Thursday, November 29, 2012


DIY HOLIDAY CONTAINER
Key Associates
By:  Allison Taylor
 
Over the long Thanksgiving weekend, I took some time to work in my flower beds.  Most everything has withered for the season, and it was time to dump some of the containers and prune dead leaves and stems.  My family also picked out a lovely live Christmas tree, which involved pruning the lower branches in order for it to fit in the stand.  So, I had sad, empty planters hanging around outside, and these perfect green Fraser Fir branches that I had just trimmed off of the tree.  What to do?  How fitting that I came across this very easy "how to" article on sprucing up an outdoor container!  What a perfect way to prolong the aesthetic appeal of an outdoor planter. 

Wednesday, November 21, 2012

GIFTS FOR OLDER ADULTS
Key Associates
By:  Jennifer DiLemme

 
With "Black Friday" upon us, and the search for perfect holiday gifts, here are some ideas for the older adults in your life.

10 Great Gift-giving Ideas for Older Adults:

1.  Personal/Medical alert system (such as Lifeline, MedicAlert, or Lifefone).  Such systems give both you and your loved one peace of mind.

2.  Gift certificates for pedicures.  It often becomes difficult for seniors to cut their own toenails and maintain healthy feet.  An experienced spa can assist your loved one and also offer a relaxing experience.  An added benefit:  blood circulation is increased with massage. 

3.  A cell phone with large and easy to read buttons, such as a Jitterbug cell phone.

4.  Gift certificate for snow & ice removal.  Contact a neighbor, or local business, that offers such services and make sure your loved one has a safe entrance, free of snow and ice all winter long.

5.  As the weather becomes cold and icy, a great gift might be dog walking services, if your senior has a dog. 

6.  Warm scarves, hats, and gloves are always appreciated.

7.  For the senior with arthritis or vision issues, large print keyboards, large button TV remotes, large display clocks, and large button home telephones are great options.

8.  Anything made by hand is a thoughtful gift.  Specially painted coffee mugs, knitted items, homemade soaps, etc., are all great gifts.
  
9.  Gift certificates to their favorite movie location, coffee shop, or restaurant will surely be enjoyed.  Offer to be the chauffer for the occasion.

10.  Often in the winter it is more difficult for older adults to get out as much due to the weather.  A gift certificate for a "Winter Fun Day at Home with You" will mean the world to your loved one.  Take a special lunch, have fun times remembering stories, work a puzzle, play a game, or just sit and relax with each other.  

As always, it is the thought that counts when giving the special people in your life a gift.  Hopefully our list has gotten the ideas flowing and will help you as you head out on your shopping adventure.  

Tuesday, November 13, 2012


THANKSGIVING
Key Associates
By:  Allison Taylor

As we are busy preparing for Thanksgiving next week, all of us at Key Associates would like to express how thankful we are for our clients and business partners.  Over the past year, we've been fortunate to work with some wonderful people.  Thank you to all who have trusted us with their loved ones and their material posessions - and to those who have referred folks to us.  Our success is because of you, and we are so appreciative.  

As you prepare for Thanksgiving, we'd like to share an article from Houzz.com with some wonderful decorating tips.  I especially enjoy the use of natural items as decor.  Whether entertaining at home, or in the home of friends or family, we hope that you all enjoy the day!



Browse Kids Products on Houzz- For Example: