Monday, February 27, 2017

6 Crockpot Recipes

TRAVERSE CITY, Mich., – Michigan is a strange place to live! Sometimes it feels like our seasons are a little bit mixed up. It's not really winter anymore but it's definitely not spring, either. No matter what the weather is deciding to do outside, odds are your schedule has gotten a little busier with spring sports and activities. We wanted to help make your life a little less hectic by giving you these 6 crockpot recipes to try during this crazy time of year. Combine them for a multi-course meal or try them out on their own! Either way, we hope you enjoy!

6 Crockpot Recipes: Strawberry Rhubarb Cobbler6 Crockpot Recipes: Cheesy Creamed Corn6 Crockpot Recipes: 15 Bean Salsa6 Crockpot Recipes: Buffalo Chicken Rice Casserole6 Crockpot Recipes: Cauliflower Broccoli Soup6 Crockpot Recipes: Gnocci Pepper Jack Mac and Cheese

Click on the images above to see the recipes for Strawberry Rhubarb Cobbler, Cheesy Creamed Corn, 15 Bean Salsa, Buffalo Chicken Rice Casserole, Cauliflower Broccoli Soup, and Gnocci Pepper Jack Mac and Cheese!

We hope you enjoy these 6 crockpot recipes to make your life a little less hectic! If you like these recipes, be sure to follow us on Pinterest where we share all of our favorite meals, desserts, and more!

At Serra of Traverse City, we want to make your life easy at home and in your vehicle! Be sure to take a look at our routine maintenance pages and schedule an appointment soon! Now is a great time to make sure there was no damage done to your vehicle during the harsher winter months!

We're proud to offer you the best dealership experience in the Cherry Capital area. At our North Campus, located at 1301 S Garfield Ave, Traverse City, MI 49686, you'll enjoy the latest selection of Audi, Nissan, Toyota, VW, and Volvo vehicles. Across the street, is our used vehicle and certified pre-owned headquarters. At our South Campus, located at 1747 S Garfield Ave, Traverse City, MI 49686, you'll find the newest Cadillac and Subaru inventory, as well as our Collision Center.

Website: http://www.serratraversecity.com

Follow us on: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, Serra Cadillac Subaru Google+, Serra Nissan Volvo Google+, Serra Audi Toyota VW Google+, Serra Toyota Google+, Collision Center Google+, and YouTube


Friday, February 24, 2017

Toyota Ranked on Fortune's "World's Most Admired Companies" List

TRAVERSE CITY, Mich., – For the past three years, Toyota has ranked on Fortune's "World's Most Admired Companies" list. In a list of 50 "All-Star" companies, Toyota ranks as number 34, coming in first place among Motor Vehicle companies.

Toyota Ranked on Fortune's "World's Most Admired Companies" List

Fortune has long held an acclaimed and definitive authority on company reputations. Its ratings are based on surveys and industry peer ratings. In the "World's Most Admired Companies" category, organizations are rated on nine aspects including: quality of products and services, social and environmental responsibility, global competitiveness, and value as an investment.

Jim Lentz, Toyota Motor North America chief executive officer spoke of this achievement: "Toyota is proud to be listed once again as among the world’s most admired companies. This recognition honors the commitment of our team to continuous improvement and exceeding customer expectations. Together, we at Toyota are leading the industry in creating the future of mobility and are making a positive difference in the world through safer, greener and more fun driving experiences.”

It's no surprise to us that Toyota ranked on Fortune's "World's Most Admired Companies" list for the third year in a row! We love our Toyotas at Serra of Traverse City. If you're interested in checking one out for yourself, you can start by browsing our online inventory. Get behind the wheel by scheduling a test drive so we can have a Toyota ready to go when you arrive!

At Serra of Traverse City, we’re happy to offer you the best dealership experience in the Cherry Capital area. You can find the latest selection of Audi, Nissan, Toyota, VW, and Volvo vehicles at our North Campus location at 1301 S Garfield Ave, Traverse City, MI. If you’re looking for the newest Cadillac and Subaru inventory, or our Collision Center, our South Campus is located at 1747 S Garfield Ave, Traverse City, MI 49686. Our used vehicles and certified pre-owned headquarters is just across the street. 

Website: http://www.serratraversecity.com

Follow us on: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, Serra Cadillac Subaru Google+, Serra Nissan Volvo Google+, Serra Audi Toyota VW Google+, Serra Toyota Google+, Collision Center Google+, and YouTube

Thursday, February 23, 2017

Tips to Stay Healthy During Flu Season

TRAVERSE CITY, Mich., – Flu season is in full swing and although the we have been having some unseasonably warm weather, it's still easy to find yourself feeling a little less than 100%. We've compiled our favorite tips to stay healthy during flu season so you can stay on your feet this winter. Keep your home and workplace free of illness and germs and stay healthy, everyone around you will appreciate it!

Tips to Stay Healthy During Flu Season

1. Wash Your Hands

This might seem like a no-brainer, but washing your hands is the most important means of stopping the spread of germs. Think about how many surfaces you come in contact with during a typical day. Doorknobs, keyboards, mouses, pens and pencils, faucets - all are generally bacteria filled. Consider how many other people touch these same surfaces and you'll be running to the sink to soap up.


2. Disinfect Community Surfaces

Going back to number one, touching contaminated surfaces is a great way to end up sick. During a time when viruses and bacteria are swarming around us, it's important to clean community surfaces, like doorknobs, light switches, and faucets, regularly.

3. Eat Healthy

We can't control the habits of those around us but we can do our best to keep our own immune systems strong. Eating healthy and balanced meals that our bodies crave is a good way to ensure your own health. Give yourself the best chance at warding off illness by eating lots of fruits and vegetables!


4. Exercise Regularly

Exercise is also an immune system booster. Increasing your heart rate and getting a little sweaty are good ways to keep your immune system strong and healthy in the midst of flu season. Whatever your preferred method of exercise, your body will thank you later!


5. Drink Water

Another no-brainer, drinking water is one of the easiest ways to keep your body happy. Carry a bottle wherever you go and try to drink it regularly instead of just when you're thirsty. There are a lot of recommendations floating around about an exact amount of water intake for ideal health. The right amount for one person may be different than someone else. It's pretty hard to overload on water, so drinking it as often as you can will help you stay hydrated and healthy.

6. Stay Well Rested 

Your body fights off illness while you're sleeping! If you're keeping yourself sleep deprived, you're not giving your body a chance to defeat all the germs you come in contact with regularly. Staying well rested during flu season will help ensure your health!

We hope these tips to stay healthy during flu season keep you out of the doctors office! At Serra of Traverse City, your well-being is important to us! Whether it's at home or on the road, we want you to stay out of harms way! Start shopping our inventory of safe and reliable vehicles online, or schedule a service appointment to keep your current vehicle in great shape!

At Serra of Traverse City, we’re happy to offer you the best dealership experience in the Cherry Capital area. You can find the latest selection of Audi, Nissan, Toyota, VW, and Volvo vehicles at our North Campus location at 1301 S Garfield Ave, Traverse City, MI. If you’re looking for the newest Cadillac and Subaru inventory, or our Collision Center, our South Campus is located at 1747 S Garfield Ave, Traverse City, MI 49686. Our used vehicles and certified pre-owned headquarters is just across the street.

Website: http://www.serratraversecity.com

Follow us on: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, Serra Cadillac Subaru Google+, Serra Nissan Volvo Google+, Serra Audi Toyota VW Google+, Serra Toyota Google+, Collision Center Google+, and YouTube

Friday, February 17, 2017

Subaru of America is Turning 50

TRAVERSE CITY, Mich., – Subaru of America is turning 50! February 15th, 2018 will mark the 50th anniversary of our beloved subies! Earlier this week, Subaru announced that the year leading up to their half-century marker, will be a year of celebrations! They also announced that in honor of their company birthday, they will be donating "50 cars for 50 years" to a national charity which has yet to be released.

2018 will be a year of special edition model vehicles from Subaru, and more details of special events will come later in the year. In honor of this historical announcement, we'd like to share some fun facts about Subaru's history!

Subaru of America is Turning 50


  • The headline for the first Subaru 360 vehicle read "Cheap and Ugly does it"
  • Although Subarus are now known for their safety, the 360 was once rated as "unacceptable" since it's weight made it exempt from federal safety standards
  • In 1978 Subaru manufactured and debuted a vehicle named the BRAT - a cross between a small pick up and a car
  • In the 1990s, Paul Hogan and other celebrities were hired to increase Subaru brand awareness
Subaru of America is Turning 50

Subaru of America is Turning 50

It's time to get excited about our beloved Subaru's 50th birthday! This coming year is sure to be full of fun and charity-based events. To learn more about the history of Subaru of America, you can read the full announcement on the Subaru U.S. Media Center. If you're ready to celebrate Subaru in your own way, take a look at our online inventory of Subaru models and stop by for a test drive! 

At Serra of Traverse City, we’re happy to offer you the best dealership experience in the Cherry Capital area. You can find the latest selection of Audi, Nissan, Toyota, VW, and Volvo vehicles at our North Campus location at 1301 S Garfield Ave, Traverse City, MI. If you’re looking for the newest Cadillac and Subaru inventory, or our Collision Center, our South Campus is located at 1747 S Garfield Ave, Traverse City, MI 49686. Our used vehicles and certified pre-owned headquarters is just across the street.

Website: http://www.serratraversecity.com

Follow us on: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, Serra Cadillac Subaru Google+, Serra Nissan Volvo Google+, Serra Audi Toyota VW Google+, Serra Toyota Google+, Collision Center Google+, and YouTube

Wednesday, February 15, 2017

7 Muffin Recipes to Keep You Cozy

TRAVERSE CITY, Mich., – In the throws of winter, it can feel like spring will never come, especially in Northern Michigan. If you're not into all the snow, staying cooped up inside might just drive you crazy. That is, unless you have something to do! Try out these 7 muffin recipes to keep you cozy for the remainder of the cold winter months! Your family will thank you, and they all make the perfect grab-and-go breakfast for those dark early mornings! Be sure to keep up with all of our favorite recipes on our Pinterest page!

Blueberry Streusel Muffins



These muffins are better than your average blueberry muffins. The streusel crumb topping gives them a nice crunch and they're perfect to satisfy your sweet tooth. Serve them warm and you might just think you've bitten into a blueberry pie!

Lemon Poppyseed Muffins



Everyone loves a good lemon poppyseed muffin! These classic snacks would make an awesome breakfast and they're super easy to make. They only take 25 minutes! You'll be glad you gave these ones a shot! 

Double Chocolate Muffins



These treats might be a little too decadent for breakfast, but if you love chocolate then you'll love these double chocolate muffins! If you're craving something super chocolatey and warm, give these muffins a try!

Peaches and Cream Muffins



Although peaches are out of season, canned fruit will do just fine for this tasty recipe. We think it's reminiscent of our favorite flavor of oatmeal, making it an awesome breakfast option!

Banana Espresso Chocolate Chip Muffins


The espresso in these delicious muffins make them great for early morning munchies! It pairs perfectly with the chocolate and banana, making a good breakfast or snack.

Chunky Monkey Muffins


These chunky monkey muffins are a vegan option for the picky eaters in your life. You could also substitute regular ingredients if you're not worried about sticking to a vegan diet.

Monkey Bread Muffins


Monkey bread muffins are a great way to portion out this delicious breakfast food. They're fairly simple to make, but they are a little messy!

We hope you'll give these 7 muffin recipes a try to keep you cozy  for the rest of the winter! Even if you're not looking to have dessert for breakfast, these tasty treats are delicious as a warm snack that your family will enjoy! Keep your car cozy in the cold, too with help from our routine maintenance pages!

At Serra of Traverse City, we’re happy to offer you the best dealership experience in the Cherry Capital area. You can find the latest selection of Audi, Nissan, Toyota, VW, and Volvo vehicles at our North Campus location at 1301 S Garfield Ave, Traverse City, MI. If you’re looking for the newest Cadillac and Subaru inventory, or our Collision Center, our South Campus is located at 1747 S Garfield Ave, Traverse City, MI 49686. Our used vehicles and certified pre-owned headquarters is just across the street.

Website: http://www.serratraversecity.com

Follow us on: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, Serra Cadillac Subaru Google+, Serra Nissan Volvo Google+, Serra Audi Toyota VW Google+, Serra Toyota Google+, Collision Center Google+, and YouTube

Thursday, February 9, 2017

8 DIY Valentine's Day Cards

TRAVERSE CITY, Mich., – Valentine's Day is almost here! If you have kids, that means they're probably excited to give out cards to their friends at their school party. Store bought cards are okay, but they can be kind of boring! Help your kids try these 8 DIY Valentine's Day Cards to get their creative juices flowing. Who knows, you may find you like them enough to give them out to your co-workers or friends, too! 

Bouncy Ball Galaxy Card


8 DIY Valentine's Day Cards

If you're looking for an alternative to candy, this bouncy ball galaxy is a fun and creative way to stay away from the sugar.

Owl Be Your Valentine


8 DIY Valentine's Day Cards

These owl valentines are so cute! You can use any heart-shaped candy for the eyes, or forget the candy all together!



8 DIY Valentine's Day Cards

Who knew Hershey's Kisses made the perfect mice? Add a few craft supplies and you've got yourself a cute little treat.



8 DIY Valentine's Day Cards

These fishbowl valentines are a cute alternative to your typical Valentine's Day cards. They're also a good way to get away from the inevitable sugar buzz that usually comes with V-day.



8 DIY Valentine's Day Cards

Perfect printables for your Star Wars fan friends. Pixie Stix make the perfect light sabers!



8 DIY Valentine's Day Cards

These dino valentines are so cute and colorful! Plus, the dinosaur puns are endless. No matter your age, your friends are sure to love these creative cards. 



8 DIY Valentine's Day Cards

Who doesn't love Starburst candies? These printable valentines perfectly match the colorful wrappers and come with a cute message for your friends.

Cereal-sly Creative Valentines


8 DIY Valentine's Day Cards

We think these cereal valentines are a cereal-sly creative alternative to traditional Valentine's Day cards and candy! 

No matter how old you are, we think you can enjoy this Valentine's Day with these 8 DIY Valentine's Day Cards. Give them to your friends, loved ones, and co-workers, and spread a little love this Valentine's Day. Don't forget to show a little love to your vehicles, too. Be sure to take a look at our coupons page to save money on your next service appointment at Serra of Traverse City. 

We're proud to offer you the best dealership experience in the Cherry Capital area. At our North Campus, located at 1301 S Garfield Ave, Traverse City, MI 49686, you'll enjoy the latest selection of Audi, Nissan, Toyota, VW, and Volvo vehicles. Across the street, is our used vehicle and certified pre-owned headquarters. At our South Campus, located at 1747 S Garfield Ave, Traverse City, MI 49686, you'll find the newest Cadillac and Subaru inventory, as well as our Collision Center.

Website: http://www.serratraversecity.com

Follow us on: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, Serra Cadillac Subaru Google+, Serra Nissan Volvo Google+, Serra Audi Toyota VW Google+, Serra Toyota Google+, Collision Center Google+, and YouTube

Tuesday, February 7, 2017

Serra Traverse City - Help Jordan Fight Against Cancer

TRAVERSE CITY, Mich., – One of our favorite things about living in Traverse City is the sense of community and togetherness we feel here. We celebrate together, and when tragedy strikes, we know we can lean on each other for support. Unfortunately, in November, one of our own TC family members was diagnosed with a rare soft tissue cancer and is now facing a large financial burden. We hope that you will join Serra of Traverse City as we help Jordan fight against cancer.

Serra Traverse City - Help Jordan Fight Against Cancer
Jordan with his wife, Shelby.

Jordan Blodgett was diagnosed with extraskeletal mesenchymal chondrasarcoma on November 15, 2016 and began chemotherapy treatments at U of M Hospital in Ann Arbor in December. The drive, which takes 4 hours each direction, will be made by Jordan and his wife, Shelby at least 9 times during the next 9 months. It goes without saying that gas, lodging expenses, and medical fees will begin to add up for this young couple. If you are able, we encourage you to make a donation here.

Serra Traverse City - Help Jordan Fight Against Cancer

On March 5th, Jordan and Shelby's family will be hosting a benefit dinner at the Alden Bar & Grill located at 9149 Helena Rd, Alden, MI. The suggested donation is $10/person (drinks not included) and children 5 and under will eat free! If you have any questions or would like to donate an item for a drawing at the dinner, you can contact Shannon Goddard at (231) 944-4360. We would love to see you there!

If you're interested in learning more about Jordan's diagnosis and keeping up with his story, you can read all about it here. We thank you in advance for your support as you join Serra of Traverse City in helping Jordan fight against cancer and we're so happy to live in a community where we know we can count on one another in a time of need.

At Serra of Traverse City, we’re happy to offer you the best dealership experience in the Cherry Capital area. You can find the latest selection of Audi, Nissan, Toyota, VW, and Volvo vehicles at our North Campus location at 1301 S Garfield Ave, Traverse City, MI. If you’re looking for the newest Cadillac and Subaru inventory, or our Collision Center, our South Campus is located at 1747 S Garfield Ave, Traverse City, MI 49686. Our used vehicles and certified pre-owned headquarters is just across the street.

Website: http://www.serratraversecity.com

Follow us on: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, Serra Cadillac Subaru Google+, Serra Nissan Volvo Google+, Serra Audi Toyota VW Google+, Serra Toyota Google+, Collision Center Google+, and YouTube

Friday, February 3, 2017

Super Bowl Snack Recipes for Your Football Party

TRAVERSE CITY, Mich., – The New England Patriots take on the Atlanta Falcons this Sunday at Super Bowl LI. Kick off is at 6:30 but do you know what you're going to be eating? Our Super Bowl snack recipes for your football party are perfect, whether you're the host or the attendee! Prepare a spread your friends will die for! 

1. French Onion Sliders


Super Bowl Snack Recipes for Your Football Party

These sandwiches are great for large crowds! They're easy to make in big quantities and they'll satisfy your friends' hunger.

2. Cheesecake Sugar Cookie Footballs


Super Bowl Snack Recipes for Your Football Party

Dessert that looks like a football? What could be better at a football party? These will disappear quickly!

3. Jalapeno Popper Wontons


Super Bowl Snack Recipes for Your Football Party

Not your average jalapeno popper, these party snacks will satisfy your need for spicy, salty, cheesy, and crunchy!

4. Homemade Pretzel Bites


Super Bowl Snack Recipes for Your Football Party

Pretzels are the perfect snack, but you can step it up a notch with these homemade pretzel bites and cheesy dipping sauce! 

5. Tater Tot Skewers 


Super Bowl Snack Recipes for Your Football Party

Potatoes and cheese, conveniently on a stick? It doesn't get much more simple or delicious! Paired with a ranch dipping sauce? Yum!

6. Mozzarella Bites


Super Bowl Snack Recipes for Your Football Party

Molten cheese is all we have to say about this one. And spicy mayo for dipping, for your added culinary benefit. 

7. Cowboy Corn Dip


Super Bowl Snack Recipes for Your Football Party

This stuff is easy to make and so addicting! Just toss all the ingredients in a bowl, stir, and serve with chips! 

In order to kick up your kick off viewing, you should definitely try these Super Bowl snack recipes for your football party! While you're busy watching the commercials and half-time show, don't forget to take a look at our coupons page to save on your next service appointment at Serra of Traverse City! You might also want to check out our Routine Maintenance pages to keep your vehicle in good shape for the rest of the winter! 

At Serra of Traverse City, we’re happy to offer you the best dealership experience in the Cherry Capital area. You can find the latest selection of Audi, Nissan, Toyota, VW, and Volvo vehicles at our North Campus location at 1301 S Garfield Ave, Traverse City, MI. If you’re looking for the newest Cadillac and Subaru inventory, or our Collision Center, our South Campus is located at 1747 S Garfield Ave, Traverse City, MI 49686. Our used vehicles and certified pre-owned headquarters is just across the street.

Website: http://www.serratraversecity.com

Follow us on: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, Serra Cadillac Subaru Google+, Serra Nissan Volvo Google+, Serra Audi Toyota VW Google+, Serra Toyota Google+, Collision Center Google+, and YouTube