Studio, One and Two Bedroom Apartment Residences

Dessert Recipes Featuring Your Favorite Cereals

March 8th, 2018

desserts recipes with cereal

Cereal doesn’t just have to be for breakfast. When you’re craving your favorite cereal later in the day, consider making it part of your dessert after lunch or dinner. Use the following recipes to give you ideas for making delicious cereal desserts.

Apple and Peanut Butter Balls

This is a no-bake dessert recipe, so you don’t have to worry about preheating the oven and getting the baking time just right. Start by stirring a half cup of chunky peanut butter and two tablespoons of honey in a large bowl, then add two cups of your favorite wheat or rice flake cereal, along with a third cup of dried apples and an eighth teaspoon of apple pie spice. Stir these ingredients together, then put the bowl in the fridge for about one hour. Shape the mixture into balls, and you’ll have a tasty treat to enjoy after your meal.

Cereal Milkshake

Instead of having a bowl of cereal with milk for breakfast, make a cereal milkshake to have after lunch or dinner. No matter what your favorite cereal is, you can use it for a milkshake just by adding a few other ingredients and mixing them up in a blender. For this recipe, you’ll need to put one cup of milk and two cups of vanilla or chocolate ice cream into a blender, and mix them until they create a smooth texture. Add the cereal to the blender, then mix until it’s creamy. Top off your milkshake with additional cereal and some whipped cream, chocolate syrup or cinnamon sugar.

Angel Food Cake Topped with Cocoa

If your favorite cereal contains chocolate puffs or balls, you can use them to top off a freshly baked angel food cake. You’ll need angel food cake mix, four cups of powdered sugar, a quarter cup of hot water, one teaspoon of vanilla and one and one-third cups of cereal. Start by making the angel food cake as directed on the package. Combine the sugar, water and vanilla to make icing for the cake. When the cake is done baking, top it with the cereal for a divine dessert. Keep in mind that you can also use fruit-flavored cereal as a topping if you prefer that instead of chocolate.

Our community in San Mateo, CA includes a cafe with a gourmet coffee bar, which is a great place to unwind after having dinner and dessert at home. Please contact us to learn more about our apartments in San Mateo and our other community amenities.

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4 Reasons to Try Yoga

February 20th, 2018

reasons to try yoga

There’s a good reason the practice of yoga has been around for centuries. Those who practice yoga on a regular basis reap both physical and emotional benefits. If you live in the San Mateo, California area, you’ll find plenty of options to get started on your yoga journey. Here are the top four reasons to give yoga a shot.

Improve Flexibility

As you move your body into different positions to get into each yoga pose, you are stretching muscle fibers. By stretching these fibers, you’re allowing a wider range of movement within your muscles. As you continue to improve your body’s flexibility, you’ll reduce your risk of injury. Improving flexibility helps alleviate back and shoulder tightness to improve posture as well.

Promote Cardiovascular Health

Aerobic activity is not the only form of exercise used to improve heart health. Research from John Hopkins Medicine has shown that yoga can lower cholesterol, reduce blood sugar levels and lower blood pressure. Furthermore, studies have shown fewer episodes of atrial fibrillation in patients who practice yoga.

Increase Strength

Surprisingly, yoga is a great exercise for building strength and improving stamina. By simply using your own body weight, in lieu of barbells and dumbbells, you build muscle. Plus, you’re building muscle throughout your whole body since yoga includes all muscle groups. When you weight train, you’re isolating one muscle group at a time. Stamina improves because you’re required to hold a pose for a certain length of time throughout the workout. Each pose may be repeated over the course of the yoga session.

Stress Relief

One of the components of yoga is to nurture the mind and body connection. You need to have a calm mind to benefit from the physical aspects. Meditation is typically part of each yoga session. Stress is meant to melt away as you lie still and take deep, cleansing breaths. According to the American Council of Exercise, a study conducted on female yoga participants over a three-month period found that at the end of the three months, the women felt less anxiety, improved energy, less depression and a better sense of overall well-being. With stress levels reduced, you’ll have better sleep each night as well.

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Easy Plants to Grow in Your Apartment

February 7th, 2018

apartment plants

Indoor plants not only act as décor for your apartment, they can provide health benefits like improving air quality. The easiest-to-grow indoor plants will be durable and won’t require a lot of special upkeep. The San Mateo, California weather is also mild enough that if you do choose to eventually transport any of the plants outside to your deck or patio, they will continue to thrive. Here are a few low-maintenance indoor plants to grow inside your apartment.

Cactus

Growing a cactus in your apartment is perfect for those who don’t really have a green thumb. Cacti typically only require water once a week. Although cacti should be placed in sunny areas, direct sunlight isn’t required. In fact, direct sunlight may cause the cacti to have a faded appearance.

Aloe

Aloe is one of the easiest succulents to grow indoors. If you’re looking for a space-saving variety, select aloe vera. Ideally, choose a nice sunny area for the plant like next to a window.

Weeping Fig

If you’re looking for a big, green plant for your space, choose a weeping fig tree. The tree remains small and looks good in room corners and entranceways. Weeping figs require watering approximately every five days and only need indirect sunlight.

Peace Lily

If you’re looking for a houseplant that tolerates low-light conditions, then the peace lily is the perfect plant for you. The plant is very attractive year-round with bright, green leaves and flowers that bloom in the summertime. The size of the lily will range between one to six feet tall.

Herb Garden

City gardens are all the rage these days. Many apartment dwellers are finding creative ways to grow fruits, veggies and herbs. You could start with a small window herb garden and expand from there. Herbs easy to grow inside an apartment include cilantro, basil, rosemary, ginger and parsley.

Potted Tomatoes

Tomatoes of all varieties can be grown inside an apartment. The easiest method to grow tomatoes is to use a pot at least six inches or larger. Water daily and make sure the plant receives 12 hours of sunlight.

Be surrounded by greenery both inside and outside when you come to our San Mateo apartments. Our gorgeous community offers resort-style amenities such as a heated swimming pool, outdoor kitchen area, modern fitness center, yoga studio and more, so you’ll have every convenience right at your fingertips. Call (855) 805-6160 to find out more about our luxurious residences.

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5 Scenic Hikes in the Bay Area

April 18th, 2017

Girl Standing on RockSunny days are ahead of us! And the Bay Area holds everything you need to make the most of this beautiful time of year. Whether you enjoy a casual walk in the woods, a challenging hike up a hill or an intense climb, San Mateo, California and the Bay Area have several options to choose from.

The Casual Walk

For the casual stroller looking for beautiful scenery without the demand of an intense hike, there are many excellent opportunities:

  • Tomales Point Trail at Point Reyes National Seashore: This is a 10-mile hike with an amazing view of the rocky coastline and wildlife.
  • Bay Area Ridge Trail at The Presidio: Simply put, this is 24-miles of breathtaking natural beauty.

The Challenging Hike

For the moderate hiker, the availability of well-managed trails is endless:

  • Matt-Davis-Steep Ravine Loop of Marin County: Experience the allure of mighty waterfalls and canyons on these amazing trails.
  • East Ridge Trail Loop in the East Bay: 6 miles of expansive grassy banks, scenic hills, and impressive redwood trees.
  • The Bay Trail along the Redwood Shores: You’ll have paved, gravel, or dirt paths to choose from and coastal splendor galore.

The Intense Climb

San Mateo and the San Francisco Bay area hold several options for the ambitious hiker, with an added bonus when exploring these spots during sunset:

  • Mount Davidson in San Francisco:  The perfect combination of moderate and strenuous hikes with an incredible view of the city and a 103-foot high cross that was placed there in 1934.
  • The Dipsea Trail in Marin County: A 7.4 hike for experts, as this is a precarious route covered in tree roots, and very steep, with a reward of wildlife all around you. Caution: it is not recommended for children, pets, or those new to hiking.
  • Land’s End in San Francisco: Exquisite views of the natural coastline and the Golden Gate Bridge; for an additional challenge, take the route to Mile Rock Beach.

The Outdoors is Calling You Home

Nature is a place where you can come as you are, recharge, and rest in knowing that the wildlife accepts you with open arms. We at 888 San Mateo Apartments offer a place where you can return to and savor your spectacular day in the great outdoors. With our state-of-the-art community facilities, pet-loving bark park, and pilates studio, we would like the chance to show you what sets us apart from the rest. Don’t delay, give us a call today!

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3 Can’t Miss Spring Bay Area Events

April 3rd, 2017

Spring Flowers

Spring is in the air! And what better way to greet the springtime than doing something fun in a really cool city? Whether you’re an extrovert who loves to mingle and stay on-the-go, an introvert who enjoys easy going activities, or a parent of small children looking for family-friendly entertainment, San Mateo, California has something for you.

Festivals and Parades

Local residents can find festivals and parades surrounding every corner of San Mateo. Each year, spring gives rise to the San Francisco International Film Festival, Beer Festival, Sidewalk Arts and Crafts Show, Street Performer’s Festival, and the San Francisco Carnaval’s Grand Parade and Festival. Springtime also hosts a number of parades, Cinco de Mayo, and New Years Festivals honoring a variety of cultures around the world. As part of the San Mateo community, you receive the benefit of having something available every night of the week.

Concerts and Theater

From traditional theater to performances by local musicians to visits from the stars, San Mateo community members can have their pick of entertainment. Annual spring events include the San Francisco Jazz Spring Season, Union Square Live, and a countless number of concerts by local artists and famous artists alike throughout the season.

Family-Friendly Events

Spring in the Bay Area holds great fun for parents and their children. From Easter in the Park, with its egg hunts, carnival rides, and live entertainment to Opening Day on the Bay with its opportunity to view life from the waters, you can give your child the adventure of a lifetime. Each spring offers families their pick of the International Children’s Festival, Extraordinary Egg Hunt, Major League Baseball, the San Mateo County Fair, and the Annual Flower and Garden Show.

Fun Just Around the Corner

With so many great options to choose from, you can have your pick from all that San Mateo and the Bay Area have to offer. We at 888 San Mateo apartments would like to share what we have to offer you, as well. Our residents have access to a wide assortment of community features, including a state-of-the-art fitness center, Yoga/Pilates studio, and heated swimming pool and whirlpool spa, to name only a few.

We also love pets and are proud to provide a pet-friendly community with a dog wash station and a bark park to help you give your pup the very best. Don’t delay. Come see what makes 888 San Mateo Apartments a great place to call home!

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5 Ways to Bring Spring into Your Apartment

March 2nd, 2017

Dining RoomDo you have spring fever? It’s no wonder. When spring comes, the air smells fresher, the birds sing, and the grass even seems greener. You can’t spend all your time outside, but you can bring spring into your apartments in San Mateo with these five fun and easy ways.

1. Make Potpourri

Make your own fresh potpourri to sweeten the scent of your apartment in San Mateo, California. Fill a saucepan with water. Add slices of fresh oranges. Next, add a few drops of vanilla essence, two or three bay leaves, and a sprig of fresh rosemary. Simmer on the stove and enjoy the scent! Add more water as necessary when it begins to boil away.

2. Make a Mini Terrarium

Gather together some old picture frames that are the same size. Use a glue gun to secure the glass into the frame. Form a square by attaching 5 of the frames. Make a visit to a local nursery to find a selection of fresh potted herbs. You can use the herbs in your kitchen cooking, or just to enjoy the way they look. Set your framed glass on top of your spring plants for a picture perfect spring terrarium!

3. Hang Sheer Curtains

Swap out your winter draperies with sheer curtains. The lighter fabric will allow spring light to enter your apartment while maintaining the privacy you crave. For the lightest look possible, hang the sheer curtains on café rods with round grommets. You’ll be able to easily open and close the curtains with the least effort. You can find sheer curtains online or try sewing some yourself.

4. Visit the Farmers Market

Fresh spring fruits and vegetables are perfect for use in salads and smoothies. Visit your local farmers market for the freshest and tastiest selections that will keep you light on your feet with a spring in your step. Don’t forget to bring along your reusable shopping bag because some vendors might not have bags available to bring home your goodies.

5. Place Fresh Flowers in Vases

Fresh spring flowers add spring color and fragrance to your apartment. Your local flower shop will have new selections to choose from, or your grocery store might have a fresh flower garden section. To make fresh flowers last longer, you can insert an aspirin into the vase water and trim the ends of the stem daily on an angle.

Spring is the best time to decorate your apartment. With all the freshness in the air, it’s easy to find ways to incorporate spring décor into your apartment home. Contact us to see all the floor plans available!

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How to Arrange a Spring Bouquet

March 2nd, 2017

Bouquet of FlowersOne of the most gratifying ways to invite the spring indoors is to have one or more bouquets of fresh flowers. But there is a trick to arranging a spring bouquet and even more tricks for keeping fresh flowers looking good for as long as possible. If you’re decorating your apartments in San Mateo with fresh spring bouquets and you want them to look their best for as long as possible, here are the tips you need.

How to Put Together A Bouquet

1. Start Big and Go Small

This is the opposite of most things in life. But with a bouquet, you want your center flower to be the longest stem so it will be the pinnacle of the bouquet. It can be one flower or a cluster of the same stem, but it should consist of just one type of flower, and be magnificent enough so that it dominates the display.

2. Add Fillers Next

Next, you’ll want to add your greenery to the bouquet. This can be ferns or other fronds with green leaves that go well around the center stems. The greenery should be added until it encompasses the entirety of the bouquet. In other words, however wide the greenery stands out, that’s how wide your bouquet will be.

3. Insert the Supplementary Flowers

Next, it’s time to insert the flowers into the greenery that will be add-ons. These might be daisies, carnations or other simpler flowers that are pretty, but won’t distract from the main attraction.

4. Give a Final Arrangement

Now that you have your whole bouquet assembled, it’s time to give a final arrangement with your hands. Just move the flowers around until they look visually appealing to you. Contrasting colors go well together, as do contrasting petal shapes.

How to Make Fresh Flowers Last a Long Time

Here are some tips for making your bouquet last as long as possible.

  • If you add a few stalks of foxglove to the arrangement, it will extend the life of the bouquet.
  • If the water gets murky, add a few drops of bleach to the water to make stems perk up.
  • In warmer temperatures, use a spray bottle of water to revive blooms.
  • Drop an aspirin into the water to enliven droopy blossoms.

Now that you know the secrets to arranging a spring bouquet, it’s time to try it yourself! While you’re at it, why not take a tour of available floor plans at the 888 San Mateo Apartments in Anaheim. You’ll be glad you did!

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