Be Your Own Valentine — Luxurious Treats for Your Life & Home at Collingwood Apartment Homes
Valentine’s Day is all about indulging the people we love, and the Idea Specialists™ at Collingwood Apartment Homes in Alpharetta, Georgia, are here to help the members of our upscale apartment home community with on-trend gift and experience ideas! And, if some of these seem like just the perfect present for yourself? Well, why not be your own Valentine this year? You deserve it! Wining & Dining Valentine’s Day is on a Monday this year, so many folks are planning on an evening out either the weekend before or after February 14th. No matter when you plan to celebrate with your sweetheart (or your bestie!), there are plenty of wonderful restaurants to choose from in Alpharetta. Alpharetta’s newest romantic restaurant, UP on the Roof (atop Liberty Hall on South Main Street) is offering some special “love potions”—and it might be hard to choose between the Kisses ‘n Cream and the Between the Sheets. Champagne for sure, though! The Collingwood Apartment Homes Idea Specialists know for a fact you can’t go wrong with choosing Pampas Steakhouse on State Bridge Road to mark an important occasion, and their Valentine’s Day menu is out of the world this year, complete with a choice of bacon-wrapped scallops or lamb lollipops for an appetizer and both chateaubriand and crab meat-stuffed lobster tail as the entrée. And, Altobeli’s Restaurant & Piano Bar in the Haynes Market Shopping Center on Old Alabama Road will continue its lovely tradition of giving ladies a complementary rose during its Valentine’s Week Celebration, including on Super Bowl Sunday, also known this year as Valentine’s Eve! Intimate Evening Maybe you would prefer to mark the occasion in the comfort of your lovely Collingwood Apartment Homes apartment home. You could get yourself a gorgeous rainbow bouquet from Sprouts Farmers Market on Alpharetta Highway, light a limited edition Diptyque rose-scented candle from Nordstrom, enjoy some champagne, and order in anything from pizza to a five-course meal. Oh, and of course you’ll want some chocolate for dessert, right? Pop over to Kilwins Alpharetta-Halcyon on the Town Green in the City Center and browse their selection of ice creams, cakes, and confections. And, for something really sweet, they’re offering complementary packaging and gift wrapping this year! Color & Comfort Add color and comfort to the living room and bedroom by treating yourself to cozy throws and luxurious Valentine-red crushed velvet pillows. The Clara cushion, by designer Joanna Gaines in collaboration with Loloi, is on sale now at Magnolia. As is this Pottery Barn chunky-plush handknit cable pattern throw with a sherpa reverse. Then, bring in a hint of spring while celebrating Cupid with a bromeliad or red anthurium from Bloomscape. Future Fun Experiences often make the best gifts of all, and part of the fun with them is the anticipation leading up to the actual outing. The Idea Specialists™ can’t make up their minds about which musical artists to go see this year, there are so many great live performances coming up, but for sure they’re going to have some fun at the Ameris Bank Amphitheatre. They also plan to enjoy time at some of Alpharetta’s more intimate entertainment venues, including The Velvet Note on Old Milton Parkway. And, they are treating themselves to tickets to this year’s Taste of Alpharetta, set for Thursday, May 12, 2022, from 5 to 10 p.m. And day spa experiences at The Woodhouse Day Spa at Avalon and LifeSpa, a full-service salon and spa inside the Life Time locations on North Point Parkway and Johns Creek Parkway (you don’t have to be a club member to get pampered!). 😎 Clever & Cute While diamonds may be a girl’s best friend, maybe you’re in the market for a little something to give as a gift that’s not jewelry. USA TODAY pulled together a long list of ideas and deals that’s worth checking out. If you don’t have time for that, here are some links to fun finds from the Idea Specialists™: [rl_gallery id=”1428″] A mini retro-inspired Bluetooth speaker This Fujifilm instant camera in flamingo pink Some record album drink coasters A really cool scratch-off map This Baimei jade roller Did You Know? Did you know that the English poet Geoffrey Chaucer was the first to record St. Valentine’s Day as a day of romantic celebration? Yep, he did it in his 1375 Parliament of Foules, writing, “For this was sent on Seynt Valentyne’s day / Whan every foul cometh ther to choose his mate.” Often thought to commemorate the marriage of Richard II to Anne of Bohemia in 1382, the poem describes a conference of birds that meet to choose their mates on St. Valentine’s Day. You can read a lot more about the holiday on this History page.
Sweet Heart of a Move-In Special at Collingwood Apartments
Won’t you be my Valentine? Move-In Special $99! Call 770-667-3211 for details.
Residents of Collingwood Apartment Homes can make good use of Onsite 24-Hour Fitness Center in 2022
Residents of the upscale Collingwood Apartment Homes community in Alpharetta, Georgia, have access to an onsite 24-hour fitness center. And what better time to take advantage of that than now, when you’re returning to your routine—or starting a new one—after the winter holidays? No need to pay extra for a gym membership when you can work on cardio and strengthening with easily accessible facilities and equipment, right? On warmer winter days, there’s always the option of tennis on the beautifully landscaped courts. And, Collingwood Apartment Homes is a pet-friendly community, so you can get outdoors for a walk with your fur baby, too! The Idea Specialists™ at Collingwood Apartment Homes are making more time in their 2022 schedules for health and fitness, and want to share some resources and ideas with you! New Year, New App? Maybe all you need to stay motivated is that weekly Fitbit report on your step count, and/or you’re perfectly satisfied with the fat-burning feedback you get from your Apple watch. Or, maybe you’re in the market for a new app, one that provides target area-specific workouts, or effective full-body workouts that can be done in as few as 5 to 30 minutes? Or one that you can use to change your approach to eating, or help you to begin a meditation practice? The Idea Specialists™ recommend Daily Workout Apps—it’s like having your own personal trainer, they say. They also found this great list of apps on Verywell Fit, an award-winning resource for credible and up-to-date information on all nutrition and exercise topics: Best Fitness Apps to Download Work Your Body & Your Brain Verywell Fit also has put together an excellent list of podcasts you can listen to while you’re exercising: The 31 Best Fitness Podcasts to Listen to Right Now After checking it out, The Idea Specialists™ are now really into Mind Pump, an online radio show/podcast that describes itself as being “dedicated to providing truthful fitness and health information.” They’re also fans of Half Size Me, a weekly show that focuses on sustainable weight loss. Its host, Heather Robertson, lost 170 pounds—and has kept it off. Close to home, there’s the recently renamed Big Peach Ride + Run podcast, produced by Big Peach Running Co. One of their newest episodes is “Dealing with Fitness Insecurity”—as in how to move past it so you can achieve your fitness goals. Running Buddies And on that note, if 2022 is the year you’re planning to lace up your running shoes and hit the streets, then you might want to spend some time looking into everything Big Peach Running Co. has to offer. It’s not just running shoes; they keep the area running community up to date on races and training workshops. The Alpharetta store, on Winward Parkway, does group runs on Mondays and Wednesdays. Hit The Trails One of the great things about living at Collingwood Apartments is how close it is to so many great hiking trails, including the Big Creek Greenway. If you want to lace up your boots and venture a little farther afield, check out the list of “10 Beautiful Must-Do Hikes Near Atlanta” shared by area lifestyle and travel blogger Tayala “Tee” George at A Sip of Tee. And if you want to enjoy the great outdoors in the company of others, the Atlanta Trail Running and Beyond Fitness Meetup group might be for you! For some runners, this group is about socializing and getting a good low-impact workout by running through beautiful scenery. For other runners, it’s about training for races. Rest & Recovery Whatever fitness activity you choose, The Idea Specialists™ want to remind you not to forget to devote time rest and recovery, and that includes consuming the right nutrients after you exercise. Healthline explains that after you engage in physical activity, your body tries to rebuild its glycogen stores, as well as repair and regrow muscle proteins. It’s especially important to eat carbs and protein after your, they say, because doing so helps your body: decrease muscle protein breakdown increase muscle protein synthesis (growth) restore glycogen stores enhance recovery Have a glass of chocolate milk and some peanut butter on rice crackers as a quick snack, or cottage cheese and fruits. If you’ve got more time, whip up an omelet with avocado spread on whole grain toast, or make a protein shake and drink it and eat a banana. Whatever you do, stay hydrated! While water is usually your best bet, sometimes an electrolyte drink is the way to go. Relaxation Hydration is also very important if massage is part of your health and fitness regimen. Drink water both before and after your session, whether you’re getting one for pain relief at the Hands On America Massage Professionals location on South Main Street, or a deep tissue massage for relaxation and stress relief at Terra Nova Wellness Spa on Winward Parkway. The experts at WebMD say your massage therapist will thank you if you drink water before you stretch out on the table because your muscles will be more soft and supple, which makes it easier for your practitioner to manipulate tender tissue. And, this body work releases substances you should flush out afterward, something that’s extra important if you get any type of heavy-duty massage. Happy New Year, Happy New You!
Candles, Confections & Community — Residents Celebrate the Winter Holidays
Take In Special Performances At The Children’s Museum Of Atlanta, The Hip Hop Nutcracker At The Fox & More! Christmas, Kwanzaa, Hanukkah, Las Posadas – there are many winter holidays, and the diverse residents of the upscale Collingwood Apartments community in Alpharetta, Georgia, celebrate them all! And whether you’re planning to mark the 2021 Winter Solstice (on Tuesday, December 21, fittingly enough) at Lift Yoga on Main Street’s celebration of new beginnings or take your babies – human or pet – to get their picture made with Santa on the Alpharetta Town Green or tucked in by him and Mrs. Claus at The Hotel at Avalon, sweetness and light are always a part of the season. And not just in the form of love of our families and friends. Candles and confections have historically played leading roles in almost all holiday decorations, rituals, and gatherings. The Children’s Museum of Atlanta is offering special performances, storytimes, and crafts to help families learn more about these traditions, beginning with a Hanukkah program Sunday, December 5, 2021, at 11 a.m., featuring Michael Levine, the music producer of New York Times bestselling Pete the Cat picture books by Eric Litwin and James Dean. Hanukkah Hanukkah is celebrated to commemorate and publicize the miracle of a one-day supply of oil lasting eight days and eight nights after the Jewish people reclaimed the Holy Temple in Jerusalem from the Greeks and marked their victory with the burning of the Hanukkah menorah (candelabrum). This year, the traditional period began early, on the night of Sunday, November 28, 2021. In Alpharetta, the menorah lighting at Avalon took place with the help of Chabad of North Fulton, complete with a chocolate gelt dropping! Other holiday-related museum events include: Celebrate Las Posadas, Saturday, December 11, 2021, 8:30 a.m. Celebrate Christmas Saturday, December 18, 2021, 8:30 a.m. Celebrate Kwanzaa Sunday, December 26, 2021, 8:30 a.m. Las Posadas According to the Franciscan Media publication St. Anthony Messenger, “The roots of Las Posadas stretch deeply into Latin culture. It originated in Spain, but it’s been a yearly celebration throughout Mexico for over 400 years. The tradition commemorates Mary and Joseph’s difficult journey from Nazareth to Bethlehem in search of a warm place to stay the night. (Posadas is Spanish for “lodgings” or “accommodations.”) Beginning on December 16 and ending nine days later, on December 24, Las Posadas commemorates the nine months of Mary’s pregnancy. Each night, one family agrees to house the pilgrims. And so it begins: At dusk, a procession of the faithful takes to the streets with children often dressed as angels and shepherds. Religious figures, images, and lighted candles are a part of the festivities. The group representing the Holy Family stands outside a series of houses, singing songs, asking for lodging. They are refused time and again until the group reaches the designated house. Finally, the travelers are permitted to enter. Prayer and song continue in the home, and festive foods are shared. The evening ends with a piñata in the shape of star.” The piñata of course includes candy! Here are some ideas from MamaLatinaTips.com on how to celebrate the holiday in your Collingwood Apartments home, including recipes for Mexican hot chocolate and traditional Mexican Christmas punch. Kwanzaa During the week of Kwanzaa, families and communities come together in feasting, honoring the ancestors, affirming the bonds between them, and in celebration of African and African American culture. Each day they light a candle in the Kinara, a seven-branched holder, to highlight the principle of that day and to breathe meaning into the principles with various activities, such as reciting the sayings or writings of great black thinkers and writers, reciting original poetry, African drumming, and sharing a meal of African diaspora-inspired foods. The seven principles of Kwanzaa/Nguzo Saba (in both English and Kiswahili) are unity/umoja, self-determination/ kujichagulia, collective work and responsibility/ujima, cooperative economics/ujamaa, purpose/nia, creativity/kuumba, and faith/Imani. The colors of the candles are black, red, and green, representing the people, the noble blood that unites all people of African ancestry, and green for the rich land of Africa. Liveology Yoga Studios in Atlanta will celebrate Kwanzaa 2021 over the course of seven evenings, from Sunday, December 26, to Saturday, January 1. Christmas Traditions The Christian tradition of celebrating Advent also is already underway; it began the fourth Sunday before Christmas, which in 2021 was Sunday, November 28. It will end Friday, December 24. During these four weeks, an Advent wreath adorned with five candles is traditionally used to symbolize different spiritual aspects of getting ready for the Christmas Day birth of Jesus Christ. The three Advent candle colors—purple, pink, and white—symbolically represent the spiritual preparation that believers undergo to prepare their hearts for the birth (or coming) of the Lord, Jesus Christ, according to Learn Religions. Many people delight in Advent calendars, and The Atlanta Journal-Constitution has highlighted some of this year’s best, from Jingle & Mingle to Christmas in Gotham City (The Official Batman Advent Calendar). For many members of the upscale Collingwood Apartments community, it just wouldn’t be Christmas without participating in a Toys for Tots campaign. This year, we’re having one of our own – just bring an unwrapped children’s toy by the office. Donations will be received until Wednesday, December 22, 2021. For other folks, attending a performance of The Nutcracker is a beloved holiday occasion for families and friends. Opportunities abound in the Atlanta Metro to enjoy Clara’s classic story, danced to the accompaniment of Tchaikovsky’s inimitable music. For a fun twist, check out a remixed and reimagined version of the story by attending The Hip Hop Nutcracker at The Fox Theatre Tuesday, December 14, 2021, at 7:30 p.m. And let’s give a shout-out to Atlanta Parent for rounding up a comprehensive list of the many, many other area Christmas events you can attend this holiday season! Wrapping Up What’s a blog about the winter holidays without a few gift-giving ideas? In keeping with our theme, let’s wrap up with a
Black Friday Deals in Alpharetta: The Holidays Have Arrived
There’s nothing like the days leading up to Thanksgiving to get you in the mood for the holiday season! Thoughts of turkey and dressing, pumpkin spiced lattes, and maybe even Starbuck’s new Iced Sugar Cookie Almondmilk Latte swirl around in your head as you’re secretly plotting your strategy for Black Friday sales. You know you’re supposed to be concentrating on your Thanksgiving menu—but that can wait—you’re making your list and checking it twice NOW, not later. There are Black Friday deals to be had in Alpharetta, and you must be prepared! Deals like these Marilee Riding Boots at Macy’s Black Friday Sale at Northpoint Mall are $19.99. Now, that’s worth getting up early to beat the crowd. Or this adorable “Happy Holiday’s” 1’6″ x 2’6″ reversible accent rug in red and ivory is from Target. It’s just $13. You need this rug! And what could be more fun than being the first person in line at Five Below at Mansell Crossings, or North Point Parkway, on Black Friday? With Christmas décor, stocking stuffers, holiday gift wrap, and all sorts of deals—you can’t go wrong with these door-busters. Let’s not forget Avalon on Ice, the Rockefeller-inspired ice-skating rink sponsored by Northside Hospital. Be sure and book your reservation and purchase tickets in advance to ensure your particular time slot—but that’s a piece of cake – click here to purchase your tickets. Speaking of cake, after Black Friday shopping and ice skating, why not pop into Café Intermezzo at Avalon for a generous slice of its famous Oreo Cheesecake. This #1 selling cheesecake has an Oreo crust topped with Epic’s creamy cheesecake, packed with chocolate cookies. It is decorated with Oreo cookies and drizzled with white chocolate and dark chocolate syrup. Oh, my goodness! It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas, here in Alpharetta, Georgia.
Collingwood Apartments to “Think Pink, Walk Proud” in Support of Breast Cancer Research Foundation
Area & Community Resources Abound—From The Emory Winship Cancer Institute To Anderson’s Aesthetics, & Illuminations At Borrelli’s The Collingwood Apartments community in Alpharetta, Georgia, will join the fight against cancer and support the Breast Cancer Research Foundation during October—National Breast Cancer Awareness Month (NCBAM). The mission of the Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF) is to prevent and cure breast cancer by advancing the world’s most promising research. Breast cancer knows no age, gender, or race. And, as the most common cancer in women worldwide and the second-most common cancer overall, it remains a fact of life. BCRF is the largest private funder of breast cancer research—and metastatic breast cancer research—worldwide, and it’s also currently the highest-rated breast cancer organization in the country. Think Pink, Walk Proud Collingwood will light its fountain pink, and will hold its inaugural Think Pink, Walk Proud—Walk To Beat Breast Cancer Saturday, October 30, 2021, at 9 a.m., with the start at the upscale apartment complex’s leasing office. For a $20 donation, participants will get: A spot in the walk A custom T-shirt A chance to win fun prizes in a raffle For a $10 donation, they will get to participate in the raffle. Proceeds after cost of shirt will go to the BCRF. And, because Collingwood Apartments is super pet-friendly (complete with a Pet & Bark Park), everyone is encouraged to include their furry family members in on what promises to be a fun and meaningful occasion! It All Began With Betty Ford The annual effort to raise awareness about the impact of breast cancer was established in 1985 as a partnership between the American Cancer Society and the pharmaceutical division of Imperial Chemical Industries (now part of AstraZeneca, a leading manufacturer of oncology drugs). Former U.S. First Lady Betty Ford was the face of the campaign; she had changed how the country talked about this once-taboo women’s health topic when she was diagnosed with breast cancer and had a radical mastectomy in 1974, just seven weeks into her husband Gerald Ford’s unexpected tenure as president of the United States after the resignation of Watergate scandal-disgraced Richard Nixon. Within hours of the operation, the White House held a press conference sharing the details of her surgery—including the good news that, largely because the cancer had been detected early, Mrs. Ford’s prognosis was excellent. According to History, what happened next was remarkable. “Women across the country lined up outside clinics to get breast exams; newspaper articles described how to perform self-exams; and in the first week after Betty’s surgery alone, the White House received more than 35,000 cards and letters.” Pumpkin Spice & Everything Pink & Nice These days, with “Fight Like a Girl” T-shirts and bracelets available almost everywhere we look in October (kinda like pumpkin spice), it can be hard to imagine a time when we didn’t talk something that impacts so many people. Fortunately, in addition to public conversations and acceptance—and cute accessories that may or may not help fund medical research (think before you pink!)—there are now also resources to help breast cancer patients as they go through months of treatments that can bring on great mental, physical, and emotional tolls. Support Groups Cancer Support Community Atlanta is the local chapter of the world’s largest nonprofit provider of psychosocial oncology programs. Its mission is simple: Help people affected by cancer enhance their health and well-being by providing free programs of support, education, and hope. Learn about common side effects of chemotherapy, nutrition, and stress reduction through their virtual programming. And, if like so many members of the Collingwood Apartments community, you have an avid interest in the outdoors, join in one of their walking group outings at the Chattahoochee Nature Center. Clinical Trials With over 250 active clinical trials, the researchers at Emory Winship Cancer Institute are dedicated to taking new cancer treatments from bench to bedside. At Winship, patients have access to clinical trials for virtually every cancer type; in 2020, the institute enrolled more than 900 patients in over 300 clinical trials. (Winship Cancer Institute is part of Emory Healthcare, Georgia’s largest health care system, and is Georgia’s NCI Comprehensive Cancer Center.) License Plate Kaiser Permanente and the Georgia Center for Oncology Research and Education (Georgia CORE) worked with the Georgia General Assembly to create the Breast Cancer License Tag program in 2002. Georgia CORE and the State Office of Rural Health have jointly administered the program since 2013. The purpose of it is to generate funds to provide education, screening and treatment to underserved Georgians; rural women and minority women have less access to care and are a priority of the program. Breast cancer accounts for 3 out of 10 new cancers in Georgia women, making it most prevalent of all cancers. Comfortable & Stylish Wigs & More Nestled in the heart of downtown Alpharetta on South Main Street, Borrelli’s Salon is committed to helping breast cancer patients recover with confidence. Whatever a client’s hair loss needs might be, the experts at Illuminations by Borrelli’s have the experience and expertise to give them the hair and look they desire. The salon offers many solutions, including: Topical Solutions-Keratin Hair Building Fibers Wigs (Stock, Custom and Semi-Custom) Partial Hairpieces/Toppers/Top of the Head (Stock, Custom and Semi-Custom) Vacuum Wigs Full Line Of Hats, Scarves & Turbans Permanent Makeup The team at Anderson’s Aesthetics, founded and directed by Dr. Ken Anderson of the renowned Anderson Center for Hair, is committed to providing its clientele with discreet and customized services, including permanent makeup options. In 2008, Dr. Anderson was recruited from private practice in California to join the Emory Facial Center (a satellite office of the main Emory Hospital dedicated to facial cosmetic surgery) to offer hair restoration to Emory Healthcare patients. The 10,000 –square-foot luxury medical spa and surgery center located at the decadent Avalon in Alpharetta—with free and private parking—was the first in Georgia to offer ARTAS® Robotic Hair Restoration Surgery. It also offers
TAILGATING INSIDE & OUT—THE IDEA SPECIALISTS™ AT COLLINGWOOD APARTMENT HOMES IN ALPHARETTA, GEORGIA, SHARE THEIR TIPS
Root for your team at local faves Brimstone Restaurant and Tavern or at Miller’s Ale House Falcons fanatic? Rambling Wreck from Georgia Tech? Loyal Bulldog? No matter what jerseys your favorite football team is sporting this this season, the Idea Specialists™ at luxury Collingwood Apartment Homes apartment homes in Alpharetta, Georgia, have some tailgating tips for you! Family & Friends, Food & Fun Tailgating with family and friends is first and foremost about the fellowship and fun of sharing in the excitement of game day–not to be confused with enjoying ESPN’S popular College GameDay, which is also big fun! Whether you gather together on campus, in a stadium parking lot, or in your comfortable den or the Collingwood Apartment Homes clubhouse, food and drink are key players to have on the field. Depending on the time set for kickoff, you might want to have brunch and mimosas or some beer and bottled water with afternoon burgers and baked beans. Either way, Publix at Alpharetta Commons has you covered with its extensive selection of regular and craft beers, sparkling and still waters, and pre-made mimosas in bottles! Perfect for when you’re planning to set up in Legion Lot across the street from the parking entrance to the University of Georgia’s student center, right? Maybe you can count on your nephew Jesse to always show up with his famous chicken wings and special sauce, or maybe you’d rather let Publix do the heavy lifting when it comes to grilled meats and party platters. Either way, that Atlanta drink classic, a Jack and Coke, is a must-have, especially when you’re outside Mercedes-Benz Stadium getting ready to cheer on the Dirty Birds. Some of us might think the correct way to prepare this sweet-and-slightly-spicy beverage is to pour the two primary ingredients into a plastic cup full of ice and stir with the handle of a shaker stick. The folks over at Mix that Drink want us to know, though, that there is an actual recipe for what they term a “long drink”: 2 oz. Jack Daniels and 10 oz. Coca-Cola served over ice (and preferably in a rocks glass). Tasty Treats And speaking of setting up for brunch, who better to turn to than the inimitable Southern Living for recipes that will have your guests cheering for the way you’ve upped your hospitality game. They’ve put together a list of “45 Super Tasty Tailgate Treats To Make Ahead For Game Day” that the Collingwood Apartment Homes Idea Specialists™ have bookmarked, and you should, too! From Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels to Muddy Buddy Mix to Pepper-Pepper Cheese Dip, there something for everybody to enjoy. Score With Comfort & Convenience Cute top for her from Gameday Couture? Check. Comfy T-shirt from Vintage Sports for him? Double-check. A Morehouse Maroon Tigers bib for the baby? Check, check, check! With everybody dressed and ready to go, the next thing to do if you’re going to tailgate near the stadium is make sure you have comfortable seats, a good cooler, and enough table space for everything you’re sharing with your personal teammates. One favorite of the Idea Specialists™ from an HGTV list of “tailgating essentials” is a Giantex Folding Grill Table; you can get something similar online for not much more than $100. Pub & Grub There are lots of fun sports bars convenient to Collingwood Apartment Homes in Alpharetta, Georgia. If you don’t already have a favorite, Yelp is one way to check out where you might want to spend a Saturday afternoon or Sunday evening. Lyft is another good online resource. Of course Miller’s Ale House on Davis Drive makes both Top 10 lists, as does Brimstone Restaurant & Tavern off Mansell Road. And, like the Belmont community, Brimstone is pet-friendly—you can enjoy watching the game on the patio with your furry friend!
Plush Towels for Plush Living at Collingwood Apartment Homes in Alpharetta, Georgia
Visit Kathryn Leach Home & Peacock Alley For Custom Bath Products Time for new towels? Maybe you’re ready to replace the ones you received as a gift a few years ago, or maybe you’re just moving into your luxurious apartment at Collingwood Apartment Homes in Alpharetta, Georgia, and need to stock up. Either way, the Collingwood Apartment Homes Idea Specialists ™ have got you covered. In high-quality Turkish cotton, of course. Bath Towel Basics Let’s talk about what bath towels are made of—and maybe answer the question of why the ones we get at spas and hotels often seem so much nicer than what we have at home. The folks over at the HGTV website put together a list of 12 bath towels for different budgets and styles, and included some important information about what makes a towel “good.” Namely, it’s GSM, or grams per square meter (kind of like the thread count of sheets). The baseline is 400, they say; anything less than that and you’ll be drying off with a scratchy towel that doesn’t do a very good job of absorbing water. If you get up to the 620-900 range, then you’re into the world of super-plush spa and hotel luxury linens. The next factor to consider is material. While some towels are made of bamboo or modal, most are cotton. If you’re looking for super-soft, look for Egyptian or Turkish cotton with their long fibers. (Be a smart shopper and don’t get taken in by “Turkish-style” in the name—it’s not the same!) If you’re looking for something mainstream, you can’t go wrong with the Wamsutta Classic Turkish in white, usually easily available from Bed, Bath & Beyond. Want to explore some upscale options in person? Take a fun field trip to Peacock Alley in the Atlanta Decorative Arts Center (ADAC West) and feel for yourself the heavenly lushness that is a Diamond bath towel, made of 100% extra-long staple cotton grown in the Aegean region of Turkey Clean & Pretty No matter what kind of towels you have, the Collingwood Apartment Homes Idea Specialists™ have some tips on how to make them a pleasant part of your bathroom décor. You’ve got towels that feel good; it’s important to make sure they smell good, too. Learning how to launder your linens is one key to achieving that “hotel towel experience.” Most resorts provide all-white towel sets, sometimes monogrammed. The standard color scheme means less sorting in the laundry, and white towels look crisp and clean when stacked neatly on the vanity or in the shower, or in a favorite basket or hamper. The experts say less is more when it comes to detergent and towels, and instead of using bleach and fabric softener, use baking soda and vinegar for stain treatment and softness. Many hotels use HTD Heavy Duty Detergent, which is sold in bulk. If you’re not up for buying a 25 lb. pail of washing machine soap from Worldwide Janitor, though, other pleasant-smelling heavy-duty options available at the grocery store or on Amazon are Persil ProClean, Gain, and, of course, that classic: Tide Original. Color & Convenience Consider adding a pop of whimsy and color to your bathroom with some of the custom bath accessories offered by Kathryn Leach Home in Buckhead. You also can make sure your guests don’t have to fret about using “the good towels” after they wash their hands by offering them the convenient option of cloth-like paper hand towels, which come in so many colors and patterns, and can be personalized with your initials and more. You can find some steals at the Tuesday Morning in the Saddlebrook Shopping Center, and are guaranteed good quality if you go the online route with PaperStyle. Seasonal Sales It’s always a good idea to keep your eyes out for seasonal sales, not just the traditional January white sale. As summer winds down, beach towels of all sizes, shapes, and materials are on the offer. We’re particular fans of the Linum Home Personalized Alara Turkish Pestemal now marked down at Macy’s. The Strategist has put together a list of the best beach towels on Amazon “According to Hyperenthusiastic Reviewers,” if you’re looking for other ideas. Out With The Old Now that you’ve got your new towels nicely displayed in your powder room, what to do with the old ones? If you’re in the mood for some simple arts and crafts, you can always cut your old towels into strips, braid them together, tie knots on each end, then pull the ends together and tie an overhead knot in the center: Voila! Homemade dog toy! Or use your old towels to wipe down your precious pup after y’all have been out to. Don’t have a fuzzy friend sharing your home at Collingwood Apartment Homes? You can always donate your old towels to the Atlanta Humane Society on Mansell Road.
Keep Your Cool in the Dog Days of Summer
Collingwood Apartment Homes is definitely a pet-friend luxury apartment community, but even we get tired of the “dog” days of summer—all they fetch is more heat and humidity! Not to worry, though: Our Collingwood Apartment Home Idea Specialists™ have some ideas on how we can keep our cool—and of course their first suggestion is with a dip in the community’s sparkling swimming pool. Yes, please! Read on for more recommendations! Let’s All Go To The Movies What better way to escape from the blinding sunshine—and reality—than by popping into one of the 12 cool, darkened theatres at the AMC Dine-In 12 at North Point Mall? You can even order your snacks (or an entrée!) ahead of time. And, with so many movies to choose from, you can spend many an entertaining hour there out of the heat before you’re ready to head back home to Collingwood Apartment Homes. Oh, Those Summer Nights The Collingwood Apartment Homes Idea Specialists™ know all too well what it’s like to not be able to get a good night’s sleep because it’s so hot outside. Even if your home is pleasantly cool, your body and your mind are still impacted by the day’s thermometer reading. That’s why they’ve invested in cooling mattress toppers. We’re going to follow their lead by purchasing one from Cozy Earth, which this review from CNET says is, “Ideal for those of us who sleep hot, or have bedrooms stuck in the most insufferable of humid environments.” Can’t Stomach The Heat? If you can’t stomach idea of turning on your oven when it’s 98 degrees in the shade, then look no further for inspiration for cold dinners than Mashed, with its suggestions of salad classics like Cobb and Waldorf, and its version of aguachile, ceviche’s bright green cousin from Mazatlan, in the Mexican state of Sinaloa. Tiny Bubbles Whatever you have for supper, these days you have more choices than ever when it comes to selecting a sparkling water to accompany your meal. From the ubiquitous La Croix Pure to Bubly Bounce Caffeinated in triple berry, there’s something fizzy out there for every set of tastebuds. Advanced Mixology “scoured the market” to come up with its list of the 12 Best Sparkling Water Brands of 2021. Maybe what you’re after, though, is just the right cold beverage for a late-morning pick-me-up or an afternoon treat. In that case, a field trip to conveniently located Kokee Tea at Northport Circle for some of their bubble (or “boba”) tea is most certainly in order! Not familiar with this sweet and chewy drink that’s long been wildly popular in Asia, Taiwan in particular? Eater does a great job of guiding us novices through what turns out to be a delicious world of bubble-related options. I Scream, You Scream…. Yep, that’s right, we all scream for ice cream! And you’ve got plenty of places to visit close to home for some of that cool deliciousness. Where’s the Scoop on Old Roswell Street, with its Thai-inspired rolled ice cream made using dairy from Georgia-based Mountain Fresh Creamery, is Eater Atlanta’s pick in Alpharetta. The dessert bar also offers vegan flavors. And you know what? We’re in the mood for some of their Vegan Pineapple Pants Down right….about…..now! About The Dog Days According The Old Farmer’s Almanac, this stretch of sweltering weather we’re in “coincides with the year’s heliacal (meaning ‘at sunrise’) rising of Sirius, the Dog Star. Sirius is part of the constellation Canis Majoris—the ‘Greater Dog’—which is where Sirius gets its canine nickname, as well as its official name, Alpha Canis Majoris.”
Juneteenth Atlanta Parade & Music Festival will be the African American Cultural Event of the Year
At Collingwood Apartments in Alpharetta, GA, we know that people from all over the country will celebrate Juneteenth, commemorating the date of June 19, 1865, the end of African American slavery in the United States. The Idea Specialists, at Collingwood, have identified several Juneteenth events they think might be of interest to you. So, to begin with, those of us in and around Atlanta this weekend, can celebrate freedom with Juneteenth Atlanta, a three-day Black History music festival and parade that kicks off on Friday, June 18, at Centennial Olympic Park. It is free, but donations of all sizes are appreciated. And there is more. Much more. For starters, celebrity storyteller Tiffanie Barrier, and “bartender to the bartenders” will MC a sold-out crowd at Atlanta 211 for “Black Label: Juneteenth Fashion Show.” Also, in the style and fashion-category you will want to sign up NOW for the “Black Label: Juneteenth Fashion Show” at The Pink Zebra Boutique, home to 20+ independent brands ranging from streetwear to high fashion including exclusive accessories. This show will highlight local house designers and curators when the retail floor transforms into a runway setting the stage for a night of appetizing apparel, and cocktails and networking. If fashion is not your thing – sign up to participate in the Juneteenth Atlanta 5K, the Gala in the Garden for Neighbor in Need, or a Sip n Paint event, to show your support for 2021’s Juneteenth Atlanta. Chances are you may have already made plans to honor this momentous occasion with a Juneteenth family reunion, worship service, or Father’s Day celebration with your own family. Whether an intimate family gathering or a large-scale community event, there is plenty to do for everyone. Here’s a complete-ish list of ways to celebrate with Juneteenth Atlanta.
