Hosting Thanksgiving dinner can sometimes feel like juggling too many things at once. What table decorations should you use? How much food will you need? Should you seat Aunt Ethel next to Uncle Fred when they haven’t spoken to each other in 15 years? Never fear. With a few smart strategies, you can host a delightful Thanksgiving dinner everyone will be talking about for years to come.
Getting Ready
Organization is the bedrock of a memorable Thanksgiving. Start by drafting a comprehensive list, covering everything from grocery items to decor essentials. Double-check your pantry to see what you already have and jot down what you need to buy. Plan your seating ahead of time, especially if you’re hosting a sizable crowd. This allows you to allocate spots based on dynamics and convenience. Once your blueprint is set, you can devote attention to those personal flourishes that will make your gathering distinctive.
Set the Scene
To transform your Thanksgiving gathering into something truly memorable, focus on setting a welcoming atmosphere. Start with a palette of warm, autumnal colors like oranges, red and browns for your table settings and linens. Natural elements can work wonders—scatter some leaves, acorns and mini pumpkins around your space for a rustic touch. For a striking centerpiece, consider a mix of pinecones, candles and maybe even some fresh flowers. Curate a playlist that balances classic favorites with modern tunes to keep the energy just right.
Bring on the Food
Thanksgiving is synonymous with food. To ease your cooking load, start prepping ingredients a day in advance. Pre-chop your veggies, marinate that turkey or bake a pie ahead of time, freeing you up to enjoy your guests more. Diversify your menu by blending traditional dishes with fresh twists. Think adding a new spin on green bean casserole or introducing a pumpkin dessert with a surprise ingredient. Don’t shy away from asking guests to contribute a dish; it adds variety and makes them feel involved.
Entertainment Options
Guests can’t spend all day at the table. You can turn on the big game, of course, but not everyone is a football fan (shocking). A fun game of Thanksgiving trivia can test everyone’s knowledge about the holiday. Set up a photo booth with seasonal props. This not only provides entertainment but also ensures you capture the joy of the day. For those who prefer a more relaxed vibe, a movie marathon featuring classic holiday films can be the perfect backdrop for post-dinner lounging.
Tidying Up After Thanksgiving
Tackling the clean-up after a big Thanksgiving feast can feel overwhelming, but with a bit of strategy, you can make it manageable and even enjoyable. If guests offer to help, let them, as you will finish faster and have more time to spend with friends and family. Have a plan for leftovers—grab some sturdy containers and label them in advance. Guests often appreciate taking a bit of the feast home, which also means less for you to store.
Spend Thanksgiving in a Marvida Home
If a home you can host next year’s Thanksgiving dinner is on your wish list, why not spend some time touring Marvida? Our builders’ model homes will inspire. Our amenities are perfect for residents seeking after-Thanksgiving dinner fun. Visit us today.
It was a big night at this year’s Houston’s Best PRISM Awards, with Marvida earning two trophies for reasons the community is such a special place to live — Master-Planned Community Amenity of the Year and Lifestyle Director of the Year – Developer.
The Island has been a hub for Marvida residents since it opened in the community last year. It was the place to beat the heat this summer, as residents could relax at the pool or float along the lazy river. In-the-water chaise loungers made it easy to soak up the sun and stay cool while kiddos could race down the water slide or play on the playground perched in the shallow end. Water volleyball and a lap pool are available for those feeling more energetic. A trip to the spray ground was a treat for active tots.
And while that alone might be enough to win the “best of” title, that’s not all there is to The Island. An inviting clubhouse anchors the water amenities and often plays host to events planned by our award-winning Lifestyle Director Melanie Garcia-Hoffpauir. Pup parents can be found with their pooches at the dog park and Mom and Dad enjoy afternoons at the playground with their little ones.
Resident athletes test their skills on courts for tennis, pickleball and sand volleyball. There are also exercise stations along the trail that winds through the complex. An event lawn and covered pavilion play host to birthday parties and impromptu gatherings. A 12-foot GreenBoLT trail connects homes to The Island.
Creating Cherished Memories
Residents can create cherished memories at The Island Amenity Village and at events hosted by Lifestyle Director Melanie Garcia-Hoffpauir. Melanie has been at Marvida from the beginning and puts her creativity to work planning events such as an Easter “Egg-stravaganza” that saw more than 800 guests and a Cookies with Santa event that not only had the big guy onsite, but also the Grinch, Santa’s Elf and other magical characters. Pool parties, movie nights, events such as “Paw”traits and Pints are just some of the activities Melanie hosts throughout the year.
With so much going on, it’s no wonder Marvida ranks among the nation’s 25 top-selling communities!
Ah, Halloween—the magical time of year when we dress our dogs in costumes they never asked for. We think it’s cute. They can’t verbally protest. Before you turn your Pug into a walking food pun, here are five tips for picking out a “paw-some” costume you and your pooch will enjoy, pus 10 “wag-tastic” ideas that will make them the talk of the canine catwalk.
Comfort Over Cuteness
If your dog can’t do zoomies in their costume, it may be time to rethink. Your chihuahua might look cute as a hot dog, but if it’s itchy or too tight, your dog will spend most of their time rolling around in the dirt trying to get it off. Look for costumes made of breathable materials that allow for easy movement or consider a dashing superhero cape that is easy on the fur.
Safety First
No one wants to spend Halloween at the emergency vet, especially your dog. When choosing or crafting a costume, make sure it doesn’t have small parts that could turn into impromptu chew toys. Trim capes and trains so your dog doesn’t take an embarrassing nose plant.
Choose the Right Size
When choosing a costume, it’s crucial to get the right size. Measure your dog’s neck, chest and length, and check the sizing guide. Too tight, and your dog will look like a stuffed sausage. Too loose, and they’ll leave a fabric trail behind them.
Consider Your Dog’s Personality
When choosing a costume consider your pup’s personality. If they are a diva, a princess costume might be perfect. If your dog has to sniff everything, maybe a Sherlock “Bones” costume. Consider coordinating your costume with your dog’s. Imagine strutting down the street as a duo — say, you as a classic witch and your dog as a broom. Just remember, it’s all in good fun, so keep it light-hearted. Your dog deserves to strut with dignity.
Practice Makes ‘Paw-fect’
Before the big day, let your dog try on their costume a few times. This helps them get used to the feel of the outfit and helps you avoid any Halloween night drama. Nobody wants to spend Oct. 31st wrestling their pug into a pumpkin suit. A little pre-game trial ensures they’re as comfortable as a dog dressed as a lobster can be. Plus, you can take pup portraits!
Spook-tacular Costume Ideas
Turn your little pumpkin into the cutest gourd on the porch. This adorable pumpkin costume from Chewy goes on like a dog sweater so it’s comfy and safe.
Da-da Da-Da DA-Da Bat dog! A simple cape with bat wings can transform your dog into the hero Gotham deserves. This one is lightweight, and you won’t have to engage in a WWW fight to get it on.
Sure, it’s a little cliché but adorable, nonetheless. This version straps on like a harness so is less likely to garner you the sorrowful puppy eyes look.
You can easily DIY a ghost costume but to ensure safety, purchasing one may be the better option. This is cute, lightweight and easy to put on.
There’s no need to fear. Your super dog is here! This is perfect for a dog that’s constantly on the go. Remember you don’t need the entire costume. If your dog hates clothes, a cape alone will suffice.
A laid-back dog can advertise their dedication to the Age of Aquarius with a tie-dye bandana.
Pick your pup’s favorite dinosaur and show everyone at the dog park how ferocious they can be. If you prefer to DIY it, add some foam spikes to their favorite green sweater.
You don’t have to go overboard with your pup’s pirate costume. A bandana and a hat will help them find buried treasure.
Bzzz! Your dog might not be a busy bee, but they’ll sure look like one. It’s the buzz-worthy costume of the year!
For the intellectual hound, a detective hat and a plaid cape will do. Just don’t expect them to solve any mysteries—finding the buried bone is hard enough.
Show Off at the Dog Park
Once your pup is dressed to impress, why not show off at the dog park? Don’t have one nearby? Make the move to Marvida. We’ve got a beautiful dog park where canines can strut their costumed stuff. Visit us, tour our model homes and start planning next year’s “spook-tacular” outfit.
What do you want in a new home? Quality. You want it to stand the test of time. Affordability is another. You want the best home at the best price. Smith Douglas Homes strives to do both, crafting homes of superior value that even first-time buyers can purchase.
Founded in 2008 by a core team of new home building professionals, Smith Douglas Homes believes that quality homes should be within reach for more people. In the short term they use an efficient, schedule-drive process to reduce wasted time and materials. Homes are constructed with energy efficiency in mind so that your home is affordable in the long term.
While quality and affordability are the builder’s guiding lights, they know that homeowners also want personalization. The builder offers a variety of floor plans with many flexible design options. You can explore these options via their Interactive Home Designer tool. Once you have your vision, you can execute it at the Smith Douglas Homes design center. Their a-la-carte interior selection and structural option choices allow you to focus your budget on the parts of the home that are most important to you, saving you money.
Smith Douglas Homes offers three distinct floor plans in Marvida. Homes range from 1,500 to 2,582 square feet and are priced from the $280,000s. Homes feature up to five bedrooms, pocket offices, island kitchens, game rooms, two-car garages and more.
To learn more about Smith Douglas Homes, visit Marvida today. While you here, why not take a tour of our community and take a peek at our new lazy river!
What’s the easiest way to get comfortable in your new home and neighborhood? Ask Alexa. Amazon Alexa can be an invaluable companion when moving to a new area, serving as a versatile tool to ease the transition. Here are several ways Alexa can be your guide:
She’ll Tell You All About It
Need to know where the nearest grocery store is? Don’t know where in Cypress to get the best pizza? Alexa can tell you. The virtual assistant can provide you with all sorts of information about your new neighborhood. This can help you quickly familiarize yourself with your surroundings and find what you need.
She Can Navigate
When exploring your new area, you can ask Alexa for directions or traffic updates. This can be particularly useful for finding the quickest routes to work, school or local attractions.
Let Her Entertain You
Moving can be stressful and having some entertainment can lighten the mood. Alexa can play music, audiobooks or podcasts to keep you entertained while you unpack or organize your new space.
She Can Keep Track
Once you’ve moved in there are 100 tasks that need your attention. Need to set up care with a physician? Alexa can help you find one and remind you of the upcoming visit. She can keep track of your grocery list, remind you about that friend’s birthday you may have forgotten about in the excitement of the move and more.
She Can Enhance Your Social Life
Alexa can inform you about local events, activities and community gatherings in your new area. This can be particularly helpful for meeting new people and integrating into your community, making it easier to establish a social network.
She Can Keep You Connected
If you’re feeling isolated after your move, Alexa can help you stay connected. You can use voice calls or drop-in features to keep in touch with friends and family, making it easier to maintain relationships despite the distance.
She Can Make Your Home Smart
Most new homes are smart, but Alexa can make them smarter. The device can help you manage your home automation system seamlessly. You can control lights, thermostats and security systems using voice commands, making it easier to adjust your new environment to your liking.
Ask Alexa to Find Marvida
In the market for a new home? Want to learn all about Marvida? Ask Alexa for directions. Once you get here you can explore our model homes, amenities and overall vibe. Visit us today.
Navigating busy mornings can be a challenge, especially when it comes to making time for a nutritious breakfast. However, with some planning, creativity and the kitchen of your new Marvida home, you can whip up quick and delicious meals that will fuel your family all day. Here are a few options to consider:
Great Grains
Cereal is an easy option but if you aren’t a fan of pre-made cereals, you can craft your own for a much healthier breakfast. Your two best options are overnight oats and granola. Simply combine rolled oats with your choice of milk or yogurt, add sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, and toss in your favorite fruits, nuts, or seeds. Let the mixture sit in the fridge overnight, and you’re done. Granola is usually made with oats, dried fruit and nuts. Just throw things together and bake. Store in a mason jar and scoop out on busy mornings.
Make-Ahead Breakfast Sandwiches
Did you know you can make breakfast sandwiches and burritos ahead of time? Just set aside a weekend, create and freeze. On busy mornings you can just heat them up in the microwave. Spinach and mushrooms make the perfect vegetarian breakfast. For meat lovers, these traditional bacon and cheese sandwiches will hit the spot. We think these breakfast burritos are awesome. Try these freezer-friendly burritos when your alarm clock doesn’t go off.
Smoothie Packs
Smoothies are a quick and nutritious option for busy mornings. Prepare smoothie packs by pre-portioning fruits, greens and any add-ins like protein powder or nut butter into freezer bags. Anything goes here, but these five from The Kitchnare our favorites.
Yogurt Parfaits
Remember that granola you made? Layer yogurt up with that and fresh fruit for a satisfying breakfast. Greek yogurt is more substantial and has more protein, but don’t feel you have to use it. Frozen berries can be defrosted and used to make this delicious parfait. With fall on the horizon, why not add a little pumpkin and ginger?
The Muffin Man
Muffins are a quick, portable breakfast for when you are on the go. They can be sweet or savory. Bake them up on the weekend and keep them in the fridge or freezer. For sweet breakfasts, try these banana oat muffins or healthy carrot muffins. When it comes to savory try these egg and sausage bites. These savory morning muffins are sure to hit the spot.
Variations On Toast
Toast is a versatile breakfast option that can be topped with a variety of ingredients. Try smashed avocado with a sprinkle of salt and pepper or go for almond butter topped with banana slices and a drizzle of honey. For a sweet option, spread cream cheese on a bagel and top with fresh fruit or jam.
Quick Pancakes or Waffles
Make a batch of pancakes or waffles over the weekend and freeze them. In the morning, pop one in the toaster for a quick breakfast. Here’s a basic recipe for freezer-friendly waffles. These gingerbread waffles are easy to make, freeze and enjoy. Kids will go nuts for these mini pancakes. Here are 39 pancake recipes you can freeze.
Breakfast Cookies
Yes, cookies for breakfast! Breakfast cookies are a healthy way to satisfy your sweet tooth while providing nutrition. Made with oats, nut butter and add-ins like dried fruit or chocolate chips, these cookies can be prepared in advance and enjoyed on the go. Start the morning on a high note with chocolate chips, banana and peanut butter. How about granola in cookie form? Apples and cinnamon scream fall is on the way.
Marvida has done it again — we made the mid-year RCLCO Real Estate Consulting report and are one of the 50 top-selling master-planned communities in the United States.
We took the No. 23 spot on the annual list. Communities are ranked based on new-home sales from January through June. Builders in Marvida sold 324 new homes during that timeframe.
What makes Marvida so appealing? We could go on (and on and on), but it’s our combination of leading builders, gorgeous homes and world-class amenities that have buyers flocking to our door.
An amenity we are especially proud of is The Island. The beautiful amenity village opened this year, and it has become the heart of our community. On any given day you’ll find our residents floating serenely down the lazy river and splashing in the resort-style pool. There’s a lap pool for people working on their backstroke and splash pad for tots. When not cooling down in the water, families can stay in shape at the fitness stations, play sand volleyball and get competitive on the sports courts. Even Fido can have a ball at the dog park.
Residents also have access to the amenities found in our sister communities, including Canyon Lakes West, Miramesa and Bridge Creek.
Prospective homebuyers will have a tough time choosing between our 13 builders, all of whom offer a range of floor plans, options and elevations. Not ready to buy? You can rent a home in our Willow at Marvida neighborhood.
We’ve also got a great Cypress location allowing you to easily get to work or play in Houston. Kids attend well-regarded Cypress-Fairbanks ISD schools.
It’s easy to see why people love living in Marvida. To find out more and experience our lifestyle, visit our model homes today.
If your Marvida home has a game room, you can create a friendly space for children to play, learn and unleash their creativity. Not sure where to start? Here are some exciting game room ideas to help you create the perfect play space for your kids:
Start with a Practical Foundation
Children and fancy flooring do not go together. If your game room will be your children’s primary play space, choose easy-to-clean flooring. Carpeting should be stain-resistant. Hard surface floors should have soft, stain-resistant area rugs to create comfortable seating areas. Consider colorful options to add vibrancy to the room.
Let Them Play with the Walls
You can turn walls into educational and creative play surfaces. Paint a wall with chalkboard paint for drawing and games. Create a magnetic wall for educational activities and artwork display. For very active children, look into installing a small rock wall.
Variations on a Theme
Choose a theme that reflects your child’s interests. Use wall decals or murals to create an immersive environment. Incorporate themed furniture and accessories. Consider changeable elements to update the theme as interests evolve.
Don’t Forget About Storage
Use colorful bins and baskets for easy toy storage. Buy play tables with built-in storage. Talk to your builder about the possibility of adding a storage closet. If a closet can’t be installed, look into wardrobes.
Nooks for Books
Set up a corner with bean bag chairs, cushions or a small sofa where kids can sit comfortably with a good book. Very young children may enjoy a more private space screened off by a teepee or canopy. Install floating shelves for easy access to books. Add soft lighting for a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Where the Games Are
Create a space for video and board games. Install a flat-screen television. Add comfortable chairs, small tables for snacks and beverages and a storage area for games and controllers. A leader board can be a fun way to keep the competition going.
Lets’ Get Creative
Set up a dedicated arts and crafts area for whenever your child is feeling creative. Use a low table with storage for art supplies. Install a paper roll holder for endless drawing possibilities. Set up an easel for painting. Small, labeled bins can be set up nearby containing crafting supplies.
Let’s Get Physical
Encourage physical activity for days when inclement weather keeps kids indoors. Install a mini basketball hoop or indoor swing. Create an obstacle course with foam shapes and tunnels. Set up a small trampoline or balance beam. Set up a small dance area with curtains for a stage and good speakers for their favorite tunes. Jump ropes, foam balls and other toys encourage activity without risking walls or furniture.
Costumes, Anyone?
Who doesn’t love playing dress-up? Set up a costume rack and mirror, then provide different outfits. Provide props in the form of play kitchens, grills, stores and more for role-playing.
What About School?
Include a quiet area for studying. Set up a desk or have one built-in when your home is being built. Provide comfortable seating and storage for school supplies. Install a bulletin board for schedules and reminders.
Check Out Our Model Homes for More Inspiration
Love these ideas? We’ve got many more and you can see some of them when you check out our model homes. While there, why not talk to our builders’ representatives? They can help you pick out the perfect home with the perfect game room. Visit Marvida today.
Do you want to serve up a special meal for Father’s Day? Not sure what will be a hit? You’ve come to the right place. We’ve pulled together recipes for brunch, appetizers, dinner and desserts — all of which can be cooked up in your new Marvida kitchen! Don’t have one? Come see us. In the meantime, here are some ideas for meals that will make Father’s Day special:
A Big Brunch
Let Dad sleep in then present him with a big brunch starting with mini chicken and waffles. If you’re expecting a crowd but want something easy, try Ree Drummond’s sheet pan biscuit breakfast sandwiches. Build Dad’s Eggs Benedict with beef instead of bacon. If Dad has a sweet tooth, he’ll love this refreshing orange-raspberry coffee cake.
Amazing Appetizers
Whether you are serving dinner or just want to leave stuff for Dad to snack on, why not build a charcuterie board. Serve Dad these cheeseburger sliders while he enjoys the game. Turn on the crockpot and let Dad enjoy this buffalo chicken dipall day long. Put a little spice into Dad’s life with jalapeno poppers.
Get Out the Grill
What does Dad love more than barbecue? A barbecue where someone else mans the grill. Impress him with herbes de Provance grilled flank steak. If Dad is a rib guy, this is the best recipe ever. With just two skillets you can make grilled white pizza. This grilled salmon recipe is quick and easy.
Dad-Approved Dinners
Not everyone wants to fire up the grill, but you can still serve up a delicious Juicy Lucy burger. You can make these finger-licking good ribs in the oven. If Dad is craving deep dish pizza, make this instead of ordering delivery. You’ll want to double this enchilada recipe because Dad might eat the whole pan by himself.
Delicious Desserts
Dads generally don’t go in for frilly desserts, so serve up beer-and-bacon toffee sundaes instead. Fake Dad out with this chocolate “steak” cake. If Dad is just a big kid at heart, he will love this no-bake banana split cake. Simply guys in love with pies will devour this rum-vanilla cream pie.
Did you know Marvida is located less than 30 minutes from downtown Houston? That means you can spend every weekend having fun in the big city! On a budget? Not to worry, there are plenty of fun, family-friendly things to do that are absolutely free. Here are 10 of them:
Twenty museums make up the Houston Museum District and most offer free admission on certain days or times, usually Thursdays. Some popular choices include the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston Museum of Natural Science and the Children’s Museum of Houston. The Menil Collection and Contemporary Arts Museum are free every day.
This expansive park offers various free attractions, including walking trails, playgrounds and a Japanese garden. Don’t miss the McGovern Centennial Gardens and the Hermann Park Railroad (small fee for train rides).
Located in downtown Houston, Discovery Green hosts numerous free events throughout the year, including concerts, movie nights and fitness classes. The park also features playgrounds, interactive water features and art installations.
Explore this beautiful urban park with walking and biking trails, picnic areas and scenic views of downtown Houston. Keep an eye out for free events and activities hosted by the Buffalo Bayou Partnership.
You don’t need a library card to enjoy the story hours hosted by branches of the Houston Public Library. Some branches also off Maker Spaces where you can use 3D printers, kid-friendly tablets, video editing, a music studio and more.
Waterwall Park
One of Houston’s most beloved, iconic landmarks, the stunning Gerald D. Hines Waterwall Park features a 64-foot semi-circular architectural fountain. It’s a great spot for photos and picnics.
Enjoy free performances including concerts, plays and dance productions at this outdoor amphitheater located in Hermann Park. Tickets are often required for covered seating, but lawn seating is free.
Houston Arboretum & Nature Center
Admission is free at this 155-acre urban nature sanctuary (parking is $6). There are miles of trails to walk, a Discovery Room with interactive exhibits and activities and a nature playscape.
Port Houston offers free, 90-minute round-trip, educational cruises along the Houston Ship Channel. The boat carries a maximum capacity of 100 passengers, with air-conditioned lounge seating and additional standing room on the boat’s rear deck.
Located near the Shepherd School of Music on the Rice University campus, James Turrell’s Twilight Epiphany Skyspace art installation is a great place to watch the sun rise and set. The pyramidal structure has an LED light sequence that projects onto the ceiling of the 72-foot square roof daily at sunrise and sunset. The light sequences begin 40 minutes before sunrise and 10 minutes before sunset daily every night except Tuesdays.
