENERGY STAR® rated ceiling fan can make you feel up to 10°F cooler while adding less than $5 to your electricity bill annually. If you turned down your thermostat 10°F to get the same effect, you’d be spending hundreds of dollars more over the course of the summer.
USE YOUR THERMOSTAT WISELY
Does your setpoint sit at 72°F all summer? Raise it a few degrees and speed up your ceiling fan at the same time. You’ll save up to 5% on your cooling costs for each degree you raise your thermostat and feel just as comfortable thanks to those breezes.
AUTOMATE YOUR COMFORT
Prefer to let technology do the work? Seek out smart home products, such as the Nest Learning Thermostat or Big Ass Solutions’ own Haiku connected ceiling fans. These cutting-edge devices have built-in sensors that track the temperature. You can also schedule them to shut off when you’re not around. And after an initial setup, you’ll never have to lift a finger again.
LET MOTHER NATURE HELP
Turn off the A/C when the temperature outside dips and open windows on parallel walls to create a cross breeze. If it’s hot during the day but cool at night, crack the windows while you sleep, then shut them in the morning to lock in cool air.
EMBRACE THE SHADE
Much of the heat in your home is the result of sunlight coming in through the windows. Plant bushes and trees or install awnings, shades or shutters to keep unwanted heat where it belongs: outside.
DON’T ADD TO THE HEAT
Everything that draws electricity generates heat. Energy-efficient indoor appliances create less heat, but some appliances, such as ovens, produce heat by design. Consider using those appliances less this summer. (As if you needed another reason to grill out…)
GIVE YOUR A/C SOME TLC
Regular maintenance will keep your A/C unit running at peak efficiency. Change your air filter every three months, and get your system inspected by certified HVAC technicians every year, especially if it’s more than 10 years old. If you do have an older system, don’t just Frankenstein it back together every time it breaks. Installing a new, energy-efficient system will save money in the long run through reduced repair costs and lower energy bills.
AND! BIG ASS SERVICES CAN HELP
Want to implement the above tips? Big Ass Services can help with most of them.
Stop by the Central KY Home & Garden Show THIS WEEKEND, March 31- April 2 at the Lexington Conv. Center and talk with Big Ass Fans in more detail about how they can save you money!
The service arm of Lexington-based Big Ass Solutions offers installation, troubleshooting, maintenance and repair for Big Ass Fans, Big Ass Lights, HVAC systems, smart-home products and plumbing.

Smart Shoppers Guide to Outdoor Entertaining Areas

Posted on March 24, 2017


The Smart Shoppers Guide to Adding an Outdoor Entertainment Area -7 Tips to Bank on!
1. Dream Big, but then carefully consider your budget. Looking through magazines and planning or idea books is an awesome way to get ideas for your new space. One downside can be dreaming way beyond what is realistic for your budget. A quality product is achievable on any size budget.. The baseline for your consideration is what can you comfortably afford to spend? Having a plan before you begin is the best way to insure you love the end product.
2. Features and accessories can make a plain space spectacular! Design elements can easily be incorporated into your project without breaking your wallet. Wherever possible combine features to maximize efficiency space and time. For example, if you have a retaining wall around your fire pit, add a bench for seating. Want an outdoor kitchen and bar? Do both at the same time best utilizing your space and combining counter space. Water elements can be as simple as adding a bubbling fountain in your landscaping, a pond-less waterfall in a flower garden or a pond.
3. Decide on the scope of your project. How big does your paver patio need to be? Do you want steps and coordinating sidewalks? What about adding walls around existing landscaping? Are you going to add sod to give an immediate “finished” appearance? Determining your details on the front end saves time, money, and frustration on the back end. In most cases, it’s much easier to buy the materials and do the work in a sequential order rather than back tracking and adding to what was already completed. This of course is more time efficient which in turn keeps you to your budget.
4. Realistic time expectations go along with the scope of your project. This one may save more frustration than money, but is important to address. Quality work takes time. The company you choose should have an estimate of the time it will take his crew to complete your job which is then figured into your cost. Remember though, that even the best contractor is not in charge of the weather. One day of rain usually costs two days of work-the day it rains and then a day for the ground to dry.
5. Materials matter. The adage “you get what you pay for” certainly applies in terms of landscape and hardscape companies. Fortunately, for you as a consumer, there are multiple options available. There is sure to be an option in your price range! Quality Landscaping is able to suggest options based on your dreams and budget. Due diligence in selecting the best materials for your space and project will save you future headaches and money.
6. Choosing a reliable and reputable landscape company is your best defense against spending too much money. Select a landscaping company with a great reputation in the community and a history of quality work. Select a company that can do all aspects of your job such as irrigation, landscaping, and hardscaping. Ask if the company you are considering has a website with a portfolio, literature with pictures, written testimonials from customers? Ask if there is a cost involved in obtaining a quote. A reputable contractor will be happy to break down the pricing so that you know exactly what you will be paying for before you sign a contract. Another thing to look for is industry credentials. What companies do they represent? Being an “authorized dealer” is a difficult status to obtain which means the company is dedicated to it’s craft
7. If you are really interested in saving money, sooner is better than later! Take advantage of seasonal specials-getting discounts for early booking or bundling services. Ask if there are show specials and if yes, be prepared to take advantage of them. Getting on the schedule early means you have a great chance of enjoying your outdoor space while marshmallows can still be roasted and wine glasses toasted!
 
These awesome tips are provided by Quality Landscaping, LLC of Lexington Kentucky! Stop by their booth at the Home & Garden Show March 31-April 2 at the Lexington Center to learn more!

Ready to get outside the season, but don't want to fight the mosquitos?

Posted on March 17, 2017

We know, you have tried it all! And you have bathed in OFF and NOTHING WORKS… UNTIL NOW!
Mosquito Shield can give you several reasons why they’re the leader in residential tick and mosquito control, but the real vote of confidence comes from their customers. Over 90% of Mosquito Shield® and Tick Shield® customers repurchase season after season. To help bolster that confidence, only Mosquito Shield and Tick Shield carry an unconditional satisfaction guarantee. Something we’re happy to say mostly collects dust.
With that said, several things clearly set them apart:
• Their proprietary Mosquito Protection Blend™ (MPB) is the product of over 15 years of continual research and development — more than any other mosquito control company of whom they’re aware. And, they’ve enlisted the help of leading companies like Bayer to assist in the testing of our products to help ensure their impact and effectiveness.
• Mosquito Shield and Tick Shield provide provide your property with multiple modes of control working to both kill harboring mosquitoes, no-see-ums, black flies and other flying insects as well as ticks, while simultaneously repelling airborne insects and working to prevent new infestations within the treated perimeter.
• Mosquito Shield and Tick Shield were the first to provide customers with flexible treatment schedules that help to improve results during seasonal periods of mosquito breakouts or peak populations. They don’t sell treatments because a single treatment simply doesn’t work. By monitoring the weather and mosquito population, they are able to provide a worry-free, season-long solution.
• State-of-the-art routing software enables them to deliver on their flexible treatment schedules and better serve and communicate helping to improve operating efficiencies and satisfaction. Meanwhile, their sprayer equipment may look similar, but it too has been engineered to deliver product more effectively and efficiently while Mosquito Shield and Tick Shield technicians receive more training. Their technicians aren’t just trained on how to properly apply the product, but also on mosquito and tick behavior and species identification, helping to improve the overall service they provide to their customers.
Come learn more by stopping at booth number 207 at the Austin Spring Home & Garden Show, March 24-26 at the Palmer Events Center!

Seven Clever Tips for Saving Money When You Remodel

Posted on February 10, 2017

7-Clever-Tips-for-Saving-Money-When-You-Remodel
 
When you remodel your home, it can be one of the most stress-inducing times of your life. There are a few steps that you can take before, during and after a remodel that will relieve a lot of the pressure and eliminate any surprises.
I cannot make you any guarantees, but I am confident in these seven home remodeling tips that can make your journey to your dream home much smoother.
1. Small can be big too.
First, you should know that a small addition can be just as expensive as a large one. The time and expense of a remodel – hiring a contractor, getting the correct permits, performing the demolition – are going to be incorporated regardless of the project’s size. You should never underestimate the cost of a renovation project even if it is just a small addition. You should be cautious of being frugal. Saving some money will not do you any good if you have to spend money again to work on the same project later. We strive to provide as much value to the customer as we can which is why we have a built in cost estimation tool on our website for you to use free of charge.
2. Take your time with all of the planning.
Make sure you consider everything that you want and prepare detailed plans with your contractor or architect. You should make sure this happens before you begin any demolition or construction. Did you know that most homeowners wait for the warmer weather of spring to start remodeling? If you were to start your renovation around January through March, you could land some better deals. Dry air and frozen ground are excellent conditions to build a new foundation.
3. Can you dig here?
Another important thing that you should take into consideration is the zoning and development regulations in your area. Be cautious of the permits that are required. It may be very tempting to get started as soon as possible but make sure you plan everything down to the last detail if possible. We are a licensed and bonded company, so naturally, we will take care of all of this for you!
4. Try not to turn your house into something that it is not meant to be.
This tip is simple, but it speaks volumes. If it seems like your renovation plans start getting so ambitious that you are transforming your house into a bigger entirely different home, perhaps it may be wise to just move into a bigger house.
5. Remodeling is a slow process, and things take time.
Take your time and factor in lots of time to complete the project in a reasonable time frame. In general, the realistic amount of time for a remodel depends on the size of the space. If we have to upgrade or change the plumbing or electric, then the project timeline could be extended indefinitely. Ideally, we say that we can complete a project within a two to six-month time frame.
6. Reuse some materials.
Ask us if we have any materials that have been left over from past jobs! Bathrooms and kitchens are the two areas that are the most desirable to renovate. They are quite costly and can range from $5,000-$20,000. There are a couple of ways that you can save some money on these costly projects so ill let you in on a few tips. As far as the bathroom is concerned a fresh coat of paint can go a long way. In the kitchen, you can replace cabinet and drawer knobs with more modern hardware and update your appliances to give your kitchen a more expensive feel. We have included some of the current rates and frequently asked questions for some of the most common jobs on our website to save you time.
7. Get more than one opinion!
Sure we may be great, but you should always have and consider your options when you are looking to take on a project of any magnitude. If you already have several quotes in hand companies will be much more willing to strike a deal with you to win your business. Narrow down your options and have a minimum of three written estimates to compare things such as costs and timelines. We are willing to make you feel as comfortable as possible. We have no problem working out a payment plan with you that is tied to the project’s progression.

Visit the San Antonio Home & Garden Show, February 24-26, and see MGR Remodeling for more remodeling expertise and many other local professionals who can help you get your projects solved!