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Carving pumpkins is a beloved Halloween tradition kids look forward to year after year. However, it’s essential to approach pumpkin carving safely so everyone can have fun. Here’s a guide to the dos and don’ts of pumpkin carving, along with downloadable templates to spark your creativity!

Pumpkin Carving Dos

Choose Your Pumpkin

Select a pumpkin that is firm, has a smooth surface and is free from blemishes. Smaller pumpkins are often easier for kids to handle, while larger ones provide more space for intricate designs. You can pick one up at the grocery store but for maximum enjoyment, hit up your local pumpkin patch. Two favorite patches in the Cypress area are the Pumpkin Patch at Harvest Season Farm and the Pumpkin Patch Cypress Methodist Church.

Safety First

For kids, use child-friendly carving kits that feature safe, serrated tools instead of sharp knives. These kits often include scoops and small saws designed specifically for young carvers.

Set Up a Station

Set up a designated carving area with plenty of newspaper or a plastic tablecloth to catch the mess. This makes cleanup easier and keeps your kitchen tidy.

Use Downloadable Templates

If you aren’t an experienced carver, download some fun templates. Many are child friendly and all of them are much easier than trying to do it freehand. The Pumpkin Lady features nearly 1,000 free, original pumpkin carving patterns, many perfect for beginners. The Best Ideas for Kids features 10 templates with silly, fun and spooky faces. HGTV has some adorable templates that require a little more skill but produce beautiful results.

Do Involve Kids in Every Step

Let kids help with scooping out the seeds and pulp (a fun and slimy job!). They can also assist in tracing the design onto the pumpkin before you carve.

Do Light Up Your Pumpkin Safely

Instead of using candles, opt for LED tealights or glow sticks to illuminate your carved pumpkin. This is safer and reduces the risk of fire hazards.

Pumpkin Carving Don’ts

Don’t Rush the Process

Take your time when carving. Rushing can lead to mistakes or accidents. Enjoy the process as a family activity!

Don’t Let Kids Handle Sharp Tools

Always supervise children when they are near sharp tools, even if they are kid-safe. Adults should do the actual carving while kids assist with other tasks.

Don’t Ignore Safety Precautions

Always carve in a well-lit area and be mindful of where you place your hands while using tools. Teach kids about safe handling practices.

Don’t Discard the Seeds

Instead of throwing away pumpkin seeds, roast them for a delicious snack! Simply rinse, season and bake them for a tasty treat.

Carve a Pumpkin In Your New Cypress Green Kitchen

If you’re planning to carve pumpkins, you need the perfect workspace. How about a new kitchen in a beautiful Cypress Green home? Our builders are experts at creating spacious kitchens with plenty of room for creating the perfect jack o’ lanterns. Stop by our information center today.


Where can your furry friends frolic? The dog park! Dog parks are the “ulti-mutt” playgrounds where your canine can make friends, enjoy quality time with you and work off some energy. Whether your pooch is a playful pup or a seasoned senior, there’s something for every dog to enjoy. Here are a few tips so you both have tail-wagging fun.

Know Before You Go

Every dog park has its own set of rules. Make sure to follow them to keep the peace and ensure everyone has a great time. Some common rules are to pick up after your dog, do not bring dogs in heat and if the park is divided between large and small dogs, know which is appropriate for your dog’s size.

Bring a Doggy Bag

Don’t forget to pack water, poop bags and toys for your pup. Most dog parks provide poop bags, but they can run out, so be sure to bring your own. Don’t bring your dog’s favorite toys as that can cause a fight. Bring extra balls so you don’t start a “fur-ocious game” of tug-of-war! Don’t bring treats as they can provoke bad behavior if other dogs try to get in a nibble.

Let the Games Begin

While the dog park is a great place to meet other dogs, your pup will want to play with you, too. Put down the phone and play some games. Fetch is always popular with dogs. Some parks have miniature obstacle courses for dogs, but if yours doesn’t, you can set up your own using tree branches, benches and rocks. Just be sure to set it up away from other dogs and keep an eye on any pooches giving it a try.

Pay Attention

Stay off your phone and keep an eye on your dog. Even if your pup is a lover, other dogs might be fighters, and you don’t want an expensive vet bill.

Meet Other Pet Parents

One of the things about dog parks is the chance to meet other dog lovers. Strike up a conversation with fellow pet parents, and you might just find a new “fur-end!” Share stories about your pups’ antics, swap tips on training or plan future playdates. After all, every dog deserves a buddy to bark about!

Know When to Go

Keep an eye on your dog’s body language. If they seem overwhelmed or stressed, it might be time for a break. This can show up as your dog hanging out in a corner away from the other dogs or coming to sit by you. Dogs familiar with the park may stand by the gate, signaling that it’s time to go home.

Cypress Green’s Dog Park Is In The Works

Purchasing a home in Cypress Green comes with a perk for your pooch —our new dog park. Currently under construction, our pet playground will be a feature of our planned Amenity Village. Stop by and we’ll tell you all about it.


Grilling is an art form, deserving of the tools necessary to craft culinary masterpieces —  in other words, an outdoor kitchen worthy of your best recipes. Creating the ultimate outdoor kitchen requires planning, the right tools and a few finishing touches. Here’s how you do it:

Set a Budget

Before you go shopping, set a budget. Decide whether you want a freestanding or built-in grill. Determine your must-haves when it comes to accessories. Also consider the ambiance you want to create. Will you need new outdoor furniture? What about a fire pit? Do your research and decide what you can and can’t afford.

Start with the Heart

The heart of your outdoor kitchen is the grill. Everything should revolve around it. If possible, locate it near your indoor kitchen for maximum efficiency. Consider a high-quality built-in gas grill as your centerpiece. Unlike freestanding models, built-in grills can be customized to match your outdoor decor, elevating the overall style of your outdoor living space.

Consider Your Options

Think about how you plan to use your grill. If you are just planning to flip the occasional burger, a free-standing grill is probably all you will need. If you are planning to do a lot of al fresco cooking and entertaining, you may want a few upgrades. Ample countertop area is essential for food prep. Incorporating a sink with running water makes cooking and cleanup much easier. You may also want a refrigeration unit where you can stash ingredients and cold drinks. Weather-resistant cabinets and drawers are necessary for storing utensils, cookware and supplies.

Consider Your Materials

Your grill may be located on a covered patio, but that doesn’t mean it is immune to the elements. If you are considering a built-in grill, choose durable materials such as stainless steel or granite.

Consider Add-Ons

If you feel like splurging a little, add a smoker or pizza oven to your setup. A smoker allows you to add some diversity to your culinary repertoire. A pizza oven is fun for everyone.

Think Beyond the Grill

As tempting as it is to concentrate on the grill, you should give some thought to the area surrounding it. Include comfortable seating options such as sofas and chairs. A good outdoor dining table is a must. All furniture should be durable and weather-resistant. Don’t forget about lighting. You will need bright lights around the grill. Ambient lighting can be supplied by solar lamps, café lights or lanterns. Consider installing heating units for chilly evenings and misters for hot days.

Pulling It Together

If you have the budget, pull your outdoor living space together with the addition of fun items such as a fire pit, outdoor fireplace or water feature. Outdoor sound systems and television screens provide entertainment for guests. Don’t forget the landscaping. Consider adding planters with herbs for easy access while cooking.

Build Your Ultimate Outdoor Kitchen In Cypress Green

If you are ready to build your ultimate outdoor kitchen, visit Cypress Green. Our builders are experts at installing outdoor kitchens. They also look great attached to our beautiful new homes. Stop by today.


Builders D.R. Horton and Lennar are bringing something exciting to Cypress Green — new homesites and model homes!

D.R. Horton is offering homebuyers a choice of 15 gorgeous floor plans with plenty of options and upgrades available to make your home uniquely yours. Homes range from 1,424 to 2,733 square feet. The one- and two-story homes feature island kitchens, covered patios, expansive primary suites with well-appointed baths, game rooms, two-car garages and more! Pricing has not yet been set. Homes will be situated on 45- and 50-foot homesites.

Lennar’s homes will be priced from the mid $200,000s. The builder is offering floor plans from its Cottage Collection. Not all floor plans have been announced. Lennar is known for its “Everything’s Included” philosophy, so homes are sure to feature stunning kitchens, beautiful primary suites, smart home technology and more.

Both builders will be opening model homes soon so you will be able to view the floor plans and speak with a representative about making your new home dreams come true.

We are very excited to have these amazing builders offering more opportunities to live in our exceptional community.


When it comes to choosing a home and a community, you probably have questions. At Cypress Green, the lovely people at our new Information Center have answers. What questions should you ask? Anything that ensures our community aligns with your lifestyle and needs. Here are some key questions to consider.

What’s the lifestyle like here?

It’s important to get an overview so you can imagine what your life will be like. Ask follow-up questions such as whether our community is family-oriented, has options for young couples or empty nesters and has built a strong sense of identity.

What does future development look like?

If you are planning to be in your home for a long time, you will want to know what the future holds for Cypress Green. Will there be additional amenities, onsite schools or commercial development? You can see our master plan at the Information Center and ask more questions as they occur to you.

What amenities are available?

All master-planned communities offer amenities. We can tell you all about our planned amenity village. You can see a short presentation about our planned amenities at the Information Center.

What schools will my children attend?

If you have children or plan to in the future, you will want to know which schools your children will attend. Cypress Green students attend Waller ISD schools. Our staff can tell you all about them!

How many homebuilders are available?

A variety of builders can offer different styles and price points, which is a significant advantage. Ask us about the number of builders we have, what they are like and the variety of floor plans they offer.

Is there a homeowners association (HOA)?

Find out all about our HOA‘s rules, fees, and responsibilities. We can give you a copy of the covenants and restrictions to see what is permitted within the community

Visit Us at the Information Center

The Cypress Green Information Center is located at 20103 Sedona Pk Dr Hockley, TX 77447. We’re open from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. Mondays and Tuesdays and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday through Sundays, seven days a week. Stop by and start your homebuying journey today.


You’ve just moved to Cypress Green. What will you be making in your new kitchen? Since it’s summer, you will want something cool. And since school is out, you’ll want something to make with the kids. Stumped? We aren’t. Here are a few cool recipes to help you out:

Variations on the Theme of Ice Cream

The quintessential summer dessert doesn’t need an ice cream maker. Kids will have a ball making 5 Min Ice Cream. This blender-friendly ice cream made with fresh fruit is a little healthier than your usual scoop. Fast, easy and non-dairy, this ice cream gets a protein boost from peanut butter. Got leftover ice cream sandwiches? Turn them into a fancy dessert.

Peppy Popsicles

All it takes is a liquid to make tasty popsicles, but if you want to take it up a notch, try these creamy layered blueberry ice pops. Frozen fruit is the main ingredient in these fruit pops. S’mores without a campfire? Yes, please. Just because you don’t want to turn the oven on doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy peach crisp.

Scintillating Smoothies

Fresh frozen smoothies like this one made with watermelon cool you down and wet your whistle. Orange Creamsicle on a stick can be messy so just put it in a glass instead. When life gives you peaches make peach smoothies. Make your strawberry smoothies a little healthier with the addition of carrots.

Slurp Down Slushies

What’s more fun than slurping slushies on a hot day? How about slurping down a cotton candy lemonade slushie? Cherries, lime and ice? Pretty sophisticated if you ask us. You won’t find a more refreshing slushie around than one made with watermelon. Treat yourself and the kids to an orange sherbert slushy.

Fabulous Frozen Fruit

The kids will love helping skewer melon with a stick. These inside out frozen banana bites are just the thing for a hot summer day. Fruit cups are good but frozen fruit cups are better. Short on time? All you need is one ingredient and a microplane for this easy frozen fruit dessert.


Pickleball has exploded in popularity. While it is often compared to tennis, the two could not be more different. The planned Cypress Green amenity center will offer opportunities to try your hand at both. With that in mind, let’s dive into the pickleball vs tennis debate and explore what makes each sport unique.

Court Size and Layout

One of the most noticeable differences between pickleball and tennis is the court size. A tennis court is 78 feet long and 27 feet wide for singles (36 feet for doubles). A pickleball court is 44 feet long and 20 feet wide for both singles and doubles. The advantage for those playing pickleball is that a smaller court makes the game more accessible, especially for those with limited mobility or less stamina. It also means faster gameplay and shorter distances to cover.

Equipment

Both games are played with racquets and balls but that is where the similarity ends. Tennis players use larger, stringed racquets and felt-covered tennis balls. Pickleball players use solid paddles that are similar to oversized ping-pong paddles and plastic balls with holes. The pickleball paddle and ball combination allows for a different style of play, with less emphasis on power and more on control and strategy.

Gameplay and Scoring

While both sports involve hitting a ball over a net, the rules and scoring systems differ. Tennis is scored 15, 30, 40, game (with deuce and advantage). Serves must land in the service box diagonally across the court. Players can hit the ball on the volley anywhere on the court. Pickleball is scored by the serving team only and games typically go to 11. Serves must be made underhand and land in the diagonal service court. There is a non-volley zone (“the kitchen”) near the net where volleys are prohibited

Physical Demands

Both sports offer excellent exercise, but the physical demands differ. Tennis generally requires more endurance, speed and overall fitness due to the larger court size and longer rallies. Pickleball is less physically demanding, making it more accessible to a wider range of ages and fitness levels. However, it still provides a great workout, especially for reflexes and hand-eye coordination.

Learning Curve

Tennis typically requires more time to develop the necessary skills for enjoyable gameplay, especially serving and groundstrokes. The smaller court and slower ball speed in pickleball make it easier for newcomers to rally and enjoy the game quickly.

Social Aspects

Both sports offer great social opportunities, but pickleball has gained a reputation for its particularly social nature. Pickleball games are often played as doubles, encouraging more interaction. The smaller court size in pickleball facilitates conversation during play.

Pick Your Court and Your Home in Cypress Green

If you are ready to find your dream home, why not head to Cypress Green? Our builders offer a range of home choices with many move-in-ready homes available. Once you’ve chosen your home, choose your sport. Or, if you are game, why not try both?


Planning a visit to Cypress Green? Your first stop should be our beautiful Information Center. Why? It’s an easy way to learn everything you’ve ever wanted to know about our fantastic community. Here are the reasons you should consider visiting it before you visit our model homes:

Get a Complete Overview
At the Information Center, we have an interactive display that provides a complete overview of Cypress Green so you can visualize our features in an immersive way. That includes a look at our master plan, our developer, vision, development stages, amenities, future plans and more.

Meet Our Experts
If you have questions about life in Cypress Green, our friendly staff is available to answer them. They are experts on our community and can provide insights and advice based on your needs and preferences.

Learn About Amenities
When it comes to choosing a community, you want to know about more than just houses. You want to learn about the great amenities available to you. At the Information Center, you can see renderings of our future Amenity Village and get to know our Lifestyle Director.

Learn About Resident-only Events
Our staff can give you the skinny on all upcoming events, activities and programs happening at Cypress Green. That way you’ll know if our community’s brand of fun fits in with your lifestyle.

Get to Know the Surrounding Neighborhood
If you want to know where the schools, health care facilities, daycare options, shopping centers and attractions are, you can find out at the Information Center.

Get Financial Information
Everyone has a budget, and you can get the information you need to help set yours. We can tell you all about homeowner association fees, taxes and other costs associated with living in Cypress Green.

Visit the Information Center Today
The Cypress Green Information Center is located at 20103 Sedona Pk Dr Hockley, TX 77447. We’re open from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. Mondays and Tuesdays and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday through Sundays, seven days a week. Stop by and start your homebuying journey today.


If you’ve just moved to Cypress Green, the first holiday you will probably celebrate is Father’s Day. Celebrating it in your new home offers a wonderful opportunity to create memorable experiences. Here are some ideas to make the day special:

Breakfast in Bed
Put that new kitchen to work whipping up Dad’s favorite breakfast foods. Consider pancakes, waffles, eggs, bacon and fresh fruit. Then put it all on a tray and serve it to him in bed. If he’s not a breakfast-in-bed person, decorate the informal dining area with streamers and signs so he can see how much you love him as he is chowing down.

Let Him Relax
Spa days aren’t just for mom. Set up an at-home spa day with a foot bath, massage and Dad’s favorite relaxing activities. Tell him to spend part of the day dedicating himself to his favorite hobby. Bonus points if he gets to use one of his Father’s Day gifts.

Create Something Together
Work on a DIY project together, such as building a birdhouse, planting a garden or working on the car. You won’t have to do any home improvement with a new Cypress Green home, but if there is a project on his list, offer to help or do it for him.

Lunch or Dinner Al Fresco
Host a backyard barbecue with all his favorite grilled foods. It’s really easy if you opted to install an outdoor kitchen in your new Cypress Green home. Include games like cornhole, horseshoes or bocce ball. If you aren’t proficient in the grilled meat department, set up a picnic in the backyard or nearby park with a basket full of his favorite snacks and drinks.

Play Together
Host a family game night with his favorite board, video or card games. Break in your new media room by hosting a movie marathon featuring his favorite films or a themed series. Provide plenty of snacks and his favorite beverage.

Make Memories
Start making memories in your new home! Spend time sharing stories about dad. Record the conversation for a keepsake. Have a family photo session in and around your new home to capture the special day.

Don’t Forget the Gifts
Create a personalized gift such as a photo album, a framed family photo or a hand-painted picture. Not creative? Give him a custom-made item like a mug, T-shirt or keychain with a special message or photo.

Prepare to Spend Next Father’s Day at Cypress Green
Not a Cypress Green resident yet? No worries. Visit our model homes and talk to our builders. They can get you into a new home before you know it. Then you can spend next Father’s Day with us.


What are you doing while your beautiful new Cypress Green home is being built? Making plans to sell your current home. Selling a home involves several steps and considerations all designed to make your home as attractive as possible to potential buyers. Not sure where to start? Here are a few tips.

Get Professional Help
While you can sell your home on your own, working with a Realtor can streamline the process and provide valuable expertise, especially when navigating negotiations and legalities. They can help you set the right price, provide tips on making your home more attractive and utilize various marketing channels to reach potential buyers.

Make a Good First Impression
If your home isn’t appealing on the outside, potential buyers might not want to see the inside. Maximize curb appeal by ensuring that your landscaping is neat, and the exterior is well-maintained. Consider adding some appealing touches like potted plants or a fresh coat of paint to the front door.

Time to Clean
Make sure your home is clean, decluttered and well-maintained. Consider hiring professional cleaners to give your place that new home smell. Clear off countertops, shelves and closets to create a sense of spaciousness. Address issues such as leaky faucets, chipped paint, broken tile or squeaky doors.

Stage Your Home
Staging your home can help potential buyers envision themselves living there. Remove personal items, rearrange furniture to create a sense of space and add tasteful decor to highlight the home’s features. Consider repainting your walls in neutral colors so the house appeals to a wider range of buyers.

Highlight Key Features
Showcase the unique selling points of your home, whether it’s a spacious kitchen, a beautiful view or a recently renovated bathroom. Highlighting these features can make your property stand out in a competitive market.

Be Flexible with Showings
Make your home available for showings at convenient times for potential buyers, including evenings and weekends. The more accessible your home is, the more opportunities you’ll have to attract interested parties.

Be Transparent
Disclose any known issues or defects with the property upfront. Being transparent builds trust with potential buyers and can prevent complications during the negotiation process.

Set the Right Price
Research the market and set a competitive price for your home. Overpricing can deter potential buyers, while underpricing may lead to loss of value. Consider getting a professional appraisal or consulting a Realtor for guidance.