Have you seen a Red Elephant in LakeLand Village, Washington? - 01/29/09 09:48 PM

You have probably not seen this red elephant in LakeLand Village located in Allyn Washington. He would be sure he would make quite the impression as he made his way through the welcoming tree lined streets.
 I am certain he would love our 27 hole PGA level golf course. And I would be willing to bet he would have the most unique swing!
I am certain all of the kids would love to have a ride and maybe even convince him to wade into Anderson Lake so that they could catch a bunch of the heavy trout that swim in the depths.
… (10 comments)

Sleeping in the Rain - 01/29/09 09:28 PM

Do you ever try and go to sleep with Rain on the Brain? I have tried. I get great ideas for blog posts just before I drift off. Then I argue with myself about getting up and jotting down a few lines. Of course I always do.Most of the time it pays off and you guys comment. I love getting up in the morning and reading what you all have to say. Although sometimes when I am posting it already is morning.
When and where do you get your posting inspirations?
… (16 comments)

Can your Clients find their Home? - 01/29/09 08:29 PM
Have you ever had a client try and find their home in print advertising or on the web? I am sure you have. I received a call today from an ecstatic client who found her home. Not only did she find it in print, but she said that everywhere she went on the web there it was. She went on to tell me that although we did not have an offer yet she was confident with the visibility and the great price it would not be long before we did!
It is call such as these that really make me smile … (4 comments)

How Does Your Community Rank on the Web? - 01/29/09 08:21 PM
I Googled my community today and as usual I was surprised by what I found. Active Rain is always near the top, and so are others. I took notes and now I am going to be more selective on what, where and how I post. There are some great things happening in the web 2.0 world and I am glad to be on board!
Where do you rank in your community on Google?Has Active Rain made a difference?
… (12 comments)

Dinah sees Hood Canal... - 01/29/09 08:07 PM

As I was driving home the other night after a Listing appointment, I pulled over because I had to capture this picture. I wish I had taken more and you could have seen the dark almost black trees sprouting up along the pebbled shore of Hood Canal. The pink skys were swirled with blue and I knew I was in the midst of magic, as the waters applauded with reflection. It was a moment in time I will always keep with me.
… (4 comments)

Visit LakeLand Village's Golf Course Booth and Golf Free! - 01/29/09 07:47 PM
The Tacoma Home & Garden Show is on now through the 1st of Febuary. There is a lot to see and do. Explore the gardens, get great ideas on going green, and be the first to see all of the new products available to make your home just the way you dreamed it could be.
Visit the LakeLand Village booth and get a free round of Golf (a $75.00 value) when you sign up for a personal tour of our 27 hole course in Allyn Washington with Richard Bell. You can reach Richard on the link or at 360-731-1945.
You will not … (0 comments)

Buyers are Blooming! - 01/28/09 07:34 PM
I know it is still the middle of winter, and I have the nerve to bring up Spring, But I see it happening all around me. I have had a very busy week and I see no sign of it letting up.
I have Agents calling on the listings and Buyers calling to see houses too. We are writing offers and I can see that 2009 is going to be a very productive year. I can't wait to see what summer brings!
How is the market in your neck of the woods? Are Buyers starting to beat down the doors where … (8 comments)

Shark attack!!!!!!! - 01/28/09 11:51 AM

Okay so the title clicked you in. I could not help posting this picture after seeing a couple of really good ones yesterday from the Local Zoo. And you have to admit if there was not a huge hunk of glass between us, I would be in trouble!
The cool part about this Aquarium is tha you can actually stay the night in the Shark exhibit. I think that would be totally cool, you can litterally "Sleep with the Sharks!"
… (11 comments)

I Stopped Hating Twitter - 01/28/09 11:39 AM
I cannot believe that I am actually saying this... I love Twittering! I think I figured out why I hated it before. It is all about the friends. Since I connected wit a few of you from Active Rain, and I always have someone to talk to when I sign in, it is a lot more fun. I love the barrage of conversations you can get in on. It will keep me busy.
I have to say though My heart will always remain to Active Rain.
If you want to follow me... I am DinahLee. I will then follow you too!
… (9 comments)

Facebook- What every Parent should Know... - 01/26/09 10:46 PM
I took the social networking plunge months ago. I signed up everywhere I could, and filled out my profiles. I then forgot them all as I poured myself into the Rain.
So this weekend I thought I should prepare for Rebarr Camp, and get going on all that I had signed up for. My daughter Alyssa was puttering around the kitchen as I toiled on my lap top, and asked for help here and there.
She was great. I have heard of other kids being disgusted, horrified or embarrassed that their parents would dare enter their world. I thought her reaction … (15 comments)

Don't Twitter and Drink...Coffee - 01/26/09 11:18 AM
This morning I finally figured out twitter. I know it should not be that hard. I got up early, poured myself a hot cup of coffee and sat down to wrestle with twitter, until I mastered it. It was not long before I was accepting invitations, and following others. I was even commenting, which for some reason seemed hard for me to get.
Eureka I got it! I went to pour myself another steaming cup, and start inviting others. That is when it happened. My daughter saw that I was on. I heard the evil laugh, and I knew if I did not … (29 comments)

Pull VS Push - 01/25/09 01:58 PM
This morning my daughters got into an argument. Each of them knew that they were 100% right,and were not about to back down. I can't imagine where this stubborn side came from. It must be something they inherited from my husband-LOL.
 As we talked and I got more detail and drama than I ever needed,so I would take the side of the right party...both of them. The more I listened with out any response, the more dramatic they became- each more desperately trying to prove their point.
Then I asked them, which sister between them was the most humble. Silence and confused looks … (5 comments)

Giving it Your Best Shot - 01/25/09 01:35 PM
There are days when everything just seems to go my way.There are also days when I think that I must be having a makeup day for all of the really good ones, just to balance everything out.Those are not near as much fun.
What ever the day, you have one obligation that supersedes any obstacle placed in your way...Giving it your all. It does not mean that you will meet with success every time, but you will eventually attain it.
 No matter where you are or what you are doing your plans are sure to come to fruition if you take … (5 comments)

Did You Call Yet? - 01/23/09 01:17 PM
 I hope you find this information helpful. I will be doing this immediately!
… (20 comments)

Beware of the Ballot...You have a choice - 01/22/09 11:10 PM

Have you received your ballot? If so it is time to weigh the decision of supporting the North Mason Schools in an effort to modernize and educate the children in our community.
It is not a secret that times are tough. We are all experiencing challenges,and our local schools are not immune. At the most inopportune time it has come to our immediate attention that the schools our young citizens are being educated in are no longer able to hold up. As much as we would like to put this off until better times... there is no better time.
Serious … (4 comments)

Olympia, Washington - 01/22/09 10:57 PM
The capitol of Washington State is Olympia. Full of rich History and a dedication to a courageous nation the Capitol of Washington State is a grand monument to the dawning of a new age with the respect and admiration of a past we can all be proud of.
The capitol was constructed in 1928 by Wilder and Whites. It has survived three major earthquakes, thanks to it's superior craftsmanship.
A remodel was completed in 2004 and consisted of recycling over 80% of the construction waste.The capitol now consists of 144 solar panels to promote conservation, and has the largest amount of … (4 comments)

Have you been invited? - 01/22/09 10:31 PM
Have you been invited to a Lincoln day Dinner? If not there is still plenty of time to attend this special nation wide event. This year marks the 200th birthday of our 16th president who most consider the founder of the Republican party.
 While good ol' Abe himself may not be able to attend, there are plenty of Birthday parties being held around the county to honor him that you will still be able to get tickets for.
Mason County Republicans will be holding their annual dinner on February 28th at the Pavilion in Shelton. The menu will be offering a choice of … (8 comments)

A Glimps into Mason Counties Past - 01/22/09 10:04 PM
Living in Mason County and searching through the past has been a past time of mine. I love History, especially that which pertains to my neck of the woods. Mason County has a rich history and a lot of fascinating events that have gone into making us who we are.
When I first arrived here in 1984 it was a very different scene than it is today. There were lumberjacks,back woods men, and not everyone had a phone. It was very different than the life I was
 accustomed to in Seattle. Life here

 moved at a slower pace, and it still does. … (0 comments)

Geoduck? - 01/22/09 09:45 PM
This may not appear as the most appetizing dish you can imagine, but the geoduck is a northwest delicacy. Most people wonder what the heck is a geoduck? The answer is simple in our neck of the woods it is a very delicious shell fish much like a clam or an oyster but a lot tastier with a more unique name. Geoducks have puzzled people for ages. Their large size and unique character have caused them to be sought after world wide. So if you run across a Geoduck I have a link on just how to enjoy them.
… (23 comments)

Bakers Best - 01/22/09 09:19 PM

I wanted to share with you a little secret I discovered. It is the Olympic Bakery in Shelton, Washington.I have been looking all over for the perfect surprise for my husbands birthday this year, and believe me this is quite a chore. He can buy anything he wants for himself, and what I could buy I can not pronounce ( you know ladies...Car Stuff) so I wanted to buy him something special that was personal, and he could enjoy right now. That is when I discovered the Olympic Bakery. Not only can I get him a personalized 64 1/2 Mustang … (6 comments)

Welcome to Belfair, Rite Aid - 01/22/09 06:47 PM
Last night we had a Chamber after hours event and the highlight was visiting our new Rite Aid in Belfair. 17 of the 21 people hired were from Belfair. There were great prices and quality items to purchase. I noticed my Husband loading up on all of the great Valentine's Day deals...What a guy!

So if you are in town stop by and visit our new Rite Aid. You will be glad you did!
… (2 comments)

Thoughts for Thursday... - 01/22/09 01:41 PM

Flying high with out a care in the world. Wondering when he will see a tasty irresistible wild salmon making it's way in the cool waters of Pickering Passage. Soaring dipping diving living. Every moment is spent as what it is...no thought for tomorrow... it is today. Just today all day and then...
… (5 comments)

Just Think About It - 01/22/09 01:27 PM
Life can be so busy these days. You grab your morning jolt of coffee, and scan the paper- then your off zipping through traffic and stalling and waiting for what ever the hold up is. You pause and go until you get there. Then it is work work work, catch up on life and off to lunch. Then finish out the day and back to the traffic, and home again to catchup on all that the little house in the concrete jungle needs.
 Have you ever thought that it was time to get away from all of that, and take a … (5 comments)

The Pointe - 01/21/09 11:52 PM

This is a photo taken from the Lagoon at Hartstene Pointe. This is one of my favorite communities. They have a private beach, and marina as well as miles of trails, fitness center and club house with hot tub and pool. Beyond what I mentioned is a great sense of community spirit. If is a friendly happy place to be, and time spent there is peaceful, relaxing and fun. I encourage you to call of e-mail and set up a personal tour of this community that you will not soon forget. Dinah Lee 360-551-8888
… (11 comments)

Live Every Moment - 01/21/09 11:42 PM
Today was a very busy day for me. I had several meetings, and important issues I needed to follow up on. I barely hugged the kids this morning as I ran out the door. Sometimes life gets in the way of what really matters.
This evening as I was rushing home to make dinner, and get the laundry in before heading out to yet another meeting, I was slowed down in the fog by unusual headlights. As I approached the scene with my husband we realized there had just been a terrible accident. If you were not already aware my husband is a … (11 comments)

Wordless Wednesday... - 01/21/09 01:25 PM

The beautiful Olympic mountains are a sight to behold in Mason County. They are lined with trails, and are known for their fantastic sunsets. Living in Mason County is truley special and I enjoy having access to all of the great recreational oppotunities within minutes. If you would like any additional information on all to see and do in Mason County just call me at 360-551-8888
… (10 comments)

Summers is closer than you think! - 01/19/09 12:32 AM

I ran across this picture tonight and I thought I should post it to give us all a little hope. It has been drizzly, grey,and chilly. The misty morning almost cleared away tonight before it got dark.
I enjoy cozy winter days, but this is the stuff I live for. Hot summer afternoons full of sunshine and colorful sunsets. I like the taste of cold ice cream, and the way a warm summer breeze feels at twilight. I love watching dogs fetch in the water and kids ride their bikes to the lake. Allyn Washington is a place that Norman Rockwell would … (19 comments)

Misty... Union, Washington Marina - 01/18/09 11:56 PM

A quiet drive down the twisting south shores 106, will lead you into historic Union, Washington, This photo was taken at their marina on a misty morning, which cleared into a brilliant Northwest day, complete I might ad with a rainbow. If you are in the neighborhood swing by and take a moment to visit Union, and enjoy a little of the good stuff that the Northwest offers.
… (11 comments)

Hydroplanes fly on Lake Washington - 01/18/09 11:33 PM
I thought it would be a good time to share what happens above the surface of Lake Washington now that I have shared with you what is found below.
Hydroplane races are not new to Lake Washington. They have been going on for decades. In fact my Uncle, Dale Burnison had one that he loved to race, and it was easy to spot because it was PINK. Do not ask me why, he has always had a way of standing out. But Dale is not the point of this post.
 
 Hydroplane racing has been around in Seattle since 1929.For years there … (12 comments)

Getting your Kids Room Ready to Show... - 01/18/09 10:22 PM
First- DO NOT ANNOUNCE that there are people coming over to see the house. Children have a way of disappearing when there is work to be done,even if they claim not to be able to hear you, and this is especially true if it concerns them.
*Give the kids something to do nearby so you can get help if you need it.
*Write down your intentions to go in the room, so if you disappear your spouse will know where to start looking. The buddy system works well in these situations.
* bring a flashlight. I do not want to scare … (12 comments)

Ohanapecosh - 01/18/09 09:48 PM
When I was growing up my Dad held a bunch of different jobs, he was a smoke jumper, entrepreneur,  bulldozer salesman, job counselor for Vietnam veterans, Fireman, and my favorite...Park Ranger at Mt. Rainier.
I spent the whole summer up there with him at his apartment, and spent a lot of time exploring the mountain trails, and making pets out of every animal I met. One of the coolest places we would visit were the natural hot springs. I was always amazed at how hot the water was when Silver falls was so cold.
Grove of the Patriarchs is a great … (4 comments)

The Steel Bridge of Mason County - 01/18/09 09:09 PM
Located high above the scenic view in Mason County and just below the grand Olympic mountains is the Steel Bridge. Known for its high location and interesting architecture, photographers flock to this sight to get their own picture, and some stories to take home as well.
Constructed by the Simpson Timber company in 1929 it was the only way to access the timber out of the steep and rugged location. It is one of only two bridges like it in the state of Washington.The Steel Bridge rest in what feels like mid air at a height of 420 feet above the … (5 comments)

Lake Washington's Eerie Depths - 01/18/09 08:54 PM
Like most lakes, Lake Washington in Seattle has it's share of mysteries. Located in the center of this great lake is Mercer Island, and crossing it are three floating bridges, but what is interesting is not above the surface, but below in it's murky depths.
 
This is an image of one of the several Corsairs that have sunk into the lake. You will find some of them on display at the museum of flight in Seattle. There are many other objects in the lake, beyond the wrecks of planes, boats, and the more recent bridges.
There are forests below the surface, some of which are … (2 comments)

Eclipse... - 01/18/09 07:46 PM
I wanted to share a few pictures I took of an Eclipse last year. This is the night I discovered the importance of a tripod. I must have taken dozens of pictures. Here are a few that seemed to turn out. Next time I will be ready and get a lot more quality photos with my new camera.







 
 
… (9 comments)

Catch a Falling Star... - 01/18/09 07:15 PM
This is a great time of year when there really is not a lot to do outside to find constellations. The sun still sets pretty early, although I have to say I am very excited about it staying lighter just a little longer each day.
Constellations are a lot of fun to find. It does not matter if it is just a quiet moment between a husband and wife, or an event for the whole family. Tonight I will be having the girls bundle up, make some hot cocoa, and sit on the front porch just looking at the stars. It always … (2 comments)

What goes into the Presidential Transition... - 01/18/09 06:08 PM
I was curious about what went into a Presidential Transition, and here are a few things I found out...
It takes 70 days from the time the new President is elected to take office
But, It only takes a team 4 hours to move the President and all of his families personal belongings out of the White House- incredible.
The new staff that the President Elect will need has to be hired. Ronald Reagan hired a head hunter and they had to go through over 40,000 applications.
James Buchanan and Abraham Lincoln had virtually no communication when they shifted power. With states … (4 comments)

How Well Do You Know the Rules? - 01/18/09 05:29 PM
On my last post I gave you a link to find ways to save money on your car insurance. After exploring a little further I found a quiz that will test your knowledge on basic driving rules. I plan to take it, and then give it to my husband. Although I think I have a good idea of just how well he is going to do-LOL
I am sure I will run across a few things I have forgotten, and a few things I want my 16 year old to remember. You never know it may pay off...literally!
… (0 comments)

A Quick Way to Save a Buck or 2 ... - 01/18/09 05:15 PM
This time of year I am all over new ways to save money. I make a game out of it with the kids. If they can lower the power bill by $10.00 I will buy a pizza, $5.00 I will ad movie ect. There are a lot of things you can do to make a difference. Even if it is a small change, it all ads up and you could end up saving a lot!
While exploring on-line today I found a helpful sight to save money on car insurance. They have 12 tips that can make a difference on your premium. I provided … (9 comments)

Customer Service... Dying or Reviving? - 01/18/09 04:30 PM
I posted on Active Rain about my unfortunate experience with my cell providers today. I have been hearing that I am not the only one. In fact I have not ran across anyone that does not have a horror story to share of their own, or about someone they know. I for one- could not stay in business if that was my reputation. So how do they?
In my frustration I began to really think about the dilemma. I feel held hostage by these huge companies that really don't care because either you will pay anyway, or they have enough business coming … (8 comments)

Follow up to the Cell Phone Saga... - 01/18/09 12:51 PM
I was reading a greatpost this morning by Shane O'Gorman ( a must read post) about getting ripped off on your cell phone. I wrote a post a few weeks back on just that. When I responded to his post I realized that I am still mad and here is why...
My cell bill is a sore subject right now, because I was forced to switch from Qwest no longer providing to Verizon. Qwest tried to slap on almost $700.00 to cancel all of our phones early, but then reluctantly waived it because we ended up with Verizon, where by the way I have virtually no … (8 comments)

House of the Future - 01/18/09 01:09 AM
Ever wonder what the homes we will be selling,and living in will be like in the not so distant future? So have I.
Living in Washington State gives us an opportunity to see from time to time just what Bill Gates is up to. He has a residence on the shores of Hood Canal in Mason County, as well as the home you are about to view in nearby Medina.
On this video tour of his home in Medina you can see how he, and his family lives, and all of the cool gadgets that one day will be common place in … (4 comments)

I have got to get one of these! - 01/18/09 12:49 AM
 This is the time of year that I get inspired to try a few new colors around the house.First I go to the store and search for the perfect new color. Then it is back to the house with all of the samples to tape them all over the- paint worthy walls. After a lot of staring, and badgering my husband to tell me what he likes, it is off to the store to gather all of the needed supplies, including the dreaded blue painting tape.
After what feels like hours of taping off doorways, windows, outlets and everything else, it … (4 comments)

It's a matter of Perspective - 01/18/09 12:23 AM
Have you ever gone on a long vacation only to come home and see your house in a whole new light? You see things from a whole new perspective. You notice the scent of a plant flowering in the room,or a cluttered corner, or how bright the kitchen looks with the sun beaming in. You may even see your house the same way a prospective buyer would see your home if it was on the market.
This leads me to my point, when you are getting ready to sell your home it PAYS (literally) to have an expert come through your house … (2 comments)

Historic Washington State - 01/18/09 12:18 AM
Every now and then I like to plan a little weekend trip for the family to get to know the wonderful State of Washington that we live in a little better.There is a lot to see and do around here. When I was a kid one of my favorite parks was Gas Works park. I also enjoyed a trip to the Bonneville Damn, the Space Needle, and North Head light house. This summer my husband and I explored the Ape Caves made by lava tubes down by Mt. St. Helens. traveling around the state we have had a lot of one of … (0 comments)

Exploring Washington's Ape Caves - 01/18/09 12:14 AM
This summer it was hot. It was one of the few weeks in the year that we actually plan our days around the temperatures outside. I was really excited about the weekend, because it was going to be just my husband and I, and I wanted it to be memorable-the sky was the limit. What ever we wanted to do was available for the agenda.
So the first thing I did was go on-line. I wanted to find an activity that we could do together, not just an air conditioned movie theater that we both sat next to one another in silence as … (2 comments)

Interesting Places to Stay the Night in Washington State - 01/18/09 12:10 AM
I thought I would write a post about some neat little places to visit in Washington State. North Head light house in the South West corner of the State is one of our favorites. I have included a link.The State has made the light keepers residence available for overnight stays. This is one of the best places for watching storms. Cape Disappointment is known for being one of the windiest spots in the state in-fact they have had winds so strong that it blew the instrument measuring the gust's speed away.
After one of the historic storms you will want to make … (4 comments)

A new Sight to See... - 01/14/09 11:31 PM

 We have recently added a new sight to see in Washington State...The addition to the Tacoma Narrows Bridge. I love having easier access to Tacoma and the surrounding communities. We originally had one bridge and in 1940 it collapsed. It was known as Galloping Gertie, because of the rolling action the bridge experienced just before it tumbled into the water. Since then we have had a new bridge constructed, and after much use, we added a second bridge to enhance the short commute. I truly enjoy the new landmark, and loved watching the construction of a piece of our local history in the … (17 comments)

24 -7 and then some... - 01/14/09 11:10 PM

Not every one is aware of this, but in the little town of Allyn- we have a fire station staffed 24-7 with a qualified, dedicated crew, waiting to serve our citizens the moment a need arises. They have been called out to smoke alarms that need batteries... at 2AM, houses engulfed in flames, and cats in trees. You name it they have responded. I wanted to take a moment, and thank them for all they do on a moments notice.
Not many communities can count on having full time medical support ,with an EMT and a Paramedic at their beckon call, along … (2 comments)

Wordless Wednesday - 01/14/09 10:47 PM

Ever wonder why so many people flock to Mason County, Washington. I bet he does too, although I think he likes the handouts.
The freedom and nature here are remarkable. We are minutes away from sailing, boating, fishing, clamming, hiking, biking, and enjoying the local wildlife.It is the one stop spot for getting away from it all yet only 30 to 40 minutes away by car or ferry to getting back to it all.
… (5 comments)

Hot Coffee hits the Spot! - 01/14/09 10:34 PM

This is a picture taken of the Allyn Towne Coffee House. It is convenientlylocated right next to my office in Allyn, Washington.I have to say they make some of the best coffee around, and I have my debit card receipts to prove it!
Linda and Tonya own the business together, and generally are the ones who open in the morning. You can't pull away from the drive thru with out a smile- the girls crack me up! So if you are looking for a hot cup of coffee on a cold day just tell them Dinah sent you and it … (4 comments)

Rainbow in my midst - 01/14/09 10:24 PM

 I took this photo a couple of months ago while I was out showing property. It occurred to me that if there really is a pot of gold at the end of the Rainbow then the home owners in Hoodsport are in luck! I feel fortunate to have grabbed this photo because minutes later the rainbow and the mist were both gone. It reminded me of the Orca whale pictures I took in these same waters. Every time I snapped a picture it would take the pictures once the whale was under water again. I have beautiful pictures of saltwater spray … (10 comments)

Ever wonder what your cat is thinking? - 01/14/09 10:11 PM

I have often wondered just what is going through that crazy cats head. I may not know just what he is thinking, but I do know what he listens too. Apparently I am not the only one in the house that "Can't Get No Satisfaction! So what does your cat listen to when your kids wana harass the poor thing?I know that Quinn is not a big fan of dressing up even if he seems to like "The Stones."
… (4 comments)

Can anyone tell me why this happened? - 01/14/09 10:01 PM

I took this photo when I listed a property for sale across from Lake Tahuyeh. It is a beautiful lake, and I have a lot of wonderful pictures of the parks and the deep blue waters, but this puzzles me. At the very end of the lake is a forest of dead tress. Other plants and trees are growing just fine, can anyone tell me why this part of the lake looks like this?
… (6 comments)

Wordless Wednesday - 01/14/09 09:45 PM

This is one of my favorite quiet places... the dock at LakeLand Village.Here in this is quiet community we enjoy trails, a 27 hole golf course, and friendly neighbors. I love the tall trees and the deer as they graze in the little open fields. I think they like us too, or they just think HAND OUT!
  Last year the mother Deer on our street was blessed with twins!
… (1 comments)

Just Say it Like it Is - 01/13/09 01:20 AM

I heard a story the other day that shocked me. A sweet, obviously caring woman saw her devoted dog come up to the sliding glass door carrying a large,white,very dirty bunny in his mouth. Horrified the woman wrestled the dead creature away,and instantly recognized it as "Princess" the bunny belonging to the new family next door's little girl.
Feeling awful, and guilty for the crime her beloved dog had committed- she washed and blow dried the dirty, smelly, dead rabbit. she could not bear to break the little girls heart, but it was inevitable...maybe this would soften the blow. She quietly … (8 comments)

Show me the Money? - 01/13/09 12:39 AM
I have been hearing from a lot of people recently that they can see the great deals in the housing market, and love the low interest rates, but are worried that they will not qualify for a loan on a home. Can you even get a good loan?
The answer is yes!
I think that one of the biggest differences in the market today would be the kind of loan. Banks want to loan money- they just want to do it with a common sense approach. The reason we are going through some of these changes in the market was not because … (4 comments)

Your Spider is my Snake - 01/12/09 11:52 PM

I was talking with my daughter today as we drove into a meeting and she was telling me about a disagreement she was having with her friend.I could easily see both sides and I tried to get her to see things from the other persons perspective...She was not getting it.
As we drove the conversation changed to telling the truth. I mentioned that it is much easier to destroy a reputation than to build a new one. I brought up a time that she had headed upstairs with a bag,  and when her Dad and I asked her what was in it- she … (13 comments)

Need a Ride? - 01/12/09 12:47 AM
If you live or work in Mason County Washington, and need a ride don't hesitate to ask for a free one from Mason County Transit. All they ask is that you call ahead two hours. You may not need to "Dial a Ride" if you look at the posted schedules ,and can make it to one of the stops offered.By clicking on the blue links you will be able to find additional information at the MCTA website. They also provide connecting routes to neighboring counties, including a stop at the Bremerton Ferrie terminal with destinations including Seattle.
… (5 comments)

Posting Points - 01/11/09 10:06 PM
I have heard a lot of Active Rain members say that they want to post more...but what to post is a dilemma. I am not an authority on Blogs, but the list below helps me when I have posting paralysis.
*Pictures-  post a favorite local picture and write about a community and post it to Localism.
*Businesses- I write about businesses in our community that I like and want others to check out. Shopping local is important.
 *Local Events- Share about exciting events in your community, and post them to Localism. You may even inspire another Blogger to try a similar event … (21 comments)

Change can be a Good Thing! - 01/11/09 05:20 PM
We are having an election on February 3rd to pass a bond, and renew a levy in our local school district.  North Mason is the primary educational resource for our youth, but it has met with some big challenges. I have provided a link below to a site that will give you a lot of information on the two issues on the ballot, as well as a link to a video showing the needs that the schools are facing.
Most of the citizens in our community have not been to the schools in many years or since they themselves have graduated. Things have … (1 comments)

Do You trust the Media? - 01/11/09 11:41 AM
I have been writing posts this morning on the loss of a local newspaper, and what that may mean to all of us. From the comments I received I noted that they all seem to have the same general opinion. They won't really miss the biased reporting. They like the crosswords and other fun aspects of the local papers in their area, but they find the "Facts" the papers produce to be unreliable and biased to say the least.
This is unfortunate, but I have to agree with them.
So if we are seeing the media as unreliable and biased, do … (13 comments)

What About the Globe? - 01/11/09 11:10 AM
Along with the distinct possiblility that we are loosing the Seattle PI, another concern is being raised...what about the famouse Globe that spins like the daily planet atop   the building on Elliott Ave.?
Here is a little article I found giving us a little history on "The Globe" itself.
 Grand feature resting atop the Seattle Post-Intelligencer building on the Seattle waterfront is the 18.5-ton globe. If you have been to Seattle you have pobably seen it and thought back to the Superman movies and "the Daily Planet."
It  was set on the newspaper's building at Sixth Avenue and Wall Street near the … (2 comments)

"Believe none of What you Hear~ and only Half of What you See!" - 01/11/09 10:49 AM
  I know this is the age of the Internet,and we can all thank Al Gore for that. But I am going to miss some of the old standards...Like newspapers.
  This week we learned that the Seattle PI ( Post Intelligencer)is being forced to sell, and if a buyer is not found in 60 days they will simply close.
  I remember the first thing my Grandma did every morning was to get up turn on the heat, and grab her morning paper and coffee.You could count on it every morning without fail.She insisted that I too find something of interest to … (9 comments)

The Queen of Denial... - 01/08/09 11:26 PM

This is the view I had as I pulled up to meet my clients at the little Deli in Union, Washington. It had been a very sunny drive, and I had thought most of the snow we had received about a week and a half before was officially melting.
That leads me to the Denial. I showed the happy couple several homes. At one point my car got stuck and the three of us had to get out of the car and scrape the cemented snow off of where we thought the road would be. I inched my car around and … (11 comments)

The Early Bird gets the Worm - 01/08/09 11:10 PM

We have all heard the phrase and it is true- the early bird gets the worm. How many times have you thought to yourself if only I had gotten their sooner,I wish I had bought property out here years ago when they could not give it away...now, I wish I had bought Microsoft stock in the beginning,ect.
Well that time is right now, and Investors know it. They have been contactig their Agents and shopping the housing market aggresivley. If these trends continue with low interest rates, and abundant choices in the housing market...It will turn from a Buyer's Market to a Seller's market … (7 comments)

Sunshine on my Shoulders Makes me Happy! - 01/08/09 10:33 PM

This is a picture I snapped today as I was driving to Shelton, Washington. This shimmering body of water is Oakland Bay. I used to be mesmerized by it when I was a kid. Parts of it are completely exposed when the tide goes out-I would not recommend trying to walk across- no matter how tempting-there is a reason Mom said no...trust me!
The majority of the time it appears like this- Beautiful, sparkling, and mystical when it is foggy. It is also a great place to dig oysters and enjoy watching otters play, and eagles soar!I thought you might … (16 comments)

A Lucky Break! - 01/08/09 10:21 PM

While I was driving through Shelton Washington today, I found a very lucky home. The tree limb must have given way in the recent windstorm we had. I could not believe it did absolutely no damage at all to this house- not even a broken window! One of the small twigs broke up against the house, but the house it's self is perfect.I wish I had a better picture to show you just how significant this was, but I am certain the home owner knows!
Do you have any lucky houses where you live?
… (5 comments)

I'm Sorry, I tried...And I Can't Take it anymore! - 01/08/09 10:07 PM

This picture was taken just before Christmas about 2 weeks ago. I was loving every moment. The folder this picture was taken from is so full I had a hard time finding this.The winter walks, the hot apple cider and cocoa, the blazing fire, the Christmas lights glowing through the icy crust were all wonderful and at times had an air of even being magical!
But it is over now. I can drive my car, not fall into snow drifts up to my thighs, receive mail, and warm myself in the bright sunshine, and send the kids back to school. I am … (6 comments)

Counting the Stars - 01/08/09 09:53 PM

… (3 comments)

Let's Pretend... - 01/08/09 08:44 PM
  Let's pretend that everyone in the country is going to get a bail out. There will be a bunch of money printed, and we will hire foreign workers to come in and drop off suitcases, or in some larger families luggage sets full of money.The need to hire foreign workers stems from the overall issue at hand...with all of our new money-we won't want to or need to work, so others not receiving the money will be needed to make the deliveries. 
  Next we will want to put our money in the bank.It would be difficult to carry all of … (1 comments)

Wordless Shwerdless...Wednesday! - 01/07/09 09:24 PM

This is my morning in Allyn, Washington. Even a picture has a hard time relaying just what I feel when I get to wake up to this. Believe me it is more impressive in person. To watch as the sun glides above Mt. Rainier, and glows over Case Inlet- casting all of the colors of the rainbow as the day unveils all it has to offer. I am in awe.
… (14 comments)

The Blogging Resolution - 01/04/09 12:54 PM
Have you decided that 2009 is the year to really figure out this web 2.0 thing- and start a blog, or just get more active again? Well,you are not alone. I thought I would share a few things that have been helpful to me since I found myself singing in the RAIN.  Blogging has given me great visibility to the consumer. My favorite part of Active Rain is Localism. It is where you can place neighborhood blogs.Pictures are great because everyone wants to see where they live and your take on it.Recognizing community events is important. This is also a good site to … (22 comments)

Taking the Polar Plunge! - 01/03/09 10:59 PM

Calling all mermaids, men in business suites, and those who have not figured out it is FREEZING! It is time once again to take the Polar Plunge into the icy waters of Case Inlet in Allyn Washington.The plunge will take place on January 24th at 8:30 am. This annual event benefits the Boys and Girls club of Mason County. The Boys and Girls club offers many safe opportunities for kids do do fun supervised activities outside of school. It is a great place to be and this is a great event to support. I have to say raising over $15,000  last year … (10 comments)

Picture This... - 01/03/09 10:09 PM

The shadowy night is drifting in, and the air is crisp and mellow. A sparkling fire warms.The crescent moon above glows down on the quiet streets of Allyn below. Gentle waters swallow the pebbled shore. Clouds drift and swirl, only to hide behind the whispering stars.Telling their secrets as the years of time carefully unroll. I gather my thought into a pile- and in thinking of them...SMILE.
… (7 comments)

I Remember When... - 01/03/09 09:47 PM
 I remember the thrill of buying my first home. I thought it was impossible. I thought I needed to know everything. Who would ever loan us money? How are we ever going to get through this on our own?
Then I found my Realtor. He was knowledgeable and friendly. He recommended a lender, helped us with all of the paper work, kept us informed, and handed us the keys. All of my worry in the end really didn't help- it was all already handled. My Realtor knew what he was doing, and he wasn't worried...so why should I be.
Well, I know all … (5 comments)

Questions???????? - 01/03/09 09:19 PM
I love showing property to Buyers, and working with sellers to market their homes. Both processes involve a lot of knowledge of the market, and research to make certain that you are doing your best for your client. I love what I do.
One of the most enjoyable parts of my job is answering questions. I love it when my clients get engaged in the process and ask me to explain what is going on and why.I feel that informed clients make the best decisions. They also have reasoning not emotions backing the choices they make. The best thing I can do when … (7 comments)

Valerie's 99 - 01/03/09 12:55 AM
I just wanted to share with you that one of my favorite bloggers Valerie Spaulding of Windermere Peninsula Properties has just posted her 99. That means that 100 is just around the corner. I know we are all waiting with baited breath as to what she will post, but we all know it is going to be great! So here is to your 99 Val and to many, many more!

… (5 comments)

Do you contribute to RPAC ? - 01/03/09 12:11 AM
I just thought I would raise the question today after I read through an e-mail sent by one of our local title companies. The e-mail read that the state of Washington will be asking for our citizens to pay the excise tax on short sale properties, not on the sales amount, but on the amount owed to the bank.(The current loan amount.)
I am horrified. There are many implications, and if this becomes practice I am certain there will be many law suites.The state is already mentioning leans, if that is the case then how can there be clear title until it is disclosed … (8 comments)

Taking Pride in your Community is a Choice - 01/02/09 09:47 PM
I wanted to share with all of you a picture I took today while showing homes to a long distance client that made a special trip to view homes here. This is the entrance of one of our finest communities.

While I understand that this was probably not done by anyone living in this community, it still stings them. My client instantly questioned how often this occurred, what were the crime rates, and is this a safe neighborhood? Yes, this is a wonderful place to live, but unfortunately it is making a difference in how others are perceiving the values here.
It … (7 comments)

Is it Time to Take Down the Tree...Heres Your Sign! - 01/01/09 10:21 PM
There are other pictures I could have included on this post, but I did not know if they were entirely appropriate considering the absolute rage she was in at the time. I feel that this one is incriminating enough on it's own. This is Esme and she will not have this opportunity as of tomorrow morning, until next year. I think I might just need to buy some tinsel for temptation on our 2009 tree.

… (17 comments)

 
Dinah%2039%20today Rainmaker_large

Dinah Lee Griffey

Inferno Advertising

Shelton, WA

More about me…

Inferno Advertsing

Address: 4783 E North Island Dr, Shelton, Wa, 98584

Office Phone: (360) 204-9636

Cell Phone: (360) 551-8888

Email Me

Facebook Badge START -->Dinah Lee Espedal Griffey's Profile
Dinah Lee Espedal Griffey's Facebook profile
Create Your Badge<!-- Facebook Badge END --> Share 1D93298F44261FC53109ECB337F46B78029FFE17


Listings

Links

Archives

RSS 2.0 Feed for this blog

Find WA real estate agents and Shelton real estate on ActiveRain.