We don't have to dream of a White Christmas

 

In my 35 years in Nelson, I think we have always had a white Christmas.  There was one year when it didn't snow until late on Christmas Eve, but we woke up to snow on Christmas morning.  I think that may have been the year the power went out on Christmas Day and many people had to get creative about cooking their dinners.  We were grateful that we follow a European tradition of having our "big meal" on the 24th, so we weren't adversely affected (except that we had to bundle up in the house).

 

We don't have to  be concerned about that this year.  This photo was taken this morning on Ward Street.  They are now advising against travel, but I understand that in Uphill & Rosemont, there is a LOT of snow!

 Reindeer Gender

According to the Alaska Department of Fish and Game, while both male and female reindeer grow antlers in the summer each year, male reindeer drop their antlers at the beginning of winter, usually late November to mid December. Female reindeer retain their antlers until after they give birth in the spring.

Therefore, according to every historical rendition depicting Santa's reindeer, every single one of them, from Rudolf to Blitzen........had to be a girl.

We should've known when they were able to find their way.

*Thanks to Pastor Tim for this joke!*
 

Do You Know A Buyer For This Home?

A very well maintained 2 - 3 bedroom, 2 bath home within walking distance of downtown Nelson.  This home has an outstanding view, double carport, large deck and a private, landscaped back yard.  It won't last long at $329,900.  Check out further details and photos on the web-site.

After 7 years, Drew and I have decided to work separately.  We will both be staying with RE/MAX RHC Realty, although at the moment Drew is on a leave of absence to deal with an urgent family matter.  The decision to go our own way was made before Drew's family situation arose.  I am grateful to Drew  for his hard  work and support, and hope that he will be back to selling in a very short while.

However, the decision to separate our business has caused me to review what we have been doing.  For example, does this newsletter get read?  Is it of value to those who read it?  Is there some other way that I could be communicating that would be more effective?  Is it time to give it a change -- or a rest?

I will need to set up a new site if I do continue with this newsletter format, unless I can figure out how to change the name on the current site.  So, I am asking for your feedback on what you like or don't like about this newsletter.  You can respond with a comment on-line, or you are welcome to send me an e-mail privately to lorne@rhcrealty.com

The business blog site, http://nelsonrealestate.inthekoots.com/ will continue.  If you haven't checked this one out, I try to have more real estate business topics there.

A few more snow scenes taken this morning.

 

Praying For Gifts

Two young boys were spending the night at their grandparents the week before Christmas.

At bedtime, the two boys knelt beside their beds to say their prayers when the youngest one began praying at the top of his lungs.

"I PRAY FOR A NEW BICYCLE..."

"I PRAY FOR A NEW NINTENDO..."

"I PRAY FOR A NEW I-POD..."

His older brother leaned over and nudged the younger brother and said, "Why are you shouting your prayers? God isn't deaf."

To which the little brother replied, "No, but Grandma is!"

*Thanks to Pastor Tim for this joke! *

 

 Calendars - I have delivered a lot of calendars to clients and people around town this year.  I still have some left, so if you are not on my delivery list, give me a call.  If you are out of town, I'll gladly drop one in the mail for you.

So, with that I'll wrap up this month's post, and wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.  Our home will be full this year, as all of our family will be home, starting this weekend.

I guess it's a good thing that the house didn't sell.  We're going to fill it up with family one more time.
 

 Lorne

No Mo for this Bro this November

 

One of the November campaigns is called "Movember".  The idea is to grow a moustache and, while doing so, raise money in support of prevention of prostate cancer.  Here were the results of my efforts two years ago.  Since it was not very noticeable, I have refrained from repeating.  

 

Do You Know A Buyer For This Home?
Located on over 24 tranquil acres in the North part of the Slocan Valley, this delightful 2 bedroom cabin is situated so as to enjoy an incredible view.  To complete the package, there is a 24 x 32 shop with bay doors, a full basement and an unfinished 2nd storey for your home business or serious hobby.  Additional details can be found here.  $349,000.

My friend, Bob Kalo, is a RE/MAX Realtor in the Langley area of British Columbia.  He sends out some very good information, and I have shared some of it before.  This month it was on a very timely topic: 

___________________________________________________________________

10 Commandments for MOBILE MANNERS

1. Thou shalt give top priority to those who are with you.

Listen intently when you are with friends, family members and coworkers. When you constantly check messages, you send the message that other people and things are more important to you.

2. Thou shalt not be distracted.

For safety's sake, don't text or engage in voice calls while driving. For the same reason, don't let texting or voice calls distract you while walking in busy public spaces. Texting-while-walking mishaps have become such a serious problem that cities are starting to issue tickets.

3. Do not shout on the sidewalk.

It's OK to take a call when you're on the street. But try to keep your voice down. If you have to shout to be heard above the background noise, you should call back later.

4. Thou shalt not make private matters public.

Don't discuss private matters in public. Remember never to text anything that is private, confidential or potentially embarrassing. Messages can be forwarded and shared with hundreds of others in seconds - and often are.

5. Do unto others as briefly as possible.

Remember that you have a captive, unsympathetic audience when you're in a carpool or using public transportation. Only make or take a call if it's essential. And when you absolutely must talk, keep the call short.

6. Learn how to turn that thing completely off as soon as you get it out of the box.

Then please do turn it off whenever you are in a church, a restaurant, a library, at a movie, concert, at a play - and even in a meeting.

7. Use headphones correctly.

Use headphones whenever playing games or watching videos. Get a pair of snug-fitting headphones - and wear them. There's nothing worse than hearing sound spilling from loose-fitting earbuds. And it's basic good manners to remove your headphones when someone is trying to speak to you.

8. Do not cause light pollution.

Lighting up a darkened environment, such as a train at night, with your jumbo tablet screen is inconsiderate. Others usually don't really care if you ask nicely first. When in public, turn screen brightness down as a courtesy.

9. Share only with permission.

Sharing pictures of current locations is a great way to update friends and family members. Don't take photos of strangers, however, without permission - and never post pictures of strangers on social media sites.

10. Exercise good taste.

Keep the content on your screen at a General Audiences level. Don't call up risqué videos, photos and websites in public areas.

 The B.C. Real Estate Association puts out periodic information to Realtors.  They have an Economics Department that has issued a bulletin on the recent Bank of Canada rate announcement.  It sounds like there will continue to be low rate stability for the coming months.

Bank of Canada Interest Rate Announcement - October 23, 2012
The Bank of Canada once again opted to hold its target for the overnight rate at 1 per cent this morning. Interest rates have been held constant for over two years, the longest such period since the 1950s. The Bank somewhat tempered its bias for higher future interest rates, including a softer statement regarding the appropriateness of a gradual withdrawal of monetary stimulus as excess supply in the economy is absorbed. In a bit of a surprise, the Bank actually raised its forecast for the growth in the Canadian economy this year to 2.2 per cent, but kept its 2013 forecast at 2.3 per cent growth. The Bank judges that at that pace of growth, the Canadian economy will return to full capacity by the end of 2013.

It is our view that monetary policy at the Bank of Canada will continue to be constrained by external events in the global economy and household debt growth at home. While the Bank's preference for tighter policy is clear, it is difficult to make a case for higher interest rates when core inflation is below the Bank's 2 per cent target and already slow economic growth is threatened by global uncertainty. Therefore, we are forecasting that the Bank of Canada will hold its target overnight rate at 1 per cent until mid-to-late 2013 when, conditioned on an improved global economic outlook, it may test the water with a 25 basis point rate increase. 

Now for a bit of humour.

Subject: Linguistics winner

No English dictionary has been able to adequately explain the difference between COMPLETE and FINISHED. However, in a recent linguistic conference held in London, England, and attended by some of the best linguists in the world: Samsundar Balgobin, a Guyanese, was the clear winner.

His final challenge was this: Some say there is no difference between COMPLETE and FINISHED. Please explain the difference between COMPLETE and FINISHED in a way that is easy to understand.

Here is his astute answer: "When you marry the right woman, you are COMPLETE. But, when you marry the wrong woman, you are FINISHED. And when the right one catches you with the wrong one, you are COMPLETELY FINISHED!"

His answer was received with a standing ovation lasting over 5 minutes and it entitled him to receive an invitation to dine with the Queen, who decided to call him after the contest. He won a trip to travel around the world in style and a case of 25 year old Eldorado rum for his answer.

$2.99 SPECIALI love it.................................

If you are a senior you will understand this one, if you deal with seniors, this should help you understand them a little better, and if you are not a senior yet........God willing, someday you will be.......
The 2.99 Special

We went to breakfast at a restaurant where the 'seniors' special' was two eggs, bacon, hash browns and toast for $2.99.

'Sounds good,' my wife Betty said. 'But I don't want the eggs.'

'Then, I'll have to charge you $3.49 because you're ordering a la carte,' the waitress warned her.

'You mean I'd have to pay for not taking the eggs?' my wife asked incredulously.

'YES!' stated the waitress.

'I'll take the special then, 'Betty said..

'How do you want your eggs?' the waitress asked.

'Raw and in the shell,' my wife replied.
She took the two eggs home and baked a cake.
DON'T MESS WITH SENIORS!!!
WE'VE been around the block more than once!

  

I realize that I have come to this point in my monthly posting, with no local news.  I do not have photos to share with you at this time, but our community is very proud of the people who put on the rock opera, Jesus Christ Superstar earlier this month.  5 of the 6 performances were sellouts at the Capitol Theatre, and I have heard nothing but extremely positive comments from the community.  Now, I admit to some bias in this regard, as my wife, Dorothy, had a part in the chorus of the show, and I know that she worked extremely hard for several months, along with the rest of the cast and supporting crew.  Congratulations on a terrific show!

November 20th . . . 

1942	On This Day... Dawson Creek BC - Opening of 2,450 km (1,523 mile) long Alcan Military Highway, or Alaska Highway; from Dawson Creek, BC to Fairbanks, Alaska; road built to supply Pacific North West and Alaska in case of Japanese invasion.
1841	And in Today's Canadian Birthdays... Wilfrid Laurier 1841-1919 born in St-Lin, Quebec, son of Carolus Laurier and Marie Martineau; Canada's 7th Prime Minister, 1896-1911; attends Le Collège de L'Assomption and McGill University; dies Feb. 17, 1919. Here's his birthplace in St-Lin, Quebec. For a photo of Sir Wilfrid Laurier, just look at a Canadian $5 bill.

Thank you for reading.  Your questions and comments are always welcome.  Also, a reminder that if you are seeking more real estate related information, please check out my business blog. 


For those south of the border, I wish you a Happy Thanksgiving, a successful Black Friday and a hi-tech Cyber Monday!

Also, thanks to my good friend, Bud, who sends great jokes and humourous articles to me.  You've just read a couple of them.

Lorne & Drew

Autumn waited, then it went!

This beautiful tree is located in the Uphill area of Nelson.

Last weekend I was traveling from Cranbrook to Nelson, and stopped at the summit of the Salmo-Creston "Skyway" to take in this wintry scene.

We've had no snow in Nelson to date, but it could be here at any moment.  Just 2 weeks ago I was still cycling, but I think that is over for this season.  I must admit, with some relief, that I have had more flat tires this year than I can ever recall, so now I can look forward to a fresh start next spring.

Do You Know A Buyer For This Home?

 

This home is located along the North Shore, just a 3 km. drive from the city centre.  It has 2 bedrooms, 2 baths, a wrap around deck, carport, great garden area and an outstanding lake view.  Priced at $419,900 -- you'll want to check out more details here

Last weekend Dorothy and I headed to Spokane for an outstanding musical presentation of Jersey Boys, the true story, sometimes pretty gritty of the musical group The Four Seasons.  As David Letterman was quoted as saying "This ain't no jukebox musical -- there's a real story here".  We really enjoyed the evening.  Here's a medley of songs from that show -- this is the London cast, and not the same group of guys we saw -- in my opinion the Spokane group was closer to the originals.  I hope you'll take the 9 minutes to enjoy this soundtrack of our age.

Here is a news release from the B.C. Real Estate Association on interest rates:

Bank of Canada Interest Rate Announcement - October 23, 2012
The Bank of Canada once again opted to hold its target for the overnight rate at 1 per cent this morning. Interest rates have been held constant for over two years, the longest such period since the 1950s. The Bank somewhat tempered its bias for higher future interest rates, including a softer statement regarding the appropriateness of a gradual withdrawal of monetary stimulus as excess supply in the economy is absorbed. In a bit of a surprise, the Bank actually raised its forecast for the growth in the Canadian economy this year to 2.2 per cent, but kept its 2013 forecast at 2.3 per cent growth. The Bank judges that at that pace of growth, the Canadian economy will return to full capacity by the end of 2013.

It is our view that monetary policy at the Bank of Canada will continue to be constrained by external events in the global economy and household debt growth at home. While the Bank's preference for tighter policy is clear, it is difficult to make a case for higher interest rates when core inflation is below the Bank's 2 per cent target and already slow economic growth is threatened by global uncertainty. Therefore, we are forecasting that the Bank of Canada will hold its target overnight rate at 1 per cent until mid-to-late 2013 when, conditioned on an improved global economic outlook, it may test the water with a 25 basis point rate increase. 

A Mother’s Quotes
PAUL REVERE'S MOTHER: "I don't care where you think you have to go, young man. Midnight is past your curfew!"
MARY, MARY, QUITE CONTRARY'S MOTHER: "I don't mind you having a garden, Mary, but does it have to be growing under your bed?"
MONA LISA'S MOTHER: "After all that money your father and I spent on braces, Mona, that's the biggest smile you can give us?"
HUMPTY DUMPTY'S MOTHER: "Humpty, if I've told you once, I've told you a hundred times not to sit on that wall. But would you listen to me? Noooo!"
COLUMBUS' MOTHER: "I don't care what you've discovered, Christopher. You still could have written!"
BABE RUTH'S MOTHER: "Babe, how many times have I told you-quit playing ball in the house! That's the third broken window this week!"
MICHELANGELO'S MOTHER: "Mike, can't you paint on walls like other children? Do you have any idea how hard it is to get that stuff off the ceiling?"
NAPOLEON'S MOTHER: "All right, Napoleon. If you aren't hiding your report card inside your jacket, then take your hand out of there and prove it!"
CUSTER'S MOTHER: "Now, George, remember what I told you-don't go biting off more than you can chew!"
ABRAHAM LINCOLN'S MOTHER: "Again with the stovepipe hat, Abe? Can't you just wear a baseball cap like the other kids?"
BARNEY'S MOTHER: "I realize strained plums are your favorite, Barney, but you're starting to look a little purple."
MARY'S MOTHER: "I'm not upset that your lamb followed you to school, Mary, but I would like to know how he got a better grade than you."
BATMAN'S MOTHER: "It's a nice car, Bruce, but do you realize how much the insurance is going to be?"
GOLDILOCKS' MOTHER: "I've got a bill here for a busted chair from the Bear family. You know anything about this, Goldie?"
LITTLE MISS MUFFET'S MOTHER: "Well, all I've got to say is if you don't get off your tuffet and start cleaning your room, there'll be a lot more spiders around here!"
ALBERT EINSTEIN'S MOTHER: "But, Albert, it's your senior picture. Can't you do something about your hair? Styling gel, mousse, something...?"
GEORGE WASHINGTON'S MOTHER: "The next time I catch you throwing money across the Potomac, you can kiss your allowance good-bye!"
JONAH'S MOTHER: "That's a nice story, but now tell me where you've really been for the last three days."
SUPERMAN'S MOTHER: "Clark, your father and I have discussed it, and we've decided you can have your own telephone line. Now will you quit spending so much time in all those phone booths?"
THOMAS EDISON'S MOTHER: "Of course I'm proud that you invented the electric light bulb, Thomas. Now turn off that light and get to bed!"
*Thanks to Pastor Tim for this joke!*

One more autumn shot from Nelson.  This is our "famous" doughnut tree.  It doesn't have a lot of colour on it this year, but you can see the snow line on the mountain opposite.

So ends October.  Thanks for reading.  Your comments are always welcome.

Lorne & Drew

Autumn Can Wait!

The calendar may say September 24th, but looking around it doesn't seem like it.  Yes, there are some trees beginning to turn colour, and dusk arrives much earlier than a couple of months ago, but we are having some very fine weather.  Haven't yet had to turn the furnace on, and I'm wondering if we can get one more camping trip in this year (So far we've only had one weekend in our tent-trailer).

We did take a quick trip back to Saskatchewan to visit family.  We were gone from Thursday to Monday, and put over 2,500 kms. on our vehicle.

 While we were there, the youngest, who is just starting kindergarten, lost her first tooth.

We walked our grand-daughters to school last Monday morning, before heading home.

One of the big events of September in Nelson is the annual Road Kings weekend, with a vintage parade and car show, as well as a roof top dance in our parkade.  Here are a couple of the photos I snapped of the cars displayed downtown.

 This is a 1956 Buick Century.  Dorothy's dad had one of these, but theirs was red and black.
 
Note the small back window in this 1956 Volkswagen.   They also had very small engines, with not much power, but they would go a long way on a gallon of gas, and were good in snow.

The following is an excellent story.  I don't know if it is true:

His name was Fleming, and he was a poor Scottish farmer. One day, while trying to make a living for his family, he heard a cry for help coming from a nearby bog. He dropped his tools and ran to the bog.

There, mired to his waist in black muck, was a terrified boy, screaming and struggling to free himself. Farmer Fleming saved the lad from what could have been a slow and terrifying death

The next day, a fancy carriage pulled up to the Scotsman's sparse surroundings. An elegantly dressed nobleman stepped out and introduced himself as the father of the boy Farmer Fleming had saved.

'I want to repay you,' said the nobleman. 'You saved my son's life.'

'No, I can't accept payment for what I did,' the Scottish farmer replied waving off the offer. At that moment, the farmer's own son came to the door of the family hovel.

'Is that your son?' the nobleman asked.

'Yes,' the farmer replied proudly.

'I'll make you a deal. Let me provide him with the level of education my own son will enjoy If the lad is anything like his father, he'll no doubt grow to be a man we both will be proud of.' And that he did.

Farmer Fleming's son attended the very best schools and in time, graduated from St. Mary's Hospital Medical School in London, and went on to become known throughout the world as the noted Sir Alexander Fleming, the discoverer of Penicillin.

Years afterward, the same nobleman's son who was saved from the bog was stricken with pneumonia.

What saved his life this time? Penicillin.

The name of the nobleman? Lord Randolph Churchill .. His son's name?

Sir Winston Churchill.

Someone once said: What goes around comes around.

Do You Know A Buyer For This Home?

This is a riverfront property in Salmo.  It is a beautifully maintained 4 bedroom, 3 bath home with an amazing back yard.  It's less than a half-hour drive from Nelson, or from Castlegar or Trail.  Check out the details and additional photos on our nelson real estate web-site.  It is priced at $329,500.

Last month I mentioned that I had turned over 100,000 kilometres on my vehicle, and talked of a song by John Denver.  Thanks to my friend J.G. for finding a link to this song.   The song is called "On The Road".

Here is some information that was sent to me from the Pillar to Post Home Inspection Service.  Home inspections have become pretty well standard practice when buying a home, and the inspectors often have some good advice to share with home-owners.  This piece is a good one.


With heating and cooling costs continuing to rise, it makes sense to look at one of the leading causes of energy inefficiency in the home: the windows. Installing energy-efficient windows can mean increased comfort as well as savings on utility bills in any climate.

The transmission of air and light is generally the most important function of windows. However, this can mean heat loss in the winter, overheating in the summer, and higher energy bills. A typical home may lose up to 30% of its heat or cooling through windows. Properly installed energy-efficient windows can go a long way toward improving this situation.

There are many factors that affect a window's energy efficiency. Whether they are single or multiple-paned, gas-filled, Low-Emittance (Low-E) coated, and even the material of the window frame all contribute to a window's performance. One excellent resource is www.efficientwindows.org, which provides detailed information on these specifications and how to select windows appropriate for various climates. An experienced window contractor can also be a good source of information and recommendations.

Homeowners should check with their local utility to find out about possible rebates and other incentives for the purchase of new, energy-efficient windows.

Of course, replacing windows is not always a viable option. However, there are steps homeowners can take to improve their energy savings without replacing windows such as making sure windows are properly caulked, keeping weather stripping in good repair, and using storm windows will help. Putting in window coverings is another good way to reduce heat loss in winter and avoid overheating during summer.

Improving energy efficiency throughout the home means cost savings to the homeowner. Energy-efficient windows are a significant step toward that goal. 

Another bit of information came to me this month from the Royal Bank.  I'm posting two links for this one, the first on Identity Theft
and the second one on the importance of your Credit Rating. Each of these links is to a short (less than 2 minute) video.

Political Correctness For Kids

Your bedroom isn't cluttered; it's "passage-restrictive."
Kids don't get in trouble anymore. They merely hit "social speed bumps."
You're not having a bad hair day; you're suffering from "rebellious follicle syndrome."
No one's tall anymore. They're "vertically enhanced."
You're not shy. You're "conversationally selective."
You don't talk a lot. You're just "abundantly verbal."
It's not called gossip anymore. It's "transmission of near-factual information."
The food at the school cafeteria isn't awful. It's "digestively challenged."
Your homework isn't missing; it's just having an "out-of-notebook experience."
You're not sleeping in class; you're "rationing consciousness."
You don't have smelly gym socks; you have "odor-retentive athletic footwear."
You weren't passing notes in class. You were "participating in the discreet exchange of penned meditations."
You're not being sent to the principal's office. You're "going on a mandatory field trip to the administrative building.

*Thanks to Pastor Tim for this joke!*

I know you don't want me to tell you this, but 3 months from now it's
CHRISTMAS!

Lorne & Drew 

 

 

Now We're Talking . . . .

Talking about summer, that is!  Warm days, pleasant evenings, limited number of insects, and no time for golf!  That's o.k., though, as I am getting some cycling in.

Wednesday Market in downtown Nelson

The 400 Block of Baker Street is closed off every Wednesday for our market day, during the summer months.  This has become a very popular community event.  They have organic vegetables, as well as flowers, massages, crepes and even kettle corn.  This photo was taken about 2:30 this afternoon, and some of the tents are already being taken down, as they had sold out of their produce.

Do You Know A Buyer For This Home?

 4310 Viewridge Road, in Bonnington, less than 15 minutes from Nelson.  This 3 - 4 bedroom home, has 3 bathrooms, plenty of room for further development in the walk-out basement, a double garage and sits on just under 2 acres of treed privacy.  More details available on our web-site.  $395,000

Here is a delightful video that one of my friends sent me in the past month.  It takes nearly 10 minutes, but is well worth the investment in your time.  Please check it out here.

This next article was sent to me by one of our local mortgage brokers.  It contains some very good information about compounding interest, and how to benefit from it:

Compound interest can work for you or against you. When raking in the cash from the fruits of your investments, this can be a wonderful thing. However when you are in the ring against a larger, more fierce competitor (the lender), you need to have a good trainer in your corner telling you what to do. In this situation, I am your hypothetical trainer and the following are my suggestions to win this fight and minimize damage to your pocket book.
When going up against a lender/ bank, I suggest four strategic moves to minimize the impact of the compounding interest punch:

1. Always choose weekly or bi-weekly accelerated mortgage payments. I personally don’t like the weekly payment myself. Knowing I have to make a payment every week freaks me out and there isn’t much difference from the biweekly anyways.
2. Take a 25 year amortization or less. In Vancouver this is very difficult considering the disturbing cost of housing but I would recommend attempting this. If anything, take a 30 year but make your payment the equivalent of the 25 year amortization in case of emergency. Then you can revert to the lower payment if need be.
3. Increase your payments monthly. We recommend using a lender (such as Street Capital) who allows you to easily control your mortgage payments. If you get a raise at work, add that money towards your mortgage payment.
4. Use the lump-sum payment option. When you get your tax return or bonus, toss that onto your mortgage. A $5,000 lump-sum payment on a $300,000 mortgage with a 25 year amortization will save you $8,249.75 in interest cost.

Remember to Own Your Life and have a nice day!

Why Some Countries CAN'T Go Metric!
If the metric system did ever take over, we'd have to change our thinking to the following:
* A miss is as good as 1.6 kilometers.
* Put your best 0.3 of a meter forward.
* Spare the 5.03 meters and spoil the child.
* Twenty-eight grams of prevention is worth 453 grams of cure.
* Give a man 2.5 centimeters and he'll take 1.609 kilometers.
* Peter Piper picked 8.8 liters of pickled peppers.
*Thanks to Pastor Tim for this joke!*







This coming weekend, I am planning to do a bicycle ride, which is a fund-raiser in support of the Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada.  The proceeds will go toward the work of the West Kootenay Chapter of that organization.  I will be riding 220 kilometers over a 2 day period, starting in New Denver, riding to Nelson, and then returning to New Denver on the 2nd day, via Kaslo.  I have been working with the organizing committee for this ride and am grateful for the opportunity to participate, if only because I am not affected by the debilitating effects of MS.  I would invite you to take advantage of whatever activities you are able to participate in.  If your passion isn't cycling, then pursue what you enjoy.  In the meantime, if you are able, you might consider making a donation and sponsoring me toward my fund-raising target.  You can do that here and then click on the "Pledge Me Online" button.  Thank you!

Last weekend we were on Vancouver Island, staying with friends in Nanaimo.  The weather there was just about as nice as it could be, and we enjoyed our dessert in their back yard.  While sitting out there, we got these surprise visitors.

What really surprised me about this was that these deer had to cross a paved driveway, walk through a narrow opening, with a gate, and then past a storage shed before getting to the back lawn (& the tomato plants).  The property owner closed the gate once they left, in order to protect his tomatoes!

On the August long weekend, I volunteered to help out with the Cyswog'n triathlon, which Nelson has hosted for more than 25 years.  I don't do triathlons, but for several years I have volunteered to be on the sweeping crew to make sure the highway is in good shape for the cyclists who will be racing over it.  We begin this task about 5 a.m. on the morning of the race.  Fortunately, the highways contract crew had done a good job of cleaning the road, so we didn't have a lot of work to do.  However, along the way, I had to stop to take this shot of the rising sun.

About 5 years ago, I had a similar shot to this with my previous car, when it turned over 100,000 kms.  which I used in my newsletter.  It reminded me of an old John Denver song that spoke of their old family car.  There was a line in it that said "When it had gone a hundred thou -- we got out a pushed it a mile."  I can't remember the name of the song, nor could I track in on YouTube, so I don't have a link for you.  If you know the song, please let me know and I'll share it next month.

Thanks for reading.  Your comments are always welcome, and thanks to those who send me information to pass along to you.  I also invite you to check out my "business blog".

Lorne & Drew

Enjoying Summer!

 So, we'll start off this monthly newsletter with our Canada Day celebrations at Lakeside Rotary Park.  The weather was quite pleasant when we arrived, had our lunch at the Rotary concession and then settled in to hear the entertainment.  Just about 2 p.m. (which was when Dorothy and her group, the Glacier Harmony's were scheduled to sing) the skies opened up.

Just a couple of minutes before this photo was taken, the area had been crowded with spectators.  They scattered once the deluge began.  Several of the ladies who were singing had asked me to keep an eye on their belongings while they performed, so I stayed.  Eventually we lifted the bags in the above photo up onto the chairs  (you'll see why in another moment).

Here is the women's barbershop group, known as Glacier Harmony singing under the tent covering.  They later told me that they could barely hear each other (which is very important for a singing group) because of the noise of the rain on the tent roof.  Some spectators also took shelter under the tent, and you can see the "techie" moving the monitors up onto the stage and off the grass.

Before the concert ended this "lake" formed in front of the tent-stage.  Needless to say we packed up our belongings and headed home, dripping wet, once the ladies finished singing.  Even the fireworks were postponed until the B.C. Day long weekend.

Without even asking our permission, a pair of birds set up "home" on our covered front deck.  The nest was built very quickly, and very soon we could hear these tiny chirps.  We can't see directly into the nest, so I stood on a step-stool to take this shot of the 3 babies.  They will be gone in a few more days, and we will dismantle the nest.

 Here is my friend Arthur, with his gumboots on, standing on his sidewalk.  the boardwalk to the left of the photo is floating.

The Slocan River was so high that there was no beach at Crescent Valley.

Along the Kootenay River they continue to spill water as quickly as they can to draw down the lake level.

 Here is a home on the North Shore, just a few minutes out of Nelson.  The small cedar trees to the right of the photo normally line the yard.  The yard is completely under water and the trees are standing in probably 30 cm. of water in this photo.


A balanced diet is an ice-cream cone in each hand! *Ice-cream is happiness condensed.*

*~Jesse Lane Adams * 

The above quote was stolen from my cousin's blog.   Hers is always a very pleasant read about faith, family and life on the farm.  Feel free to check it out.  You're not really snooping.

Do You Know A Buyer For This Home?

This beautiful 4 bedroom, 4 bath home on a view lot in the Uphill neighbourhood is in excellent condition, and waiting for a new owner.  Covered decks on 2 levels, gas fireplace, double carport, landscaped yard and open patios at front and rear.  Check out further details at our web-site  $479,000

Next month I will be doing another bike ride.  If you would like, you can help me out with a pledge to the MS Society of Canada.  The ride is put on by the West Kootenay Chapter of the MS Society, and all proceeds raised will remain in this area.  There are a number of MS rides in Western Canada, and this is the first year that we will have one in this area.  It is a 2 day, 220 km. ride which starts in New Denver and rides to Nelson on Day 1, then back to New Denver, following Kootenay Lake as far as Kaslo, and then across a mountain pass to finish in New Denver.  I have set myself a fairly lofty goal, and would appreciate your support, if you are able.  The easiest way to is pledge on-line here.  That way you will get your charitable tax receipt immediately.  Thanks for considering this request.

Despite the amount of rain that we have seen, we have also seen some warm, and even some hot weather. This following piece came across my desk recently.

How hot is it?
The birds have to use potholders to pull worms out of the ground.
The trees are whistling for the dogs.
The best parking place is determined by shade instead of distance.
Hot water now comes out of both taps.
You can make sun tea instantly.
You learn that a seat belt buckle makes a pretty good branding iron.
The temperature drops below 95 and you feel a little chilly.
You discover that in August it only takes 2 fingers to steer your car.
You discover that you can get sunburned through your car window.
You actually burn your hand opening the car door.
You break into a sweat the instant you step outside at 7:30 a.m.
Your biggest bicycle wreck fear is, "What if I get knocked out and end up lying on the pavement and cook to death?"
You realize that asphalt has a liquid state.
The potatoes cook underground, so all you have to do is pull one out and add butter, salt and pepper.
Farmers are feeding their chickens crushed ice to keep them from laying boiled eggs.
The cows are giving evaporated milk.
*Thanks to Pastor Tim for this joke!*

It may be summer, but it is the strangest summer I have experienced in my 35 years in Nelson.  Here is a 2 minute clip on the flooding in Nelson last Tuesday afternoon, when the skies opened up (again) and dropped 2 inches of rain in under an hour.

Here are some outdoor grilling tips from the folks at Pillar to Post Home Inspections.

Now that the summer season is kicking off, it's time to get back in the grilling groove. According to the National Fire Protection Association, gas and charcoal grills cause more than 8,000 house fires each year. Before firing up the grill, homeowners should consider these safety tips:

• Grills should be located no closer than 10' (3m) from any structure. Never use a grill under a porch, deck, overhang, carport, or in a garage. Make sure the grill rests on a stable surface and can't be tipped over.
• Never use a propane or charcoal grill indoors.
• Check hoses and connections on gas grills periodically throughout the grilling season. Replace any cracked or brittle hoses before using the grill. Propane cylinders should never be stored inside a garage or other structure at any time.
• Start charcoal fires using a chimney starter instead of charcoal fluid. Not only is a chimney starter safer, but your meal will taste better. If charcoal fluid is used, never add it to the coals once the fire has been lit.
• Once the grill is lit, never leave it unattended. It can take just a few seconds for a serious fire to erupt.
• While lighting and cooking on the grill, do not wear clothes that are loose-fitting or that have wide sleeves that could catch fire. Use long-handled utensils to handle food while cooking. Wear close-toed shoes while at the grill - you can always change to flip flops later.
• Control flare ups by lowering the heat on a gas grill. On charcoal grills, remove the food from the grill and distribute the coals more evenly. If necessary, a flare up can be put out with water from a spray bottle, but remove food from the grill first to avoid smoke contamination.
• To help prevent grease fires, remove any accumulated grease and residue from inside the lid of the grill at least every 5-6 uses. Baking soda can be used to extinguish a grease fire still contained within the grill unit.
• Always keep young children and pets away from the grill during and after cooking. The grill's exterior can remain hot long for a long time. 

If you are seeking more real estate related news, please check out my business blog, which has mid-year statistics for Nelson and the outlying area as the current posting.

Just as I was about to complete this month's newsletter, guess what?  The power went out in the office, due to (another) thunder and lightning storm.  Nelson's power used to go out regularly, but in the past few years outages have been much less frequent.  Anyway, this is now about 5 hours later than it would have otherwise been in getting posted.  The outage lasted for just under an hour.

Thanks for reading.  Hope you are having a good summer.  

Lorne & Drew

Happy Victoria Day

On this weekend we traditionally celebrate the Queen's birthday (May 24th was Queen Victoria's birthdate), and, this year we are also celebrating Queen Elizabeth's diamond jubilee (60 years as monarch).  Here in Canada, it's also the start of many summer events.  Nearby, in Kaslo, they have their May Days, which include logging sports and a parade on Monday.  Over in Creston there's the Blossom Festival.

We were going to go camping out at Kokanee Creek Provincial Park this weekend, but at the last minute (about 4:30 yesterday), as we were hooking up our tent trailer, I couldn't get the lights to work.  Can't take the trailer on the road without working lights, so we stayed home.  Don't feel badly for us -- it was pretty chilly this morning, so we may have been a bit uncomfortable out at the camp-site. 

 

Instead, I took a most enjoyable cruise on Kootenay Lake this morning.  A kind gentleman by the name of "Tex" took this photo, and then asked If I could give him a ride to Nelson.  I obliged, and he kept me entertained with all kinds of stories from yesterday's Hollywood.  Now I don't know if they were all true, but if even half of them were, then he has led a most interesting life!

 Here's the line-up a vehicles waiting for the 12:20 ferry from Kootenay Bay.  It always amazes me how they can load so many vehicles onto this ferry.  These crews do an incredible job of moving people.

While waiting for the ferry (about the same time that Tex offered to take my photo) these two Canada geese flew over.  No trouble knowing they were coming, as they were encouraging each other with their distinctive "honking" call.

 

I also stopped in to say "Hi" to Nancy and Andre at The Manor

 The M.V. Osprey 2000 is now 12 years old, holds 80 vehicles (maybe a little less with all the motor homes and fifth wheels) and travels the 35 minute ride from Balfour to Kootenay Bay year round.  In the summer, it is supplemented by the older and smaller vessel, M.V. Balfour.

 Fishing Wife  "So, what's the matter?" asked one woman of her friend over coffee. "I thought you just got back from a nice relaxing fishing trip with your husband."
"Oh, everything went wrong," the second woman answered.
"First, he said I talked so loud I would scare the fish.
Then he said I was using the wrong bait; and then that I was reeling in too soon.
"All that might have been all right; but to make matters worse, I ended up catching the most fish!"
*Thanks to Pastor Tim for this joke!*

A couple of weeks ago, I traveled to Spokane with friends to participate in a 50 mile bicycle ride, sponsored by one of the Rotary Clubs in Spokane.  It's a great ride, although 50 miles (80 km.) is a bit of a challenge for me that early in the year. 

It's always good to have a friend to help change a tire!  Thanks, Karl!

If you look closely at the jersey that Karl is wearing, you'll notice that it says P.A.G.E. 10 on the front.  P.A.G.E. is an acronym for Pedal Around A Glacier, Eh!  This year we are holding P.A.G.E. 17 1/2 in two weeks, on June 2nd and 3rd.  (Don't ask where the 1/2 came from, that's a long story!)  The ride is 2 days, 224 km. from Nelson to Kaslo and then over to New Denver.  We camp there (but you can make other arrangements for accommodations if you choose not to camp) and then ride back to Nelson on the 2nd day, through the Slocan Valley.  You're welcome to join us if you like.  You can download a registration form here.

Do You Know A Buyer For This Home?

Updated, hand-crafted log constructed home with a huge shop and a 4 car garage on 0.87 acre level lot located on secondary road near S. Slocan junction.  3 bedrooms + den, 3 baths and a treefort in the back yard.  $499,000.  For more details, please check our web-site.

Ten years ago this month, I decided to support the B.C. Children's Hospital with a fund-raising campaign.  It was fairly successful, raising over $2,500 for the hospital in Vancouver.

Amazing how time flies, and what has occurred in the past decade.  My grandchildren have not seen me with hair.  We still contribute to the Children's Hospital with every sale that completes.

For more real estate news, please check out my business blog.

And with that, I'll sign off for another month. Enjoy the weekend.  Your comments and feedback are always welcome.

Thanks for reading.

Lorne & Drew