Many companies have adapted to a hybrid model, allowing employees to work a portion of the week at home and the remaining time in the office to help create a home/life balance. In doing so companies are finding increased productivity with reduced costs. Are you currently or planning to work from home? If the answer is yes, working from home doesn't have to be limited to your apartment.

Create a space that separates “home and office” so that your home isn’t synonymous with work; this will help you separate yourself from work and avoid burnout. The Beacon at Waugh Chapel offers several spaces right outside your door to help with this. The Business Center, Clubhouse and Games Room are all equipped with WiFi, a place to sit, and a bright, pleasant environment. You could also get some fresh air during your breaks by exploring the outdoor areas of the community, or even take your laptop outside and set-up at one of the patio tables.

These alternative places to work in our community are made for you and your comfort. We hope you are able take advantage of all of the spaces in our community to make your work from home experience more productive and relaxing!

Below are some tips for creating a successful work-from-home atmosphere:

• Stick to a schedule and create rituals. Some remote work positions have flexible hours, but setting and sticking to a schedule will help you maintain a work/life balance by staying focused throughout the day and allowing you step away from work at the end of your shift. Creating rituals can also help with this. Maybe brewing a cup a coffee or tea everyday could signify the start of the work day and taking an afternoon walk outside could replace a “commute” and signify a shift to home time.
• It can be a great refresh to take your work elsewhere, such as to the Business Center or onto your patio. This helps break-up the monotony and helps keep you from seeing your home as your sole workplace.
• Make sure you are taking plenty of breaks – 5-10mins where you can stand-up, move your body and give your eyes a screen break.
• If you have a pet – include them in your day. A few minutes with your best friend can change your whole mindset and give you the refresh you need to finish your work day on a positive note.
• Since you have access to your own kitchen and pantry, try to make healthy eating choices.
• Open a window – It may sound simple, but just a bit of fresh air or noises from outside can help you connect with the work around you and not make you feel cooped-up while working from home.
• Listening to music can give you more energy. Since you’re working from home, maybe try enjoying some upbeat or relaxing favorites – you likely don’t even need headphones.
• Encourage your colleagues to have virtual interactions where you can enjoy each other’s company outside of work – Maybe swap favorite recipes, start a book club, or just have a happy hour and hang out. Having this social time may improve your working relationships and strengthen your team.

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Bird's Nest Fern (Asplenium nidus)

• Thrive in lower light conditions, 60-80F
• This humidity-loving fern grows best in loose, fast-drying soil with monthly fertilization during the growing season (spring & summer). Water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.

African Violet (Saintpaulia)

• Prefer indirect sunlight, 73-77F
• African violets need moderate watering and prefer to be watered from the bottom in a self-watering pot, with care given to keep their leaves dry. With proper conditions and regular fertilization, these little beauties can bloom almost all year round.

Polka Dot Plant (Hypoestes phyllostachya)

• Bright, indirect light, 70-80F
• Monthly fertilizer (spring & summer)
• This spotted beauty provides a pop of color all year round. This is a great plant for folks who tend to water often, as they prefer consistently moist soil.

Parlor Palm (Chamaedorea elegans)

• Prefers bright, indirect light, but can adapt to slightly lower light conditions.
• Use a weak fertilizer once or twice per growing season (Spring-Fall)
• These lovely palms bring a touch of the tropics to your home! They prefer a peaty soil-based potting mix (look for one labeled for tropical plants) and can grow to be 2-6ft tall. These plants are sensative to overwatering, so only water when the top inch of soil is dry. 

Echeveria

• Prefer a warm, dry location with bright sunlight, with at least four to six hours of sunlight daily.
• These plants do best in well-draining, porous soil. You can find cactus potting mixes at nurseries and garden centers, or make your own with three parts potting soil, two parts coarse sand, and one part perlite.
• These fast-growing succulents are perfect if you find yourself forgetting to water your plants. They prefer dryer soil and can tolerate periods of neglect. When watering, never let water sit inside the rosette and always remove dead leaves from the bottom as it grows, as they can cause fungal diseases  or attrack pests.

Air Plants (Tillandsia)

• These tropical plants don't require potting soil and take their nutrients from the air and water. Since they grow on trees and recieve dappled sunlight in the wild, they prefer bright, indirect light in our homes.
• If your home is more dry, your air plants may need to be misted more frequently between soaks, while, if your home is more humid, they need water less often.
• To water air plants, place them "face down" in a bowl, sink, or container and let them soak for 10-20 minutes. Gently shake an excess water off or allow them to dry on a towel afterwards, as sitting water on the plants can cause rot.

Radiator Plant (Peperomia)

• Peperomia prefer loose, well-drained soil, such as orchid mix, and a pot with plenty of drainage. Warm, ~65-75F temperatures and humid environments are great for these plants. Their ideal location is in medium to bright, indirect light, but they can also handle lower light. Plants in lower lighting conditions will be slower growing and require less water.
• Water slowly, allowing water to drain from drainage holes, rather than allowing it to sit in the saucer. Allow the soil to dry out between watering so the plants do not stay soggy. Over-wet plants can lead to root rot. If the stems and leaves feel firm and the soil is moist, wait to water.
• Peperomis plants come in a variety of fun colors and leaf textures!

Prayer Plant (Maranta leuconeura)

• Prayer plants are tolerant to low light conditions, but prefer bright, indirect sunlight. The best location for them is somewhere with high humidity.
• Feed with all-purpose fertilizer and warm water every two weeks, spring-fall.
• When potting your prayer plant, use well-drained soil, so that water does not sit around the roots. They should be kept moist, but not soggy. In the winter, keep the soil a bit drier, while maintianing humanidity.

Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)

• Prefer bright, indirect light (but can tolerate lower light), ~60-75F
• Fertilize once a month in spring & summer with indoor plant fertilizer.
• This plant is classic when it comes ot easy care houseplants, as they are pretty tolerant of different conditions and of care mistakes. Water well, but do not allow the plant to get soggy.
• Allow the soil to dry out some between waterings.

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During its early history as a colonial capital city, Annapolis was considered the “Athens of America,” for its cultural and intellectual offerings, as well as its thriving social life. This small port town has gone by multiple names since it was founded, from the Puritan name “Providence” to “Anne Arundel’s Towne,” after the wife of land owner, Lord Baltimore. In 1649, Royal Governor, Sir Francis Nicholson, decided to move the colony’s capital city and, in doing so, give the new capital a name change. He settled on “Annapolis,” after the heir apparent to the British throne, Princess Anne. To this day, Anne’s royal badge, a crown on a Scottish thistle and Tudor rose, is depicted on the city flag. 

 Best known today as home to the US Naval Academy, Annapolis played an essential role in early American history. Only a 20-minute drive from The Beacon, Annapolis is the perfect place to step back into the past or enjoy modern offerings. Check out the list below for some of our favorite places to visit! 

Historic Annapolis

Annapolis is a cozy, walkable city with plenty of attractions, shops, and restaurants to explore. One of the first cities to receive the National Historic Landmark District status, the vibrant Annapolis Historic District is bursting with ways to step into the past. This part of the city is centered on the spiritual and government hubs, with streets radiating out from there. Check out this unique city planning design as you explore. 

The Maryland State House’s spectacular wooden dome is one of the most beautiful in America and also one of the oldest. This building played an important role in post-Revolutionary America. Explore the halls that saw George Washington resign from leading the Continental Army, housed the new nation’s government from 1783 to 1784, and hosted the Annapolis Convention, a precursor to the Constitutional Convention. 

From the State House, take a short walk down to the harbor to visit the Naval Academy Museum and Annapolis Maritime Museum & Park. One of Annapolis’s most unique destinations, the Naval Academy Museum features two floors of exhibits focused on the history of wartime seafaring, the development of the U.S. Navy, and more. Experience the stories of men and women who served their country at sea through artifacts and multimedia displays. Focused on Annapolis’ rich maritime heritage and the ecology of the Chesapeake Bay, The Maritime Museum teaches visitors of all ages through engaging, hands-on exhibits, programs, and events. 

As the State of Maryland’s official museum of African American heritage, the Banneker-Douglass Museum offers a variety of events, exhibits, and educational programs to build appreciation of African American history and cultural. Their permenant exhibition focuses on African American nation-builders, community leaders, activists, and other prominent figures who shaped Maryland and the nation as we know it today. Be sure to check their website to see upcoming temporary exhibitions and events. 

Want to explore the city with a local guide? Consider booking a tour! If you'd like to rest your feet and still see as much as possible, the Towne Transport Historic Annapolis Trolley Tour, starting at the Annapolis Visitor’s Center, will take you past the most popular historic sites and along the waterfront. Another fun tour option is the Tours and Crawls Ghost Tour! During this leisurely stroll through historic downtown, you’ll be treated to a spooky journey through the darker side of the city’s history. 

If you’re looking for a sweet treat while exploring the Historic District, check out Annapolis Ice Cream Company on Main Street, one of four Always Ice Cream Company locations. Voted Best Ice Cream in Annapolis and Central Maryland in Best of Annapolis 2022, this Maryland small business offers homemade ice cream with unique, seasonal flavors. You can't go wrong with any flavor, but a staff favoite is Cookie Moster!

A quick drive into the countryside will also reveal a number of great destinations to both relax and learn. One of our favorites is Historic London Town & Gardens! From living history demonstrations to thriving gardens, this beautiful destination is a treat for the senses, offering a variety of learning opportunities and events.  

Looking for more to see, do, and taste? Check out visitannapolis.org or flip through the official Annapolis Visitor’s Guide. 

We hope you enjoy your Annapolis staycation! 
 

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Sometimes, though, it’s difficult to grill outdoors. It can be too hot, raining, or perhaps you want less clean-up. This Father’s Day, maybe the father figures in your life would appreciate an easy way to prepare a delicious barbecue without leaving their own kitchen? If you’re still looking for something to treat your loved ones, an indoor grill pan is a great option for a gift. They work incredibly well on gas ranges like the ones in our kitchens.

There are several options on the market and chefs suggest a heavy, thick skillet with deep “ribs” to give you the grilled look on your burgers, vegetables, etc. Click here to check out some Food Network recommendations on the best grill pans.

Now that you have the option to grill indoor or outdoor, it’s time to cook something delicious! Check-out the recipes below to get started.

We hope you and the father figures in your life have an amazing Father’s Day!

Grilled Vegetable Skewers

Ingredients:

• 1 yellow squash
• 1 zucchini
• 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, stemmed
• 1 small red onion
• 1 red bell pepper
• 1 green bell pepper
• 1 ear fresh corn, cut into 1-inch rounds
• Extra virgin olive oil, for drizzling
• Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
• Tzatziki, pesto, or Greek dressing for drizzling/serving

Instructions:
Heat a grill to medium-high and spray with nonstick cooking spray. Cut the vegetables into similar sized chunks and thread onto 4 skewers. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill the skewers for 8 minutes per side or until the vegetables are tender and lightly charred. Remove from the grill, season to taste, and serve with desired sauce or dressing.

Classic Grilled Ribs

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds of pork ribs
• 1/3 cup paprika 
• 1/8 cup ground pepper
• 2 spoons of salt
• 3 spoons of sugar cane
• 1 spoon powder garlic
• 1 spoon powder onion
• 1 spoon of cayenne powder
• 1 spoon of ground cumin
• Hickory sauce or Olive oil

Instructions:
First make a bunch of little holes with the tip of your knife along the pork ribs to allow the spices to soak-in while cooking and increase the flavor. Next, in a bowl mix all the spices until well-blended, and then use the hickory sauce or olive oil to rub the seasoning into the ribs; make sure to apply the mixture to the front and back. Set it on the hot grill and cook to your preference.

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Sometimes it is difficult to make plans when you don’t want to leave your dog home alone for the day. Luckily, The Beacon is conveniently located near a number of destinations you can enjoy with friends, family, and fur babies. Check-out the options below and let us know if you have any additional suggestions!

Towsers Branch Park – 3min
This is the closest dog park to us, a 3min drive or 20min walk away. Make a right on Evergreen Road, which runs behind Wegman’s, continue for a few blocks, then make a left on to Jackson Road. The park will be on your left.

Two Rivers Dog Park – 11min
When exiting the Waugh Chapel Towne Center, turn right onto MD-3 South and continue until the first traffic light by the Aldi. Turn right onto Conway Road and continue for a little over 2mi. Turn left onto Two Rivers Blvd and continue until you see the dog park on your left.

Bell Branch Park – 12min
Located in Crofton, this park has a lot of amenities for you to enjoy, like picnic areas, trails, and playgrounds. For more information visit: www.aacounty.org/locations-and-directions/bell-branch-park

Montpelier Farm – 21min
This pet-friendly attraction offers fun for the whole family. You can enjoy the picnic areas, playgrounds, special events, and more. Open Summer Sundays June 5 – July 31 then re-opening for the annual Sunflower Festival August 12,13, 14, 19, 20, and 21. Come Autumn, the farm will open September 17 – November 6 for the annual Fall Festival. Remember, dogs must remain on a leash while visiting the farm. For more information visit: www.montpelierfarms.com/

Watermark Journey Annapolis and Baltimore – 25min
Take a cruise (leased dogs are welcome) in Annapolis or Baltimore and enjoy the day on the Chesapeake Bay. For more information, visit: www.watermarkjourney.com/category-event/public-cruises-water-taxi/

Downs Park & Quiet Water Park – 25min
Ready to soak up the sun? Check out these two dog-friendly beaches along the Chesapeake Bay to enjoy a picnic, concerts, and events in the calm water of the shore. Please visit their websites for more info: www.aacounty.org/departments/recreation-parks/parks/downs/index.html
www.aacounty.org/departments/recreation-parks/parks/quiet-waters/

We hope you enjoy your next day out with your furry friend and don’t forget to tag us @thebeaconatwaugh in any pictures you share enjoying these local outings!

The post Dog Days of Summer – Local Outings with Your Furbaby appeared first on The Beacon at Waugh Chapel Blog.

When we think about Cinco de Mayo, we may picture parties and margaritas. But, what is the history behind the holiday? Many people think this holiday celebrates Mexico’s Independence Day, like the 4^th of July in the United States, but Mexico’s real Independence Day is September 16^th. On that day in 1810, priest Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla rang the church bells in Dolores Hidalgo in the middle of the night calling Mexicans to fight for their liberty and against the Spanish throne. Mexico’s War for Independence lasted 11 years and ended in 1821.

Cinco de Mayo is the day that Mexicans remember their 1862 victory against the French army in the Battle of Puebla. It’s a story of overcoming extreme odds, as the smaller Mexican army gained victory over the better-equipped French force. So, how did Cinco de Mayo become such a big celebration in the United States? During the 1960s Civil Rights Movement, Mexican-Americans re-embraced Cinco de Mayo celebrations as a way to show pride for their ethnicity and a reminder that they could overcome the obstacles they faced.

If you would like to celebrate Cinco de Mayo with the broader community, walk on over to Querétaro in the Waugh Chapel Towne Center (1406 S Main Chapel Way 110). We’ve been told they will be having drink specials to celebrate the holiday. Or stay in and relax with a delicious margarita on your balcony. Check-out one of our favorite margarita recipes below!

Ingredients:

• Shaker
• Glass
• Slices of lime
• Salt
• Ice cubes
• Your favorite Tequila or Mezcal
• Orange liquor
• Orange juice
• Natural Syrup

To start, frost the top the glass with lime and salt. Next, add 5 ice cubes, 1oz of tequila or mezcal, ¾ oz orange liquor, ½ oz lime juice, and ½ oz simple syrup to your shaker and shake it like a maraca. Pour into your glass, adding more ice if desired, and enjoy your frosty margarita.

Viva Mexico and Happy Cinco de Mayo to all our residents at Beacon Waugh Chapel!

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