What I Remember Learning in Kindergarten - 08/31/11 11:36 PM
What I Remember Learning in Kindergarten
 
The first thing I remember is that I must be a whole lot older than I want to think I am because those memories are buried a bit of a way back.  But, as I pull back the curtain and dig deep, there are many things I remember.
Probably the strongest memory is that S stands for snake which says "Ssssssssss."  Not very important you say?  I would disagree.  I was reading at 4 and found that would be one of my favorite things in my life resulting in a Bachelors degree in English … (7 comments)

Help, the Whale's About to Eat Us! - Speechless Sundays - As Written by the Boys - 08/28/11 11:00 PM
Help, the Whale's About to Eat Us! - Speechless Sundays - As Written by the Boys
 
 

We need help, because the whale's about to eat us.  Help!
It's ginormous!
It's a huge whale.
If it swallows us, we can never get out and spend time with our family.
Those teeth are huge.
The whale has a humongous blow hole to blow us out. We got blown out the blow hole. 
Yahoo! Alright! Oh yeah!  We are alive again.  We get be with our family and our friends. We're so happy.
(And there you have it, the tale as … (11 comments)

Huntington Beach Real Estate Minute - Huntington Beach Homes Report 8-27-11 - 08/28/11 10:37 PM
Huntington Beach Real Estate Minute - Huntington Beach Homes Report  
 
Huntington Beach well known as "Surf City USA" with its excellent surfing has 8.5 miles of beaches and over 200,000 residents with 11 million visitors annually coming to see events such as the US Open of Surfing, the Surf City USA Marathon and AVP Pro Beach Volleyball.
 

 
 
It is also known as one of the 10 safest cities. Huntington Beach Real Estate offers a wide variety of housing from moderately priced condos to multi-million dollar estates.
 
Below is the Huntington Beach homes report.
 
… (2 comments)

Costa Mesa Real Estate News - South Coast Metro Costa Mesa Market Report - 8-27-11 - 08/28/11 10:27 PM
Costa Mesa Real Estate News - South Coast Metro Costa Mesa Market Report
 
South Coast Metro is an area that encompasses both Costa Mesa and Santa Ana. However, the South Coast Metro area in Costa Mesa usually refers to the area east of Bear Street and north of the 405 (San Diego Freeway). It is at the junction of Orange County's 55 and 405 freeways. It is the area of Costa Mesa closest to South Coast Plaza. In this unique neighborhood, premier office space and world class shopping vie with first class dining and performing arts venues to form a … (0 comments)

Newport Beach Real Estate News - Balboa Peninsula Homes 8-27-11 - 08/28/11 10:04 PM
Newport Beach Real Estate News - Balboa Peninsula Homes
 
Balboa Peninsula, also known as the Newport Peninsula or simply the "Peninsula",
 

 
is a three mile stretch of land that encompasses some of the most expensive homes in the world as well as "The Wedge", a world famous body surfing spot, located at the jetty at the end of the Balboa Peninsula and a great deal of commercial areas as well. The Peninsula has two piers, the Newport Pier and the Balboa Pier as well as the Fun Zone which is like a miniature Coney Island located right … (0 comments)

Newport Real Estate News - Balboa Island Homes 8-27-11 - 08/28/11 09:53 PM
Newport Real Estate News - Balboa Island Homes
 
Balboa Island is a lovely place to call home located in the middle of the Newport Bay which is one of the largest pleasure yachting harbors in the world.
Balboa Island is actually made up of 3 artificial islands - Balboa Island, Little Balboa Island and Collins Island. In 1916, Balboa Island became part of Newport Beach.

Balboa Island is connected to the mainland by a two lane bridge off of Jamboree on the northeast of the island. On the opposite side of the Island, access is via the Balboa Ferry … (0 comments)

Newport Beach Real Estate News - Villa Balboa Homes 8-27-11 - 08/28/11 06:39 PM
Newport Beach Real Estate News - Villa Balboa Real Estate
 
Villa Balboa is a gated community in Newport Heights which is located mere blocks from the ocean off of Superior Avenue.
The homes are accessed via interior hallways, similar to those of a nice hotel. Each building has subterranean garages whic are shared parking. The association has several amenities including a clubhouse, a state-of-the-art gym, two pools, two jacuzzis and tennis courts, all located on the park-like grounds.
Many of the homes in Villa Balboa feature lovely ocean and Catalina views and many of them have been remodeled and highly … (0 comments)

Huntington Beach Real Estate Minute - Glen Mar Homes Market Report 8-27-11 - 08/28/11 05:08 PM
Huntington Beach Real Estate Minute - Glen Mar Homes Market Report
 
These statistics encompass the sales in both Glen Mar Shores and Glen Mar West.
Both of these communities have both one and two story single family homes built in the 1960's, are located in South Huntington Beach and are relatively near the beach, with almost all of them being biking distance to the coast.
Most of the original homes ranged from about 1200 to just over 2000 square feet though many have additions and are quite a bit larger now.
They are conveniently located to shopping and to freeways … (0 comments)

3 Bedroom San Clemente Home for Sale - Open House Sunday 10 am to 1pm - 08/28/11 02:23 AM
3 Bedroom San Clemente Home for Sale - Open House Sunday 10 am to 1pm
 
This lovely home has been remodeled with upgraded kitchen and bathrooms and features a wonderful patio and also a roof top deck with panoramic views.
 
 
 
Come by and take a look at this lovely 3 bedroom San Clemente home during our open house on 8/28/11.
… (3 comments)

Enough with the Camera, Mom - Don't You Have Bizillion Already? - Silent Saturday - 08/27/11 11:16 PM
Enough with the Camera, Mom - Don't You Have Bizillion Already? - Silent Saturday
 
 
 
We had my little one out with a professional photographer when I snapped this one.  As you can see, he had decided he had done sufficient time as a model.  Maybe this happens because Mom so frequently has the camera out?
… (9 comments)

It's Gone? - Speechless Sundays - 08/21/11 10:32 PM
It's Gone? - Speechless Sundays
 

 
We went out to Joe's Crab Shack for dinner the other night, and the boys ordered their build an ice cream sandwich dessert.  When it was finally all gone and my youngest realized it, this is the look that I got from him.
 
What do you think? Should we have gotten him another one?
… (20 comments)

Why is an Orange County Home that was Just Listed for Sale Already Sold? - 08/21/11 10:30 PM
Why is an Orange County Home that was Just Listed for Sale Already Sold?  
You have been diligently searching the home sites daily for a specific type of home in one certain area because you are ready to jump on it as soon as it comes up for sale. One day you notice one that's perfect; you get excited; you're ready to buy, but then you notice that it's already in escrow or worse yet sold. You know it wasn't there yesterday, so what happened? Why didn't you get the chance to buy your perfect home?
 

There are … (3 comments)

Why Aren't All Homes for Sale in Orange County on the MLS? - 08/21/11 10:29 PM
Why Aren't All Homes for Sale in Orange County on the MLS?  
 
Have you ever felt like your agent isn't sending you all of the homes that are for sale that meet your wants and needs?
 
Maybe you have seen homes for sale on Trulia or Zillow that look perfect for you; yet they never come through on the lists of homes your Realtor sends you and you're wondering why your agent hasn't sent them to you.
 
The fact that you're not receiving them may not mean that your Realtor isn't doing a good job for you. … (0 comments)

Costa Mesa Real Estate News - Costa Mesa Market Report 8-20-11 - 08/21/11 10:03 PM
Costa Mesa Real Estate News - Costa Mesa Market Report
 
 
Originally no more than a way station built by Spanish missionaries, Costa Mesa's first real estate development occurred in the 1880s. This failed to prosper, but Costa Mesa has thrived.
 
 
 
Long time residents may remember when the area was called Fairview and Paularino, but today, the city is a focal point in Orange County with the Orange County Performing Arts Center, South Coast Repertory Theatre and South Coast Plaza as major drawing points. It is hard to believe that Costa Mesa was once nicknamed "Goat Hill" … (0 comments)

Costa Mesa Real Estate News - Mesa Verde Costa Mesa Homes Market Report 8-20-11 - 08/21/11 10:02 PM
Costa Mesa Real Estate News - Mesa Verde Costa Mesa Homes Market Report
 
The Mesa Verde neighborhood of Costa Mesa was largely built around the Mesa Verde Country Club, a private club and golf course Costa Mesa Country Club, which is a public course, is also located within Mesa Verde's boundaries.
 

 
Most Mesa Verde Costa Mesa homes were built in the 1960's and 1970's, with several of the homes actually built right along the golf course.
Mesa Verde is bordered by Fairview Regional Park and the Costa Mesa Golf Course on the south, Harbor Boulevard on the … (0 comments)

Costa Mesa Real Estate News - Central Costa Mesa Homes Report 8-20-11 - 08/21/11 09:36 PM
Costa Mesa Real Estate News - Central Costa Mesa Homes Report
 
Central Costa Mesa is an area of the city, triangular in shape, which is bordered by Harbor Boulevard, Baker Street and Newport Boulevard/ the 55 Freeway.
The Market Report for Central Costa Mesa Homes is below:


 
 
 
Based upon general definitions, it appears that Central Costa Mesa is in a Sellers’ Market though many still think it is a Buyers’ market, except for those who have lost out to multiple offers. Given all that is going on in the credit market and the banking industry, … (0 comments)

Lovely, Updated San Clemente Home for Sale - 08/21/11 09:35 PM
Lovely, Updated San Clemente Home for Sale  
 
This lovely home has been updated and remodeled. The kitchen features new cabinets and Italian tile counters and floors. The dining room and kitchen have been opened up with beautifully arched architectural details, adding to the open feel of the home, and there is recessed lighting throughout.
 
 

Both bathrooms have been updated. The wonderful outdoor space includes a rooftop deck with 365 degree views, including a peekaboo ocean view. In addition, there is an outdoor patio that is perfect for entertaining in our Southern California weather and a small … (2 comments)

Remodeled Turtle Rock Home for Sale - 08/21/11 09:33 PM
Lovely, Remodeled Turtle Rock Home for Sale  
If you are looking for the perfect Turtle Rock home, you have found it.
 
Located on a cul de sac, this home has been completely remodeled and is waiting for its new owners to move right in.
 
 

The kitchen features new cabinets, granite counters and stainless steel appliances as well as a pass through bar to the back patio. The bathrooms have also been remodeled with granite and dual vanities.
p> The entry features a lovely mosaic, and wood floors add to the luxurious feel of the home. The … (5 comments)

What Happens When the OC Fair is Over? - Wordless Wednesdays - 08/19/11 02:25 AM
What Happens When the OC Fair is Over? - Wordless Wednesdays
 
 
 
 
So, I'm running a little late, but I didn't get home until 11 last night, and I really wanted to share this photo.
 
I was driving home 2 nights ago, enjoying the beautiful sunset and thinking maybe I'll stop when I get off the freeway and grab a picture.  Then, I drove by the Orange County Fair and saw the partially disassembled ferris wheel and knew I had to have a picture.  Unfortunately, I was passing the Fair exit as I saw it.  I got … (13 comments)

Do You Ever Feel Like You're Just Spinning Your Wheels Out There Alone? Speechless Sundays - 08/14/11 09:13 PM
Do You Ever Feel Like You're Just Spinning Your Wheels Out There Alone? Speechless Sundays
 

 
I liked this truck just lying out there abandoned on the sand.  It made me think both of just spinning your wheels doing busy work and getting nothing done.  It also made me think of how lonely it can be to just go it alone without support.
How about you? Are you doing business or busyness?  If it ever just feels lonely out there, I know I can come to AR for a pick me up.
… (11 comments)

Costa Mesa Real Estate - Eastside Costa Mesa Homes 8-14-11 - 08/14/11 08:53 PM
Costa Mesa Real Estate - Eastside Costa Mesa Homes
 
Eastside Costa Mesa is a charming area of Costa Mesa which borders Newport Beach, and, as a result, tends to have higher property values than some other areas of the city. It is bounded by Irvine Boulevard on the east, Newport Boulevard on the west, 15th Street on the south and Mesa Drive on the north.
 
Most of the original lots in Eastside Costa Mesa are around 10,000 square feet, a large size lot in Orange County, which allows for space to expand smaller, older homes if desired.
 
Eastside … (0 comments)

Looking for Blog Ideas? Why Not Check Out the Contests Tab! - 08/14/11 08:20 PM
Looking for Blog Ideas?  Why Not Check Out the Contests Tab!
 
Do you ever just run out of ideas for blogging?  I know I do, and then I'm off looking for a new idea or just something different.
One of my new favorite tricks is the Contests Tab at the top of the AR page.

 
Not only does it give you ideas, but it can also give you extra incentive in the form of points.  (I know; I know,  It's not all about the points, but sometimes, it just makes it a little more fun).
So, what do … (23 comments)

Good News for Orange County Real Estate - Housing Costs below 2003 Levels - 08/14/11 08:05 PM
Good News for Orange County Real Estate - Housing Costa Below 2003 Levels
 
With all of the consistent bad news we hear about real estate and the economy, I believe there is some housing news worth sharing.
 
In today's world, the median value of Orange County real estate stands around 2003 prices, this is before the big upswing that we saw in the first decade of the 21st Century.  I hear you saying, "Christine, we alread know this. We know home prices have fallen dramatically, we listen to it daily on the news and read it online.  What's your … (0 comments)

NMUSD Bus Schedule - 08/14/11 07:22 PM
NMUSD Bus Schedule
 
There are just a few weeks of summer left, and it's time to start thinking about and preparing for school to begin.
As you do that, I thought it might be helpful to have the NMUSD bus schedule as you begin to figure out exactly how the schedule is going to be for this coming year.
 

The NMUSD website provides information for everything from the bus schedule, to the bus pass application to the rates for the bus passes.
School will start on September 6, 2011, so it's a good time to get all of your … (0 comments)

Victoria Elementary School Supply List - 08/13/11 04:19 AM
Victoria Elementary School Supply List
 
Though I have not been able to find a Victoria Elementary School supply list, I have found several for other NMUSD elementary that I have compiled below.
 

Kindergarten
1 box of tissues3 white glue sticks
 
 
First Grade
 
 
2 ½” 3-ring binder - white with view pocket in front2 boxes Thick Crayola Colored Markers - unscented1 box Crayola colored pencils2 packs BLANK white index cards  - unlined3 packs THIN dry-erase markers – unscented
4 bottles Elmer’s white glue4 packs of glue sticks 5 packs standard pencils1 pair kids Fiskar … (2 comments)

Newport Mesa Unified School District School Calendar 2011-2012 - 08/13/11 03:44 AM
Newport Mesa Unified School District School Calendar 2011-2012
 
Well, it's that time of year again.  Summer has almost run its course faster than your child trying to eat a Balboa Bar before it melts, and school is just around the corner.  So, we thought you might find the 2011-2012 Newport Mesa Unified School Calendar to be of help as you plan the last few weeks.
 
 
First Day of School for Students ...................................... (Tue) September 6, 2011
 
Veterans’ Day ................................................................... (Fri) November 11, 2011
 
Thanksgiving Recess ........................................................November 23-25, 2011 (Wed - Fri)
 
Winter Recess .................................................................. December … (0 comments)

Eye to Eye and Beak to Nose - Friday's Fotos - 08/13/11 03:19 AM
Eye to Eye and Beak to Nose - Friday's Fotos
 

 
I am so fortunate to have spent most of my life living so close to the beach and even getting to spend time with some of the "wildlife" that occupies the coast.  So many of these wild animals seem to have no fear or concern about humans, perhaps having gotten used to being fed by us?  Regardless, it provides for fun opportunities.
… (10 comments)

Orange County Investment Homes Can Actually Cash Flow! - 08/13/11 03:09 AM
Orange County Investment Homes Can Actually Cash Flow!
 
For several years while prices increased dramatically and quickly, it was difficult to buy homes that cash flowed and/or gave good cash on cash returns, and many investors were buying hoping to grow their equity rapidly and sell for a profit.
 
Today, after median values fell nearly 40% from their high point, many investors are finding that it is a great time to get in the market.  Many properties will cash flow after all expenses even with a mortgage on the property.  Though this isn't true of all properties, it is … (6 comments)

Do You Have Any Advice in Light of the Stock Market Meltdown? - 08/13/11 02:37 AM
Do You Have Any Advice in Light of the Stock Market Meltdown?     To say there is concern about the economy and the Stock Market Meltdown would be a major understatement, like saying that World War II was a small European conflict barely fit for reporting in the history books.     $2.8 trillion dollars in value has evaporated in three weeks! That's TRILLION with a Capital T.     I don't see how any one who is watching what is going on both nationally and globally could not be concerned about fiscal security after watching the stock market meltdown. … (8 comments)

Pick up Stix Gets a Pick Me Up - Speechless Sundays - 08/07/11 10:29 PM
Pick up Stix Gets a Pick Me Up - Speechless Sundays
 

 
I bet this isn't the kind of Pick Up you were looking for at Pick Up Stix, but for my little one and his cousin, there was plenty of joy here as the two were reunited.  What you can't see from this shot is just how high off the ground he is and she does not suffer from the vertical challenge with which I was blessed ; )
 
… (9 comments)

When is it Time to Just Cry Uncle on Your Costa Mesa Investment Property? - 08/07/11 10:20 PM
When is it Time to Just Cry Uncle on Your Costa Mesa Investment Property?
 
Have you been watching the value of your Costa Mesa investment property go down and wondering what you should do about it?
 

It likely depends on what your goals are.  If you have lost value, are living in the home, can afford the payments, and it meets your needs, you're one of the lucky ones, and you should probably just stay where you are.  Perhaps when you're ready for your next home, your Costa Mesa home will have regained some of the lost value.
If on the other … (0 comments)

Newport Beach Real Estate News - Newport Terrace Homes - 8-6-11 - 08/07/11 10:17 PM
Newport Beach Real Estate News - Newport Terrace Homes
 
Newport Terrace is a condominium association located in an area that many might consider to be Costa Mesa. However, it is a small oasis of Newport Beach and has much to offer for a very reasonable price.
 
Located at the end of 19th Street, there are 281 homes in Newport Terrace, which is located near the beach and just above the Talbert Nature Preserve. This is a small enclave which some don't realize is there as the only reason to travel all the way to the end of 19th Street … (2 comments)

Newport Beach Real Estate News - Newport Shores Homes - 8-6-11 - 08/07/11 10:17 PM
Newport Beach Real Estate News - Newport Shores Homes
 
Newport Shores is located just across Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) from the Pacific Ocean. It is a neighbohood of 440 homes, and is surrounded by the Newport Salt March Wildlife Preserve, which many residents refer to simply as the canal.

Newport Shores homes are eclectic, ranging from the homes originally built in the 1960's, to homes which have been remodeled and updated to completely custom homes. Some have ocean views, and some residents are fortunate enough to have homes along the canal and enjoy the wildlife which comes to … (0 comments)

Costa Mesa Real Estate News - Central Costa Mesa Homes - 8-6-11 - 08/07/11 10:16 PM
Costa Mesa Real Estate News - Central Costa Mesa Homes Report
 
Central Costa Mesa is an area of the city, triangular in shape, which is bordered by Harbor Boulevard, Baker Street and Newport Boulevard/ the 55 Freeway.
The Market Report for Central Costa Mesa Homes is below:

 

 
Based upon general definitions, it appears that Central Costa Mesa is in a slight Sellers' Market though it is on the brink of a balanced market.
See below for HOMES CURRENTLY FOR SALE IN COSTA MESA.

Market reports for additional areas of Costa Mesa and nearby cities:
Central Costa Mesa … (0 comments)

Newport Real Estate News - Balboa Island Homes - 8-6-11 - 08/07/11 10:16 PM
Newport Real Estate News - Balboa Island Homes
Balboa Island is a lovely place to call home located in the middle of the Newport Bay which is one of the largest pleasure yachting harbors in the world.
Balboa Island is actually made up of 3 artificial islands - Balboa Island, Little Balboa Island and Collins Island. In 1916, Balboa Island became part of Newport Beach.

Balboa Island is connected to the mainland by a two lane bridge off of Jamboree on the northeast of the island. On the opposite side of the Island, access is via the Balboa Ferry which … (0 comments)

Huntington Beach Real Estate Minute - Huntington Beach Homes 8-6-11 - 08/07/11 10:15 PM
Huntington Beach Real Estate Minute - Huntington Beach Homes Report  
 
Huntington Beach well known as "Surf City USA" with its excellent surfing has 8.5 miles of beaches and over 200,000 residents with 11 million visitors annually coming to see events such as the US Open of Surfing, the Surf City USA Marathon and AVP Pro Beach Volleyball.
 

 
 
It is also known as one of the 10 safest cities. Huntington Beach Real Estate offers a wide variety of housing from moderately priced condos to multi-million dollar estates.
 
Below is the Huntington Beach homes report.

… (0 comments)

Fannie Mae Sees Loan Mods Same as Short Sales for Purpose of Refi or Purchase - 08/04/11 11:14 PM
Fannie Mae Views Loan Mods as Short Sales for Purpose of Refi or Purchase
 
According to one of our lenders, there are new underwriting guidelines, Fannie Mae will now view loan mods as short sales for the purposes of doing a refinance or a purchase.
 

 
What does this mean?
Even if a borrower was able to obtain a loan modification without ever being late on a payment, that borrower will still be treated as though he had done a short sale and will be subject to the restrictions and guidelines of someone who had actually done a … (5 comments)

I'm Coming Dad as Fast as I Can - Wordless Wednesdays - 08/04/11 01:59 AM
I'm Coming Dad as Fast as I Can - Wordless Wednesdays
 
 

 
It's amazing what breeding and instinct can do for a dog.  Our pup loves to fetch and fetch and fetch.  Throw it in the water, it's all great fun.  He will go and go until your arm is ready to fall off and then ask for more.
 
 
 
… (17 comments)

 
Orange%20county%20realtor%20christine%20donovan Ambassador_large

Christine Donovan Costa Mesa CA Homes Broker/Attorney 800-610-7253 DRE01267479

Costa Mesa, CA

More about me…

Donovan Blatt Realty

Address: 250 E. 17th St., Ste. 295, Costa Mesa, CA, 92627

Office Phone: (800) 610-7253

Cell Phone: (714) 319-9751

Email Me

Author Bio: Christine Donovan is a real estate broker and attorney. She is a lifetime local resident of Orange County, and the head of the DonovanBlatt Team which specializes in real estate sales and purchases in the Orange County area with a focus on Costa Mesa, Newport Beach and Huntington Beach.

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