Home Life

MEMORIES ... On leaving one home and moving on ...

2008-10-09T14:41:07Z

October 9, 2008

Toledo, Ohio

Wow! It didn't really hit me till I was home. But this morning was my last opportunity to sit with my brokers (John and Kathy) and a group of agents and just shoot the breeze and brainstorm. To have a free exchange of ideas, frustrations, random thoughts and anxieties. All in a comfortable venue and without shame or embarrassment. To just let our hair down and get whatever is getting to us off our chests.

John Mangas and Kathy Kuyoth, Broker Owners/Partners, REMAX Preferred, hosted a cozy breakfast meeting for all of us to discuss what is and is not working in this market, what might work in this market and how we should be using our time to perfect our business. This was the third breakfast they have had this month, keeping the group small, so that we could chat and learn from each other. That's one thing John and Kathy have always been tremendous at ... keeping us all motivated to succeed. They are truly caring people and it shows ... in everything they do.

Soon I will be joining the Elizabeth Nieves Realty Group at Keller Williams in North Carolina. This is an exciting move for me and I'm up for the challenge. The idea of working with Elizabeth just makes me want to jump and shout! She's a go-getter and a real inspiration!

But I have to admit - while I won't miss the snow and freezing cold that prevails in Ohio during the winter, I will certainly miss all of the fine folks I am proud to call friends.

I learned something a long time ago ... if you have made real friends it won't matter where you are living. The miles won't count - but the friendship does. Friends are friends - no matter what dot on the map they call home.

Thank you, John and Kathy, for the opportunities you afforded me, the knowledge you shared with me, the hand of friendship that you offered me, and the trust that you placed in me. Though my stay at REMAX Preferred was brief (just a year) I learned many wonderful things and got to meet many great folks. Your team is top-notch and your professionalism unparallelled.

I wish you all the best - always. God bless to all.

Black Cloud or Silver Lining? Depends on your outlook, I guess ...

2008-10-06T07:33:39Z

This post is going to be kind of long, so proceed at your own risk of falling asleep.

Have you ever known someone that has a continuous black cloud that follows them around? Through no fault of their own? Someone that no matter what they do they can't seem to get ahead .. even just a little?

I am betting that you have. If not, then you have led either a privileged life, or a very sheltered one. Either way ... you missed a valuable life lesson.

I remember as a child my mom and my grandma always said that "this world is full of haves and have nots." I always thought that was a strange saying, but it stuck with me. I was probably 10 or 12 years old before it started having meaning.

I grew up in a middle class neighborhood (by Boston standards) and my friends were from the same neighborhood for the most part. So, it stood to reason that we all had the same "place" in society. (Keep in mind ... this is the logic of an adolescent girl) Well, that's just not how it was.

I had a friend who was first generation American of German descent. She had a little bit of an accent, and wore pigtails ALL the time, but she was funny, smart, likable, creative and loved to dance. I can tell ya - Lesley Gore would have been proud of us if she could have seen what was going on in my grandma's living room to the tune of It's My Party!

My friend, I'll call her Anna, often seemed sad ... at least until she walked in the door of my house. Then she would smile and marvel at the surroundings. I was rather confused as to why, but didn't really let it stop me from putting a record on and grabbing the nail polish. Ahhh, the life of adolescent girls ...

Anna always spent the night at my house on the weekends. She never once asked me to stay at her house. And that struck me as odd.

Then it dawned on me. According to Anna ... I lived in the "have" part of the neighborhood while she felt as though she was a "have not." That hurt me. It hurt to think my friend was harboring feelings of inferiority based solely on the 'things' that she had.

Lesson learned. And it stuck. For many years. To this day.

We have some friends here in Toledo that have found themselves under a black cloud for quite some time. And not by choice or from bad decisions. Just because ... well ... sometimes life isn't fair. And we are tested beyond all reason and logic.

You see ... the mother of this family was recently diagnosed with lung cancer. And if that's not bad enough she has multiple health issues that will complicate her treatments. She is an insulin dependent diabetic, and has had one kidney removed due to the diabetes. But never has her attitude said, "Poor me."

Then we have the father of this family who has had 5 heart attacks in the last 3 years. He's had one triple bypass and has more stints in place than a bad plumbing job.

Both of these people are in their mid-40s. And as genuine as you could ever hope for. They are not degree carrying alumni of a fancy university, nor do they have any money or remarkable material possessions.

What they do have is the love of family. And that's worth more than anything in the world.

With the recent cancer diagnosis my husband and I sat down and talked about their situation. We wanted to help, but had to be careful so as not to insult their pride. We decided the best help we could give them would be a house that would stop making them all sick.

This is the house they were living in. It is a carbon monoxide trap, a fire hazard and poorly maintained. They had been renting it for 17 years. Renting from a man who didn't see anything wrong with the mold in the window frames, the noxious fumes from poorly ventilated space heaters and electrical circuitry that had been replaced with speaker wire rather than maintain the place properly.

The windows didn't open, the kitchen was a travesty and the only source of heat was two very old space heaters.

But they never fussed, never complained, and never thought they would ever live anywhere else.

UNTIL ...

We own a house that is around the corner from this old place. It was built in 1887 and is sturdy as a rock. It's also had the windows replaced, the kitchen remodeled, the electric upgraded, a new furnace and centrail air installed, and the bathrooms remodeled. It's a safe place.

We moved them into this house that we have used as a rental. And the rent on this house has been double what these folks were paying in their other house. But it's not now.

They are paying the same amount they have been paying.

What makes me smile is when "Pappa Dad" grins and says, "This is like moving into Graceland."

Even better than that ... none of this family has had any headaches, digestive issues, or sleep disturbances. Their overall health is better.

And that tells me that "Mama Bear" has a much better chance of making it through chemo and radiation without any added ill effects.

One of the other neighbors said to me, "Why did you let them have that house?"

My simple answer .... There, but for the grace of God, go I."

Moral of the story? If you are a "have" or a "have not" does not matter in this world. It's what's in your heart that will take you along life's journey without too much turmoil. Even with challenges that we question.

We are all God's children. And we need to help each other - without reservation - as much as possible.

If there is such a thing as karma I can only hope that it will continue. Paying it forward is such a rewarding feeling. Don't miss out. Help someone that's less fortunate.

May the Circle Be Unbroken ...

2008-10-04T20:22:58Z

My dear friend, and soon to be co-worker, Elizabeth Nieves, has blessed me with many things -- her friendship, her honesty, her humor, her business acumen, her faith and her trust in me. And she has blessed me with the Friendship Ball!

It's my understanding that once a person receives this ball they are expected to keep it going. So in the spirit of friendship I will do my part.

I am passing the Friendship Ball on to ...

:::::DRUM ROLL PLEASE:::::

Joan Mirantz - Joan is a beautiful lady who is full of fun, caring, compassion and

outright passion. Joan is in Concord, NH, and is heavily involved in her community,

her local board and her family. Her friendship is a true blessing. If you haven't read

Joan's blog, please head on over and check it out.

Karen Anne Stone - Karen Anne is a strong, funny, thought provoking, inspiring and

genuine lady. Karen Anne posts about her area, her cat (Hi Mollie T!), the homes in

and around her area, the attributes of the Ft. Worth area, and all things political. If

you were ever apathetic about politics, just visit Karen Anne's blog. She will certainly

get you thinking!

Carole Provenzale - Carole is a wonderfully sensitive and insightful lady. Her specialy

is Feng Shui - and her willingness to share her talents with all of us in hopes of being

an educational resource is incredible. I have learned so much from Carole's blog.

So many things to learn about Feng Shui - and Carole is the one to help you!

Check our her blog - you just might learn something!

This list is by no means complete, but I'm afraid it would take me a month to include everyone that I consider a friend. Active Rain has allowed me to meet some of the most caring, thoughtful and inspiring people in the world.

If you want to build relationships, just reach out. Make a phone call. Send a note. You will be so pleasantly surprised at what blooms.

So ---- now that the Friendship Ball has been passed on, let's all see about making our 'circle' of friends a little bigger.

And remember ... Will The Circle Be Unbroken?

It's a Wonderful World - THANKS TO ACTIVE RAIN!

2008-09-30T08:11:30Z

A couple days ago I passed the 100,000 point milestone. And it has been a journey frought with questions, laughter, smiles and ... the blessing of making wonderful new friends from all corners of the country. Folks with like interests, similar goals, opposing goals and a wonderful outlook on the profession that we have chosen (or that has chosen us!).

Picture it ...

April 20, 2007.

I had been reading the posts on Active Rain for a couple of weeks. Trying to decide if I wanted to expose myself to the world of blogging. Trying to decide of I felt I had enough to say, enough to share.

Then, I thought, WHAT THE HECK! If I don't take the chance I will never know. And I'm not one to miss anything that's cutting edge - at least not voluntarily. That's where Active Rain absolutely shines!

So ... I activated my Active Rain profile, followed the basics and gave it a whirl. At first it was a true "toe test" of the waters known as the blogosphere. But the water was just right. And I dove in -------- head first.

I am so very, very, very glad I did. And this is why ...

I have had the honor of "talking" with some extraordinary people. People like

Lola Audu. A warm, caring, sharing and knowledgable lady. So many layers to her - and all of them a treasure. If you haven't read Lola's blog ... well, do yourself a favor and head on over there.

Elizabeth Nieves. One of the most caring and genuine people I have ever met in my life. And yes - we have met. Face to face. It was like going home to visit an old school buddy. In fact - the visit was so successful that I will soon be a part of Elizabeth's team in the Durham, NC area. Don't miss Elizabeth's posts. They are full of wonderful lessons, gentle reminders and terrific information.

George Tallabas. A gifted man with a positive attitde toward life and business. I had the good fortune to meet George in Las Vegas last spring, and he was truly as genuine in person as he is in his writings. George has a lot of experience and is always willing to share his wisdom with those that are just learning the ropes.

Karen Anne Stone. Karen Anne was a teacher before entering Real Estate, and that special talent for teaching shows through in her blog. She will stir you up, make you think and then provoke you to translate those thoughts into words. I always enjoy my chats with Karen Anne. She's a real gem - the real deal.

Joan Mirantz. Joan was one of the first members I started reading on a regular basis. She has an unabashed pride in her area, has been in the profession for a while now, and is always upbeat and positive. You can't help but smile when you read Joan's posts. I had the honor of meeting Joan and her husband this past summer and it was like meeting up with a long lost cousin. Must be that Yankee blood that courses through our veins!

Brad Andersohn. Brad is one of those guys that you just can't get enough of. His techie knowledge, his tips and suggestions, his willingness to share his tips and tricks. It's part of who he is. Brad will also readily share his personal side - the loss of his career, his son's injury, his wife Debra's beautiful voice, and most importantly ... his heart. When I have talked with Brad he is open, understanding and helpful. The perfect "go to" guy.

Jeff Turner. What to say about Jeff ... well, Jeff is ALL things techie. My poor little head just wants to explode when I try to follow all the tips that Jeff provides. And if you haven't checked out Jeff's company - Real Estate Shows - then make sure you do. And Jeff's wife, Rocky, is a champion for children. Make it a point to learn more about her. She's amazing! The knowledge and compassion Jeff exhibits in his posts is astounding.

This list is by no means the extent of my Active Rain involvement. But it's the folks that captured my interest very early on. And for that .... I thank them --- from my heart.

The best tip I can offer anyone that is either just starting out in Active Rain, or has been away for a while and has rejoined the community ... whatever the situation ... Read, Read, Read. Learn about your fellow bloggers - and remember them when it's referral time.

And since my Active Rain family is so important to me ... this is for you all ...

SURPRISE, SURPRISE! AIN'T THAT SOMETHIN'! FORECLOSURE FRAUD ::: WHO COULD/WOULD HAVE FIGGERED ...

2008-09-22T08:35:15Z

Remember the good ol' days? Sheriff Taylor would say something rhetorically profound and Gomer would always respond with, "Surprise, surprise!" Mayberry was a quaint little town, devoid of true crime and socio-political problems. Life was good - simple, pure, comfortable.

::: Whistling the theme from the Andy of Mayberry show :::

Then along comes progress, modernization, technology and political correctness. And we, collectively, shot ourselves in the foot.

But as we evolved into a sophisticated, tech savvy, highly educated and upwardly mobile society ... we found ways to circumvent our own intelligence and progress. And quite innocently.

Or at least it seemed so ... at first.

We all know the roller-coaster that is real estate. That wild ride full of extremes - high and low. And we ride it - daily. Through all the good and bad, the sure things and the uncertainties. We negotiate the best terms for our clients, we get so frustrated we could scream and then we breathe deep as we complete a transaction that places a family in a new home.

At least that's the dream. The dream of a professional REALTOR.

::: Cue the ominous beat of a drum :::

Enter ... those stinking scam artists.

You know ... those low-life bloodsuckers that prey on people that are in a bind. The ones that offer that "quick fix" to your problems. The ones that offer to deal with those pesky banks that are demanding a mortgage payment. These scammers promise to take care of things and urge you not to worry. It's going to be OK. Just do as they say and trust them.

And ... the check is in the mail. Yeah -- right.

I read an article on the MSNBC site about Foreclosure Fraud. Quite simply ... it made my skin crawl. Just the thought of someone being so underhanded ... someone that could get up each morning and look in the mirror and not see the slime that they are. I just don't understand.

The mess that we know as the "mortgage meltdown" or "foreclosure debacle" is made much worse with the workings of these scammers. They are preying on people that have become desperate for a helping hand, a light at the end of the tunnel.

All the while ... as they look toward the other end of the tunnel, they don't realize that the train is headed straight at them. They are totally taken by surprise. But by then ... it's too late.

If you are dealing with a short sale situation, a pre-foreclosure, or are in foreclosure ... PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE consult an attorney, check with your local city/county government offices, or at a minimum check with your local Better Business Bureau if you are approached by one of these super easy, very simple, "let us save you from the embarrassment of foreclosure" scams.

THE ONLY PERSON THAT IS GOING TO MAKE OUT IN ONE OF THOSE DEALS IS THE SCAMMER! DON'T FALL FOR IT! CONSULT A REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONAL AND GET THE HELP YOU NEED.

**Image courtesy of: Classic TV DVD Sets via Google Images

*** Written and posted by Carol Smith, RE/MAX Preferred Associates, Toledo, OH ***

SHOW ME THE MONEY! :: Did Jerry McGuire have the right idea?

2008-09-20T09:33:25Z

SHOW ME THE MONEY! :: Did Jerry McGuire have the right idea?

We all know our national economy is in turmoil right now. We all know that real estate has slowed in more markets than not. We all know that this, too, shall pass. But while we know these things … are we really looking forward? Are we counting on ourselves to rise to the occasion? From what I read and hear … that might be a stretch.

We are fearful of our investments, fearful of job losses, fearful of financial ruin that will compromise our ability to take care of our families. And that fear is always about the same thing. Money. That evil green paper that we all require in order to survive in this world.

So … what do we do about it? Sit around, listen to the newscasters and financial analysts tell us that we are destined for certain ruin? Talk amongst our friends and family about how worried we are? Lose sleep worrying? I sure hope not.

You see, I prefer to look for inspiration to get past all this unsettling news. All this doom and gloom. In some small way that lets me feel like I’m not alone and that there are options out there.

Options? Someone say options? Hmmm … just what might those be?

Well, I must admit, I take a look at Forbes Magazine online from time to time. The articles are comprehensive and, generally, offer a look at more than one side of a story. The story that caught my eye this morning was the list of The Forbes 400. The wealthiest 400 people in America. I noticed I was not among that list! What a shock!

One thing that caught my attention in this list is that most of these notables have invested heavily in real estate. They have placed their money, and their futures, on the product that we sell. And they have done very well with it – in good times and bad.

Now your immediate response is … they started with tons of money, so why not do well! If that’s your reaction, then I urge you to read some of the stories of these wealthy individuals. Not all of them started with a silver spoon in their mouths.

Jeffrey Green is one of the interesting characters in this effort. Kind of a rebel among rebels. His story is quite amazing. You should check him out. One thing I found enlightening in the story was this:

Greene began putting his savings to work in business school. He put down $7,400 to buy a three-family home, and rented out rooms so he could live for free. By the time he graduated in 1979 Greene owned 18 properties and was generating more than enough income to cover his $4,500 annual tuition. He sold out a few years later for what Greene says was ten times his cost, pocketing a $1 million profit.

A far cry from his life today. The key to this success? Mr. Green did not expect to make an instant fortune. He rode the waves of success and failure, and took his lumps in the process. But in the end … he has triumphed.

The realization that investing in real estate is a long term plan is the point I’m making here. The days of “fix and flip” have come and gone. The rapid inflation of housing values is balancing out into a more believable pace. We are in a self-correcting market. And, that in itself, is a true green light to begin investing in real estate. But always keep in mind that real estate investing is a long term venture. And the tax advantages can certainly make it all worthwhile. (**If you are considering real estate investing, please consult with an accountant/attorney that is familiar with all the tax codes regarding this. Do not attempt this endeavor without being fully informed.)

And that, my friends, is how I spend my Saturday morning trying to wake up …

Written and posted by Carol Smith, ReMax Preferred Associates, Toledo, OH.

For a personal consultation on the ups and downs of investing in real estate, please call me at 419-297-7454. I will do my absolute best to make your investment transactions as hassle-free as possible.

DOWN-PAYMENT ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS :: Are they going to be OK? Stay tuned ...

2008-09-18T21:34:30Z

There has been much conversation lately about the demise of the down payment assistance programs – primarily the Nehemiah Corporation. This type of program has been a true benefit for many that have wanted to purchase a home of their own.

Now, some may say that if a person needs down payment assistance then they have no business buying a home. I could not disagree more. And this is why:

Being short on down payment funds does not mean unable to afford a home.
Down payment assistance can help lower the interest rate by increasing the percentage down – thus helping the purchaser.
For someone starting out in a new home the purchase of furniture and appliances is often necessary. Not possible if all reserves are stripped for a down payment.
For young families, the down payment assistance programs help them become homeowners and provide a stable home for their children.

According to the Groundswell website, HR6694 passed the House Financial Services Committee on September 16th and is headed to the floor in the next few days for a full vote.

The Groundswell site also has a video of the discussion that took place in committee. Quite enlightening.

Let’s all keep our fingers crossed that this valuable tool makes it through a floor vote.

Our industry certainly doesn’t need anymore setbacks.

GOD BLESS AMERICA!! Support the Troops Rally in Point Place (Toledo) Ohio

2008-09-11T10:19:48Z

Toledo, OH

It's a Wednesday evening, light breeze, comfortable temperatures and a setting that God must have designed especially for this event. Friendship Park - located in the Point Place neighborhood of Toledo.

I had the honor of attending the 4th Annual Support the Troops Rally that is held in my little berg and am still in awe of all the folks that turned out. From infancy to WWII Vets - and every age in between. All together to celebrate and honor our servicemen and women for the sacrifices they give.

All the branches of the armed forces were represented - Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force, Coast Guard, and all the respective National Guard units. The faces of these men and women will remain vivid in my mind for a long, long time. They are our neighbors, brothers, sisters, mothers, fathers, cousins, friends, co-workers, classmates and friends we haven't met yet. They are the ones that protect the freedoms that we enjoy today.

AND MAY GOD BLESS THEM ALL!!

One of the older veterans asked a woman, "Can you name two people in this world that would die for you?" The woman paused - apparently a little too long for the older vet's taste - so he said, "Jesus Christ and the American GI."

I was truly humbled to be among them. To see their smiles, to hear them talk with young children about what it's like to be a soldier. To watch the youngsters of today develop a desire to be a soldier tomorrow. I can't find the words to express how incredible this was.

So, in the absence of words, I'd like to share some photos with you. And as you look at the photos ... please say a prayer. For their safe return, for their families, for their children. The sacrifices are great and we owe them an extreme debt of gratitude.

The next time you see one of our defenders, please thank them for your freedom.

This man had served proudly and was a true pleasure to talk with. His stories are many and his pride unmistakable.

Young Marines - Bloodstripe and cover

The Sea Cadets practicing their flag presentation and folding.

Pride - it can't be anything else. Pride.

The Patriot Guard Riders were in attendance. What a tremendous group of people!

A special brotherhood that is not defined by age.

A HUGE flag that was unrolled by a group of active military, retired military, spouses, children and supporters. An awesome sight to see.

Thanks to Howard Pinkley of The Flag Store in Point Place for providing this breathtaking symbol of American freedom.

Members of the Vietnam Vets Motorcycle Club.

GOD BLESS US ALL! If not for these wonderful folks we would not be able to enjoy the life that we do.

I'M STEAMED!!! And I'm ready to scream at somebody!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2008-09-08T07:45:21Z

I am making this post a public one because I think that some people need a refresher on what a civilized society is. I am also hoping that if you happen to see yourself in this post, then PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE get

help. If you don't, the help you may wind up needing is a good attorney.

What's all the fuss about? DISCRIMINATION!! Yep! It still exists. In this modern and progressive world, in a country that has taken in peoples from all over the world ... and there is DISCRIMINATION.

So, please, take this as an education in where I draw the line - as a person and as a professional.

Dear Home-buyer,

Please do not ask me to limit your tour of homes to areas where "those people" don't live. I don't know who you mean. And I don't want to know.

Please stop referring to "those people" in such a contemptible tone. I will not condone your narrow mindedness, nor will I humor you just to get your business. I am a professional and will not engage in that type of behavior.

If you have certain biases, then that's your problem. It's up to you to research neighborhoods and schools if you feel so strongly about "those people" and your wish to avoid "them." I will not filter the homes I forward to you based on your own narrow-mindedness.

If you think I am too liberal, too accepting, too open-minded ... well, then perhaps we are not a perfect fit for each other. I would urge you to try to find someone that will share your views and cater to your illegal behavior.

Yes - what you are asking me to participate in is ILLEGAL. If you'd like to know why, then please visit this site: US Dept. of Justice - Civil Rights Division

In short ... I cannot have a discussion with you about "those people" and ... more than that .... I WILL NOT HAVE THAT DISCUSSION WITH YOU.

If you insist on pursuing this type of assistance, then please find another agent to work with. And I wish you well.

America is a melting pot. We all came from somewhere. There is no room in this world for the prejudices of times gone by. Get over it!

** And for the Sellers ... this applies to you, too! You cannot refuse to sell your home to someone based on their race, religion, familial status, disability or ethnic background. Make sure you understand your obligations under the law.

*Image courtesy of Google

Leftovers ... what do you do with them?

2008-08-26T23:40:07Z

Toledo, OH

Do you have leftovers? Do you save leftovers? Do you discard leftovers?

I'm talking about leftover electronics. Computers, cell phones, pda's, printers, etc.

Did you know that there are many, many, many uses for all those outdated electronic gadgets? That they are still serviceable even though, to us, they are antiquated?

Here is what I do with my leftovers:

Cell Phones - give them to your local senior center, women's shelter or victim assistance program. The phones are stripped of all information and made available for 911 use only. This can be a true lifesaver for those that need that level of communication but can't afford to purchase a phone.
Computers - donate them to one of your local neighborhood shelters. This allows folks to become familiar with how to use a computer and helps them develop job skills.
PDAs - Check with your local prosecutors office and find where the local center for women entering the job market is. These women can use these tools to keep track of employment interviews, appointments, etc.
Printers - Any non-profit group can use these. They should be in working order and have the installation software with them.

We are all concerned about our Mother - Mother Earth that is. Please don't toss electronics in the trash to wind up in one of our landfills. The mercury that lives inside so many of these items is minute as a single item, but when there are multiples filling up the ground ... well, it just makes good sense to let someone else get some use out of them.

In the words of Kermit the Frog ... It's not easy being green.

What does hope look like? Maybe just like this ...

2008-08-15T23:26:42Z

Ya know, there are some days that require us to push ourselves to the limit. And when we do that we tend to be a little out of sorts, grumpy and lose a little of our perspective on the world.

And then when we call it a day we return home - wherever that might be - and there it is.

HOPE.

Pure and simple HOPE for the future.

It's the sparkle in the eyes, the impish grin. The unmitigated bravery to tackle new tasks - and challenge the theories of balance. A level of daring that defines immortality - or at least the illusion of such.

HOPE. It's in the faces ...

The simple smiles, the silly antics ... provide all the reasons we do what we do - everyday.

We are their hope. And it's quite a responsibility.

(**these are not my children - but they spend an awful lot of time at my house!)

POISON - Watch Out for This Issue

2008-08-11T14:02:51Z

I received an email today from a dear friend that is part of the Greyhound Rescue effort here in NW Ohio. The message was one that I wanted to share with all of you.

If you have dogs then you should be aware of this issue. It's dangerous and could happen so easily since we have all gone to sugar-free things in our lives.

Only 3 grams of Xylitol (found in sugar free chewing gum) is enough to kill a 65lb dog. And QUICKLY!!!!! Please pass this warning on to everyone you know who has dogs. It may just save a life.

Here is the link to a popular truth or fiction rumor site for further information: Snopes

Warning to all dog owners... pass this on to everyone you can!!! STORY: Last Friday evening, I arrived home from work, fed Chloe, our 24 Lb dachshund, just as I normally do. Ten minutes later I walked into the den just in time to see her head inside the pocket of Katie's friend's purse. She had a guilty look on her face so I looked closer and saw a small package of sugar-free gum. It contained xylitol. I remembered that I had recently read that sugar-free gum can be deadly for dogs so I jumped on line and looked to see if xylitol was the ingredient. I found the first website below and it was the one.

Next, I called our vet. She said to bring her in immediately. Unfortunately, it was still rush hour and it took me almost 1/2 hour to get there. Meanwhile, since this was her first case, our vet found another website to figure out the treatment. She took Chloe and said they wou ld induce her to vomit, give her a charcoal drink to absorb the toxin (even though they don't think it works) then they would start an iv with dextrose. The xylitol causes dogs to secrete insulin so their blood sugar drops very quickly. The second thing that happens is liver failure. If that happens, even with aggressive treatment, it can be difficult to save them. She told us she would call us. Almost two hours later, the vet called and said that contents of her stomach contained 2-3 gum wrappers and that her blood sugar had dropped from 90 to 59 in 30 minutes. She wanted us to take Chloe to another hospital that has a critical care unit operating around the clock.

We picked her up and took her there. They had us call the ASPCA for poison control a case number and for a donation, their doctors would direct Chloe's doctor on treatment. They would continue the iv, monitor her blood every other hour and then in 2 days test her liver functio n. She ended up with a central line in her jugular vein since the one in her leg collapsed, just as our regular vet had feared. Chloe spent almost the entire weekend in the critical care hospital. After her blood sugar was stabilized, she came home yesterday. They ran all the tests again before they released her and so far, no sign of liver damage. Had I not seen her head in the purse, she probably would have died and we wouldn't even had known why.

Three vets told me this weekend, that they were amazed that I even knew about it since they are first learning about it too. Please tell everyone you know about xylitol and dogs. It may save another life.

I don't like to be an alarmist, but I do love my animals. If you feel as though this is valuable information, please share it with friends and family. It's scary to think that something as benign as a piece of gum could cause so much heartache.

Kindred Spirits --- Active Rain Strikes Again!

2008-08-10T10:27:39Z

The first week of July was a busy week for my husband and me. We had decided that we wanted to move to North Carolina, so I made contact with Elizabeth Nieves to show us around the Durham/Research Triangle area.

What a delightful time we had! And Elizabeth is just as she seems on AR. Caring, knowledgable, helpful, funny, geniune and a true kindred spirit!

We toured many homes, talked for what seemed like years, and both of us came away feeling like we had been elementary school pals. There was a familiarity there that was uncanny.

I have to tell you, I did not get any photos of she and I together. Shame on me! But in some of our "down time" we did manage to get some photos of the area. I hope you enjoy a walk through the Duke Gardens on the grounds of the awe-inspiring Duke University.

A peaceful oasis in the midst of a bustling setting.

The path to a mind-settling and peaceful experience. Lined with roses, roses, roses.

Nature at its finest. In the middle of town, but so serene.

Stunning! The photos certainly don't do

justice for these beautiful roses.

Peaceful. There's no other words.

A great place to meditate, reflect

or ponder.

Truly majestic. The Duke University Tower.

3 Bedroom Ranch - Point Place - Toledo, Ohio

2008-08-09T12:01:28Z

Point Place Ranch

Location: Point Place

3 bedroom, 1 bath ranch home on a deep crawl. Floored attic for storage. Updated kitchen with new tile back-splash, counter-tops and sink. Range, refrigerator, dishwasher, disposal, over the range microwave - they all stay. Even the washer and dryer! Laminate flooring in living room and family room. Slider opens to deck and fenced back yard. New entry door and storm door. 90+ forced air furnace and central air conditioning. Desirable neighborhood, close to everything - boat ramps, golf courses, rivers, bay and Lake Erie. Point Place - the best place anyplace!

Information

Contact Information

Carol Smith

carolsmith2002@gmail.com

419-297-7454

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Pricing

Asking Price: $95,000.00

Flexibility: Negotiable

Additional Pricing Information: Home warranty availableSeller assist considered

Property Location

2620 101st St
Toledo, OH 43611
View Map

Features

Bedrooms: 3

Bathrooms: 1

Parking: driveway

Year Built: 1976

Subdivision: Marina Meadows

Lot Size: 70x114

School District: Toledo

Square Footage: 1088

Agent Name: Carol Smith

Attributes

Appliances

Range/Oven

Full Refrigerator

Washer/Dryer

Dishwasher

Sink Disposal

Microwave

Interior Amenities

Attic

Laminate floors

Slider

Exterior Amenities

Fenced Yard

Grass Lawn

Tool Shed

Deck

Photo Gallery

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EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

VFLYER ID: 1748312

3 Bedroom Ranch - Point Place - Toledo, Ohio

2008-08-09T11:59:00Z

Point Place Ranch

Location: Point Place

Information

Contact Information

Carol Smith

carolsmith2002@gmail.com

419-297-7454

Forward to a Friend

View Other Flyers

Pricing

Asking Price: $95,000.00

Flexibility: Negotiable

Additional Pricing Information: Home warranty availableSeller assist considered

Property Location

2620 101st St
Toledo, OH 43611
View Map

Features

Bedrooms: 3

Bathrooms: 1

Parking: driveway

Year Built: 1976

Subdivision: Marina Meadows

Lot Size: 70x114

School District: Toledo

Square Footage: 1088

Agent Name: Carol Smith

Attributes

Appliances

Range/Oven

Full Refrigerator

Washer/Dryer

Dishwasher

Sink Disposal

Microwave

Interior Amenities

Attic

Laminate floors

Slider

Exterior Amenities

Fenced Yard

Grass Lawn

Tool Shed

Deck

Photo Gallery

View as Slideshow View Photo Gallery (7 Photos)

EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

VFLYER ID: 1748312

2008 Builder's Blitz for Habitat for Humanity

2008-08-03T23:07:23Z

On Friday, August 1, 2008, I had the honor of helping to serve lunch to a bunch of very selfless people. All were volunteers at a Habitat for Humanity project site. A nicer group of folks you won't find.

A few of the agents of ReMax Preferred had decided to help in the effort by supplying lunch and being there to serve it. The brokers (John and Kathy) were generous enough to contribute a check to purchase pizza for all.

This project was a huge blitz on behalf of local builders. These 11 builders built 5 homes in 7 days. That's right --- just like on television. Except that Ty Pennington was nowhere in sight.

If you are not familiar with Habitat for Humanity then check out their story and mission statement here.

Our local organization, Maumee Valley Habitat for Humanity, partnered with 11 local builders to provide homes for 5 deserving families. And they got them all done in 7 days! Now that's quite a feat!

The new homeowners that I spoke to were just SO thankful. They had poured their own time and sweat into building their very own homes. And I never heard a grumble about it at all.

Please take a look at just how much a cooperative effort can produce. It's amazing.

I am so very, very, very proud of all the volunteers. They did an incredible job in some uncharacteristic heat.

Kudos to all of them!

This photo is of Donya. She is standing in the kitchen of her new home and is SO proud. Donya's shirt says: More than a good deed ... this is life changing.

The wonderful work that Habitat for Humanity does is amazing. If you ever have the chance to volunteer to help build a house, please do. You will not believe the satisfaction and inner peace that goes with selfless giving.

LOSS: The profound effects of positive thought

2008-07-27T09:33:17Z

I am going to go on the assumption that most of us have heard of, and listened to, Randy Pausch. The Carnegie Mellon professor that gave the profound "Last Lecture" that has been viewed millions of times on YouTube.

This week the world lost the insight and wisdom of Randy Pausch. He passed away at the very young age of 47 from an extended battle with pancreatic cancer.

Personally, I can only pray that faced with such a life-changing diagnosis and prolonged battle that I would be one tenth as strong, as focused, as determined and as positive.

Randy Pausch - Your wit and wisdom will be missed.