Cozy and Bright: December’s Home of the Month
December’s Home of the Month is the perfect holiday haven for family to gather at Christmastime. Maldetta Kravet and her late husband Robert built the home in 1984 after their children were grown, and it was designed as a place to entertain the family on holidays and special occasions.
According to homeowner Maldetta Kravet, who will turn 92 years old in March, this is the third time she has received the Home of the Month award over the years. And she is thankful to be considered. She married her husband, Robert, in 1982, and he sadly passed away in 2015. She has three children, and now her grandson Ryan Cornell and his lovely wife Leni Cornell live with her in the beautiful SDCE home.
The two-story, 4,000-square-foot home has four bedrooms and three baths on ¾ acre. The house was built mostly by friends and family in 1984 and is the perfect location for their family gatherings. Kravet grew up in a big family and was one of 11 children. The remaining two siblings joined her at her home to celebrate Christmas. She expected 16 family members to celebrate the holiday in her home, which is equipped with an open kitchen between two dining rooms and an attached bar.
Kravet loves her community and neighborhood. Every day, her family and neighbors find her gardening in her yard or on a ladder, hanging up flags. She flies the American, Marine, and police flags daily. She takes pride in her home and is known for her yard. Granddaughter-in-law Leni Cornell says that Robert and Maldetta put in all of the grass in the yard and, over the years, have added succulents and cacti to accommodate less water. In addition, she has a rose garden, vegetable garden, and fruit trees. “She is obsessed with the vegetable garden,” says Cornell.
Kravet likes the location of her home, and she loves her neighbors. Two of these sweet neighbors alternate taking her little rescue terrier, Kevin, for walks, rain or shine. According to Cornell, the neighbors don’t miss a day and even walk the pup on Christmas morning. “We will be here for her as long as she needs us,” says Cornell.
Kravet takes pride in her home and is honored to be chosen for this award. As the year draws to a close, this Home of the Month reminds us of the beauty of gathering, celebrating, and creating lasting memories.
Photos courtesy of Leni Cornell.
