St. Louis’ Best Christmas Light Displays

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For many of us, going to see local holiday light displays is a favorite yearly tradition. It’s a great way to jump-start your holiday spirit! So bundle up, jump in the car and spend an evening taking in some of these great holiday lights.

Photo courtesy Our Lady of the Snows Shrine

1.  Way of Lights – Belleville, IL

The Way of Lights in Belleville is one of the area’s most popular Christmas displays. More than a million lights are used to tell the story of Jesus’ birth. You can drive through the display or take a carriage ride. There’s also a puppet show, camel rides, an indoor Christmas tree display and an interactive play area for the kids.

The Way of Lights is open Monday through Thursday from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., and Friday through Sunday from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. Admisson is free, but donations are accepted.
November 20, 2015 – January 1, 2016
Our Lady of the Snows Shrine, Belleville

2.  Santa’s Magical Kingdom

It takes quite a while to see the 35 acres of Christmas lights at Santa’s Magical Kingdom in south St. Louis County. Millions of lights and dozens of holiday scenes fill Jellystone Park in Eureka. You can see Santa’s flying reindeer, travel through the Candy Cane Village or visit the Waterfall of Lights. For even more fun, take an old fashioned wagon ride through the display. After seeing the lights, head over to Kringle’s General Store for a little holiday shopping. Santa’s Magical Kingdom is open from 5:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m., Sunday through Thursday, and 5:30 p.m. to 11 p.m., Friday and Saturday. Admission is $20 per car or $13 for wagon or train rides.
November 13, 2015 – January 3, 2016
Jellystone Park, Eureka

3.  Brewery Lights

See the Anheuser Busch Brewery in St. Louis all decked out for the holidays. The brewery is hosting free walking tours, along with free samples of AB products during Brewery Lights. There are also food stations, a s’mores station and a special VIP holiday package. The display is open daily from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. Walking tours are not available on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas or New Year’s Eve.
November 19, 2015 – January 3, 2016
AB Brewery, South St. Louis

4.  Winter Wonderland – Tilles Park

For 30 years, employees with the St. Louis County Parks Department have turned Tilles Park into a Winter Wonderland. You can drive through the display, but the best way to see the lights is by horse-drawn carriage. Winter Wonderland is open daily from 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., except for Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve. Cars are welcome Sunday through Friday, but Saturdays are reserved for carriage rides. Admission is $10 per car. Tickets for carriage rides are available through MetroTix, and prices vary depending on the size of the carriage.
November 20-22, 2015 – Walk through preview nights
November 25, 2015 – January 2, 2016
Tilles Park, St. Louis County

Photo by J.P. First, courtesy Christmas in St. Louis

5.  Festival of Lights – Downtown St. Louis

The holiday season begins in Downtown St. Louis with the Macy’s Holiday Festival of Lights. Crowds gather at Union Station to watch the lighting of the Christmas tree and downtown light display. The evening ends with fireworks and a special visit from Santa Claus. The event runs from 4:30 p.m. until 7 p.m.
November 21, 2015
Union Station, Downtown St. Louis

Photo by Tom Incrocci, courtesy Missouri Botanical Garden

6.  Garden Glow – Missouri Botanical Garden

Hundreds of thousands of lights will decorate the Missouri Botanical Garden for the holidays. Walk through the light display, then take in the Victorian Christmas decorations at Tower Grove House. Garden Glow also has live holiday music, snacks and shopping. Garden Glow is open most evenings during the Christmas season from 5 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. General admission is $16 for adults and $10 for children. The price for adults increases to $18 after December 18.
November 21, 2015 – January 2, 2016
Missouri Botanical Garden, South St. Louis

Photo by Chuck Dresner, courtesy Saint Louis Zoo

7.  Wild Lights – St. Louis Zoo

Go a little wild this holiday season with Wild Lights at the St. Louis Zoo. If you’ve never been to the zoo on a winter evening, this is a real treat. Walk through the exhibits as they come alive with more than 500,000 lights. Kids can hear holiday stories and adults can do a little shopping at the Holiday Zootique. Wild Lights is open from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Weekday tickets are $7 for Zoo members and $8 for non-members. Weekend tickets are $9 for Zoo members and $10 for non-members. Children under two get in free. There is also free parking at the Zoo’s north and south lots.
November 27-29, December 2-6, 9-13, 16-23, 26-30, 2015, and January 1-3, 2016
St Louis Zoo, Forest Park

Photo courtesy Alton Regional Convention & Visitors Bureau

8.  Christmas Wonderland – Alton, IL

Each year, Alton’s Rock Spring Park twinkles with three million lights during the holiday season. You’ll see cascading waterfalls, lighted trees and dozens of magical displays. Kids can also visit Santa in the Enchanted Forest or get up close with goats, llamas and other animals at the petting zoo. Christmas Wonderland is open Monday through Friday from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Admission is $7 for cars and small vans, or $1 a person for vehicles with more than 10 people. You can also take a carriage ride through the display.
November 27 – December 27, 2015
Rock Spring Park, Alton

9.  Winter Wonderland – Lebanon, IL

Another option for holiday lights in the Metro East is the Winter Wonderland of Lights in Lebanon, Illinois. Colorful lights and hand-painted scenes are used to create a Victorian style holiday show for the whole family. The drive through display is set up at Horner Park in Lebanon. That’s about 30 minutes from downtown St. Louis. Winter Wonderland is open Sunday through Thursday from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., and Friday and Saturday from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. Admission is free, but donations are accepted.
November 20 – December 31, 2015
Horner Park, Lebanon, IL

10.  Celebration of Lights – O’Fallon, MO

You find all kinds of Christmas scenes at the Celebation of Lights in O’Fallon, Missouri. Each year since 1991, visitors have enjoyed taking in the holiday lights at Fort Zumwalt Park. This is primarily a drive-though display, but you can also take a carriage, train, segway or sleigh ride through the park. There is also a walk-through night on Tuesday, December 8. Celebration of Lights is open Sunday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., and Friday and Saturday from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. Monday is for train and segway rides only. Admission is $10 for cars and $15 for large vans. Tuesday is discount night where all cars, vans and non-commerical vehicles are $7.
November 27 – December 30, 2015
Fort Zumwalt Park, O’Fallon, MO

11.  Holiday Night Lights – Wentzville, MO

Holiday Night Lights is a drive through display set up each year at Rotary Park in Wentzville, Missouri. The display takes you through a mile-long wonderland of twinkling lights. Holiday Night Lights is open from 6 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. It’s open Thursday through Sunday from November 27 to December 13, then daily (except Christmas Day) from December 17 to December 30. Admission is $8 for cars with up to six people, and $1 per person for vehicles with seven or more people.
November 27 – December 30, 2015
Rotary Park, Wentzville, MO

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Reducing Holiday Stress

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From WebMD

The holidays can be a joyful time, offering a chance to reconnect with friends and family. But they can also be stressful. You may feel pressure to buy and give gifts. Maybe you are worried about money. The holidays can also be hectic. There never seems to be enough time to get things done.

Think about the kinds of events that trigger stress for you during the holidays. Then you can focus on one or two things you can do that will help the most to reduce stress.

Preparing for the holidays

• Know your spending limit. Lack of money is one of the biggest causes of stress during the holiday season. This year, set a budget, and don’t spend more than you’ve planned. It’s okay to tell your child that a certain toy costs too much. Don’t buy gifts that you’ll spend the rest of the year trying to pay off.
• Give something personal. You can show love and caring with any gift that is meaningful and personal. It doesn’t have to cost a lot. Or use words instead of an expensive gift to let people know how important they are to you. Make a phone call or write a note and share your feelings.
• Get organized. Make lists or use an appointment book to keep track of tasks to do and events to attend.
• Share the tasks. You don’t have to do everything yourself. Share your “to do” list with others. Spend time with friends and family while you share tasks like decorating, wrapping gifts, and preparing the holiday meal.
• Learn to say no. It’s okay to say “no” to events that aren’t important to you. This will give you more time to say “yes” to events that you do want to attend.
• Be realistic. Try not to put pressure on yourself to create the perfect holiday for your family. Focus instead on the traditions that make holidays special for you. And remember that just because it’s a holiday, family problems don’t go away. If you have a hard time being around your relatives, it’s okay to set limits on your time at events and visits.

You may not be able to avoid stressful situations during the holidays. But you can plan to respond to them in a healthy way.

• Take breaks from group activities. Pay attention to your own needs and feelings. Spend a little time by yourself if you can. Meditate, or do some relaxation breathing. Go for a short walk.
• Keep a regular sleep, meal, and exercise schedule. Limit your alcohol. Taking care of yourself will help you deal with stressful situations during the holidays.

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Halloween Safety Tips

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1. Walk Safely

Cross the street at corners, using traffic signals and crosswalks.

Look left, right and left again when crossing and keep looking as you cross.

Put electronic devices down and keep heads up and walk, don’t run, across the street.

Teach children to make eye contact with drivers before crossing in front of them.

Always walk on sidewalks or paths. If there are no sidewalks, walk facing traffic as far to the left as possible.  Children should walk on direct routes with the fewest street crossings.

Watch for cars that are turning or backing up. Teach children to never dart out into the street or cross between parked cars.

2. Trick or Treat With an Adult

Children under the age of 12 should not be alone at night without adult supervision. If kids are mature enough to be out without supervision, they should stick to familiar areas that are well lit and trick-or-treat in groups.

3. Keep Costumes Both Creative and Safe

Decorate costumes and bags with reflective tape or stickers and, if possible, choose light colors.

Choose face paint and makeup whenever possible instead of masks, which can obstruct a child’s vision.

Have kids carry glow sticks or flashlights to help them see and be seen by drivers.

When selecting a costume, make sure it is the right size to prevent trips and falls.

4. Drive Extra Safely on Halloween

Slow down and be especially alert in residential neighborhoods. Children are excited on Halloween and may move in unpredictable ways.

Take extra time to look for kids at intersections, on medians and on curbs.

Enter and exit driveways and alleys slowly and carefully.

Eliminate any distractions inside your car so you can concentrate on the road and your surroundings.

Drive slowly, anticipate heavy pedestrian traffic and turn your headlights on earlier in the day to spot children from greater distances.

Popular trick-or-treating hours are 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. so be especially alert for kids during those hours.

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The Top Places to Pick Your Own Pumpkins in St. Louis

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By David O’Brien

Fall means changing leaves, Halloween costumes and the chance to pick your own pumpkins. Here are some of the most popular pumpkin patches in the St. Louis area.

Stuckmeyer’s Farm Market

Going to Stuckmeyer’s for pumpkins is an annual event for many area families. Stuckmeyer’s is a family owned vegetable farm that’s been around for decades. The pumpkin patch is open every day in October, but if you go on a weekend in October you can also enjoy Farm Fun Days. This event features hayrides, farm animals, pony rides, live music and more. Stuckmeyer’s is located at the intersecton of Highways 141 and 21 in Fenton. For more information, call 636-349-1225.

Photo by Sharon Dominick, courtesy Getty Images

Eckert’s Orchards

Eckert’s Orchards is a year-round destination for St. Louis area families. In October, the pumpkins take center stage. You’ll find any size pumpkin you need at the Eckert’s locations in Belleville, Millstadt and Grafton. Eckert’s also hosts many other fall events including haunted hayrides, bonfires, pumpkin parties and more. The Belleville location is open daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. The Millstadt location is open daily from 9 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. The Grafton location is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Rombachs Farm

Rombachs Farm is a popular spot for pumpkins in St. Louis County. You’ll also find fall decorations and dried gourds for your home. The Rombachs Farm pumpkin patch is open daily in October from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. It’s located at 18639 Olive Street Road in Chesterfield, near Spirit of St. Louis Airport. For more information, call 636-532-7265.

Relleke Pumpkin Patch

Relleke Pumpkin Patch is a good place for pumpkins in the Metro East. The pumpkin patch opens at the end of September and is open every day through November 1. Hours are Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Relleke Pumpkin Patch is located at 473 Sand Prairie Lane in Granite City. For more information, call 618-797-6858.

Thies Farm and Greenhouses

Thies Farm knows how to celebrate the fall harvest. Not only will you find the perfect pumpkin, but in October, both locations are transformed into a “Pumpkinland” play area for children. Pumpkinland is open Tuesday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Theis Farm is located on North Hanley Road and in Maryland Heights. For more information, call 314-428-9878.

Golden Valley Pumpkin Patch

Golden Valley Pumpkin Patch in Franklin County offers all kinds of fall fun. There are hayrides, a corn maze, farm animals and pony rides. And of course, plenty of pumpkins to take home. The farm is open Saturdays and Sundays starting September 26, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. It’s located at 6320 Highway 100 in Washington, MO. For more information, call 636-221-1956.

Herman’s Farm Orchard

Check out the pumpkin patch and more at Herman’s Farm Orchard in St. Charles. You can pick your own pumpkins, choose from a variety of hearty mums or shop in the market. Herman’s Farm Orchard is open every day from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. It’s located at 3663 North Highway 94. For more information, call 636-925-9969.

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10 Outdoor Activities to Kick Off the Autumn Season

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by Anna Fletcher

Fall season is almost upon us! The leaves are about to start changing, the days will get shorter, and mornings will grow chillier and crisp as summer fades away. And though we will miss long summer days and warm nights, we have a brand new, exciting season approaching! So why not start thinking about some fun outdoor activities you can do to celebrate the coming of autumn?? Here are a few…

1. Attend a Barn Dance.  Whether it’s contra dancing or square dancing, hoedowns are a great way to spend fall evenings and nights. Have a blast and work up a sweat in the cold, autumn night air while you dance along to foot-tapping bluegrass and fiddle music!

2. Go Mountain Biking.  Okay, so you can mountain bike at any time of the year (except maybe the dead of winter…ice and snow are no bueno for your tires). But there’s something about the chilly air and bright orange, red, and yellow leaves all around you that makes biking during the fall so amazing.

3. Take a Scenic Drive.  Early to mid-fall is one of the prettiest times of the year, as the trees still have most of their leaves which have turned vibrant with the coming cold. This is the one of the best times to take a drive through the woods, around town, or through the mountains.

4. Go Pumpkin Picking.  Fall season means one thing – pumpkin season! Restaurants, coffee shops, grocery stores, and many other places around town start selling pumpkin foods, drinks, and products to welcome in the season. You will also be able to find whole pumpkins all over town, whether you want to go pick your own at a patch or get one from the store. If you do take a trip to your local pumpkin patch, you can do many fun, free activities that they offer, like hay rides, corn mazes, and petting zoos. Make a jack-o-lantern with your new prized pumpkin and be sure to keep the seeds so you can roast them! Yumm.

5. Host a Bonfire.  Shorter days and cooler weather make perfect ingredients for a bonfire. Grill out, have a tub of hot apple cider, and don’t forget s’more fixings!

6. Go Climbing.  One of the best times of the year to rock climb is during the fall. As leaves begin to drop and greenery wanes in anticipation for winter, rock faces become more exposed. Cooler weather also means fewer bugs zipping around your face as you make your way up the cliff!

7. Do Some Photography.  Bright multi-colored leaves, teaming autumn wildlife, colorful pumpkins and gourds, and clear, sunny days make for great photo ops. See what amazing autumn things you can capture on your camera!

8. Go Camping.  Cooler, dryer weather means fewer bugs and fewer people, so fall is one of the best times to go camping. Just remember your cold weather hammocking gear, and you’ll be toasty and comfy in the chilly autumn air!

9. Visit an Orchard.  ‘Tis the season for apple picking! The prime months for ripe apples is September and October, and most local orchards open their doors to the public during this time to do some picking. Just think of all the pies, apple butter, cider, and applesauce you can make! And even if you’re not a big apple-eater, just strolling through the trees in the cool fall weather is a great way to spend the day!

10. Play Some Pick-Up Football.  Labor Day weekend officially kicked off football season, so what better way to celebrate that than to play some football yourself? Grab family and friends and head out to the park or backyard for some down-set-hike!

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Back-to-School Tips for Parents!

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Starting the new school year can be a time of great excitement… and anxiety. Help calm your child’s fears (and your own) with these teacher-approved tips.

Meet the new teacher.
For kids, one of the biggest back-to-school fears is “Will I like my new teacher?” Breaking the ice early on is one of the best ways to calm everyone’s fears. Take advantage of your school’s open house or back-to-school night. Some teachers welcome phone calls or e-mails — another great opportunity to get to know each other before the year begins.

If personal contact with the teacher isn’t possible, try locating the teacher’s picture on a school website or in a yearbook, so your child can put a name with a face. If your child’s teacher sends a welcome letter, be sure to read the letter together.

Tour the school.
If your school hosts an open house, be sure to go. Familiarizing your child with her environment will help her avoid a nervous stomach on the first day. Together you can meet her teacher, find her desk, or explore the playground.

With an older child, you might ask him to give you a tour of the school. This will help refresh his memory and yours.

Connect with friends.
A familiar friend can make all the difference when heading back to school. You might try calling parents from last year’s class and finding out which children are in your child’s class this year. Refresh these relationships before school starts by scheduling a play date or a school carpool.

Tool up.
Obtain the class supply list and take a special shopping trip with your child. Having the right tools will help him feel prepared. While keeping basic needs in mind, allow for a couple of splurges like a cool notebook or a favorite-colored pen. These simple pleasures make going back to school a lot more fun.

School supply lists also provide great insight into the schoolwork ahead. Get your child excited about upcoming projects by explaining how new supplies might be used. Let him practice using supplies that he’s not used before — such as colored pencils or a protractor — so he will be comfortable using them in class.

Avoid last-minute drilling.
When it’s almost time to stop playing, give a five-minute warning. Giving clear messages to your child is very important.

Chat about today’s events and tomorrow’s plans.
While it is important to support learning throughout the summer, don’t spend the last weeks of summer vacation reviewing last year’s curriculum. All kids need some down time before the rigors of school begin. For some kids, last-minute drills can heighten anxiety, reminding them of what they’ve forgotten instead of what they remember.

Ease into the routine.
Switching from a summer to a school schedule can be stressful to everyone in the household. Avoid first-day-of-school mayhem by practicing your routine a few days in advance. Set the alarm clock, go through your morning rituals, and get in the car or to the bus stop on time. Routines help children feel comfortable, and establishing a solid school routine will make the first day of school go much smoother.

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Tips: Help Your Child Have a Good School Year

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By Colorín Colorado

As a parent, there are many things you can do at home to help your child have a good school year. These include making sure your child gets enough sleep, getting him to school on time, and reading at home every day.

Here are ten important ways to get started!

1. Medical care

Children need regular medical checkups, immunizations, and dental care. Check with your school to see if a physical and immunizations are required before the new school year. Some medical and dental services may be available at the local clinic or your child’s school.

2. A healthy diet and exercise

Children who eat a healthy diet and get regular exercise can concentrate better during the school day. It is important that your child eats a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables, and has opportunities to exercise every day through a sports team, fun activity, or playtime outside.

3. Sleep

Getting enough sleep will help your child get up on time, feel good, and be ready for a full day of learning. Children need different amounts of sleep at different ages. Ask your doctor how many hours of sleep your child needs each night.

4. Getting to school, every day and on time

It will be easier for your child to complete daily lessons, homework, and tests if he gets to school on time every day. Limit the time your child misses for family trips and activities. Contact the school immediately if your child will be absent.

5. Homework

Help your child set a regular time and place for homework. Choose a time that works well for your family’s schedule. Find a place that is quiet and has good lighting. Make sure your child has supplies such as pens, pencils, paper, and a dictionary. Ask your child to show you her finished homework each night so that you can see what she is learning and confirm that she is doing all of her assignments.

6. Television, video game, and computer time

Limit the time your child spends watching TV, playing video games, and using the computer. When possible, do these activities together, and look for educational programs and games. Help your child understand that he should never give out personal information on the computer or talks to strangers online.

7. Talking about school together

Ask your child to tell you about the school day. Ask her what she learned, and how she felt during the day. Listen carefully to her answers, and help her think of ways to solve any problems she might be having in her schoolwork or in the classroom.

8. Reading

Set aside time to read with your child each day. You can make reading a part of daily routines by reading stories at bedtime and keeping lots of books and magazines in the house.

9. The library

Help your child get to know the library and what you can find there, including books, audio books, magazines, CDs, and DVDs. Libraries also offer homework resources and a quiet place for students to work.

10. Learning at home

Help your child learn at home by sharing activities together, singing, talking, and telling stories. Visit educational places such as museums, the zoo, the park, or a historical monument. Find out what your child’s interests are, and look for activities and books that are connected to that interest.

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No kids allowed! Best bets for grown-up dates in St. Louis

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By Jeffrey Konkel

Date-night doldrums got you down? Stuck in a romance rut? No worries; we’ve got you covered. Here are some of our picks for a romantic date with the one that you love.

St. Louis Symphony
Looking to add a touch of class to your romantic evening? The St. Louis Symphony at Powell Hall may be just the ticket. The theater’s dazzling architecture oozes European elegance, promising to elevate your night from ordinary to extraordinary. And then there’s the symphony itself, one of the most celebrated in the Midwest.

St. Louis Symphony at Powell Hall, 718 N. Grand Blvd., St. Louis, MO, 63103, 314-534-1700

Grafton Zipline Adventures
Sometimes balancing a career, parenthood and marriage can seem like a high-wire act. Why not try the real thing? Grafton Zipline Adventures in nearby Grafton, IL, is a great choice for couples looking to add a little adventure to their relationship. The venue’s nine zip lines cover nearly two miles, and set participants soaring from treetop to treetop at heart-pounding speeds while safely secured to a harness. The entire loop takes about two hours and can be worked into a daytrip to Grafton. Those with serious height phobias may want to try one of our other recommendations, but most participants walk away from the experience exhilarated rather than traumatized. Reservations are recommended. The course is currently closed for seasonal maintenance but is scheduled to reopen in spring 2015.

Grafton Zipline Adventures, 800 Timber Ridge Drive, Grafton, Ill., 62037, 618-786-8439

Great Rivers Greenway
Let’s face it: The hardest part about a date night is finding time in our schedules to go out. Sometimes the best solution is to turn “date night” into “date afternoon.” Next time grandma and grandpa offer to watch the kids on a Saturday afternoon, grab your spouse and your bikes and head out for a long, leisurely ride on the Great Rivers Greenway. It’s a great way to spend a little quality time together while improving your health. The greenway currently offers more than 100 miles of trails spread throughout the St. Louis region. Some are tucked away in quiet, wooded environs, while others embrace the hustle and bustle of urban life. Find the one that suits your style, and ride off into the sunset with your mate. Be sure to pack a picnic lunch or choose a trail near a charming cafe.

Great River Greenways, trails throughout the St. Louis area

Date Night Cooking Classes at Kitchen Conservatory
OK, maybe going back to school doesn’t sound particularly romantic, but bear with us for a minute. We all know that the key to any great date is quality one-on-one time, and there’s no denying the sensual aspect of food. Combine the two and you have instant date night success. The Kitchen Conservatory in Clayton offers more than 800 cooking classes each year, and many of them are aimed at couples looking for a special date night. Upcoming date night classes include cooking lessons on cuisines ranging from Chinese to Cajun. A number of Valentine’s Day classes also are offered, but act fast as they book up quickly.

Kitchen Conservatory, 8021 Clayton Road, St. Louis, MO, 63117, 314-862-2665

Wine Merchant
Yes, we know. We already sent you back to school for the aforementioned cooking classes, but the same arguments apply here. Plus you get to add alcohol to the mix. The Wine Merchant has been one of the leading – if not the leading – source for wine and fine spirits in St. Louis for more than two decades. Their Clayton store stocks thousands of different wines, from low-cost values to wallet-busting rarities. But “The Merch” (as they like to be called) also hosts dozens of informative and fun classes every year. Whether you’re looking for a basic primer on vino or an in-depth analysis of wines from Bordeaux, Burgundy or Barolo, the Wine Merchant has you covered. They also offer classes on wine and food pairings, and spirits, as well.

The Wine Merchant, 20 S. Hanley Road, Clayton, MO, 63105, 314-863-6282

Steinberg Skating Rink in Forest Park
When the wintertime blues get you down, there’s only one thing to do: Embrace the chill. Grab your partner, head down to Forest Park and lace up your skates for an evening on ice at the Steinberg Skating Rink. The rink is open daily through the end of February, with evening hours until 9 p.m. Sundays through Thursdays and until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays. When your toes get numb, warm up in the Snowflake Cafe with a warm snack or a cup of hot cocoa. Beer and wine are also available.

Steinberg Skating Rink, 400 Jefferson Drive in Forest Park, St. Louis, MO, 63110, 314-367-RINK

Three Sixty
There are plenty of outstanding local restaurants to savor with the one you love, but few can boast the views available at Three Sixty. Located atop the Hilton St. Louis at the Ballpark, Three Sixty offers stunning views in all directions – hence the name. Take in all of the downtown sites while enjoying a glass of wine and a cheese plate. If you’re looking for a more substantial meal, try the rib-eye steak or Maine lobster. Thanks to its proximity to Busch Stadium, Three Sixty tends to get packed when the Cardinals have a home game, so plan your romantic night out accordingly.

Three Sixty, 1 S. Broadway, St. Louis, MO, 63102, 314-241-8439

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8 Steps to Buying a Home

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• Step 1: Decide to Buy

  The decision to purchase your first home is one of the biggest and best choices you could ever make. After all, a home is the largest – and most emotional – investment most people will face in their lifetime. So, how do you know if it’s the right time for you to buy?

  There is never a wrong time to buy the right home. The key is finding the right buy and taking the time to carefully evaluate your finances.

  A home purchase is an important step that can provide many advantages. Purchasing your own home is a great investment that can deliver several financial benefits – equity build up, value appreciation, automatic savings plan – not to mention a new sense of pride!

  Start looking at your options today. You don’t have to know everything. Your Keller Williams agent is ready to help you through every step of the process.

• Step 2: Hire Your Agent

  When you’re looking for a real estate professional to help you, know that above all else, good agents put their clients first. This is your dream, and your agent is your advocate to help you make your dream come true.

  A great real estate agent will:

  1. Educate you about the current conditions of the market.
  2. Analyze what you want and what you need in your next home.
  3. Co-ordinate the work of other needed professionals throughout the process.
  4. Guide you to homes that fit your criteria and budget.
  5. Negotiate on your behalf to get you the best deal possible.
  6. Check and double-check paperwork and deadlines.
  7. Inform and discuss with you, and suggest solutions to solve any problems that may arise.

• Step 3: Secure Financing

  To make the financing process as painless as possible, ask your agent to introduce you to the preferred financing consultant. This professional will work with you and your agent to make sure the financial aspect of your home purchase is stress free.

  What will the consultant do for you?

  1. Review your current financials.
  2. Discuss the options available to you during the home purchasing process.
  3. Guide you to an appropriate price point.
  4. Negotiate on your behalf to get you the best deal – price, interest rates, loan approval.
  5. Keep you informed and updated of the entire financial process throughout your purchase.

• Step 4: Find Your Home

  So you’ve met with your trusted advisors, and now you’re ready to begin your search. But how or where do you start? There are a lot of homes out there, and diving in without a guide can become overwhelming and confusing. Your Keller Williams agent will help you more accurately pinpoint homes that fit your criteria. The right home will meet all your important needs, and as many of your additional wants as possible.

  Some questions you might ask yourself include:

  1. What amenities are crucial for you and your family?
  2. How much space do you need and why?
  3. Which is more critical: location or size?
  4. Would you be interested in a fixer-upper?
  5. How important is home value appreciation?
  6. Is neighborhood stability a priority?
  7. Is accessibility to main routes a priority?
  8. What features are not negotiable in your new property?

  You’ll learn as you look at homes, your priorities will probably adjust along the way.

• Step 5: Make an Offer

  Once you’ve found a home you love, the next step is deciding on a price. It’s important to remember that a home is an investment. Your agent can give you information on other properties in the neighborhood to help you ensure you make an informed decision when it comes to price. Look to your agent to explain and guide you through the offer process.

  Some things to consider when deciding on the best price point are:

  1. List price – Start with the price point that the home is listed at. This will give you a base when looking at the home’s value.
  2. Market Analysis – Your agent will give you an idea of comparable home values in the neighborhood to help you decide if the price point is on par.
  3. Improvements – Your agent can give you a list of improvements made to the home and help you determine its market value.

• Step 6: Perform Due Diligence

  Your agent will provide you with improvements and challenges within your home. This way you’ll know what you are getting into before you complete the purchase.

  Knowing what work has and has not been done to your home is important information to have in the buying process. While updates can increase your home value, damages can take money out of your pocket. Your main concern is the possibility of structural damage, which can come from water, shifting ground or poor construction.

  Very often a problem appears to be big, but can be fixed with very little effort and not a huge budget.

• Step 7: Close

  Once you’ve determined a price point you’re comfortable with, you’re in the “home” stretch! But, in order to ensure that you don’t put the property purchase at risk, you have a couple responsibilities that you’ll need to keep in mind:

  1. Staying in control of your credit and finances – Do not make any large purchases during this time. It’s important to keep your financials steady throughout the buying process. Talk to your financial consultant for guidance.
  2. Keeping in touch with your agent and financial consultant – It’s important to stay in constant communication with your Keller Williams agent and financial guide during this process. Be sure to return all phone calls and complete paperwork promptly. Also, don’t be afraid to ask questions. Your team is there to help you!

• Step 8: Protect Your Investment

  Congratulations, and welcome home! The home-buying process is complete, which means it’s time for your maintenance plan! It’s now your responsibility, and in your best financial interest, to protect your investment for years to come. Performing routine maintenance on your home’s systems is always more affordable than having to fix big problems later. Be sure to watch for signs of leaks, damage and wear.

  And remember, just because the sale is complete, your relationship with your Keller Williams agent doesn’t need to end! After you buy, your agent can still help you – providing information on the real estate market, finding contractors and repair services, and even tracking your home’s current value.

  Happy home-owning!

StLouisHomesByGina.com  636-229-8746  *Property Search Link*

What Not to Do as a New Homeowner

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By John Riha

If you’re new to homeownership, you’ll definitely want to avoid these easy-to-prevent mistakes that could cost you big time.

We know so well the thrill of owning your own house — but don’t let the excitement cause you to overlook the basics. We’ve gathered up a half dozen classic boo-boos new homeowners often commit — and give you some insight on why each is critically important to avoid.

1. Not Knowing Where the Main Water Shutoff Valve Is

Water from a burst or broken plumbing pipe can spew dozens of gallons into your home’s interior in a matter of minutes, soaking everything in sight — including drywall, flooring, and valuables. In fact, water damage is one of the most common of all household insurance claims.

Quick-twitch reaction is needed to stave off a major bummer. Before disaster hits, find your water shutoff valve, which will be located where a water main enters your house. Make sure everyone knows where it’s located and how to close the valve. A little penetrating oil on the valve stem makes sure it’ll work when you need it to.

2. Not Calling 811 Before Digging a Hole

Ah, spring! You’re so ready to dig into your new yard and plant bushes and build that fence. But don’t — not until you’ve dialed 811, the national dig-safely hotline. The hotline will contact all your local utilities who will then come to your property — often within a day — to mark the location of underground pipes, cables, and wires.

This free service keeps you safe and helps avoid costly repairs. In many states, calling 811 is the law, so you’ll also avoid fines.

3. Not Checking the Slope of Foundation Soil

The ground around your foundation should slope away from your house at least 6 inches over 10 feet. Why? To make sure that water from rain and melting snow doesn’t soak the soil around your foundation walls, building up pressure that can cause leaks and crack your foundation, leading to mega-expensive repairs.

This kind of water damage doesn’t happen overnight — it’s accumulative — so the sooner you get after it, the better (and smarter) you’ll be. While you’re at it, make sure downspouts extend at least 5 feet away from your house.

4. Not Knowing the Depth of Attic Insulation

This goes hand-in-hand with not knowing where your attic access is located, so let’s start there. Find the ceiling hatch, typically a square area framed with molding in a hallway or closet ceiling. Push the hatch cover straight up. Get a ladder and check out the depth of the insulation. If you can see the tops of joists, you definitely don’t have enough.

The recommended insulation for most attics is about R-38 or 10 to 14 inches deep, depending on the type of insulation you choose. BTW, is your hatch insulated, too? Use 4-inch-thick foam board glued to the top.

5. Carelessly Drilling into Walls

Hanging shelves, closet systems, and artwork means drilling into your walls — but do you know what’s back there? Hidden inside your walls are plumbing pipes, ductwork, wires, and cables.

You can check for some stuff with a stud sensor — a $25 battery-operated tool that detects changes in density to sniff out studs, cables, and ducts.

But stud sensors aren’t foolproof. Protect yourself by drilling only 1¼ inches deep max — enough to clear drywall and plaster but not deep enough to reach most wires and pipes.

Household wiring runs horizontally from outlet to outlet about 8 inches to 2 feet from the floor, so that’s a no-drill zone. Stay clear of vertical locations above and below wall switches — wiring runs along studs to reach switches.

6. Cutting Down a Tree

The risk isn’t worth it. Even small trees can fall awkwardly, damaging your house, property, or your neighbor’s property. In some locales, you have to obtain a permit first. Cutting down a tree is an art that’s best left to a professional tree service.

Plus, trees help preserve property values and provide shade that cuts energy bills. So think twice before going all Paul Bunyan.

StLouisHomesByGina.com  636-229-8746  *Property Search Link*