Date Archives: March 2017

A Private Estate With Picturesque Views

A Beautifully Landscaped Ranch House

A Man's Home is his Castle

A Southern-Style Home with a Gigantic Backyard

An Alpine Getaway

A Stately Home with all the Fixin's

A B&B-Style Retreat at Any Time of Year

A Historic Property with Modern Amenities

Spring has finally sprung — and while we are digging the pastels out of the back of our closet, we're also looking forward to a visit from the Easter bunny. This beloved holiday is just around the corner on April 16, so it's time to start planning your celebration.

Be it brunch with the whole family, photos with everyone's favorite bunny, or a Helicopter easter egg hunt, there are plenty of festive events to choose from in the Cleveland area. Check out our list to get some inspiration, and have an eggcelent Easter!

Easter Bunny Express Train Rides

April 1-2, 8-9 & 14 from noon–5 pm

Photo courtesy of Ohio Station Outlets

In the weekends leading up to Easter, take your kids on a festive springtime adventure to Candyland on the Easter Bunny Express. Meet the Mad Hatter and Mother Goose, who will guide you on the trip, and take photos with the bunny of the hour. A portion of the sales will benefit the Akron Children's Hospital.

Easter Roller Skating Party

April 12 from 6:30-8:30

Mentor Skateland will host a celebratory skating party for fun-lovers of all ages on Wednesday, April 12. Come for raffles, games, prizes and plenty of roller skating. Admission is only $5, and proceeds will help the skaters of the Mentor Skateland Artistic Club attend regional and national competitions.

Eggsperiment at Great Lakes Science Center

April 14-15 from11 am–4 pm

Photo courtesy of Great Lakes Science Center

There's so much more to do with eggs than just hunt for them — explore the amazing structure of the egg at this eggstraordinary event by the Great Lakes Science Center. Design a contraption for the Humpty Dumpty plunge, test your balance in the egg race obstacle course, navigate an egg-shaped robot through an obstacle course, and more. Events are great for children and adults alike, so bring the family for an out-of-the-box Easter celebration!

Easter Egg Hunt and Pancake Breakfast

April 15, 9-11:30 am

Rumor has it that the Easter bunny himself will be attending this event. Attendees will have the chance to meet him at breakfast while fueling up on pancakes provided by Pilgrim Christian Church, and then kids ages eight and under can hit the square for a free egg hunt. Just be sure to bring your own basket!

Easter Egg Hunt and Breakfast with the Bunny and Friends

April 15 from 9 am – 12:30 pm

Photo courtesy of Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens

Visit the Manor House at the Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens for this swanky Easter event. Come before the hunt and fuel up with a seated hot breakfast, and then hop on the Easter Eggspress for a tour around the estate. The hunt is divided by age groups to ensure a safe, fun time for all.

Easter Buffet at the Lodge at Geneva on the Lake

April 16 from 10:30 am–2:30 pm

With its stunning views of Lake Erie and delicious fare, the Lodge at Geneva on the Lake is one of the most desirable locations for a meal. Come celebrate the Easter holiday with a buffet that will feature fan favorites from the restaurant as well as a few festive specials, including jerk crusted pork loin with mango chutney and seared salmon with quinoa pilaf. The Easter Bunny will be partaking in the buffet, but also hiding eggs for the little ones at 11:30 am, 12:30 pm, and 2:30 pm.

Helicopter Easter Adventure at the Farm at Walnut Creek

April 22 from 8:30 am–6 pm

 Photo courtesy of the Farm at Walnut Creek

While the Farm at Walnut Creek is a bit of a trek (1 hour and 45 minutes outside of Cleveland), it might be worth daytripping for this event. Adding a twist on your typical Easter egg hunts, a helicopter will fly overhead, dropping hundreds of colorful eggs that can be redeemed for prizes. Eggs will be dropped at multiple times throughout the day, and while you're not out hunting, you can enjoy activities including a giant corn box, a scavenger hunt, piñatas and a coloring contest. Plus, get photos of the little ones cuddling adorable bunnies, and peruse the family of more than 500 animals that live on the farm.

Hoppy Easter Everybunny!

Worry not — while there are plenty of opportunities to spend money in Columbus, there are also a number of activities that are just as fun and completely free! So if the budget is looking a little tight this week or you're just looking for a new adventure, check out this list.

Stop and Smell the Columbus Park of Roses

Photo courtesy of George C. Anderson via the Columbus Park of Roses

Ahh, breathe it in. This public garden in the heart of Columbus has grown over the years to include over 12,000 roses or more than 400 varieties. We didn't even know that many rose varieties existed! While late May through mid-June is the best time to visit to find peak bloom, each season offers a unique and beautiful perspective. The park is free year-round and open to visitors dawn to dusk. Also note that a new entrance is in the works and should be open this spring, and if you're looking to be more involved, the park is always looking for volunteers!

Peruse the Worthington Farmers' Market

Established in 1987, the Worthington Farmers' Market is an experience unlike any other. Even if you're not up to purchasing anything, meeting local artisans and farmers and soaking in the culture of our beloved city can be an easy breezy way to spend a Saturday.

Spend a Sunday at the Columbus Museum of Art

The Columbus Museum of Art has something for people of any age. Enjoy art and exhibitions from world-renowned artists and bring your kids to engage in hands-on educational activities. The museum offers free admission every Sunday from 10 am–5 pm, so take advantage!

Take the 52 Hike Challenge of the Columbus Metro Parks

If it's a gorgeous day outside, you might consider visiting one of Columbus's 19 metro parks and hitting the trails. If you're a real go-getter, make it a life goal to hike all of the trails in the area with the 52 hike challenge!

Get Lost in the Book Loft

Nestled in the German Village, one of Columbus's most popular neighborhoods, the Book Loft offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. It is one of the nation's largest independent bookstores, and is made up of a grouping of pre-Civil War era buildings that were once general stores, a saloon and a nickelodeon cinema. The 32 rooms of bargain-priced books are bound to make you forget about the outside world for just a bit.

Explore Your Artsy Side at the Short North Gallery Hop

On the first Saturday of each month, galleries, restaurants, boutiques and salons come together to showcase Ohio-based artists while singers, saxophonists, improv dance troupes and other entertainers perform in the streets. The event has been a town favorite for over 30 years, and it's not tough to see why.

Feel the Summer Vibes at Rhythm on the River

Photo courtesy of Columbus Recreation and Parks

Rhythm on the River takes place on select Fridays June through September, and features free performances from local arts organizations and national treasures alike. Bring some snacks and a blanket to enjoy a romantic picnic under the stars during the show.

Explore Hocking Hills

Waterfalls, prehistoric caves and spectacular cliff-top vistas await you at Hocking Hills. Head out for an afternoon or weekend trip to experience one of Ohio's most beautiful nature preserves, and hit some of the nearby art galleries while you're at it.

Attend a Free Summer Film at the Gateway Film Center

Having fun isn't hard when you've got a library card! In this free summer film series, the Gateway Film Center will show movies that have been adapted from books. All you need to do to get free entry is present your library card.

Hit up a Free Festival

Photo courtesy of Columbus Recreation and Parks

We have no shortage of excuses to celebrate in our city, and we make sure to throw festivals throughout the year to prove it. Want even more reason to celebrate? Some of these festivals, including biggies like ComFest, Jazz & Rib Fest, Doo Dah Parade and the Columbus Arts Festival, are completely free.

Go on a Self-Guided Drive of The Covered Bridges of Union County

The historical covered bridges in Union County were designed and built by Reuben L. Partridge in the late 1860s and 1870s. The five still standing are gorgeous, and offer a window into what once was. Spend a day giving yourself a self-guided driving tour of the bridges, reading up on each one as you encounter it.

Check out the Chadwick Arboretum and Learning Gardens

Take a walking tour of the idyllic Chadwick Arboretum using the free walking tour app, and experience more than 60 acres of flora and trees. It's a good way to experience a slice of nature if you're near The Ohio State University's main campus.

Visit the Sculptures at the Topiary Park

Photo courtesy of the Topiary Park 

Inspired by Georges Seurat's famous painting, A Sunday Afternoon on the Isle of La Grande Jatte, this park is truly a local gem. Stroll through the garden and admire the artistry of the sculptures, each of which has a personality of its own.

Volunteer at a Columbus Gives Back Event

Engaging in a volunteer event gives you a chance to experience Columbus in a new way while giving back to the community you love. Columbus Gives Back offers a range of volunteer activities, from cookie baking at the Ronald McDonald House to leading a dance for individuals with disabilities. The events are fun, interesting and completely free to participate in!

Check out an Exhibition at the Riffe Gallery

The Riffe Gallery showcases the work of talented Ohio artists as well as collections from the state's museums and galleries. Admission is free, so stop by at your leisure to see the latest exhibition.

Walk the Scioto Mile

Photo courtesy of Columbus Recreation and Parks

The Scioto Mile, which stretches along the river from the Arena District to the Whittier Peninsula, is a lush, urban oasis home to parks, bikeways and pedestrian paths. Bring your bike, walking shoes, or a picnic and blanket to simply stretch out and enjoy a beautiful day.

Climb the Largest Free Outdoor Climbing Wall in the Country

While you're on the Scioto Mile, stop by the climbing wall. Standing 35 feet tall and covering 6,100 square feet, it's the largest free outdoor climbing wall in the country. Climbers serious about ascending more than a few feet need to bring their own shoes and rope. Not interested in actually climbing? Sitting back and watching the athletes is an activity in itself.

Visit the Thurber House

The Thurber House, once home of humorist, author and New Yorker cartoonist James Thurber, is now a non-profit literary center and museum. Thurber called the Victorian-style building home while attending THE Ohio State University, but the house now welcomes readers, writers and all interested in learning. You can give yourself a tour free of charge.

Have fun exploring!

Your home is your haven, but it's also your creative space — an extension of your tastes and personality. But when you're looking to spruce up a certain room or give your entire home a new look, things can get pricey quickly. DIY projects are a great alternative because you can add a unique flair while saving some serious cash.

We know that you have ideas of your own you're dying to try, but before you get started, check out these fun and crafty projects from local Ohio bloggers. You never know when inspiration might strike!

DIY Floating Wood Vanity and Scrap Wood Mirror

Via Infarrantly Creative

Photos courtesy of Infarrantly Creative

Looking to give the guest bathroom (or your own) a woodsy refresh? This DIY vanity and mirror is surprisingly easy, and can be made with the extra scrap wood hanging around in your garage or backyard — the more weathered, the better! We're also in love with the unique pipe towel rack.

DIY Industrial Pipe Shelves

Via House of Hawthornes

Photos courtesy of Via House of Hawthornes

Need some shelves to go with that scrap wood vanity? Or just a fun place to rest your trinkets? These industrial-inspired shelves are cool and practical at the same time, and they don't take a huge amount of time or effort. But don't take our word for it, see the tutorial here.

DIY Rustic Buffet Table

Via Homemade by Carmona

Photos courtesy of Homemade by Carmona

This buffet table is the perfect resting place for picture frames, books and other decorative knick-knacks, but could also be used as a customized TV stand, a kitchen island or an entryway table. "...It will last so much longer than anything you could buy in a store," says blog owner Carmona. We believe it!

DIY Kitchen Herb Garden

Via At Home on the Bay

Photos courtesy of At Home on the Bay

This short and sweet blog details how to make your own kitchen herb garden in an old bread box. The result is simple, adorable and oh so useful — and the wooden labels add a fun, rustic touch.  You could also use the same repurposed planter to house succulents or decorate an outdoor garden!

Repurposed Headboard French Bench

Via Designed Decor

Photos courtesy of Designed Decor

Having a bench in your hallway, entryway or on an outdoor patio is certainly a nice touch — so why not make one yourself with that old headboard you're not using anymore? It's a much better home than the junkyard. We are loving the vintage French accents on this one. As a side note, we also love this repurposed chair shelf!

Add a Weathered Look to Furniture With Liming Wax

Via Bespoke Studio

Photos courtesy of Bespoke Studio

Kathleen from Bespoke Studio has mastered the art of repainting furniture, which is mostly what her blog is dedicated to. We were particularly drawn to this tutorial, which details how to add a unique and weathered look to any wooden furniture piece using liming wax. The opportunities for reinvention are endless!

DIY Corner Fireplace Mantle

Via Snazzy Little Things

Photos courtesy of Snazzy Little Things

You don't actually need a fireplace to install this gorgeous DIY corner mantle — in fact, this couple used theirs as a cozy little doghouse. Either way, you'll add ambiance to the room, value to your house and have a fun little daytime project to boot. This is one we can't wait to tackle.

DIY Pallet Outdoor Bar

Via On Sutton Place

Photos courtesy of On Sutton Place

Sturdy yet stylish, this outdoor bar certainly packs a punch. If you love to entertain guests outside in the summer, or simply love grabbing a refreshment for yourself while relaxing on the patio, this thrifty addition is a must.

Happy Crafting!

If there's one thing Cincinnati knows well, it's coffee. Our beloved city has some of the most renowned shops and roasters in the country — so many that it can be tough to decide where to go when you're craving a cuppa. Life is rough.

Whether you're dragging your feet on a Monday morning or looking for a Sunday afternoon hangout, it's important to try something new every once in a while. Get out on the town this week to sip one of these bevvies from our favorite Cincinnati coffee shops.

A Cappuccino and Toast at Urbana Cafe

Photos courtesy of Urbana Cafe

A queen of coffee in the Queen's City, Urbana Cafe is one of the most popular hangouts around. Not only is the shop pet friendly, but it offers an expansive toast menu, all of which pair well with a steaming espresso. We recommend the peaches 'n' cream toast with a cappuccino and a $1 dog treat for your furry friend. Bonus: Look for Urbana's oh-so adorable vintage coffee cart around town, or book it for a special event!

1215 Wine Bar and Coffee Lab's Irish Coffee

We had a tough time deciding whether to feature wine or coffee for 1215, as it features both. But alas, since this is a coffee article, we decided to compromise with the Irish coffee, which is our favorite in town. Sip it while munching on oatmeal in the morning, or accompany it with a charcuterie board later in the day.

Collective Espresso's Cortado

Photo courtesy of Brian Beyke from Abandon Coffee, via Collective Espresso

This craft coffee spot has expanded to three locations across the city, but still adheres to its original goal of serving coffee in its purest form — no syrup, no pretense, no nonsense. Try stopping in at this shop on a weekday, where you can order a cortado and enjoy the vibe.

The Redtree Art Gallery & Coffee Shop's Honeysuckle Latte

When it comes to Redtree, everyone's buzzing about the honeysuckle latte. Although the other lattes are nothing to scoff at, this one boasts a dollop of honey and hazelnut syrup, and warms straight to the soul. Sip on one — hot or frozen — while you admire the galleries from local artists.

The Coffee Emporium's Bourbon Barrel-Aged Cold Brew

Photo courtesy of Tony Tausch The Coffee Emporium

The Coffee Emporium has gained quite the reputation over the years — and with the gorgeous Victorian touches, outdoor patio at two locations and tasty bites, we're not surprised. This stop is a must for out-of-town guests, and remains a fan favorite. While you can't go wrong with any of the signature sips, we go wild over the cold brew aged in bourbon barrels.

A Coffee Cocktail or Turkish Latte at Sidewinder

There are a few reasons you should visit this friendly shop in Northside. If Patrick the house bunny (yes, a real bunny) doesn't immediately draw you in, maybe come for interesting coffee cocktails with names like the Kentucky Royal, the Dirty Mother or the Drunken Monkey King. Want to keep it virgin? The Turkish Latte, made with cardamom and honey, is sure to please.

A Flight of Three at M5 Espresso Labs

Photo courtesy of Alex Evans via M5

M5 offers ethically sourced coffee prepared with care and thoughtfulness. Though you could choose one excellent espresso sipper or a grassy light roast drip coffee — both exceptional — we say go with the flight. It's tasty, fun, and the only one of its kind in Cincinnati.

A Cappuccino at Rohs Street Cafe

Rohs Street Cafe receives fresh, whole bean coffee deliveries from specialty roasters across the country on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Check the website to see weekly offerings, and then stop in to sample an espresso brew. We recommend the cappuccinos, which are as beautiful as they are tasty.

A Drip Coffee from Deeper Roots

Photos courtesy of Deeper Roots

As one of the most sought after roasters in the Midwest, Deeper Roots doesn't need any fancy flavorings to make its coffee taste great. Here, we recommend keeping it simple with a Chemex pour over.

In the "always on", dynamic real estate industry, taking time for yourself can lower stress levels and improve your mental wellbeing. Follow these ideas to slow down and re-energize from a chaotic schedule.

Unplug completely More than ever, people struggle with taking time off their electronic devices, which is turning off phones, computers and other devices is important to recover from stress. Interact with people in person, pick up a hobby, go on a hike, or take a spontaneous trip—anything that doesn't include the use of electronics.

Join an adult camp If having a work-life balance is a struggle, it might be time to consider an adult camp to unplug, re-energize and review priorities. These camps are becoming increasingly popular as time demands and stress levels continue to rise among American adults. With over 800 adult camps available in the U.S., professionals are now able to connect with other workers who are experiencing similar situations to theirs.

Treat yourself When all else fails, schedule a lunchtime massage, spa day or coffee with a friend to take your mind off of work and other daily stress factors.

Setting aside time to unwind and unplug will not only reduce stress levels, but it will also improve work performance and increase energy—which every Realtor needs.

Canton – Jay Cutler and Jim Camp, longtime principals of Cutler Real Estate announced today that effective immediately, Andy Camp will move up to become President of the firm.

In making the announcement Jim Camp said "We have had a succession plan in place for some time and we are pleased to have it continue to move forward with the next generation of leadership.  Andy has done an outstanding job leading our team as we have grown from an Akron/Canton firm to one of the leading firms in Ohio/Kentucky with offices ranging from Avon in Northeast Ohio to Florence Kentucky."

Jay Cutler added "This year we are celebrating the 70^th anniversary of my father founding the company.  I know that he would be very proud of our growth while maintaining our integrity and a strong sense of family."

Andy Camp, 43, joined Cutler Real Estate in 2001 in a recruiting position.  He has continued to take on more responsibilities with management positions in the company's Fairlawn, Stow and Canton offices.  Camp was named General Manager in 2012 and has led the firms aggressive statewide expansion into Central Ohio, Greater Cincinnati, Northern Kentucky and the west suburbs of Cleveland.

The President's office in the company had intentionally been left vacant since the untimely passing of the company's thirty year plus President, Jim Bray, in 2015.

Cutler Real Estate, founded in 1947,is a full service real estate company serving Ohio, Northern Kentucky and Indiana. Cutler is the 5th largest real estate firm in Ohio and the 62nd largest in the country. Cutler provides a "one-stop" shopping approach to the real estate market, and is one of only a few in the nation providing in-house consumer resources including title services, provided by Title One, mortgage through a partnership with Homeside Financial, insurance, rental, short sale, commercial, relocation, auction, and new homes. For more information visit CutlerHomes.com.

At a glance Cutler welcomed 13 new Realtors with combined 81 years of experience!