Labor Day: Heat, Treats, and Backyard Feats!

Hello everyone! Can you believe Labor Day is just around the corner? Whether you're staying at home or planning to soak up the sun elsewhere, I've got some fabulous suggestions for making the most out of this holiday. So let's dive in!

1. Sweet Indulgence: Chocolate Sheet Cake

I don't know about you, but desserts top my list for holiday festivities. One of my go-to delights is the Texas Sheet Cake by The Pioneer Woman. Trust me, this cake is a crowd-pleaser! With icing that's poured on while the cake is still warm, this dessert only gets better if it melts in the heat. So, no worries if you're out in the sun. And hey, if you've got kids, you might want to go half-and-half on the pecans! Here's the recipe you won't want to miss: Best Texas Sheet Cake - Chocolate Sheet Cake Recipe

2. Giant Yard Games: Make Fun Towering!

Ever played Jenga or Connect Four at an almost life-size scale? If not, you're missing out! These giant yard games are a hit among the young and old alike. They're a fabulous way to inject a bit of competitive fun into your Labor Day celebrations.

3. Water + Sunscreen = A Splashing Good Time

Water activities are a must to beat the heat. It doesn't have to be a pool; think sprinklers, water balloons, or even a good ol' garden hose. Just ensure there's water nearby for a splash-tacular time! Also, let's not forget sunscreen. You'll thank me later.

4. The Ice Factor: Keep It Chill

You can never have too much ice on a hot day. Be it ice bags, a gigantic ice cube in the pool, or quirky ice molds for drinks, make sure you've got your cool down essentials sorted. Trust me, you don't want a mutiny due to a lack of ice!

5. Backyard Movie Magic

You can easily turn your backyard into an open-air movie theater. Got a fence or a large white sheet? Add a projector and some speakers, grab your favorite snacks, and you've got yourself a memorable movie night.

Growing up in Oklahoma and now living in Texas, I know one thing for sure—it's going to be hot and sunny. The key is to tailor your day with things you absolutely love. So go on, make this Labor Day one for the books!


Wishing you all a fabulous and Happy Labor Day!



XOXO, Jillian

Use Some Common “Scents”: How to Nail the Perfect Home Atmosphere

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Hello, Dallas homeowners and future homeowners! Jillian Ihloff here, bringing you yet another invaluable piece of advice to make your home buying or selling experience exceptional. You know me for my expert insights on staging, curb appeal, and market trends, but today I'm diving into something often overlooked yet incredibly crucial—home scenting.

A Recipe Close to My Heart: Jillian's Family Crepes

August 23, 2023
Hey everyone! Today I'm shifting gears from real estate and design to share something that is uber important in any home—the kitchen magic! I want to give you a super special recipe that’s close to my heart: our family crepes. This is the kind of meal that evokes nostalgia, is incredibly versatile, and best of all, puts smiles on faces (which is an actual ingredient, by the way).

YOLO: Working Mom Travel - A Guide for the Ultimate Trip of a Lifetime

August 23, 2023
Almost a year ago I began preparing myself mentally for a milestone birthday. Having three kiddos and also working, I knew this would take epic planning and the timing would have to be absolutely perfect to make take it from a dream to a reality. Last week I am excited (and sad) to report that I arrived back from the location of a lifetime! Rome, Florence, Venice, Slovenia and then Croatia. I was blessed to spend three incredible weeks in six different hotels very specifically chosen with who I am in mind. It was very important to me to stay at smaller boutique hotels and visit restaurants that someone who lives in that location would take their grandmother for a meal (because we all know how brutally honest grandparents can be).

A Hidden Gem in the Heart of Oklahoma: My Feature in the Dallas Morning News

July 18, 2023
Hello, dear readers! I am thrilled to share with you an exciting feature that recently appeared in the Dallas Morning News. The article, penned by the talented Mitchell Parton, shines a spotlight on a unique real estate development project that I am proud to be a part of. As a Tulsa native who recently moved to Dallas, I am excited to be the listing agent for a project that is transforming a 2,000-acre ranch in Fort Towson, Oklahoma, into a private haven for those seeking solitude and tranquility. The Hollow Point Ranch , as it is known, is a mere two-and-a-half-hour drive from downtown Dallas and is poised to become a sanctuary for those desiring a quiet second property. We are selling 50 parcels of land, each spanning 5 acres and listed for $495,000. These parcels are not just for individuals looking to build homes; investors are also welcome to participate. The community is being designed as a "place of refuge" with modern amenities such as fiber internet, an on-site water tower, and well water. As I put it in the article, "If everything hits the fan, you're going to be able to have a place to go. They can have a place to just breathe."

Everlasting Home Style Trends vs. Temporary Fads

June 15, 2023
Just as with fashion, there are fleeting trends and timeless classics in the realm of interior design and décor. Candles shaped like busts or cats might be all the rage today, but their popularity will likely wane. Chinoiserie, on the other hand, has an enduring appeal. The golden rule? Stay true to your style and create a space that fills you with joy each time you enter it. That said, if you're in the process of selling your home, exercise a bit more restraint with personal touches that might not appeal to every prospective buyer.

Design Enthusiast's Guide: Five Dos and Don'ts of Staging Your Space

By Rob Stofer • June 12, 2023
When preparing your home for listing or simply making your space more welcoming for guests, certain rules should guide your approach. And fear not, rule-breakers, there are times to go against the grain too! Each 'do' has its opposite in a 'don't'. Here are the Dos paired with their Don't counterparts. Ready to dive in? Let's get the party started...

Bringing Summer Indoors

By Rob Stofer • June 12, 2023
Summer is synonymous with sunshine, vacations, cherished memories, and relaxation. Longing for the feel of summer throughout the year, or just looking to freshen up for the season? Here are some ideas:

Sun-Soaked Splendor: Boosting Your Curb Appeal in the Texas Summer Heat

By Rob Stofer • June 5, 2023
As we brace ourselves for the scorching Texan summer, not only does the heat intensify but so do buyers' expectations. They envision homes that exude brilliance both inside and out. Raises hand This is where your trusty realtor (yours truly) steps in to assist. So, let's talk about the star of today's show: curb appeal.