SMITTEN
She arrived late last Sunday night at John Wayne Airport. She was terrified. Traumatized. She had never been away from the Colorado Rockies in her whole life. Never been away from her brothers and sisters or even her mother and father for that matter. Never been in a house, a car, a crate or an airplane. When the cargo department brought her out to us she huddled in the back of her crate shaking with fear from the unfamiliar loud noises. Who were we, peering in at her? Could we be trusted? She is Stacey’s beautiful new puppy, Fiona (which means fair-haired). A Colorado Rocky Mountain dog, a hybrid, 3/4th Great Pyrenees and 1/4th Anatolian Shepherd. She was given to Stacey from her friends in the Rockies, the idea being Fiona will live here with Stacey, the animal lover, until Stacey can move back there, hopefully within a year. This new hybrid was bred to protect their humans from wildlife…mountain lions, bears and the like. It is their nature to be gentle and protective. Little Fiona, we think, must have been the runt of the 5 puppy litter because she is shy, contemplative and cautious. And who could blame her? Such a sweet, gentle soul with those big black eyes set in a soft white face as if she had on black eyeliner with snow white eyelashes. Our hearts melted immediately and we went into protective mother mode determined to make her happy.
We talked to her, cuddled her and gently got her into the car and home to Stacey’s house into a quiet environment as quickly as possible. But what a loving, not so little fluff ball she is! She gently licks your hand when you pick her up and cuddle her with no doubt in her soulful eyes that you will be kind to her. She does tremble a bit from fear with each new situation, though. As frightened as she is, she never tries to snap or fight us when we guide her around but, instead, cuddles in our arms.
The first few nights Stacey has slept outside on her patio with her since she howled at being left all alone for the first time in her life. Now, she sleeps better and is settling in. On her own, she has selected part of the planter to go potty, which is very convenient…and polite of her. It doesn’t occur to her to jump up, nip, or rip and tear, yet. She’s beginning to play with her toys and tosses a ball in the air and attacks it like a kitten. She never had toys before, having lived in the ranch coral with her family up until now. I think she will be adjusting for awhile. I try to imagine what it must feel like to be ripped away from those wonderful snowcapped mountains without so much as being able to give your own opinion of the change.
It’s been only 5 days since she arrived and we are totally smitten with her. How can that be? What a loving, sweet little lump of white fluff she is. And how surprised I am at how she tugs at my heartstrings! Indeed, I’ve had a hard time writing this because I am so amazed at how much I love her in such a short time How can that be? We think she’s still homesick. Tuesday we took her to the Doggie Beach near Golden West and PCH. Fiona was frightened of the sound of the surf and the sand, begging us to go up to the grass. She nuzzled under Wally’s arm for protection. (see photo). But we sat for awhile and she relaxed some as Stacey finally got her to walk down the beach closer to the water. Yesterday we took her to the Doggie Park on Edwards. Did you see the article in the paper that HB is one of the most pet friendly cities in the nation? Doggie Park was perfect! Fenced in so you can let your dog run, complete with wood shavings, shady trees, water dishes and friendly dog lovers.
What is it about puppies, anyway, that conjures up all this instant love in us that rings all the bells in my heart? And why is it that we think they are so cute? Is it because they don’t know how cute they are? Whereas a human, say a teenager, or even an adult, knows when they are cute and how to be cute. But a puppy is guileless, oblivious to their appeal.
Then too, for me, Fiona crowds into the cockles of my heart bringing up so many joyous memories of raising puppies when my girls were little. But, with my working hours now, it wouldn’t be fair to have a pet. But for Stacey to have a dog, and they live only 8 blocks away, well, isn’t that sweet? Indeed, sometimes early in the cool of the morning Stacey walks Fiona over here to grandma’s house (me) to get petted an SMITTEN
She arrived late last Sunday night at John Wayne Airport. She was terrified. Traumatized. She had never been away from the Colorado Rockies in her whole life. Never been away from her brothers and sisters or even her mother and father for that matter. Never been in a house, a car, a crate or an airplane. When the cargo department brought her out to us she huddled in the back of her crate shaking with fear from the unfamiliar loud noises. Who were we, peering in at her? Could we be trusted? She is Stacey’s beautiful new puppy, Fiona (which means fair-haired). A Colorado Rocky Mountain dog, a hybrid, 3/4th Great Pyrenees and 1/4th Anatolian Shepherd. She was given to Stacey from her friends in the Rockies, the idea being Fiona will live here with Stacey, the animal lover, until Stacey can move back there, hopefully within a year. This new hybrid was bred to protect their humans from wildlife…mountain lions, bears and the like. It is their nature to be gentle and protective. Little Fiona, we think, must have been the runt of the 5 puppy litter because she is shy, contemplative and cautious. And who could blame her? Such a sweet, gentle soul with those big black eyes set in a soft white face as if she had on black eyeliner with snow white eyelashes. Our hearts melted immediately and we went into protective mother mode determined to make her happy.
We talked to her, cuddled her and gently got her into the car and home to Stacey’s house into a quiet environment as quickly as possible. But what a loving, not so little fluff ball she is! She gently licks your hand when you pick her up and cuddle her with no doubt in her soulful eyes that you will be kind to her. She does tremble a bit from fear with each new situation, though. As frightened as she is, she never tries to snap or fight us when we guide her around but, instead, cuddles in our arms.
The first few nights Stacey has slept outside on her patio with her since she howled at being left all alone for the first time in her life. Now, she sleeps better and is settling in. On her own, she has selected part of the planter to go potty, which is very convenient…and polite of her. It doesn’t occur to her to jump up, nip, or rip and tear, yet. She’s beginning to play with her toys and tosses a ball in the air and attacks it like a kitten. She never had toys before, having lived in the ranch coral with her family up until now. I think she will be adjusting for awhile. I try to imagine what it must feel like to be ripped away from those wonderful snowcapped mountains without so much as being able to give your own opinion of the change.
It’s been only 5 days since she arrived and we are totally smitten with her. How can that be? What a loving, sweet little lump of white fluff she is. And how surprised I am at how she tugs at my heartstrings! Indeed, I’ve had a hard time writing this because I am so amazed at how much I love her in such a short time How can that be? We think she’s still homesick. Tuesday we took her to the Doggie Beach near Golden West and PCH. Fiona was frightened of the sound of the surf and the sand, begging us to go up to the grass. She nuzzled under Wally’s arm for protection. (see photo). But we sat for awhile and she relaxed some as Stacey finally got her to walk down the beach closer to the water. Yesterday we took her to the Doggie Park on Edwards. Did you see the article in the paper that HB is one of the most pet friendly cities in the nation? Doggie Park was perfect! Fenced in so you can let your dog run, complete with wood shavings, shady trees, water dishes and friendly dog lovers.
What is it about puppies, anyway, that conjures up all this instant love in us that rings all the bells in my heart? And why is it that we think they are so cute? Is it because they don’t know how cute they are? Whereas a human, say a teenager, or even an adult, knows when they are cute and how to be cute. But a puppy is guileless, oblivious to their appeal.
Then too, for me, Fiona crowds into the cockles of my heart bringing up so many joyous memories of raising puppies when my girls were little. But, with my working hours now, it wouldn’t be fair to have a pet. But for Stacey to have a dog, and they live only 8 blocks away, well, isn’t that sweet? Indeed, sometimes early in the cool of the morning Stacey walks Fiona over here to grandma’s house (me) to get petted and spoiled. And for Stacey, who misses Wesley the Owl who died 4 years ago, Fiona is a joy for her, too. Wesley lived 19 years, as you may know from the book.
On the bright side, Fiona is lucky to have Stacey as a mommy since she is so in tune with animals and nature. Fiona will eventually be a happy California dog. One could do worse than move to the nicest beach in the whole wide world and be adored by all of us.
Maybe Fiona wins my heart because pets, like nature, get us back to the basics. No pretences, just unconditional love and playfulness. Can’t we all use a lot more of this in our lives? And can’t we learn a lot about the simple, sweet trust a puppy has and treasure never violating that love and trust? Maybe we could do a better job as humans if we practiced some of what our pets teach us. Maybe that’s the reason for having a pet. Welcome home, Fiona! We love you!
------------------------------------------------------------------
I loathe people who keep dogs. They are cowards who haven’t got the guts to bite people themselves.”
----------------------------------------------------------
d spoiled. And for Stacey, who misses Wesley the Owl who died 4 years ago, Fiona is a joy for her, too. Wesley lived 19 years, as you may know from the book.
On the bright side, Fiona is lucky to have Stacey as a mommy since she is so in tune with animals and nature. Fiona will eventually be a happy California dog. One could do worse than move to the nicest beach in the whole wide world and be adored by all of us.
Maybe Fiona wins my heart because pets, like nature, get us back to the basics. No pretences, just unconditional love and playfulness. Can’t we all use a lot more of this in our lives? And can’t we learn a lot about the simple, sweet trust a puppy has and treasure never violating that love and trust? Maybe we could do a better job as humans if we practiced some of what our pets teach us. Maybe that’s the reason for having a pet. Welcome home, Fiona! We love you!
------------------------------------------------------------------
I loathe people who keep dogs. They are cowards who haven’t got the guts to bite people themselves.”
----------------------------------------------------------
NEIGHBORHOOD GARAGE SALE 7/18/09
If you live in the LA CUESTA or FASHION SHORES neighborhood areas south of Atlanta, between Brookhurst and Bushard OR SURROUNDING AREAS and want to participate in the neighborhood garage sale Saturday 7/18, give me a call and I’ll drop off a garage sale sign to head shoppers down your street. The VILLA PACIFIC Town homes next door are also participating.
In this economy, garage sales are quite helpful both for sellers and buyers!
MARKET UPDATE
More help is coming to Huntington Beach first time buyers. The City Council voted7/6/09 to put a little more than $1 million toward helping moderate-to-low-income households who preferably already live or work in HB to purchase a home in the city. The council also voted to cancel a city program to buy foreclosed homes, fix them up and sell them. Loans up to $100,000 are available with certain low income qualifications required. If you know of anyone who could be helped by this, contact Sydney Stone at 714-536—5901.
SHOULD YOU TRY TO MODIFY YOUR MORTGAGE LOAN?
I’ve received numerous calls from home owners in the area asking me if it is wise to pursue modifying your mortgage loan. Here is the answer. If you have had a decrease in your income, lost a job, suffered illness and high medical bills, for example, it is wise to call your lender. Ask for the loan modification department. Be persistent and be prepared to document all your income and assets. You likely will not get a reduction in the amount you owe, but you may get a lower monthly payment via a temporary reduction in your interest rate or an extension of your loan term. Consumer groups advise AGAINST paying a company to do this for you because some will take your money and do nothing. The Department of Real Estate has a list of companies and people to avoid at www.dre.gov/con_drs.asp. However, they do not monitor law firms.
SHOULD YOU TRY TO REDUCE THE TAXES ON YOUR HOME?
You probably just received your Property Value Notice in the mail, as we did. That tax as of 1/1/09.
Your tax bill will come in September. If the Taxable Value is greater than the property’s Market Value on 1/1/09, you may want to file an appeal. The deadline for an appeal is 9/15/09. Don’t wait until you get your bill. THERE IS NO NEED TO PAY A COMPANY TO REQUEST A REVIEW FOR YOU. Call me and I’d be glad to tell you what your property was worth as of 1/1/09. Generally, if you bought in the last 3 years in the higher market, you may benefit with an appeal. If you’ve lived there a long time, however, it may not benefit you to appeal since taxes are based on your original value plus a lawful annual inflation factor of no more than 2% a year. New construction on your property (room additions, pools, spas, patio covers) that occurs after you bought it is valued at full market value as of the date of completion. Also, it must be your principal residence. For more information go to www.ocgov.com/assessor or call 714-834-3821.
INTEREST RATES are the lowest since May.
Lots of buyers are out there now wanting to buy before school starts. Multiple offers are common especially on bank owned or short sale property. Cash is king since an all cash offer does not require an appraisal. Investors, however, are now required to keep a home for at least 9 months to avoid “flipping” a house. Depending on whose prediction you read, we are very near or approaching the bottom of the market. If a buyer waits too long, he will look back and realize he missed his opportunity. Now is the time to buy. MY SELLERS ARE GETTING OUT NOW SO THEY CAN BUY UP OR DOWN AT A LOWER PRICE.
INTERESTED IN SELLING?
Please save yourself a ton of money by calling me LONG BEFORE YOU SELL. My newest sellers called me 6-12 months before putting the house on the market saving them $50,000+ as I guided them through what upgrades to do and WHAT NOT TO DO.
KEEP AN EYE OUT TO HELP NEIGHBORS OR PARENTS
WHO MIGHT BE HAVING A STROKE.
Here are some easy guidelines to determine if someone is having a stroke:
Remember STR (as in stroke…Smile, Talk, Raise arms))
1. As them to Smile. If they can’t smile, or if it’s lopsided, that’s a symptom of stroke.
2. Can they tell you their name? Is their speech slurred? Talk
3. Can they Raise their hands over their head?
4. Can the victim stick his tongue out? If twisted or goofy, it’s a symptom
Health professionals tell us if a stroke victim gets help within 1-3 hours, it can be reversed.
OH DEAR! SHOW THIS TO YOUR FRINEDS & FAMILY WHO RENT
RENT 10 YEARS 20 YEARS 30 YEARS
$1000 $155,282 $411,003 $832,258
$1500 $232,923 $616,550 $1,248,387
$2000 $310,564 $822,067 $1,664,517
$2500 $388,254 $1,109,790 $2,080,646
$3000 $$465,846 $1,233,100 $2,496,694
If you RENT
There are no interest payment deductions.
The rent may increase at any time.
You need to get landlord approval for any changes.
You have no capitalization. Your money disappears forever.
Your rental is temporary and subject to 30 day notice.
If you BUY
Excellent deductions for the mortgage interest you pay.
Your mortgage payments could be fixed.
Decorate, make changes, enjoy changes without any prior approval.
The money you capitalize on your property is like having a savings account with a high interest rate. The value of your property will probably increase over time.
Your house will become a home; it will not be a temporary living situation.
You are not at the mercy of the landlord.
CONGRAULATIONS TO EDISON HIGH SCHOOL!
Edison High School won a silver metal this spring and the number 8 slot on the OC Register’s 2009 rankings of OC County’s Best Public Schools.
Named a California Distinguished School twice, including this year, Edison prides itself on building character in students, including its athletes.
WANT TO RATE YOUR SCHOOL?
Go to www.cde.ca.gov/ta/ac/ar/index.asp and under API reports, click “district level”. You can find the API Growth Report to see how your school and neighboring schools did.
HUMOR CORNER
“When Insults Had Class”
“He had delusions of adequacy.” (W Kerr)
“I have never killed a man, but I have read many obituaries with great pleasure.” (C Darrow)
“He has never been known to use a word that might send a reader to the dictionary.”
(W. Faulkner said about E Hemingway)
“I didn’t attend the funeral, but I sent a nice letter saying I approved of it.”(Mark Twain)
“He has no enemies, but is intensely disliked by his friends.” (Oscar Wilde)
“I am enclosing 2 tickets to the first night of my new play; bring a friend…if you have one.
(G B Shaw to W Churchill)
Answer: “Cannot possibly attend first night, will attend second…if there is one.”
(W Churchill, in response)
“I feel so miserable without you; it’s almost like having you here.” (Stephen Bishop)
“He is a self-made man and worships his creator.” (J Bright)
“He loves nature in spite of what it did to him.” (F Tucker)
“His mother should have thrown him away and kept the stork.” Mae West
“Some cause happiness wherever they go; others, whenever they go.” (O Wilde)
“I’ve had a perfectly wonderful evening. But this wasn’t it.”(G Marx)
Thanks to Barbara Nevins for emailing me the above.
FOR SALE
Stunning Home in Rossmoor Community
5 Car Garage!
Totally Rebuilt 2000
3 Bedrooms, 2 Baths, 2200 SF Approx.
Gourmet Kitchen, Viking Range, Granite Counter Tops
Huge family Room, Master Bath with Whirlpool Bath and Sauna
High Ceilings, Inside Tract Location
Great Schools
$949,000
COMING SOON
One of the Prettiest Homes in all of Park Huntington
Remodeled Beauty. Stunning Kitchen
Watch for Open House soon!
----------------------------------------------------------
NEIGHBORHOOD GARAGE SALE 7/18/09
If you live in the LA CUESTA or FASHION SHORES neighborhood areas south of Atlanta, between Brookhurst and Bushard OR SURROUNDING AREAS and want to participate in the neighborhood garage sale Saturday 7/18, give me a call and I’ll drop off a garage sale sign to head shoppers down your street. The VILLA PACIFIC Town homes next door are also participating.
In this economy, garage sales are quite helpful both for sellers and buyers!
MARKET UPDATE
More help is coming to Huntington Beach first time buyers. The City Council voted7/6/09 to put a little more than $1 million toward helping moderate-to-low-income households who preferably already live or work in HB to purchase a home in the city. The council also voted to cancel a city program to buy foreclosed homes, fix them up and sell them. Loans up to $100,000 are available with certain low income qualifications required. If you know of anyone who could be helped by this, contact Sydney Stone at 714-536—5901.
SHOULD YOU TRY TO MODIFY YOUR MORTGAGE LOAN?
I’ve received numerous calls from home owners in the area asking me if it is wise to pursue modifying your mortgage loan. Here is the answer. If you have had a decrease in your income, lost a job, suffered illness and high medical bills, for example, it is wise to call your lender. Ask for the loan modification department. Be persistent and be prepared to document all your income and assets. You likely will not get a reduction in the amount you owe, but you may get a lower monthly payment via a temporary reduction in your interest rate or an extension of your loan term. Consumer groups advise AGAINST paying a company to do this for you because some will take your money and do nothing. The Department of Real Estate has a list of companies and people to avoid at www.dre.gov/con_drs.asp. However, they do not monitor law firms.
SHOULD YOU TRY TO REDUCE THE TAXES ON YOUR HOME?
You probably just received your Property Value Notice in the mail, as we did. That tax as of 1/1/09.
Your tax bill will come in September. If the Taxable Value is greater than the property’s Market Value on 1/1/09, you may want to file an appeal. The deadline for an appeal is 9/15/09. Don’t wait until you get your bill. THERE IS NO NEED TO PAY A COMPANY TO REQUEST A REVIEW FOR YOU. Call me and I’d be glad to tell you what your property was worth as of 1/1/09. Generally, if you bought in the last 3 years in the higher market, you may benefit with an appeal. If you’ve lived there a long time, however, it may not benefit you to appeal since taxes are based on your original value plus a lawful annual inflation factor of no more than 2% a year. New construction on your property (room additions, pools, spas, patio covers) that occurs after you bought it is valued at full market value as of the date of completion. Also, it must be your principal residence. For more information go to www.ocgov.com/assessor or call 714-834-3821.
INTEREST RATES are the lowest since May.
Lots of buyers are out there now wanting to buy before school starts. Multiple offers are common especially on bank owned or short sale property. Cash is king since an all cash offer does not require an appraisal. Investors, however, are now required to keep a home for at least 9 months to avoid “flipping” a house. Depending on whose prediction you read, we are very near or approaching the bottom of the market. If a buyer waits too long, he will look back and realize he missed his opportunity. Now is the time to buy. MY SELLERS ARE GETTING OUT NOW SO THEY CAN BUY UP OR DOWN AT A LOWER PRICE.
INTERESTED IN SELLING?
Please save yourself a ton of money by calling me LONG BEFORE YOU SELL. My newest sellers called me 6-12 months before putting the house on the market saving them $50,000+ as I guided them through what upgrades to do and WHAT NOT TO DO.
KEEP AN EYE OUT TO HELP NEIGHBORS OR PARENTS
WHO MIGHT BE HAVING A STROKE.
Here are some easy guidelines to determine if someone is having a stroke:
Remember STR (as in stroke…Smile, Talk, Raise arms))
5. As them to Smile. If they can’t smile, or if it’s lopsided, that’s a symptom of stroke.
6. Can they tell you their name? Is their speech slurred? Talk
7. Can they Raise their hands over their head?
8. Can the victim stick his tongue out? If twisted or goofy, it’s a symptom
Health professionals tell us if a stroke victim gets help within 1-3 hours, it can be reversed.
OH DEAR! SHOW THIS TO YOUR FRINEDS & FAMILY WHO RENT
RENT 10 YEARS 20 YEARS 30 YEARS
$1000 $155,282 $411,003 $832,258
$1500 $232,923 $616,550 $1,248,387
$2000 $310,564 $822,067 $1,664,517
$2500 $388,254 $1,109,790 $2,080,646
$3000 $$465,846 $1,233,100 $2,496,694
If you RENT
There are no interest payment deductions.
The rent may increase at any time.
You need to get landlord approval for any changes.
You have no capitalization. Your money disappears forever.
Your rental is temporary and subject to 30 day notice.
If you BUY
Excellent deductions for the mortgage interest you pay.
Your mortgage payments could be fixed.
Decorate, make changes, enjoy changes without any prior approval.
The money you capitalize on your property is like having a savings account with a high interest rate. The value of your property will probably increase over time.
Your house will become a home; it will not be a temporary living situation.
You are not at the mercy of the landlord.
CONGRAULATIONS TO EDISON HIGH SCHOOL!
Edison High School won a silver metal this spring and the number 8 slot on the OC Register’s 2009 rankings of OC County’s Best Public Schools.
Named a California Distinguished School twice, including this year, Edison prides itself on building character in students, including its athletes.
WANT TO RATE YOUR SCHOOL?
Go to www.cde.ca.gov/ta/ac/ar/index.asp and under API reports, click “district level”. You can find the API Growth Report to see how your school and neighboring schools did.
HUMOR CORNER
“When Insults Had Class”
“He had delusions of adequacy.” (W Kerr)
“I have never killed a man, but I have read many obituaries with great pleasure.” (C Darrow)
“He has never been known to use a word that might send a reader to the dictionary.”
(W. Faulkner said about E Hemingway)
“I didn’t attend the funeral, but I sent a nice letter saying I approved of it.”(Mark Twain)
“He has no enemies, but is intensely disliked by his friends.” (Oscar Wilde)
“I am enclosing 2 tickets to the first night of my new play; bring a friend…if you have one.
(G B Shaw to W Churchill)
Answer: “Cannot possibly attend first night, will attend second…if there is one.”
(W Churchill, in response)
“I feel so miserable without you; it’s almost like having you here.” (Stephen Bishop)
“He is a self-made man and worships his creator.” (J Bright)
“He loves nature in spite of what it did to him.” (F Tucker)
“His mother should have thrown him away and kept the stork.” Mae West
“Some cause happiness wherever they go; others, whenever they go.” (O Wilde)
“I’ve had a perfectly wonderful evening. But this wasn’t it.”(G Marx)
Thanks to Barbara Nevins for emailing me the above.
FOR SALE
Stunning Home in Rossmoor Community
5 Car Garage!
Totally Rebuilt 2000
3 Bedrooms, 2 Baths, 2200 SF Approx.
Gourmet Kitchen, Viking Range, Granite Counter Tops
Huge family Room, Master Bath with Whirlpool Bath and Sauna
High Ceilings, Inside Tract Location
Great Schools
$949,000
COMING SOON
One of the Prettiest Homes in all of Park Huntington
Remodeled Beauty. Stunning Kitchen
Watch for Open House soon!
She arrived late last Sunday night at John Wayne Airport. She was terrified. Traumatized. She had never been away from the Colorado Rockies in her whole life. Never been away from her brothers and sisters or even her mother and father for that matter. Never been in a house, a car, a crate or an airplane. When the cargo department brought her out to us she huddled in the back of her crate shaking with fear from the unfamiliar loud noises. Who were we, peering in at her? Could we be trusted? She is Stacey’s beautiful new puppy, Fiona (which means fair-haired). A Colorado Rocky Mountain dog, a hybrid, 3/4th Great Pyrenees and 1/4th Anatolian Shepherd. She was given to Stacey from her friends in the Rockies, the idea being Fiona will live here with Stacey, the animal lover, until Stacey can move back there, hopefully within a year. This new hybrid was bred to protect their humans from wildlife…mountain lions, bears and the like. It is their nature to be gentle and protective. Little Fiona, we think, must have been the runt of the 5 puppy litter because she is shy, contemplative and cautious. And who could blame her? Such a sweet, gentle soul with those big black eyes set in a soft white face as if she had on black eyeliner with snow white eyelashes. Our hearts melted immediately and we went into protective mother mode determined to make her happy.
We talked to her, cuddled her and gently got her into the car and home to Stacey’s house into a quiet environment as quickly as possible. But what a loving, not so little fluff ball she is! She gently licks your hand when you pick her up and cuddle her with no doubt in her soulful eyes that you will be kind to her. She does tremble a bit from fear with each new situation, though. As frightened as she is, she never tries to snap or fight us when we guide her around but, instead, cuddles in our arms.
The first few nights Stacey has slept outside on her patio with her since she howled at being left all alone for the first time in her life. Now, she sleeps better and is settling in. On her own, she has selected part of the planter to go potty, which is very convenient…and polite of her. It doesn’t occur to her to jump up, nip, or rip and tear, yet. She’s beginning to play with her toys and tosses a ball in the air and attacks it like a kitten. She never had toys before, having lived in the ranch coral with her family up until now. I think she will be adjusting for awhile. I try to imagine what it must feel like to be ripped away from those wonderful snowcapped mountains without so much as being able to give your own opinion of the change.
It’s been only 5 days since she arrived and we are totally smitten with her. How can that be? What a loving, sweet little lump of white fluff she is. And how surprised I am at how she tugs at my heartstrings! Indeed, I’ve had a hard time writing this because I am so amazed at how much I love her in such a short time How can that be? We think she’s still homesick. Tuesday we took her to the Doggie Beach near Golden West and PCH. Fiona was frightened of the sound of the surf and the sand, begging us to go up to the grass. She nuzzled under Wally’s arm for protection. (see photo). But we sat for awhile and she relaxed some as Stacey finally got her to walk down the beach closer to the water. Yesterday we took her to the Doggie Park on Edwards. Did you see the article in the paper that HB is one of the most pet friendly cities in the nation? Doggie Park was perfect! Fenced in so you can let your dog run, complete with wood shavings, shady trees, water dishes and friendly dog lovers.
What is it about puppies, anyway, that conjures up all this instant love in us that rings all the bells in my heart? And why is it that we think they are so cute? Is it because they don’t know how cute they are? Whereas a human, say a teenager, or even an adult, knows when they are cute and how to be cute. But a puppy is guileless, oblivious to their appeal.
Then too, for me, Fiona crowds into the cockles of my heart bringing up so many joyous memories of raising puppies when my girls were little. But, with my working hours now, it wouldn’t be fair to have a pet. But for Stacey to have a dog, and they live only 8 blocks away, well, isn’t that sweet? Indeed, sometimes early in the cool of the morning Stacey walks Fiona over here to grandma’s house (me) to get petted an SMITTEN
She arrived late last Sunday night at John Wayne Airport. She was terrified. Traumatized. She had never been away from the Colorado Rockies in her whole life. Never been away from her brothers and sisters or even her mother and father for that matter. Never been in a house, a car, a crate or an airplane. When the cargo department brought her out to us she huddled in the back of her crate shaking with fear from the unfamiliar loud noises. Who were we, peering in at her? Could we be trusted? She is Stacey’s beautiful new puppy, Fiona (which means fair-haired). A Colorado Rocky Mountain dog, a hybrid, 3/4th Great Pyrenees and 1/4th Anatolian Shepherd. She was given to Stacey from her friends in the Rockies, the idea being Fiona will live here with Stacey, the animal lover, until Stacey can move back there, hopefully within a year. This new hybrid was bred to protect their humans from wildlife…mountain lions, bears and the like. It is their nature to be gentle and protective. Little Fiona, we think, must have been the runt of the 5 puppy litter because she is shy, contemplative and cautious. And who could blame her? Such a sweet, gentle soul with those big black eyes set in a soft white face as if she had on black eyeliner with snow white eyelashes. Our hearts melted immediately and we went into protective mother mode determined to make her happy.
We talked to her, cuddled her and gently got her into the car and home to Stacey’s house into a quiet environment as quickly as possible. But what a loving, not so little fluff ball she is! She gently licks your hand when you pick her up and cuddle her with no doubt in her soulful eyes that you will be kind to her. She does tremble a bit from fear with each new situation, though. As frightened as she is, she never tries to snap or fight us when we guide her around but, instead, cuddles in our arms.
The first few nights Stacey has slept outside on her patio with her since she howled at being left all alone for the first time in her life. Now, she sleeps better and is settling in. On her own, she has selected part of the planter to go potty, which is very convenient…and polite of her. It doesn’t occur to her to jump up, nip, or rip and tear, yet. She’s beginning to play with her toys and tosses a ball in the air and attacks it like a kitten. She never had toys before, having lived in the ranch coral with her family up until now. I think she will be adjusting for awhile. I try to imagine what it must feel like to be ripped away from those wonderful snowcapped mountains without so much as being able to give your own opinion of the change.
It’s been only 5 days since she arrived and we are totally smitten with her. How can that be? What a loving, sweet little lump of white fluff she is. And how surprised I am at how she tugs at my heartstrings! Indeed, I’ve had a hard time writing this because I am so amazed at how much I love her in such a short time How can that be? We think she’s still homesick. Tuesday we took her to the Doggie Beach near Golden West and PCH. Fiona was frightened of the sound of the surf and the sand, begging us to go up to the grass. She nuzzled under Wally’s arm for protection. (see photo). But we sat for awhile and she relaxed some as Stacey finally got her to walk down the beach closer to the water. Yesterday we took her to the Doggie Park on Edwards. Did you see the article in the paper that HB is one of the most pet friendly cities in the nation? Doggie Park was perfect! Fenced in so you can let your dog run, complete with wood shavings, shady trees, water dishes and friendly dog lovers.
What is it about puppies, anyway, that conjures up all this instant love in us that rings all the bells in my heart? And why is it that we think they are so cute? Is it because they don’t know how cute they are? Whereas a human, say a teenager, or even an adult, knows when they are cute and how to be cute. But a puppy is guileless, oblivious to their appeal.
Then too, for me, Fiona crowds into the cockles of my heart bringing up so many joyous memories of raising puppies when my girls were little. But, with my working hours now, it wouldn’t be fair to have a pet. But for Stacey to have a dog, and they live only 8 blocks away, well, isn’t that sweet? Indeed, sometimes early in the cool of the morning Stacey walks Fiona over here to grandma’s house (me) to get petted and spoiled. And for Stacey, who misses Wesley the Owl who died 4 years ago, Fiona is a joy for her, too. Wesley lived 19 years, as you may know from the book.
On the bright side, Fiona is lucky to have Stacey as a mommy since she is so in tune with animals and nature. Fiona will eventually be a happy California dog. One could do worse than move to the nicest beach in the whole wide world and be adored by all of us.
Maybe Fiona wins my heart because pets, like nature, get us back to the basics. No pretences, just unconditional love and playfulness. Can’t we all use a lot more of this in our lives? And can’t we learn a lot about the simple, sweet trust a puppy has and treasure never violating that love and trust? Maybe we could do a better job as humans if we practiced some of what our pets teach us. Maybe that’s the reason for having a pet. Welcome home, Fiona! We love you!
------------------------------------------------------------------
I loathe people who keep dogs. They are cowards who haven’t got the guts to bite people themselves.”
----------------------------------------------------------
d spoiled. And for Stacey, who misses Wesley the Owl who died 4 years ago, Fiona is a joy for her, too. Wesley lived 19 years, as you may know from the book.
On the bright side, Fiona is lucky to have Stacey as a mommy since she is so in tune with animals and nature. Fiona will eventually be a happy California dog. One could do worse than move to the nicest beach in the whole wide world and be adored by all of us.
Maybe Fiona wins my heart because pets, like nature, get us back to the basics. No pretences, just unconditional love and playfulness. Can’t we all use a lot more of this in our lives? And can’t we learn a lot about the simple, sweet trust a puppy has and treasure never violating that love and trust? Maybe we could do a better job as humans if we practiced some of what our pets teach us. Maybe that’s the reason for having a pet. Welcome home, Fiona! We love you!
------------------------------------------------------------------
I loathe people who keep dogs. They are cowards who haven’t got the guts to bite people themselves.”
----------------------------------------------------------
NEIGHBORHOOD GARAGE SALE 7/18/09
If you live in the LA CUESTA or FASHION SHORES neighborhood areas south of Atlanta, between Brookhurst and Bushard OR SURROUNDING AREAS and want to participate in the neighborhood garage sale Saturday 7/18, give me a call and I’ll drop off a garage sale sign to head shoppers down your street. The VILLA PACIFIC Town homes next door are also participating.
In this economy, garage sales are quite helpful both for sellers and buyers!
MARKET UPDATE
More help is coming to Huntington Beach first time buyers. The City Council voted7/6/09 to put a little more than $1 million toward helping moderate-to-low-income households who preferably already live or work in HB to purchase a home in the city. The council also voted to cancel a city program to buy foreclosed homes, fix them up and sell them. Loans up to $100,000 are available with certain low income qualifications required. If you know of anyone who could be helped by this, contact Sydney Stone at 714-536—5901.
SHOULD YOU TRY TO MODIFY YOUR MORTGAGE LOAN?
I’ve received numerous calls from home owners in the area asking me if it is wise to pursue modifying your mortgage loan. Here is the answer. If you have had a decrease in your income, lost a job, suffered illness and high medical bills, for example, it is wise to call your lender. Ask for the loan modification department. Be persistent and be prepared to document all your income and assets. You likely will not get a reduction in the amount you owe, but you may get a lower monthly payment via a temporary reduction in your interest rate or an extension of your loan term. Consumer groups advise AGAINST paying a company to do this for you because some will take your money and do nothing. The Department of Real Estate has a list of companies and people to avoid at www.dre.gov/con_drs.asp. However, they do not monitor law firms.
SHOULD YOU TRY TO REDUCE THE TAXES ON YOUR HOME?
You probably just received your Property Value Notice in the mail, as we did. That tax as of 1/1/09.
Your tax bill will come in September. If the Taxable Value is greater than the property’s Market Value on 1/1/09, you may want to file an appeal. The deadline for an appeal is 9/15/09. Don’t wait until you get your bill. THERE IS NO NEED TO PAY A COMPANY TO REQUEST A REVIEW FOR YOU. Call me and I’d be glad to tell you what your property was worth as of 1/1/09. Generally, if you bought in the last 3 years in the higher market, you may benefit with an appeal. If you’ve lived there a long time, however, it may not benefit you to appeal since taxes are based on your original value plus a lawful annual inflation factor of no more than 2% a year. New construction on your property (room additions, pools, spas, patio covers) that occurs after you bought it is valued at full market value as of the date of completion. Also, it must be your principal residence. For more information go to www.ocgov.com/assessor or call 714-834-3821.
INTEREST RATES are the lowest since May.
Lots of buyers are out there now wanting to buy before school starts. Multiple offers are common especially on bank owned or short sale property. Cash is king since an all cash offer does not require an appraisal. Investors, however, are now required to keep a home for at least 9 months to avoid “flipping” a house. Depending on whose prediction you read, we are very near or approaching the bottom of the market. If a buyer waits too long, he will look back and realize he missed his opportunity. Now is the time to buy. MY SELLERS ARE GETTING OUT NOW SO THEY CAN BUY UP OR DOWN AT A LOWER PRICE.
INTERESTED IN SELLING?
Please save yourself a ton of money by calling me LONG BEFORE YOU SELL. My newest sellers called me 6-12 months before putting the house on the market saving them $50,000+ as I guided them through what upgrades to do and WHAT NOT TO DO.
KEEP AN EYE OUT TO HELP NEIGHBORS OR PARENTS
WHO MIGHT BE HAVING A STROKE.
Here are some easy guidelines to determine if someone is having a stroke:
Remember STR (as in stroke…Smile, Talk, Raise arms))
1. As them to Smile. If they can’t smile, or if it’s lopsided, that’s a symptom of stroke.
2. Can they tell you their name? Is their speech slurred? Talk
3. Can they Raise their hands over their head?
4. Can the victim stick his tongue out? If twisted or goofy, it’s a symptom
Health professionals tell us if a stroke victim gets help within 1-3 hours, it can be reversed.
OH DEAR! SHOW THIS TO YOUR FRINEDS & FAMILY WHO RENT
RENT 10 YEARS 20 YEARS 30 YEARS
$1000 $155,282 $411,003 $832,258
$1500 $232,923 $616,550 $1,248,387
$2000 $310,564 $822,067 $1,664,517
$2500 $388,254 $1,109,790 $2,080,646
$3000 $$465,846 $1,233,100 $2,496,694
If you RENT
There are no interest payment deductions.
The rent may increase at any time.
You need to get landlord approval for any changes.
You have no capitalization. Your money disappears forever.
Your rental is temporary and subject to 30 day notice.
If you BUY
Excellent deductions for the mortgage interest you pay.
Your mortgage payments could be fixed.
Decorate, make changes, enjoy changes without any prior approval.
The money you capitalize on your property is like having a savings account with a high interest rate. The value of your property will probably increase over time.
Your house will become a home; it will not be a temporary living situation.
You are not at the mercy of the landlord.
CONGRAULATIONS TO EDISON HIGH SCHOOL!
Edison High School won a silver metal this spring and the number 8 slot on the OC Register’s 2009 rankings of OC County’s Best Public Schools.
Named a California Distinguished School twice, including this year, Edison prides itself on building character in students, including its athletes.
WANT TO RATE YOUR SCHOOL?
Go to www.cde.ca.gov/ta/ac/ar/index.asp and under API reports, click “district level”. You can find the API Growth Report to see how your school and neighboring schools did.
HUMOR CORNER
“When Insults Had Class”
“He had delusions of adequacy.” (W Kerr)
“I have never killed a man, but I have read many obituaries with great pleasure.” (C Darrow)
“He has never been known to use a word that might send a reader to the dictionary.”
(W. Faulkner said about E Hemingway)
“I didn’t attend the funeral, but I sent a nice letter saying I approved of it.”(Mark Twain)
“He has no enemies, but is intensely disliked by his friends.” (Oscar Wilde)
“I am enclosing 2 tickets to the first night of my new play; bring a friend…if you have one.
(G B Shaw to W Churchill)
Answer: “Cannot possibly attend first night, will attend second…if there is one.”
(W Churchill, in response)
“I feel so miserable without you; it’s almost like having you here.” (Stephen Bishop)
“He is a self-made man and worships his creator.” (J Bright)
“He loves nature in spite of what it did to him.” (F Tucker)
“His mother should have thrown him away and kept the stork.” Mae West
“Some cause happiness wherever they go; others, whenever they go.” (O Wilde)
“I’ve had a perfectly wonderful evening. But this wasn’t it.”(G Marx)
Thanks to Barbara Nevins for emailing me the above.
FOR SALE
Stunning Home in Rossmoor Community
5 Car Garage!
Totally Rebuilt 2000
3 Bedrooms, 2 Baths, 2200 SF Approx.
Gourmet Kitchen, Viking Range, Granite Counter Tops
Huge family Room, Master Bath with Whirlpool Bath and Sauna
High Ceilings, Inside Tract Location
Great Schools
$949,000
COMING SOON
One of the Prettiest Homes in all of Park Huntington
Remodeled Beauty. Stunning Kitchen
Watch for Open House soon!
----------------------------------------------------------
NEIGHBORHOOD GARAGE SALE 7/18/09
If you live in the LA CUESTA or FASHION SHORES neighborhood areas south of Atlanta, between Brookhurst and Bushard OR SURROUNDING AREAS and want to participate in the neighborhood garage sale Saturday 7/18, give me a call and I’ll drop off a garage sale sign to head shoppers down your street. The VILLA PACIFIC Town homes next door are also participating.
In this economy, garage sales are quite helpful both for sellers and buyers!
MARKET UPDATE
More help is coming to Huntington Beach first time buyers. The City Council voted7/6/09 to put a little more than $1 million toward helping moderate-to-low-income households who preferably already live or work in HB to purchase a home in the city. The council also voted to cancel a city program to buy foreclosed homes, fix them up and sell them. Loans up to $100,000 are available with certain low income qualifications required. If you know of anyone who could be helped by this, contact Sydney Stone at 714-536—5901.
SHOULD YOU TRY TO MODIFY YOUR MORTGAGE LOAN?
I’ve received numerous calls from home owners in the area asking me if it is wise to pursue modifying your mortgage loan. Here is the answer. If you have had a decrease in your income, lost a job, suffered illness and high medical bills, for example, it is wise to call your lender. Ask for the loan modification department. Be persistent and be prepared to document all your income and assets. You likely will not get a reduction in the amount you owe, but you may get a lower monthly payment via a temporary reduction in your interest rate or an extension of your loan term. Consumer groups advise AGAINST paying a company to do this for you because some will take your money and do nothing. The Department of Real Estate has a list of companies and people to avoid at www.dre.gov/con_drs.asp. However, they do not monitor law firms.
SHOULD YOU TRY TO REDUCE THE TAXES ON YOUR HOME?
You probably just received your Property Value Notice in the mail, as we did. That tax as of 1/1/09.
Your tax bill will come in September. If the Taxable Value is greater than the property’s Market Value on 1/1/09, you may want to file an appeal. The deadline for an appeal is 9/15/09. Don’t wait until you get your bill. THERE IS NO NEED TO PAY A COMPANY TO REQUEST A REVIEW FOR YOU. Call me and I’d be glad to tell you what your property was worth as of 1/1/09. Generally, if you bought in the last 3 years in the higher market, you may benefit with an appeal. If you’ve lived there a long time, however, it may not benefit you to appeal since taxes are based on your original value plus a lawful annual inflation factor of no more than 2% a year. New construction on your property (room additions, pools, spas, patio covers) that occurs after you bought it is valued at full market value as of the date of completion. Also, it must be your principal residence. For more information go to www.ocgov.com/assessor or call 714-834-3821.
INTEREST RATES are the lowest since May.
Lots of buyers are out there now wanting to buy before school starts. Multiple offers are common especially on bank owned or short sale property. Cash is king since an all cash offer does not require an appraisal. Investors, however, are now required to keep a home for at least 9 months to avoid “flipping” a house. Depending on whose prediction you read, we are very near or approaching the bottom of the market. If a buyer waits too long, he will look back and realize he missed his opportunity. Now is the time to buy. MY SELLERS ARE GETTING OUT NOW SO THEY CAN BUY UP OR DOWN AT A LOWER PRICE.
INTERESTED IN SELLING?
Please save yourself a ton of money by calling me LONG BEFORE YOU SELL. My newest sellers called me 6-12 months before putting the house on the market saving them $50,000+ as I guided them through what upgrades to do and WHAT NOT TO DO.
KEEP AN EYE OUT TO HELP NEIGHBORS OR PARENTS
WHO MIGHT BE HAVING A STROKE.
Here are some easy guidelines to determine if someone is having a stroke:
Remember STR (as in stroke…Smile, Talk, Raise arms))
5. As them to Smile. If they can’t smile, or if it’s lopsided, that’s a symptom of stroke.
6. Can they tell you their name? Is their speech slurred? Talk
7. Can they Raise their hands over their head?
8. Can the victim stick his tongue out? If twisted or goofy, it’s a symptom
Health professionals tell us if a stroke victim gets help within 1-3 hours, it can be reversed.
OH DEAR! SHOW THIS TO YOUR FRINEDS & FAMILY WHO RENT
RENT 10 YEARS 20 YEARS 30 YEARS
$1000 $155,282 $411,003 $832,258
$1500 $232,923 $616,550 $1,248,387
$2000 $310,564 $822,067 $1,664,517
$2500 $388,254 $1,109,790 $2,080,646
$3000 $$465,846 $1,233,100 $2,496,694
If you RENT
There are no interest payment deductions.
The rent may increase at any time.
You need to get landlord approval for any changes.
You have no capitalization. Your money disappears forever.
Your rental is temporary and subject to 30 day notice.
If you BUY
Excellent deductions for the mortgage interest you pay.
Your mortgage payments could be fixed.
Decorate, make changes, enjoy changes without any prior approval.
The money you capitalize on your property is like having a savings account with a high interest rate. The value of your property will probably increase over time.
Your house will become a home; it will not be a temporary living situation.
You are not at the mercy of the landlord.
CONGRAULATIONS TO EDISON HIGH SCHOOL!
Edison High School won a silver metal this spring and the number 8 slot on the OC Register’s 2009 rankings of OC County’s Best Public Schools.
Named a California Distinguished School twice, including this year, Edison prides itself on building character in students, including its athletes.
WANT TO RATE YOUR SCHOOL?
Go to www.cde.ca.gov/ta/ac/ar/index.asp and under API reports, click “district level”. You can find the API Growth Report to see how your school and neighboring schools did.
HUMOR CORNER
“When Insults Had Class”
“He had delusions of adequacy.” (W Kerr)
“I have never killed a man, but I have read many obituaries with great pleasure.” (C Darrow)
“He has never been known to use a word that might send a reader to the dictionary.”
(W. Faulkner said about E Hemingway)
“I didn’t attend the funeral, but I sent a nice letter saying I approved of it.”(Mark Twain)
“He has no enemies, but is intensely disliked by his friends.” (Oscar Wilde)
“I am enclosing 2 tickets to the first night of my new play; bring a friend…if you have one.
(G B Shaw to W Churchill)
Answer: “Cannot possibly attend first night, will attend second…if there is one.”
(W Churchill, in response)
“I feel so miserable without you; it’s almost like having you here.” (Stephen Bishop)
“He is a self-made man and worships his creator.” (J Bright)
“He loves nature in spite of what it did to him.” (F Tucker)
“His mother should have thrown him away and kept the stork.” Mae West
“Some cause happiness wherever they go; others, whenever they go.” (O Wilde)
“I’ve had a perfectly wonderful evening. But this wasn’t it.”(G Marx)
Thanks to Barbara Nevins for emailing me the above.
FOR SALE
Stunning Home in Rossmoor Community
5 Car Garage!
Totally Rebuilt 2000
3 Bedrooms, 2 Baths, 2200 SF Approx.
Gourmet Kitchen, Viking Range, Granite Counter Tops
Huge family Room, Master Bath with Whirlpool Bath and Sauna
High Ceilings, Inside Tract Location
Great Schools
$949,000
COMING SOON
One of the Prettiest Homes in all of Park Huntington
Remodeled Beauty. Stunning Kitchen
Watch for Open House soon!
posted by Ann Baker, Realtor at
4:59 PM
