#marrickhomes

At Marrick Homes, we take great pride in being a locally owned business that can provide you, our homeowners, with a superior quality product, at an excellent value, with exemplary service and a total commitment to your satisfaction!

Since 1984, we’ve grown to be one of Southern Maryland’s premier homebuilders. We are proud of the homes and communities we have built in Southern Maryland – and our roots here are deep! From the first time you visit one of our model homes, to the day you move in, and beyond, we want to make finding your forever home an enjoyable experience, which means getting to know you just as well as you get to know us! Here’s a chance for you to get to know our Sales Staff from across our portfolio of communities!

Mike Parker – Marley Run

Where Are You From?

I was born in Washington D.C. and grew up in Clinton, MD, graduating from Surrattsville Sr. High in 1980.

How Long Have You Lived in (around) Southern Maryland?

I grew up in Southern Maryland and lived in Southern MD through college. Then, I lived in No. Virginia, Connecticut & Florida, moving back to Southern Maryland in 2011!

What’s Your Favorite Spot in Southern Maryland

Solomons Island.

How Long Have You Worked In Real Estate?

Over 20 years this year!

What Community Do You Manage and What’s Your Favorite Thing About It?

Marley Run in Huntingtown. It’s a terrific family neighborhood!  The schools here are top notch, and the neighborhood itself, with the wonderful families there, provides a welcoming atmosphere throughout – a connection I remember from my childhood community when I grew up in the 60’s and 70’s! What’s Your Favorite Part About Working with Your Customers?

I love helping customers put the pieces of the puzzle together, and facilitating the steps to allow them to get the kind of home and community that meets their needs and goals.

What’s One Piece of Advice for All Your Buyers?

Go with your gut and look at the big picture. There are a lot of details, so take a deep breath and trust our system and service. We have been doing new home sales since 1984 – so we’ve been around the block a time or two!

What’s One Fun Fact About You?

I was in the bicycle business for a number of years, but now enjoy boating and golf!

Ken Weeks – Elizabeth Hills

Where Are You From?

I grew up in Charles County (LaPlata & Waldorf) and moved to Calvert County (Huntingtown) in 1999. I’ve now been in the Lusby area for the last 7 years.

How Long Have You Lived in (around) Southern Maryland?

My entire life!

What’s Your Favorite Spot in Southern Maryland?

My favorite spot is the Capital Clubhouse in Waldorf, as it’s the only ice hockey facility in the area, as well as Calvert Cliffs Park, where I can hike and enjoy the beach with my boys!

How Long Have You Worked In Real Estate?

I have been selling new homes with Marrick for just over 9 years now throughout St Mary’s County. I have been a licensed Realtor with Century 21 New Millennium since October of 2017.

What Community Do You Manage and What’s Your Favorite Thing About It?

My favorite thing about Elizabeth Hills is all the people I have had an opportunity to help build homes for, and the camaraderie between everyone within the neighborhood I see on a daily basis.

What’s Your Favorite Part About Working with Your Customers?

Helping them solve their problem on finding the right home that works for them and then seeing that idea turn into reality.

What’s One Piece of Advice for All Your Buyers?

When looking to buy a new home, first focus on the structural items you cannot do later, or would be much tougher to do. Cosmetic items such as flooring seem to always be a huge focus, but upgrades to the floor can always be done after you move in. A morning room or sitting room would be a lot tougher to add after the home is completed.

What’s One Fun Fact About You?

I love to play hockey – I’m a surprisingly good goalie!

Chris Nolan – Ridge Grove, Olivers Crossing

Where Are You From?

Long Island, NY

How Long Have You Lived in (around) Southern Maryland?

I’ve lived in the Southern Maryland area since 2002.

What’s Your Favorite Spot in Southern Maryland?

Literally anywhere along the water of the Chesapeake Bay – you just can’t beat it!

How Long Have You Worked In Real Estate?

Five years.

What Community Do You Manage and What’s Your Favorite Thing About It?

Olivers Crossing & Ridge Grove in Charles County. I love the opportunity to get to know families as they build their new homes here, and helping them create the communities that they want to live in for years to come!

What’s Your Favorite Part About Working with Your Customers?

Everyone brings something new to the table. It is awesome to create a unique home for each and every person!

What’s One Piece of Advice for All Your Buyers?

This is YOUR home. Don’t hesitate to tell us exactly what will make it feel like home to you!

What’s One Fun Fact About You?

After a career in both Military & Law Enforcement, I find it very relaxing to kick back and realize that life is pretty good - you just need to take the time to enjoy it.

Mike Jacques – Clarks Rest

Where Are You From?

I’m originally from Maine.

How Long Have You Lived in (around) Southern Maryland?

I’ve lived in Southern Maryland for about 12 years now.

What’s Your Favorite Spot in Southern Maryland?

That’d have to be Social Coffee in Leonardtown & Island Hideaway in Solomon’s Island

How Long Have You Worked In Real Estate?

Twelve years.

What Community Do You Manage and What’s Your Favorite Thing About It?

Clarks Rest in Leonardtown. The amenities here such as the pool, basketball court and playground are great for the community, as well as its proximity to Downtown Leonardtown. It’s such a charming little town.

What’s Your Favorite Part About Working with Your Customers?

The excitement of customizing each home for each family – the process of making it truly theirs. I love seeing the customers become neighbors; seeing all the other residents that live in the community warmly welcoming each new family to the community as they move in.

What’s One Piece of Advice for All Your Buyers?

There’s never a silly question. Ask away!

What’s One Fun Fact About You?

I own a Marrick Home!

Tim Williams – Suratts Crossing

Where Are You From?

Cleveland, Ohio!

How Long Have You Lived in (around) Southern Maryland?

Just over 4 years.

What’s Your Favorite Spot in Southern Maryland?

Does National Harbor count? I love National Harbor!

How Long Have You Worked In Real Estate?

Two years.

What Community Do You Manage and What’s Your Favorite Thing About It?

I’m the Community Manager at Surratts Crossing in Clinton. It’s great to see younger families grow right alongside the community itself.

What’s Your Favorite Part About Working with Your Customers?

My favorite part is guiding buyers through their first ever home-buying process. It’s incredibly rewarding!

What’s One Piece of Advice for All Your Buyers?

Research is key. From all the local builders, to the community, and beyond. The more you know, the better.

What’s One Fun Fact About You?

Is it still a fun fact if I’m a Cleveland Browns fan?

The Best Places to Eat, Drink and Enjoy!

As the summer season draws to a close, grab a seat for dinner outside or take a stroll down a charming small-town street found in Leonardtown, Maryland – also right up the street from our magnificent planned community of Clarks Rest!

Centrally located in St. Mary’s County, Leonardtown was irrefutably named as “a most convenient place” in the early 18th century and remains to be the convenient hub we know and love today! So if you’re ready to get outside and enjoy the summer sun, plan your day for exploring this beautiful historic town! To help you along the way we compiled a list of our Top 5 picks for dining, shopping and exploring the very best of Leonardtown.

Dining

1. Fitzies Restaurant and Pub 21540 Joe Hazel Road, Leonardtown, MD 20650

A Leonardtown favorite, sit down to enjoy the “Charm of the Chesapeake” at Fitzies Restaurant. Featuring outdoor dining, tiki bar and beach, it’s the perfect spot for all-American cuisine and waterside dining.

https://www.visitstmarysmd.com/food-drink/detail/fitzies-restaurant-and-pub

2. The Front Porch 22770 Washington Street, Leonardtown, MD 20650

Take a journey through Leonardtown history dining at the Front Porch restaurant. The historic Sterling House offers dining outdoors on the restaurant’s gracious front porch. Another top spot for American cuisine featuring a fresh local menu of seasonal ingredients!

https://www.visitstmarysmd.com/food-drink/detail/front-porch

Shopping

3. Craft Guild Shop 26005 Point Lookout Road, Leonardtown, MD 20650

Local art, handmade crafts and antiques are just a part of shopping for one-of-a-kind finds in Leonardtown! Stop by the Craft Guild Shop; a co-op of award-winning local Maryland artists for shopping custom-made items and be sure to visit all the small-town stores along Fenwick Street before you go!

https://www.visitstmarysmd.com/shopping/detail/craft-guild-shop

Activities

4. Leonardtown Wharf Park 22510 Washington Street, Leonardtown, MD 20650

Take a walk through the history at Leonardtown Wharf Park and enjoy scenic views of Breton Bay. It’s the perfect waterside park for all your outdoor activities and in close proximity to the Port of Leonardtown which brings us to #5 on our list!

https://www.visitstmarysmd.com/site/detail/leonardtown-wharf-park

5. The Port of Leonard Winery 23190 Newtowne Neck Road, Leonardtown, MD 20650

Located in a building repurposed from pieces of history, the Port of Leonard Winery is home to one of the only co-op wineries in the country! Take a sip of award-winning wines from Southern Maryland Winegrowers Cooperative and enjoy the warm, inviting space and local art!

https://www.visitstmarysmd.com/site/detail/port-of-leonardtown-winery

We hope you’re as excited as us to explore all this and more in Leonardtown and welcome to the verybest of living and visiting St. Mary’s County in Southern Maryland!

We all love our pets and will of course do anything to make them happy and comfortable within our own homes - we sneak them extra treats, buy them a plethora of toys, and find any excuse we can to spoil them at a moments notice. However, if you’re a dedicated pet owner who likes to take things a step further, chances are you’ve probably even made some changes to your living space to accommodate them. 

We’re going beyond the standard bowl-space in the kitchen, or pet bed at the foot of your own, we’re talking ways to seamlessly integrate upgrades for your pet that fit both architecturally and interior design-wise! Here are some of the most crafty, creative ways you can upgrade your home to suit your four-legged friends!

Pet Doors

Let’s start with the traditional – and yes, we know a pet door is in no way a novel home upgrade for pet owners. BUT, that is in reference to the classic unsightly plastic flaps. It doesn’t have to be that way! 

Today’s pet door options extend well beyond a cutout in your existing front door. Some options include integration into slider doors, screens and even have electronic open & shut abilities to ease your concerns on security. 

Integrating your pet door into your house’s architecture takes it from eyesore to elegant home upgrade that will allow for in-and-outdoor functionality for your furry friends!

Built-in Showers

Taking your pet to the groomer is a hassle, but it’s also something we generally choose to do it as it’s easier than wrestling our pets at home, or making a mess of our own personal showers - unless you have the right setup. Many newer floorplans offer options for pet showers specifically to save you from the trouble of this endeavor! 

By adding an elevated shower space with a handheld showerhead, getting your pet cleaned up goes from nightmare chore to an [relatively, depending on your pet’s liking!] easy task.  The ability to lean into the shower space makes your pet feel safer (and consequently, easier to handle), and the half-height wall protects you from their mess. This will also ensure your floors dry, too. These showers are best fits for either a mudroom or laundry room, as to still keep it out of the way from the nicer areas of your home!

Hidden Bowls, Food & More

Usually, your pets food and water bowls end up in a corner of the kitchen on a little placemat, or tucked ever-so-discretely out of the way, but are still an eyesore, right? Well, no matter if they’re the most attractive bowls on the planet, we’d all much rather them completely out of the way and out of sight. Wouldn’t it be amazing if you could hide them away until they’re needed? With pullout drawers, this is totally possible!

Cleaning up for unexpected company, and putting them away when not in use becomes that much easier. One drawer, two if you want to store the food right alongside, are needed, and can be created for the perfect set-up. This can be a DIY project if you feel like creating your own inserts, or many options come as prebuilt pieces that can be easily adapted into a foyer or small station near an outdoor exit to store other items as well!

Integrated Beds

Building your pet’s necessities into your existing cabinetry or larger décor pieces can help make everyone’s lives easier. You get to minimize the visual obtrusiveness of the items your pet needs for a comfortable life, and your pet gets a safe space they can rely on. 

Unlike a free-floating pet bed that could be relocated at a moment’s notice, a built-in pet bed will always be there for your pet if they are seeking refuge – many with can be crated to fold away at a moments notice when naptime isn’t at hand!

Outdoor Water Bowls & More

Summer is (still!) here. You’ll probably be spending more time outside, and your pet will undoubtedly want to join you. Ensure they stay hydrated and add to your property’s landscaping with a permanent water bowl for whether you’re joining them in the yard, or they go outside to play while you’re at work! Many modern options can attach directly to your outdoor water spigot, and even come with motion detection, not only making it simple to give your pet access to water all summer long, but helps to save water when they’re not thirsty, either!

A mid-June afternoon on the Eastern Shore; the sun is shining, and there’s not a cloud in the sky – whether your residence allows for porch, patio or poolside relaxation to soak in those rays, we have the assortment of furniture, styles and outdoor accessories alike to make your stay-cation all the more enjoyable throughout the summer months!

Seating & Tables

Now, the first step to relaxation is to kick back and put your feet up – and the perfect patio set is the key! The styles and selections here are almost limitless, so be sure first to set your style preference. Are you looking to compliment your interior décor outside your home as well? Or maybe you want to contrast styles from inside to outside. This could be the difference between contemporary, low profile selections, or more rustic, traditional pieces that offer more ornate looks.

A simple, yet elegant start could be a small bistro set, reminiscent of a nice café in Tuscany – smaller sets can be two chairs, with a larger to accommodate four plus. 

These pieces are accented beautifully with a flower garden, rock wall or small pond. This particular option also comes in a more modern, lightweight, style, which keeps true to the design roots but allows for easy rearranging and storage from season to season!

Or, maybe you’re after a more fixated centerpiece with sitting room for the whole family – a large; rustic-style wooden (or stone, or metal!) table with bench seating could be a perfect fit.

If you’re looking more towards contemporary, there are plenty of unique designs that can fit the bill also. An L-shaped lounge can provide the perfect seat for catching up on a summer read, while the built-in end provides a place for snacks and drinks.

Rather than a singular lounge piece, maybe you’d like the flexibility of multiple chairs for an array of guests to enjoy – these wicker options not only make for a comfortable choice, but also allows for easy stacking and storage that could be a fun focal point in and of themselves.

There are even bar-height options with unique built-ins such as a space for an ice pit – perfect for chilling drinks during a sunny afternoon meal!

Fire Pits

Of course, one of the most enjoyable elements to any summertime gathering is a classic evening next to the fire pit! Styles of these centerpieces have adapted to be versatile in both design and function to fit any porch or patio setup. While a popular theme nowadays is to incorporate a built-in pit to compliment adjacent stonework, there are plenty of secondary options to choose from.

Many contemporary choices offer the ease of propane-fueled functionality that run in an array of shapes and sizes and materitals – from stone, to wood, or fake brick to match your décor. Many come with mantel surrounds, so you’re able to utilize the pit as a table surface when not in use.

Traditional wood burning bowls are a clean, simple look that can be perfect for warming up on a cool evening or roasting marshmallows.

Awnings & Canopies

Looking for a little shade? Awnings and canopies can help provide a shelter from both the rain, or direct sunlight. While a full build-out, or motorized option that attaches to your home siding can be expensive, many accessories can be utilized for much less, with all the same features.

Free-standing awnings can be a perfect addition over your eating space, with many offering the ability to both retract as well as pivoting and rotation to adjust to the sunlight no matter the time of day.

Simpler versions can be anchored and directed towards a poolside chair or relaxation seat to provide a more contemporary approach than a traditional umbrella.

If an awning simply isn’t your style, maybe you’d rather a sunshade! These panels can be arranged in an infinite amount of shapes, colors and combinations to appease your particular taste.

Setup has its flexibilities as well, with the choice of either freestanding poles to provide anchor points, while siding or existing objects such as trees, fences or railings.  

Sound & Entertainment

What better way to enjoy your perfect outdoor setup without some tunes and activities? Kick off your summer soiree with some wireless outdoor speakers! With a bevy of options from a variety of top brands, such as Magnolia, Bose, Polk Audio and more, outdoor speakers can be mounted to siding or railings, fixated to tabletops, or even disguised to blend into a flower garden to stay camouflaged!

Many of these models can be linked to stream through your home WiFi with apps such as Sonos, and streaming channels such as Spotify, Pandora or even YouTube, allowing you to control the playlists right from your smartphone.

While the music is playing, why not keep everyone entertaining with some games fit for an outdoor patio? A perfect DIY project could be the popular bar game Hook & Ring (also known as Ring Toss!) All you need is an anchor point, hook, metal ring and some string! Having your guests attempt to release the ring and hook it on the notch at the base is harder than it looks, and is perfect for simple and fun competition.

Have a sturdy tabletop? Try out the enlarged version of the classic, Jenga!

If your yard space allows, a Cornhole, Washers, or Kan Jam set are all great, easy to setup ways to have some fun.

Window treatments can often turn into a design challenge, or worse, a major investment! However, let's face it - if you neglect your windows in favor of a different design focus, you'll be left with a pretty lackluster view. Whether you find yourself in need of fresh window treatments, want to let more sunshine in your house (or block it out) in modern fashion or are starting from complete scratch on a renovation, we've gathered some fresh trends to help you turn any window into your new favorite focal point!

First, decide whether you want blinds, shades, shutters or curtains. What do you want to achieve? Do you want privacy, light control or aesthetics? Each style will have it’s own unique characteristics to provide your space, and from there, the design work begins!

Organically-Oriented

With further and further emphasis to ‘go greener’ with each passing year, it’s no surprise that organic materials for anything are most certainly a popular trend! This go green mentality has been overflowing into the interior design world and homeowners are embracing the organic trend with woven wood shades that are made from bamboo, grass, and other natural materials. 

A popular option nowadays is bamboo; popular for its sustainable and environmentally-friendly quality, but also for its wood tones that infuse interiors with natural warmth. Matchstick blinds and natural woven shades layered with simple sheer linen panels create an elegant, yet, earthy sophistication in any space. 

Brands that provide a great depth with styles and options include Robert Allen, as well as The Woven Company which creates treatments from an assortment of natural materials like roots, twigs and twines from exotic trees, reeds, bamboo, grass, and palm leaves!

Layered Looks

Don’t be afraid to mix and match styles to create both depth and personality to your space. Incorporating blackout shades behind sheers allows for the flow of natural light, with the added ability to retain privacy [when necessary] all with pop of color or attention-grabbing pattern, as well. Combinations like this are perfect for areas of the home such as bedrooms and bathrooms. This is usually seen as the easiest—and most practical—layering treatment, as you can simply use a double curtain rod to layer a set of sheer curtains behind the set of heavier curtains.

Curtains? Shades? Why not both! 

Hanging curtains and shades on a window will add some pizzazz and an eye-catching textural look. Use a woven wood shade, or for a softer feel, opt for a fabric shade as a base, then compliment with curtains to surround. Layering curtains over blinds can also produce the same dynamic effect! By hanging the curtains higher than the window frame, you’ll also create the illusion of taller windows!

Tech-Savy

Yes, even window treatments can be slotted into a “smart” category in today’s market! Automating your window treatments to move to your preferred position throughout the day is a huge step in smart home innovation, and it goes even further! PowerView® Motorization from Hunter Douglas, the most advanced operating system on the market, integrates with other smart home powerhouses, including Nest, Google Home and Amazon Alexa. 

Program your shades to close when your thermostat reaches a certain temperature, or, open and close your shades using just your voice. With hundreds of configurations possible, your window treatments can do more than just sit idle all day long!

Plenty of Patterns

Tired of solid colors, or just looking for something a little more interesting?  Switching to some fun and exciting patterns for your treatments! Liven up your windows by adding geometric shapes and other patterns. 

These offer the opportunity for owners to get creative and have fun with their living space. Coordinate a particular pattern with an accent piece within the same room, or tie it to a theme present in adjacent furniture to keep things uniform while adding a little excitement to the space at hand.

Fantastic Finishes

Think outside the box and look to address the windows themselves for a unique spin on traditional design. Frosted glass, window films and glass alternatives let in light while protecting artwork, wood and other household items from fading due to sun exposure.

 They also aid in heating and cooling bills, add privacy and hide unsightly views. These treatments are particularly appealing to those with allergies or sensitivities to dust or pet hair, which curtains and fabric shades tend to collect over longer periods of time.

Frosted glass provides privacy without killing your view! This look can be obtained by etching the glass itself, covering it with semi-transparent contact paper, or using spray-on products. You can treat only part of the window or the whole thing, depending on your tastes or overall design desires! Decorative adhesive film offers countless options, including the look of stained glass, colored graphics and even glow-in-the-dark styles! Many adhesive films are easily removable, so you can change your windows as often as you change your interior style.

As we reach the 12th and final month of the calendar year, our temperatures will finally begun to lead us into those colder months of the year, with that inevitable winter chill right around the corner. Before December or January frosts creep their way onto our front lawns and into the nooks and crannies of our homes, it’s of utmost importance to go through the seasonal checklist to make sure your home is ready for whatever Mother Nature (or Jack Frost) tries to throw our way this upcoming Winter! 

Use our checklist to ensure you’ve got your bases covered, with ample time for any necessary maintenance that might be needed.

The Exterior

Work your way from the outside of the home, in. First, and most importantly, once the leaves have fallen from the trees, make sure to break out your clippers to prune nearby trees of thin or weakening branches that may be liable to break or impact your home with wind or moderate snowfall. With the limbs bare, you’ll be able to get a much better visual on where and what to cut. Follow this up by making sure to clear your gutters and drain pipes of any debris and buildup from the aforementioned branches. Without doing so, poor draining can cause freezing and blockages, leading to potential leaks and much larger headaches down the line. 

While you, or a professional, is up the ladder, be sure to inspect the roof for any inconsistencies or noticeable damage. Any escaping heat combined with winter temperatures can lead to ice dams; the refreezing of ice and snow on parts of the roof and/or under it. Making sure the attic region of your home has adequate insulation, as well as ventilation, is key to preventing this issue.

In preparation for snowfall itself, investing in a roof rake may be a necessity as well. Given snowfall in the DMV region touches polar opposites from year to year, this tool could prove itself vital in a big snowfall to prevent large masses of snow from freezing and damaging parts of your roof.

If you have an individual driveway, be sure to square away any scheduled plowing with your respective company ahead of time, as well as bags of sand and salt for your walkways and steps to assist in removing ice or snow buildup – the less shoveling, the better, right?

Fireplace Essentials

Winter, for all the downsides it may bring, can also bring that cozy comfort associated with huddling by the fireplace on a cold evening. Make sure your fireplace is prepped for use after months of inactivity by calling a professional chimneysweeper to clean-out debris from season’s past and anything else that a chemical-packed log might miss. Additionally, investing in chimney cap, if not already installed, is a great option to prevent debris, as well as animals from moving in and constructing their homes in your chimney.

Make sure to stock up on firewood early – it’ll save you money ahead of time, and also the trouble of driving out to buy more during a snowstorm!

Moving Inside

Making sure you have weather stripping squared away within all your doors, windows and vents in absolutely crucial in helping insulate your home throughout the coming months. Available at most hardware stores, most stripping is a DIY breeze and helps ensure your home maintains, and retains, warmth. Leaks and drafts can cause heat to escape, leading your heating bill to skyrocket.  In keeping with home energy efficiency, don’t forget to swap out light duvet covers and cotton sheets to thicker cashmere and flannel materials for staying warm. Layer throw rugs on flooring for a touch of winter décor while keeping your feet snug on cold winter nights.

Protect your pipes! Arguably the worst disaster could come from a burst pipe in the dead of winter, with an average repair cost of more than $5,000. Be sure to work your way from top floor to bottom and double over for any exposed or vulnerable piping, which can be wrapped them with insulation. Most hardware stores carry inexpensive foam rubber or fiberglass sleeves for pipes, which are easy to install. Be sure to shut off all exterior faucets and lines to prevent freezing on those, as well.

Prevent exterior door locks from freezing or sticking by spraying them with a powdered-graphite lubricant. Make sure to address any storm doors by removing the screens and replacing them with glass panels to prevent any damage and further insulate your home.

We want to take you on a journey to where the water meets the western shores in Southern Maryland. It’s a season of new beginnings, for an adventure like you’ve never experienced before! So get ready to enjoy spring with a scenic drive through “Chesapeake Country” and with us by your side as your local home builder tour guide! Are you ready for picturesque sunsets, walking trails, museums and Maryland Blue Crabs? Well buckle in my friend, as we take you through our top 7 favorites for springtime fun in Southern Maryland!

Calvert County

1. Patuxent Wine Trail: Wine and Unwind!

Spring time is the perfect time to visit the wineries in Southern Maryland! Take a tour of the Patuxent Wine Trail located in Calvert and St. Mary’s County. The wineries on the Patuxent Wine Trail is known for making some of the most flavorful wines in Maryland- experience great flavor, learn innovative growing techniques, or just grab a drink or snack and relax in beautiful vineyards. As an added bonus, many wineries have water views so you can grab a kayak or canoe and PADDLE to each winery to have a sip or a bite!  Wineries include Cove Point Winery, Fridays Creek, Perigeaux Vineyards & Winery, Port of Leonardtown Winery, and Running Hare Vineyard. Driving Tours explore more from visitmaryland.org !

2. Solomon's Island

Travel to southern Calvert County for a day of incredible sunsets and waterfront dining at Solomon’s Island!  Visit the Marine Museum, shop the boutiques and dine on fresh seasonal fare while supporting local businesses too!

You’ll be Bay Dreaming to find a new home near here! For more about Solomon’s Island visit: http://www.baydreaming.com/destinations/solomons-island-maryland/

St. Mary’s County

3. Lovely Leonardtown!

It’s more than just small town charm you’ll find in Leonardtown, MD! Take a stroll through the lively arts and entertainment district full of restaurants, boutiques, and local craft stores. The art district has great activities for the whole family, local music to dance to and delectable chocolate made at the nearby confectioner! For more outdoor fun, this quaint town is abound with miles of hiking trails for a journey through Maryland history which leads us to #4 on our list! 

4. Don’t Just Sit There...Get Out and Hike

There is no better way to explore the natural wonders of St. Mary’s County than going on a hike in beautiful St. Mary’s River State Park. Divided in two major sections and features a non-motorized pedestrian and bicycle trail that runs south from Hughesville to Lexington Park. Don’t forget to stop and check out St. Clements Island State Park and Greenwell State Parks - both located alongside water for breathtaking views to take in the scenery! We are fortunate to have so many well-maintained state parks throughout Southern Maryland and living here will give you the chance to check out all of them! Find your way to https://www.visitstmarysmd.com/features/terrific-trails for trails galore! 

Charles County

5. Cedarville State Forest: Now Stop! Wait a Minute! Waldorf MD has a Swamp in it?!?  

One of Charles County’s best kept secrets for staying so beautiful? Mud masks and moisture wraps of course! LOL The real secret to preserving such serene beauty is in part thanks to Cedarville State Park!  With just under 20 miles of hiking and biking trails, equestrian pathways, and campgrounds it’s a forest to blissfully escape into the soothing sounds of nature! The mile wide Zekiah Swamp is at the center of Cedarville Forest and a haven for southern Maryland wildlife.

Visit Maryland.gov for more information on this hidden gem!

Calvert County

6. Calvert Cliffs State Park

I Dig, You Dig, We Dig...this Poem isn't Great but it’s Deep!!

Located in the Southern Maryland town of Lusby, are 24 miles of massive cliffs that frame the west side of the Chesapeake Bay shoreline. Formed millions of years ago this park is prehistorically the perfect place for hiking, fishing, bird watching and digging for fossils along the shoreline! Whales, rays, and seabirds once the size of small airplanes are preserved in time throughout the great rocky cliffs. If you come here to dig let us know if you find one of the most sought-after items here - Teeth from the massive Megalodon shark!! FindYourChesapeake.com can be your guide to finding fossilized treasure! 

7. Flowers, Flowers, Everywhere

Spring is in full bloom at Biscoe Gray Heritage Farm. This amazing meadow with flowers as far as the eye can see has Daffodils, delphinium, sweet pea, and cherry blossoms for a picture perfect spring day! The landscape also features wooded slopes, marshes, and open water creeks that are perfect for hiking or long walks or a flower scavenger hunt! Don’t forget- with flowers come butterflies so get your cameras ready to capture some amazing seasonal beauty!  For more information on this natural wonderland visit: calvertparks.org. 

How To Keep Your Home Clean and Allergy Free During the Winter Months.

The change of seasons means chillier days which also brings on the surge of winter allergies. If you are spending more time indoors, you might notice an increase in allergy symptoms such as sneezing, wheezing, and itchy, watery eyes. We have outlined some tips to keep your home allergy-free and your family healthy during the cold weather!

Buy an Air Purifier: Buying an air purifier for your home will improve your indoor air quality while protecting your family from airborne allergens. Air purifiers use a fan to pull air through high-efficiency filters that mechanically trap particles. This type of air purifier is environmentally friendly because no ozone is produced. During winter months, you will be inside more often and it is worth investing in the air that you breathe!

Change All Bedding and Vacuum Floors Regularly:  Dust mites are very common indoor allergens that are found in pillows, mattresses, carpeting, and furniture. You can cover mattresses, box springs, and pillows in allergen-proof covers. Also, remember to wash your sheets and pillowcases in very hot water at least once a week. Vacuuming your home regularly can nab pesky dust mites in carpeting, furniture, and improve the general cleanliness of your home to reduce illness and indoor allergies! Make sure to clean the dust out of your vacuum to prevent old dust particles from being released! As a general rule, hardwood floors are easier to clean and you can wash area rugs to eliminate allergens.

Monitor Humidity Levels: Humidifiers are used in the winter to combat dryness by adding moisture to the air. Humidity levels must be monitored because mold and dust mites will grow in indoor areas that are too moist. Humidity meters can be purchased to keep humidity levels below 50 percent and a dehumidifier or moist fan can be used to minimize moisture in bathrooms and kitchens.

Don’t Use Chemical Cleaners: Replace your chemical-based cleaners with cleaners that are natural or plant-based. Cutting down on chemical cleaners will greatly improve air quality and reduce the amount of irritants that can cause sinus and nasal inflammation. Many natural cleaners include baking soda, water, vinegar, soaps, and soda water. These items are much better for your surfaces, health, AND everyday items that you should already have in your pantry!

Avoid Pet Dander: Pets also spend more time indoors during the winter and pet allergens are found in the saliva and dander of cats and dogs. Bathing your pet can help reduce the amount of dander they shed, and you should always wash your hands afterwards to prevent any dander from coming into contact with your eyes or nasal passages. Keeping pets off your bed and vacuuming carpets often will reduce allergens as well.