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Unwrap Our December Newsletter

November 11, 2025 by dbabcock Leave a Comment

 

 

Local Events:

  • Sacramento Kings: Click Here For Schedule
  • Sacramento Farmers Markets: Click Here for Local Markets
  • Now – December 7: A Christmas Carol @ the Woodland Opera House
  • Now – December 21 (Select Days): The Polar Express Train Ride
  • Now – December 24 (Select Days): Theater of Lights @ Old Sacramento Waterfront
  • Now – December 28 (Book Early – Tickets Sell Fast): River Fox Magical Christmas Train
  • Now – January 4: Imaginarium Holiday Lights
  • Now – January 19 (Select Days): Downtown Sacramento Ice Rink
  • Now – January 19: Historic Folsom Ice Rink
  • December 2 & 16: Movies on Ice in Historic Folsom
  • December 4: Fair Oaks Tree Lighting
  • December 4-13: Festival of Trees in Old Fair Oaks
  • December 5: Christmas Tree Lighting in Historic Folsom
  • December 5-7: Winter Art Fest 2025 @ MACC
  • December 6 (And Select Days): Santa Visits in Historic Folsom
  • December 6: Illumination Holiday Festival in Elk Grove
  • December 6: Holiday Cheer & Craft Beer @ Drake’s The Barn
  • December 6: Christmas Tree Lighting @ El Dorado Hills Town Center
  • December 6-7 & 13-14: Sacramento Holiday Cruise by City Cruises
  • December 6-7 & 13-14: Winter Wonderland @ Fairytale Town
  • December 7: Christmas Craft Fair in Historic Folsom
  • December 8-9: Santa Stops in Old Fair Oaks 
  • December 9: A Kat Edmonson Christmas @ the Sofia
  • December 10-28: A Christmas Carol @ The Sofia
  • December 11th: The Jingle Jazz Christmas Concert @ The Sofia
  • December 12-13: The 2025 B Street Holiday Market
  • December 12-13 & 19-20: Carriage Rides @ El Dorado Hills Town Center
  • December 12-21: Sacramento Ballet Presents The Nutcracker
  • December 13: A Very Grinchy Christmas in Old Fair Oaks
  • December 14: Southside Santa Parade in Sacramento
  • December 16: Cirque Musica Holiday Wonderland
  • December 17: Wine Wednesday: Wreath Making @ Rombauer

 

 

Check out all the December magic happening in our Local Events section above—light shows, Imaginarium, tree-lighting parties, and more! Then keep the festivities rolling with Sacramento’s very own Holiday Lights Guide using the link below.

 

HOLIDAY LIGHTS GUIDE

 

 

 

  • Sausage Roll Wreath
  • Caramelized Onion Dip
  • Olive & Cheese Wreath
  • Cranberry Brie Bites
  • Antipasto Christmas Tree Cheese Ball
  • Cranberry-Glazed Turkey Meatballs
  • Pigs in a Blanket Wreath
  • Pull-Apart Christmas Tree
  • Merry Mozzarella Bites
  • Charcuterie Christmas Tree
  • Christmas Deviled Eggs
  • Pecan Stuffed Mushrooms
  • Spinach & Artichoke Dip
  • Hot Crab Dip
  • Pomegranate Christmas Tree Ball

 

 

  • Christmas Punch
  • Hot Buttered Rum
  • Naughty or Nice Cocktail
  • Irish Coffee
  • Traditional Sangria
  • Spiked Egg Nog
  • Gingerbread Martini
  • Pear Tree Martini
  • Cranberry Ginger Mimosa
  • Christmas Morning Punch (Non-Alcoholic)
  • White Grape Punch with Cranberry Ice (Non-Alcoholic)
  • Homemade Egg Nog (Non-Alcoholic)

 

 

  • Prime Rib Recipe
  • Holiday Glazed Baked Ham
  • Holiday Stuffed Pork Tenderloin
  • Herb Crusted Rack of Lamb
  • Julia Child’s Favorite Roast Chicken
  • Maple Glazed Turkey
  • Roast Beef
  • Roasted Spatchcock Chicken
  • Stuffed Shells
  • Mushroom Piccata
  • Boursin Baked Ziti
  • Christmas Pasta Salad

 

 

  • Green Bean Casserole
  • Homemade Mac & Cheese
  • Smashed Brussels sprouts
  • Herbed Brown Buttered Mashed Potatoes
  • Honey Glazed Spiced Carrots
  • Buttery Herb Stuffing
  • Homemade Dinner Rolls
  • Cranberry Orange Sauce
  • Scalloped Potatoes
  • Creamed Corn
  • Broccoli & Quinoa Salad
  • Yorkshire Pudding
  • Christmas Salad

 

 

  • Sticky Toffee Pudding
  • Triple Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
  • Chocolate Whoopie Pies with Vanilla Cream Cheese
  • Gingerbread Roll with Cinnamon Cream
  • Peppermint Sugar Cookie Bars
  • Cranberry Apple Crumb Pie
  • Red Velvet Thumbprint Cookies
  • Butterscotch Pudding Cookies
  • Eggnog Bread Pudding
  • Reindeer Pops
  • Pecan Pie Cheesecake
  • Yule Log
  • Cake Ball Ornaments
  • Cranberry Christmas Cake

 

 

 

Stockings (Soft Whites):

  • Crate & Barrel Ivory cable-knit stocking
  • Pottery Barn Classic Velvet Bow Stockings

Ornaments & Tree Topper (Champagne Golds):

  • Anthropologie Champagne Globe Ornament Set
  • West Elm Gold starburst tree topper

Wreaths & Garland (Classic Greens):

  • Williams Sonoma Pre-Lit Faux Cedar Wreath
  • Target 18 ft. Pre-Lit Artificial Garland

Candles & Lit Decor (Warm Glow):

  • Target 12″ Mercury glass LED tree
  • West Elm Gold Shimmer Metallic Candles
  • World Market Gold Taper Candle Holders

Faux Christmas Tree:

  • Home Depot Grand Duchess 7.5 ft Twinkling Balsam Fir
  • Great for a Smaller Living Room: Home Depot Grand Duchess Twinkling Balsam Fir Slim 7.5 ft

Tree Skirts & Collars:

  • Target White Cable-Knit Skirt
  • World Market Woven Tree Collar

 

Pillows & Throws:
  • Amazon Green Boucle Pillow
  • Pottery Barn Ivory Knit Throw
  • West Elm Textural Trees Pillow Cover

Pro Tip: Stop by HomeGoods for a wide selection of decorative and seasonal pillows on sale.

Holiday Bedding:

  • Khols Flannel Holiday Sheet Set
  • West Elm Green Velvet Quilt & Shams 
  • Pottery Barn Plaid Cotton Duvet Cover

Holiday Botanicals:

  • World Market Frosted Faux Eucalyptus & Red Berries
  • West Elm Faux Potted Pine Tabletop Tree

Candle Accessories:

  • Pottery Barn Daphne Hurricane Candle Holder
  • Pottery Barn Sedona Brass Candle Holder Centerpiece

 

 

Tabletop & Bar:

  • Target Hearth & Hand Green Wine Glasses
  • World Market Sleigh Serving Board
  • Pottery Barn Gingerbread Icon Drinking Glass Set
  • Williams Sonoma Quilted Velvet Table Runner

Mantel Accents:

  • Anthropologie Brass Twist Stocking Hooks
  • Pottery Barn Handcrafted Gingerbread Village

Small Decorative Touches:

  • Pottery Barn Bronze Sculpted Reindeer Place Card Holder
  • Pottery Barn Ornament Place Card Holders

 

Filed Under: Charity, Home Improvement, Real Estate News, Sacramento Lifestyle

September in Sacramento: Local Events, Homes Tips & Market Updates

September 3, 2025 by dbabcock Leave a Comment

 

 

Events Calendar:

  • A’s Schedule: Click Here For September Games
  • River Cats Schedule: Click Here For September Games
  • Sac Republic FC Schedule: Click Here For September Matches
  • Sacramento Farmers Markets: Click Here for Local Markets
  • Farm to Fork Festival (September 26-28): Learn More Here















 

Apple Hill – Harvest Fun: Apple Hill farms are open for the fall season, and there’s something for everyone to enjoy! From apple picking and pumpkin patches to train rides, baked treats, wine tasting, and crisp mountain air, it’s a great way to kick off fall. Plan your Apple Hill experience here.

Great for: apple lovers, cozy fall vibes, family-friendly outings.

Amador County Wineries – Harvest Tours & Live Music: Many wineries host live music on Friday nights and special behind-the-scenes harvest tours—a unique chance to see winemaking in action and taste wine right from the barrel. Plan your outing here.

Great for: wine enthusiasts, seasonal experiences, scenic vineyard vibes.

Half Moon Bay Pumpkin & Fall Festival: Get ready for cozy autumn vibes! While the main Pumpkin & Fall Festival takes place in October, Half Moon Bay kicks off the season early with pumpkin patches, hayrides, and fall-themed activities starting in late September. Learn more here. After your visit, stop by Sam’s Chowder House for a delicious meal with ocean views—famous for their clam chowder and kid-friendly options—ideal for rounding out your coastal escape.

Great for: coastal drive lovers, pumpkin-themed fun with fewer crowds.

Lake Tahoe – Early Fall Foliage Views: Mid-to-late September is often when Tahoe’s fall colors begin to appear, especially in higher elevations. It’s a quieter time to enjoy golden aspens, mirrored lakes, and peaceful hiking and biking trails before peak foliage crowds arrive. Plan your trip here.

Great for: nature lovers, peaceful scenic trips, early leaf-peeping.

Pumpkin Patch Season is Almost Here: Many Northern California pumpkin patches and mazes are opening in late September. A few favorites include Dave’s Pumpkin Patch with corn mazes and hayrides, Bishop’s Pumpkin Farm with giant slides and train rides, and Fog Willow Farms with a petting zoo and gem mining. For a full list of opening dates and activities at local pumpkin patches, check out this Instagram roundup.

Great for: families, adventurous fall fun, Instagram-worthy moments.

 

Rich Earth Tones: Rust, olive, deep plum, and warm browns are trending. Swap out pillows, table runners, or a throw blanket. Browse Target’s Threshold collection for budget-friendly fall updates.

Layered Textures: Cozy knits, velvet pillows, bouclé fall decor, and natural wood accents make spaces feel inviting and add instant warmth.

Amber Glass & Lanterns: Lighting sets the mood. Amber-toned glassware, or candle holders add a subtle seasonal glow.

Natural Accents: Eucalyptus stems, dried flowers, or even a bowl of Autumn vase filler bring fall indoors.

Warm, Inviting Entryways: Swap doormats, add a seasonal wreath, or place a few pumpkins by the front door to welcome fall guests.

 

 

 

Filed Under: Home Improvement, Real Estate News, Sacramento Lifestyle

August Scoop: Back to School, Back in Style & Buyer Behavior

July 31, 2025 by dbabcock Leave a Comment

 

 

Sacramento Area (And Beyond):

  • A’s Schedule: Click Here For August Games
  • River Cats Schedule: Click Here For August Games
  • Sac Republic FC Schedule: Click Here For August Matches
  • Sacramento Farmers Markets: Click Here for Local Markets
  • August 1: Movies in the Park (Arden Park): Moana
  • August 2: Family Movie Night in Folsom: Moana 2
  • August 3: Peaches in the Plaza in Old Folsom
  • August 6: BarnFlix: Dodgeball @ Drake’s The Barn
  • August 6: The Lumineers @ Golden 1 Center
  • August 7: Folsom Twilight Concert Series (Every Friday)
  • August 7: Live on the Boulevard Concert Series in El Dorado Hills (Every Friday)
  • August 7: Fair Oaks Concerts in the Park (Every Friday)
  • August 8: Starry Night Market @ Drake’s The Barn
  • August 9-10: Monster Jam Freestyle Mania @ Golden 1 Center
  • August 9: Candlelight Concert: A Tribute to Adele
  • August 14: Music at the Mill Series (Second Thursdays)
  • August 16-17: 14th Annual Sacramento Banana Festival @ William Land Park
  • August 17: Third Sunday Drive @ California Automobile Museum
  • August 21: Movies off the Wall in Downtown Sac: Wicked
  • August 22: Lainey Wilson @ Golden 1 Center
  • August 23: 26th Annual Race for the Arts @ William Land Park
  • August 24: Music in the Park @ William Curtis Park

 

 

Utility-First Entryways: Hooks, bins, and drop zones turn your entry into a streamlined space that tames the daily chaos—perfect for corralling jackets, bags, and all the stuff that piles up during the week.

  • Coat Rack with Wooden Shelf – Etsy
  • Storage Bench with Baskets – Wayfair
  • Entryway Shoe, Coat Rack & Bench – Amazon

Implement Assigned Organizers: Give each family member a designated spot for their gear—whether it’s backpacks, cleats, or water bottles—to keep the floor (and your sanity) clear.

  • Cube Storage Organizer – Walmart
  • Personalized Bins – Etsy

Utilize Closet Storage: Maximize every inch of your entry closet with layered storage solutions.

  • Closet Rod Extender – Walmart
  • Over-the-Door Organizer – Amazon

Mini Homework & Tech Zones: Even small corners can become productivity hubs with the right setup. Whether it’s for homework, creative projects, or work-from-home needs, these compact solutions make it easy to stay organized and focused—without taking over the whole house.

  • Adjustable Height Stand Up Desk – Amazon
  • Study Desk with Drawers & Storage – Amazon
  • Cord Organizer Box – Amazon
  • Desktop Organizer – Amazon
  • Clip-On LED Reading Light – Amazon 
  • Magnetic Whiteboard Calendar – Amazon 

Bring in Fall Textures & Scents: As the school year kicks off, now’s the time to create a calm, cozy space that helps everyone ease into the new routine. Lightweight layers, natural tones, and subtle seasonal scents offer just the right touch of fall without going full pumpkin spice.

  • Waffle Throw – Target
  • Faux Olive Bundle + Artisan Vase – Pottery Barn
  • Scalloped Candle – Target
  • Amber & Moss Room Spray – P.F. Candle Co.
  • Hanging Wall Planters – Amazon
  • Green Floral Wreath – Target

Fridge & Pantry Overhauls: Back to school = back to snacks. Give your kitchen a reset with containers and setups that make meals and grab-and-go bites easier to manage.

  • Stackable Bins – Amazon
  • Airtight Storage Containers – Walmart
  • Spice Organizer – Amazon
  • Over the Door Pantry Rack – Amazon
  • Weekly Meal Planner Pad – Target
  • Chalkboard Pantry Labels – Target

 

 

 

Filed Under: Home Improvement, Real Estate News, Sacramento Lifestyle

Stars Stripes & Summer Vibes: Your July Newsletter is Here

July 1, 2025 by dbabcock Leave a Comment

 

 

Sacramento:

  • Athletics vs. Giants: 7:05 p.m. at Sutter Health Park. Postgame fireworks celebration. Details here.
  • Red, White, and Brew: 6 p.m. – midnight at Drake’s: The Barn. Music, DJs, and fireworks viewing. Details here.
  • 4th of July Bike Parade & Festival: 10 a.m. at Arden Park. Parade, food, and live music by Funk Shui Band. Details here.
  • Pocket/Greenhaven Parade: 10 a.m. at the Corner of Woodbridge & South Land Park Drive. Honoring “Unsung Heroes.” Details here.
  • 4th of July River Cruise: See website for cruise times. Enjoy live DJ entertainment and fireworks views on the Sacramento River. Details here.

Auburn:

  • Fireworks Show at Gold Country Fairgrounds: 8:45 p.m. to 9 p.m. Enjoy the fireworks display. Learn more here.
  • Auburn Parade & Family Festival: 10 a.m. Classic parade down Auburn streets followed by the Family Festival starting at 10:30 a.m. Details here.

Carmichael:

  • Carmichael’s Fourth of July Parade: 10 a.m. on Fair Oaks Boulevard. Enjoy a lively parade with music and family fun! Learn more here.

Elk Grove:

  • Salute to the Red, White and Blue: 5 p.m. – 10 p.m. at Elk Grove Park (9950 Elk Grove-Florin Road). Enjoy food trucks, live music, family-friendly activities, and a spectacular fireworks show. Learn more here.
  • Run 4 Hunger: 7:30 a.m. – 11 a.m. Participate in a 5K, 10K, or Kids’ Fun Run to support the Elk Grove Food Bank. Learn more here.

Folsom:

  • Folsom Pro Rodeo: July 3-5, 7:30 p.m. at 200 Wool St. Bull riding, barrel racing, and fireworks. Get tickets here.

Lake Tahoe:

  • Lights on the Lake Fireworks: 9:45 p.m. at South Lake Tahoe. Top 5 fireworks show in the nation. Learn more here.
  • Tahoe City Fireworks: 9:30 p.m. at Commons Beach. Free shuttle service, live music, and fireworks. Plan your night here.
  • Incline Fireworks Show: 9:30 p.m. at Incline Beach. Fireworks, pancake breakfast, and BBQ. Details here.

Lincoln:

  • Fourth of July Parade: 9 a.m. in Lincoln. Community parade to kick off the day. Details here.

Rancho Cordova:

  • 40th Annual Rancho Cordova 4th of July Celebration: July 3-4 at Hagan Community Park. Carnival rides, live music, food trucks, and fireworks. Learn more here.

Roseville:

  • Independence Day 5K & Parade: 7:15 a.m. 5K run followed by the annual parade at 9 a.m. Learn more here.
  • Royer Park Festivities: Enjoy food, music, and family fun starting at 10 a.m. Details here.
  • Fireworks Show at @the Grounds: Approximately 9:15 p.m. Spectacular fireworks display. Plan your evening here.

South Sacramento:

  • Fourth of July Carnival: 1 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. at Southgate Recreation and Park District. Poolside games, arts & crafts, and snacks. Details here.

Truckee:

  • Downtown Truckee 4th of July Parade: 7 a.m. – 9:30 p.m. Free pancake breakfast, parade, and fireworks show. Details here.

Other Notable July Events:

  • California State Fair (July 11-27): Event Schedule 
  • A’s Schedule: Click Here For July Games
  • River Cats Schedule: Click Here For July Games
  • Sac Republic FC Schedule: Click Here For July Matches
  • Sacramento Farmers Markets: Click Here for Local Markets

 

 

All-American Bites & Sides:

  • Berries & Cream Charcuterie Board
  • Tomato Gnocchi Kabobs
  • Watermelon Feta Skewers
  • Cheesy Corn Poppers
  • Peach Bruschetta
  • 7-Layer Flag Dip
  • 4th of July Caprese Salad
  • Hot Crab Dip
  • Dill Pickle Deviled Eggs
  • Corn Salsa
  • BLT Pasta Salad
  • Red, White & Blue Potato Salad
  • Creamy Macaroni & Cheese
  • Firecracker Dogs
  • 4th Veggie Platter

Star-Spangled Beverages:

  • Sparkling Red, White & Blue Sangria
  • Blackberry Mojito
  • 4th of July Wine Sparklers
  • Red, White & Booze Popsicles
  • Americano
  • Libertea
  • Sparkling Cherry Limeade (Non-Alcoholic Drink)
  • 4th of July Mocktail

Dazzling Desserts:

  • Star Spangled S’mores Tray
  • Patriotic Hand Pie Ice Cream Sandwiches
  • Red, White & Blue Crispy Rice Treats
  • 4th of July Icebox Cake
  • Festive Ice Cream Sandwiches
  • 4th of July Brownies
  • Festive Monster Cookies

 

Patriotic Tablescape: Make your table sparkle with a striped table runner, star-studded navy blue linen napkins, festive drinking glasses, and a standout centerpiece.

Lighting: Use soft white string lights or lanterns to create a warm, inviting atmosphere as the evening sets in.

Chic Floral Arrangements: Bring in white hydrangeas, red roses, and blue delphiniums in these simple yet striking glass vases for a sophisticated nod to the holiday.

Stars & Stripes Touches: Add a pop of patriotic charm with Pottery Barn’s outdoor pillows or this cable knit throw—perfect for sprucing up your porch or patio this Fourth of July.

 

 

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Filed Under: Charity, Home Improvement, Sacramento Lifestyle

Backyard Goals for Memorial Day Weekend

May 21, 2025 by dbabcock Leave a Comment

Thinking of entertaining this weekend? You’re not alone. As Memorial Day kicks off the unofficial start of summer, homes with showstopping outdoor spaces are exactly what today’s buyers are after.

Whether you’re looking to impress guests or prep your home to sell, here are a few upgrades worth investing in:

  • BBQ Grill – Weber’s Genesis series adds serious value and sizzle
  • Outdoor pizza oven – this Ooni Koda 12 is a crowd-pleaser and conversation starter
  • String lights + shaded pergola – create instant ambiance and comfort
  • Patio Bar Cart– cold drinks on hand = fewer trips inside
  • Fire pit table – great for post-BBQ hangouts or roasting marshmallows

Have an outdoor setup like this? Let’s showcase it. Buyers are shopping for lifestyle just as much as square footage—and a backyard built for summer could be your home’s biggest selling point.

Filed Under: Home Improvement

Spring Cleaning = Spring Selling

April 4, 2025 by dbabcock Leave a Comment

Spring is a season of fresh starts, making it the perfect time to sell your home. With warmer weather, blooming flowers, and longer days, buyers are actively looking for their next home. To make sure your home stands out, a little spring cleaning and preparation can go a long way. Whether you’re listing soon or simply refreshing your space, these key steps will help get your home market-ready.

Enhance Curb Appeal

First impressions matter, and your home’s exterior is the first thing buyers see. A well-maintained yard and entryway can instantly boost appeal.

  • Refresh garden beds with new mulch and seasonal flowers like tulips or daffodils.
  • Trim hedges and trees to create a clean, polished look.
  • Power wash the driveway, walkway, and siding for a fresh appearance.
  • Repaint the front door or add a stylish new welcome mat to make the entrance more inviting.

Declutter and Deep Clean

Buyers want to envision themselves in a home, and that’s much easier when the space feels clean and open. A thorough deep clean and decluttering session can make a significant impact.

  • Remove unnecessary items from countertops, shelves, and storage spaces to create a sense of openness.
  • Organize closets, pantries, and garages—buyers will look inside.
  • Clean windows, baseboards, and high-touch surfaces to ensure every space looks fresh and well-maintained.
  • Consider a professional carpet cleaning to remove lingering winter dust and odors.

Maximize Natural Light

Bright, airy homes tend to feel more inviting, which can make a lasting impression on buyers.

  • Replace heavy winter drapes with light, sheer curtains to let in more sunlight.
  • Clean windows inside and out to remove dust and streaks.
  • Use mirrors strategically to reflect natural light and make rooms feel larger.
  • Swap dark, heavy decor for neutral or pastel tones to create a fresh, seasonal look.

Tackle Small Repairs

Minor fixes may not seem like a big deal, but buyers notice the details. Addressing small repairs before listing can help prevent red flags during showings.

  • Fix leaky faucets, squeaky doors, and loose cabinet handles.
  • Touch up chipped paint and scuff marks on walls and baseboards.
  • Ensure all lights, fans, and appliances are in working order.
  • Consider updating outdated hardware in kitchens and bathrooms for a modern touch.

Thinking About Selling?

Spring is one of the best times to list a home, and with the right preparation, your property can shine in the market. If you’re considering selling this season, I’d love to help you navigate the process and get top dollar for your home.

Let’s talk about your home’s value and the best strategies to sell this spring.

Filed Under: Home Improvement

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Diane Babcock

Diane Babcock

California REALTOR®
916-768-7600
Contact Diane

Categories

  • Charity
  • Home Improvement
  • Real Estate News
  • Sacramento Lifestyle

Testimonial

“I bought my first house from Diane and her late husband Tim in 1990. They were fantastic helping a newly divorced, single woman find the perfect place. Over the next several years, I bought and sold three houses, all with very little stress and all expertly managed. Diane has an extensive network to help with home repairs, yard work, financing assistance and personally has a great eye for staging. I have recommended her to friends who have also experienced unconditional service and success whether buyer or selling. A true real estate professional.

~ Kim Hess“

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Diane Babcock

916-768-7600|Contact Diane

Diane Babcock – CA BRE #01750659

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