The Benefits of Calling the Commons Home

Are you quietly celebrating as your friends and family members complain about the snow they have to shovel, snow-blow, or scrape off of their driveways and sidewalks?  Are you enjoying the warm air from your neighbor’s walls, floors and ceilings? No chilly drafts here!  And how convenient to have a fitness center that does not require scraping off your car and commuting in the snow?!

Yes, we have it good but for many other reasons.  Here are some additional benefits to consider when comparing apartment living to home ownership:

• Career flexibility.  The shorter contract involved in renting an apartment versus owning a home allows you more flexibility when applying for new jobs or working towards a transfer within your company

•          The elements.  Home owners have to stress about heavy rains causing basement leaks, snowstorms causing ice dams and roof repair, the sunlight and heat affecting their siding and roofing, landscaping and lawn-care…the list goes on.  In an apartment, your only concern is paying rent – let us worry about the rest.

•          The commitment.  Whether are you a young, single professional, a married couple, or a family, apartment living gives you the freedom to move at the end of your contract – without the stress of selling your home, and finding that ‘perfect’ timing to move out and move in!

•          The amenities.  No matter what home you rent, or buy, you will likely not have any, and certainly not all of the amenities that our properties offer.  Very few homes have luxuries such as a fitness center, swimming pool(s), community rooms, tennis courts and laundry centers.

•          Neighbors.  Whether you are looking for friendship, safety in familiar faces, someone to borrow eggs and sugar from or someone to feed your fish when you’re away – we have a lot of neighbors for you to meet.  Not just to the left and right of your house!

•          The upgrades.  Most new homeowners spend their first years (and dollars) upgrading their home.  That’s done for you here.  Our residents love our luxury appliances.  Dishwasher and garbage disposal, already here.  Cable-ready, check.  Air conditioning, check.  Live with us and the upgrades are done before you move-in.

•          Don’t sweat the repairs.  If it’s broken, call us, or better yet use Resident’s Corner to make a maintenance request.  There is no worrying about pilot lights, hot water heaters, broken air conditioning units and malfunctioning dishwashers.  You don’t have to stress about hiring the right person to fix it.

•          The price!  Factoring in all of the monthly expenses related to home vs. apartment ownership, an apartment lessee generally spends much less each month. 

•          Time.  Since all of the outdoor work, and most of the indoor repairs and maintenance are handled by us – you are given the amazing gift of TIME.  Homeowners spend most of their free-time caring for their property – not our residents

Yes – we obviously think that you are pretty smart for choosing to live with us – but after reading this, you must feel pretty smart too!

Making the Most of the Oscars!

Last year, 40.3 million people tuned into the Academy Awards telecast.  Some viewers tune in for the fashion, some are true fans of cinema, some attend viewing parties and others are forced to watch with their spouse!  No matter what category you fall under, we have a solution to make this year’s Academy Awards a bit more enjoyable:  Watch the Movies!  You will have a lot more interest in the winners and losers if you have actually seen the nominated films!

On March 2^nd Ellen DeGeneres will host the 86^th Academy Awards, this gives you a little less than a month to get out and see some of the nominated films!  The cold weather and approaching snowstorms makes it a perfect time to take refuge in your local theater.  To help you better decide which movies to see, and which ones to skip, below is a list of the films nominated for best picture as well as a brief plot description:

American Hustle – an all-star cast including Jennifer Lawrence, Bradley Cooper, Amy Adams, Christian Bale and Jeremy Renner worked close to home - filming most of this film in Boston!  With multiple nominations this 1970’s-set story of a conman forced to work with the FBI explores the world of powerbrokers and the mafia.  This film is rated R. This film is sure to surprise you and make you laugh - Jennifer Lawrence does not disappoint.  Rated R.

Captain Phillips – Tom Hanks plays the lead role of Alabama commanding officer, Captain Phillips.  This movie is based on the true-story of Captain Richard Phillips and the first American cargo ship to be hijacked in two hundred years.  This must-see film focuses on the relationship between Captain Phillips and the Somalian Pirate Captain that holds him hostage.  Captain Phillips is rated PG-13.

Dallas Buyers Club – actors Matthew McConaughey and Jared Leto transformed themselves for their roles in this movie about the untold world of Americans living with AIDS.  Inspired by true events, the film focuses on the story of a Ron Woodroof, an electrician and rodeo cowboy living a care-free life that is blindsided with an HIV positive diagnosis and 30 days to live.  When he finds the lack of approved treatments in the US, Ron Woodroof crosses the border to Mexico with the help of his unlikely friend, he begins smuggling drugs into the US for HIV patients.  Both McConaughey and Leto have received multiple awards for their roles.  This movie is rated R.

Gravity – This is a great movie to see in an IMAX theater or in 3D.  Sandra Bullock and George Clooney prove it takes just two actors to make a great movie.  Their story of an astronaut and medical engineer stranded together in space is captivating.  Clooney and Bullock are tethered to nothing but each other in space.  We had our doubts about this movie, but it is worth seeing.  Rated PG-13.

Her – This we had to see out of curiosity, as it is a movie about a lonely, heartbroken man that meets and develops a relationship with ‘Samantha’ – a computerized friend.  Joaquin Phoenix delivers an award-winning performance in this film.  Her is rated R.

12 Years a Slave – A movie that barely has to mention that Brad Pitt is part of the film – it must be good.  This movie is based on the true story of Solomon Northrup, a free-man, sold into slavery.  The film follows his struggle to stay alive while maintaining his dignity, and his chance encounter with a Canadian abolitionist.  Rated R.

The Wolf of Wall Street – This movie is not for everyone – it has a strong R-rating.  It is long, and not shy on profanities or graphic scenes.  If you are okay with those elements – then go see this movie! Although it is long – the movie does not stop entertaining.  Leonardo DiCaprio and Jonah Hill give great performances portraying the rise of a wealthy stockbroker living the dream and then his falling; involving crime, corruption and the federal government.  This Martin Scorsese film is loosely based on a true story.

Nebraska – Hollywood veteran Bruce Dern stars in this story following a journey of an estranged father and son making a road trip from Montana to Nebraska to claim a “million dollar” sweepstakes prize.  This award winning film has a great sense of humor and was shot entirely in black and white.  It is rated R. 

Philomena – Dame Judi Dench stars in the story of a mother who had her son taken away when she was a teenage, inmate at a Catholic Convent.  In the movie, a journalist arranges a magazine assignment to follow the woman’s story.  It is a great story of two unlikely companions on this search to find her son.  Philomena is rated PG-13.

It is remarkable how many of 2013’s top films were based on true stories!  Pick one or two that sounds good to you and get out to the theaters!  After watching a few of these movies you may be inspired to host your neighbors for an Oscar party this year!

A Good Night's Sleep

There's arguments for both sides on what the cold winter nights do to our nighttime sleep patterns - some embrace the dark sky, tucked under their down-comforters while others complain that lack of sunlight and outdoor time leave them restless. If you're a tosser and turner, here are some tips that will naturally improve your night of rest:

- Exercise - Work a fitness routine into your daily schedule. Use this outlet to burn off any extra energy, aggravation or stress! According to the Sleep Foundation, the best time to exercise if you want it to directly affect your sleep, is 6 hours before bedtime

- Fresh Air - Its cold, we know - layer up and get out there! Take a walk around Lynnfield Commons - soak up any sun rays you can and get moving, you will warm up fast - promise!

-Tea Time - Prepare yourself a mug of warm Chamomile tea. Chamomile is an herbal remedy said to be a safe and mild sleep aid. Lemon balm tea is also believed to help improve a night's rest.

- Don't Doze - Avoid napping, save your Zzzz's for the night!

- Switch to Decaf - Avoid all caffeinated drinks 4 to 6 hours before your bedtime

- Go Dark - Avoid blaringly bright alarm clocks and consider room darkening blinds.

- Quiet Down - People swear by white noise machines to block out distracting sounds and outdoor noises - but with today's technology its even simpler, download an app on your tablet for a fan or white noise machine - they work wonders! We like the 'Sleep Fan' app for the iPad.

- Unplug - Put your phone somewhere far enough away from your bed that you won't be tempted to       rollover and check your email or social sites one last time.

- Leave Your Problems in Another Room - What so many people complain about is not being able to turn off their mind as they lie in bed attempting sleep. You know it is coming - so create a routine for yourself.   Whether you turn off your television and sit in your quiet living room before turning in, or take a hot shower,   or spend some time writing in a journal - get it out of your head! 

- Clean Your Suite - It is hard to relax, let alone sleep if your bedroom is messy and full of clutter! Use         calming colors - crisp, clean sheets and make it a serene space.

Wishing you a peaceful night's rest!

Hidden Gems Near Lynnfield!

With the cold weather, it’s hard to get out of the house and find something to do, especially with antsy children in-tow. Museums are always a fun, cheap (and warm) idea. Here are some fun activities to keep you occupied during these long winter months.

February Vacation Activities

Throughout February Vaction, there will be activities from 10:30-2PM daily for children of all ages. Each day there is a Drop-In Art Activity, a film, and a performance. Monday February 17^th activities include: Make a bird call, showing of the film Tarzan, and a Talkative Animals performance. All activites are free and sponsored by the Lowell Institute.

http://www.pem.org/learn/families/#School Vacation Week (cont.)

PEM Pals

Every Wednesday from 10:30-11:30AM, children can take part in this activity which includes reading interactive books as well as talking about art and music. Each month there is a different theme of books. February’s theme is birds. On February 12^th, children will read a book about bird houses and then make their own bird house to take home. This is free as well.

http://www.pem.org/calendar/event/735-pem_pals

Beyond Human: Artist - Animal Collaborations

This unique exhibit is only here for a limited time, but is a must-see for children and adults. Artists explore art with inspiration from live animals. Perfect for animal lovers!

http://www.pem.org/exhibitions/161-beyond_human_artist-animal_collaborations 

Valentine's Day in Lynnfield

Valentine’s Day is quickly approaching! Whether you’ll have a loved one on your arms or you’re celebrating being single with friends, here’s a list of great places to go out and celebrate in Lynnfield!

Legal C Bar Marketstreet

Rated the #1 seafood restaurant in 2013 by USA Today, the Legal Sea Foods chain is always certain to please. This restaurant specializes in the C’s of seafood; clams, cod, crab and calamari. We can’t forget the cocktails to top it off. Spend time with your loved ones and the aphrodisiacs by making a reservation here: http://bit.ly/1fkMJdk

The Ship Restaurant

Why not spend Valentine’s Day on a boat with the one you love? The Ship Restaurant was built for eating in, and with dishes such as Chicken Milanese or Gaucho Steak, your dinner would be nothing less than memorable. Check out their menu here: http://bit.ly/MbyZ9U

Davio’s Northern Italian Steakhouse

This upscale Italian Steakhouse features the perfect combination of northern Italian steaks, handmade pastas and classics such as their lobster bisque. Take advantage of their $75 Valentine’s Day Dinner for two. Make a reservation here: http://bit.ly/1gnHdK1

Yard House Restaurant

For the ladies who want to spend Valentine’s Day getting drinks with her girls or for the men who are looking for a good beer with the guys, the Yard House Restaurant is the perfect destination. Yard house specializes in gourmet bar food such as their smoked chicken & gouda flatbreads. Check out the rest of their gourmet eats here: http://bit.ly/19ZHsrR

Healthy Cooking at Home!

Did you know that January 17th was National Ditch Your Resolution Day? Hopefully you are unlike the one third of Americans that have already broken their resolution promises! If eating healthy was on your list, we are here to help! Use these tips and recipes to help keep up your good work!

• A key to eating clean and healthy throughout the day is Meal Planning. Before you do your weekly grocery shopping trip - put together a meal calendar for the week so you can be sure to pick up all the needed ingredients. There are many free tools online to help you with this planning - check out websites such as Real Simple and 100 Days of Real Food.
• The second key is Food Prep. You are not going to want to cut, chop and boil the same things every day, so plan ahead and pick your prep day. Hard boil your eggs in bulk, peel and separate garlic cloves, cut your celery in sticks and place in water so that they do not dry out, grill a batch of chicken to have on hand for salads and other recipes. There are so much you can do in advance - make your sauces, hummus, pesto....Do some baking - muffins or eggs frittatas that can be refrigerated for easy snacking. Make a batch of these for breakfast on the go:
• Veggie Frittata (recipe altered from The Biggest Loser):
• 1 tablespoon vegerable oil
• 2 cups egg substitute or 8 eggs
• 1/4 cup skim milk
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
• 1 cup shredded low-fat Swiss cheese
• 1/3 cup thinly sliced green onions
• 1/2 cup finely chopped red pepper
• 1/2 cup finely chopped green pepper
• 1 cup thinly sliced mushrooms
• 1 cup finely chopped asparagus
• Directions: Heat oven to 350 degrees F. Mist 12 muffin cups with cooking spray. In large skillet over medium-high heat, add oil, red and green pepper, mushrooms and asparagus. Cook 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until vegetables are cooked. In large bowl, whisk eggs, milk and parsley until well mixed. Stire in cheese, mushroom mixture and green onions. Spoon mixture into muffin cups, filling approximately 3/4 full. Bake 20 minutes or until set. Allow to cool and refrigerate to keep for breakfast throughout the week!
• Below are just a few ingredients to always have on your hand in your pantry or refrigerator. These will help you to make good choices when cooking in a rush or snacking in a hurry!
• Fresh Greens - have your favorite greens on hand for salads, sandwiches and other dishes
• Whole Wheat Pasta
• Peanut Butter
• Organic Eggs
• Almonds
• Basic Granola
• Flaxseed
• Lean Ground Turkey
• Boneless/Skinless Chicken Breasts
• Here are some suggestions for healthy snacks to have at home or pack for work:
• Sliced Apples dipped or spread with Peanut Butter
• Greek Yogurt
• Edamame
• Air-popped Popcorn
• Almonds
• Hummus & Carrot Sticks
• Try this healthy dinner recipe, it is likely to become a go-to favorite:
• Flank Steak with Caramelized Onions (recipe credit to Fitness Magazine)
• Makes: 4 servings, Prep Time: 5 mins, Cook time: 15 mins
• Ingredients:
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 2 large red onions, halved and thinly sliced
• 1 red or green bell pepper cut into thin strips
• 1/2 teaspoon dried sage
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 beef flank steak (1 1/4 to 1 1/2 lbs)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon freshly ground pepper
• 4 7-8" flour tortillas
• 1 15-ounce can black 
• Directions:
• Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.  Add the onions; cover and cook, stirring occasionally, until tender, about 7 minutes.  Add the bell pepper strips, sage and oregano.  Stirring constantly, cook, uncovered over medium-high heat for 4-5 minutes, until the onions are golden and the peppers are crisp. Preheat a grill pan over medium-high heat Trim fat from the steak; score on both sides by making shallow cuts at 1-inch intervals in a diamond pattern.  Rub with salt and black pepper.  Grill 8 to 12 minutes for medium rare and 12-14 for medium, turning once. To serve, thinly slice the steak diagonally across the grain and top with the onion mixture.  Serve with warm tortillas and black beans on the side.  

To help fight the resolution fears....to stay strong in the kitchen, we recommend that you Plan, Prepare & Cook! It will feel like a bit of work at first, but get into the rhythm and it will become your healthy way of life! 

Here's the Scoop: Follow Us!

Are you new to the Lynnfield area and looking for some new favorite spots? Or ever wonder how residents always hear about fun events or hidden gems in the neighborhood? Here’s how, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!  We like to provide our Lynnfield residents with the latest events, deals, and tips for making your time at Lynnfield Commons the most enjoyable.  By following us on Facebook, and Twitter we can provide you with the latest news in the area such as weather delays, even discount deals for residents!  Send us some of your greatest captured moments at Lynnfield Commons or tag us on Instagram (http://instagram.com/lynnfieldcommons ) and you might just get a repost! Use the hashtag #lifeatthecommons

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