Cooking Classes at Regal Rabbit! - 02/28/10 11:02 PM
If you have fun cooking, then I know you must also enjoy shopping at food and gourmet shops.  What's not to love about browsing through gourmet gadgets, cookware, knives, cookbooks, and more?  Well, what about cooking classes at Regal Rabbit in Chesterton, Indiana?
Located at 528 Indiana Boundary Road, the Regal Rabbit in Chesterton, Indiana offers a variety of cooking classes each month with different chefs.  For the month of May you can register for:
Cooking Basics 101 on March 1 Winter Vegetable Harvest on March 3 Irish Favorites on March 9 Gourmet Couples - A Sauce Odyssey on March 12 … (5 comments)

Are You a Servant or An Adviser? - 02/28/10 10:40 PM
Are you a servant or an adviser?  Good question to ask ourselves since...
Many people want to serve God but only as advisers!
How often do we do this?  You know, try to help God along or we think we have a better plan.  Even Abraham and Sarai were guilty of this after God promised Abraham many descendants. 
Since God knows the beginning from the end, do we really think He needs our help?  I think often we forget how powerful God really is and we doubt.  Yes, God keeps His promises - ALWAYS! 
Have a blessed week and remember that … (3 comments)

What Does It Take to Discourage You? - 02/28/10 10:23 PM
What does it take to discourage you?  Discouragement happens to all at one time or another.  Today I came across a quote that reminded me that even discouragement can be a positive. 
You can tell how big a person is by what it take to discourage him.
I think an even better question than:  What does it take to discourage you?
may be:  What do you do with that discouragement?  Do you give up or do you dust yourself off and give it another try?
Have a great week everyone.  No matter what problems come up, get past the discouragement and … (4 comments)

Free Blood Sugar & Blood Pressure Screenings - 02/28/10 10:11 PM
Porter County Hospital is committed to helping people in Porter County stay as healthy as possible.  One of the ways they are accomplishing this is by offering free screenings throughout Porter County.  Durint the month of March, free blood sugar and blood pressure screenings will be taking place in Portage, Indiana at the local YMCA on the following dates:
March 2, 5, 8, 9, 15, 16, 22, 23, 29, and 30 from 9 - 11 AM The Portage YMCA is located at 3100 Willowcreek Road.  Since the screenings are free, there is no reason not to know where you stand with … (0 comments)

One Thing In Common With Many Olympians! - 02/28/10 09:42 PM
As I watched the Winter Olympics over the last couple of weeks, I remembered that I have something in common with many Olympians.  I wonder if you can guess what it is.
Now, I'm not athletic.  No, I'm not in great shape!  (at all!)  Even though I used to live in Colorado, I've never skied (at least not on purpose). No, I've never won an Olympic medal or any medal for athleticism of any kind.  Do I have you wondering yet?
Well, I'll tell you.  If you watched the Olympics, you probably saw more than one story about athletes that lived … (4 comments)

Even Our Snowmen Are Relocating to Texas! - 02/25/10 08:34 PM
I couldn't resist these cute snowmen from Texas so I just had to reblog this post by Andy Chaudoir.  We have a lot of snow covering everything in Valparaiso, Indiana but I haven't seen a single  snowman!  They must have all relocated to Texas!
Comments have been disabled so you can comment on Andy's site. 

Via Andy Chaudoir (Professional Inspection Services - Georgetown, Texas):
Yesterday it snowed in the Austin area - a lot.  At least for Central Texas it was a lot.  To celebrate everyone I know went outside and made a snowman.  For many of the children this was their … (0 comments)

Elderly Couple But Young At Heart! - 02/25/10 05:59 AM
… (33 comments)

Real Estate, Valparaiso Indiana, and Me! - 02/24/10 06:46 AM
Have you ever found yourself doing something that you would have never expected to be doing?  Or living somewhere that you had never even heard of?  And, even beyond that, enjoying it?  Well, that is exactly where I have found myself with real estate, Valparaiso Indiana, and me!
Irene Tron...that's me....working as a real estate agent (in real life, not as seen on TV), in a place I had never heard of before moving here (Valparaiso, Indiana) and loving every minute of it. (OK, most minutes) Unbelievable!  Who would have thought?  Definitely not me and I know myself pretty darn well. 
I've … (7 comments)

Active Rain University - 02/23/10 08:41 PM
If you haven't joined the webinars offered by Active Rain University, you are missing out on lots of good learning!  Take advantage of learning from non other than Brad Andersohn himself.  Why not make your time spent on Active Rain worth even more by finding out about all the useful tools on AR. 
Today, I logged on the the blogging webinar about 25 minutes late because of an appointment.  In spite of the shortened time, it was still on of the most informational webinars I have been a part of.  So don't wait!  Go on the Active Rain University site and … (13 comments)

Problems with Sleep Apnea - 02/22/10 10:17 AM
It seems that most people with sleep apnea don't even realize that they have problems with sleep apnea until family members complain about their snoring.  Unfortunately, very often it goes undiagnosed.  Don't let this happen to you.  Sleep apnea should be taken seriously. 
If you live in Porter County, Indiana, the Portage YMCA is offering FREE sleep apnea screening.  Appointments are not necessary so drop in during the following times:
Thursday February 25, 2010 from 3 - 5 PM Tuesday, March 16, 2010 from 9 - 11 AM Thursday, March 25, 2010 from 3 -5 PM The YMCA in Portage, Indiana … (7 comments)

From 1981 to 2010! - 02/21/10 08:47 PM
This post and link just brought back so many fun memories that I just had to reblog for others to enjoy.  Happy memories!
Comments have been disabled so you can visit Karin's site.

Via Karin Elliott (IBA Realty Group):
I can hardly remember 1981 as I was 11 years old and so consumed in being a pre-teen that my recollection would not relate to adult life by any stretch of the imagination. I do remember that our little elementary school in Park Ridge, New Jersey introduced their first computer right around then. I think it was probably a TS80 or something similar. … (2 comments)

God's Great Mercy - 02/20/10 09:17 AM
I had a revelation about God's great mercy this morning.  Well, it was actually more of a "DUH"  moment!
A few years ago when I read through the bible for the first time, I struggled with the realization that God wiped out entire nations because of their rebellion and unbelief.  The bible is very clear that this meant even children. 
I struggled with this for a long time because I know in my heart that God is a loving God.  God is also sovereign and He is merciful.  I could not make all the pieces fit into place...until this morning.....and my … (13 comments)

FREE Bone Density Screenings in Portage, Indiana - 02/20/10 08:19 AM
Since osteoporosis can be slowed down by the intake of calcium, the awareness of bone density is extremely important as we get older.  The YMCA is making it easy and convenient to know your bone density by offering FREE bone density screenings in Portage, Indiana on several different dates. 
No appointment is necessary. Be aware that the screening is performed on the heel of the foot so you must be able to remove your socks. The free bone density screening will be done at the Portage, Indiana YMCA located at 3100 Willowcreek Rd on the following dates:
Thursday, February 25, 2010 from 3 - … (5 comments)

So Ready for Spring! - 02/19/10 04:02 PM
Oh, I am so ready for spring in Valparaiso, Indiana!  I cannot wait for the warmer days and blossoms on my plants and trees.  I look forward to that first day when the temperature is just perfect enough to open every single window in my home and just enjoy the fresh breeze. 
Yes, I'm even looking forward to the smell of freshly mowed grass.  (Mowed by someone else, of course!)  Seriously, I cannot wait to work out in my garden, enjoy my patio, and relax on my hammock.  The days are getting just a bit warmer and the sun is starting … (9 comments)

This will make you appreciative - 02/19/10 02:34 PM
Important reminder by Liz Loadholt of the real heroes.
Comments have been disabled so you can visit Mama Liz's site.

Via Liz Loadholt- AgentOwned Realty- Covering SC:



Liz Loadholt Broker, SC Certified Trainer, Relocation Director Co-founder of AgentOwned Realty ] Liz@AgentOwned.com http://mamaliz.onlineaor.com 843-725-5007
The AgentOwned Realty serves your real estate needs for:
Charleston, Johns Island, James Island, Mt. Pleasant, Isle of Palms, Sullivan's Island, Daniel Island, North Charleston, Summerville,Goose Creek, Moncks Corner, Santee, Manning, Sumter, Florence, & Myrtle Beach, all in South Carolina







… (0 comments)

Lifestyles in Valparaiso, Indiana - 02/18/10 10:55 PM
Smack in the center of downtown is a unique shop with something for everyone - Lifestyles in Valparaiso, Indiana.  Within its 10,000 square feet of space, you will find trendy clothing and accessories, eclectic jewelry and so much more. 
An entire room features everything from kitchen gadgets to gourmet foods, coffee, and teas.  After a hard day in the kitchen, pamper yourself with some of their bubble baths, soaps, oils, and lotions. 
Don't stop looking here!  Head upstairs to a gallery full of unique furniture, art, and accessories.  Plan on giving yourself plenty of  time to browse at a leisurely pace.  Lifestyles is located at … (2 comments)

Living Works Education and ASIST - 02/18/10 08:57 PM
Each and every day lives are lost to suicide.  Through Living Works Educaton and ASIST (Applied Suicide Intervention Training) workshops, people are being trained throughout the United States and Canada to help in preventing the immediate risk of suicide.
The two-day interactive and practical workshop was recently held at Faith Evangelical Bible Church in Valparaiso, Indiana.  Many more workshops are offered throughout the year.  Click here for a link to their website and class schedule. 

… (0 comments)

What's With This Picture? - 02/18/10 08:30 PM
What's With This Picture?  Are there crazy drivers in Valparaiso, Indiana?
This was the strange sight I came across as I was driving around Valparaiso, Indiana recently.  Can you tell what is going on with the cars in front of me?

It's not too difficult to tell what the situation is but I just thought it made an interesting picture at first glance.
… (7 comments)

Kids Trail Mix - 02/16/10 10:40 PM
Here's a quick, simple and yet nutritious Kids Trail Mix.
Ingredients:  4 cups Chex cereal                   1/2 cup dried fruit bits                   1/2 cup raisins                   1/2 cup peanuts                   1/2 cup M&Ms                   
Preparation:  Put into a large ziploc bag.  Shake to mix and enjoy. 
How simple is that?  Give it a try but remember to leave a little for your kids!
… (8 comments)

He Who Angers You, Controls You - 02/15/10 05:06 PM
He Who Angers You, Controls You!
A friend sent me this quote just this past week and it keeps coming back to my mind time and time again.  As I was reading through other AR blogs, I came across a featured post by Lorena McMullen.  We have probably all been in a situation where we have allowed the attitudes of others ruin our days.  Is this constructive in any way?  Nope!  It sure doesn't do one bit of damage to the person with the bad attitude and it just brings us down right along with them.
Don't let the anger or … (14 comments)

Boys and Girls Clubs - Snow Day Program - 02/15/10 03:45 PM
After a beautiful sunny weekend, snow is falling once again in Valparaiso, Indiana.  Many parents in Northwest Indiana have recently experienced school being canceled due to weather.  For parents working outside the home that can quickly create a problem with childcare.  Fortunately for those of you living in Valparaiso and South Haven, the Boys and Girls Club has a snow day program for just that situation - Kidstop No-School Day program. 
Kidstop is an alternative for those days when school is not on the schedule.  With trained staff on hand at the Boys and Girls Club, kids from kindergarten through fifth grade … (2 comments)

Speechless Sunday - 02/14/10 10:23 PM

Ice Sculpture in Valparaiso, Indiana
… (12 comments)

Happy Valentines Day - 02/14/10 06:40 AM
Happy Valentines Day to All!

Another beautiful ice sculpture in downtown Valparaiso, Indiana.
… (8 comments)

Aladdin Pita in Merrillville, Indiana - 02/11/10 10:45 PM
Fine Middle Eastern cuisine at its finest is what you will find at Aladdin Pita in Merrillville, Indiana.  From lamb kabob, and falafel to shawerma and pita, it's fresh and absolutely some of the tastiest food around.  If it all sounds too good to make a choice, then visit them on Thursday or Sunday evening for their all-you-can-eat buffet from 4 - 9 pm. 
Now if cooking middle eastern food is your preference, Aladdin Pita also offers a food mart with authentic spices and ingredients for your cooking. 
Alladin Pita is located in Merrillville, Indiana at 3750 W 80th Lane. 

… (9 comments)

Mardi Gras at Old World Market - 02/11/10 10:14 PM
It's time for Mardi Gras at Old World Marketin Valparaiso, Indiana.  Whether it Bananas Foster, Jambalaya, Gumbo, or Muffalettas that you want, Old World Market will have it on Saturday, February 13, 2010 from 11 am to 3 pm.  Not only that, they will have featured tastings all day long.  So you can try that Andouille Sausage or Cafe du Monde first.
Old World Market is located at 76 South Washington in Valparaiso, Indiana, across from the Courthouse Square.  While you're downtown, don't forget to look at the Ice Sculptures in front of Old World Market and at Central Park Plaza.

… (14 comments)

Would You Prefer a Bottled Water or a Cat With Your Lunch? - 02/10/10 02:01 PM
Would you prefer a bottled water or a cat with your lunch?
My adorable and lovable kitty, Micah, has been at it again.  Getting into those spaces that he doesn't belong and making himself comfortable.  We adopted our 3 cats from the Independent Cat Society in Westville, Indiana when they were only 4 months old. 
I was so wrong when I named mine Micah - after the minor prophet.  A better name would have been Jonah - a mind of his own who only does things when he is good and ready.

… (8 comments)

Today's Special - Free Snow! - 02/10/10 08:28 AM
That's right.  You read it right.  Today's special deal - free snow just for the taking!  Fresh, beautiful, white snow from the skies over Valparaiso, Indiana and I'm offering to the first person who is willing to take it from my driveway.  What a deal!  This offer won't last long.  It'll be gone before you know it. 
Officially, we got 15 inches of snow last night.  So for those of you in Florida or other sunny parts, I am willing to share my wealth of snow and spread it around. 

OK, so I'm just trying to get out of shoveling but it … (17 comments)

Peace Starts With a Smile! - 02/09/10 12:23 PM
Peace starts with a smile.
I read this quote today and I couldn't help thinking how true it is.  Have you ever noticed how some people can teasingly put you down and you laugh right along with them?  Then, others try to tease you and you feel like punching them in the face.  What makes the difference? 
I think so much of it is how things are said.  Are they said with a smile?  Are you correcting someone to help them?  Or are you correcting someone to show them how much better you are?  So much comes across in our actions … (7 comments)

A Majestic Eagle on Ice - 02/08/10 08:50 PM
Last Friday was our Winter Fest in downtown Valparaiso, Indiana.  As part of the festivities, there was ice sculpting in Central Park Plaza.  If you've never seen artists carving ice into beautiful masterpieces, you've missed out on some fun. Here's a majestic eagle on ice shining in the sunlight. 

… (3 comments)

Don't Leave That Drawer Open! - 02/05/10 09:19 PM
Don't leave those drawers open!  You know, that drawer in the kitchen that gets left slightly open by accident.  Mine holds my dish towels - or it did... until....

 
My 3 adorable cats decided to rearrange the kitchen towels in my drawer.
 
 

 

 
 
A Perfect Hiding Spot!
 
 
 
                    
… (20 comments)

Valentine's Day Reminder! - 02/05/10 07:05 AM
Hey everyone!  Here's a friendly reminder that Valentine's Day is only 9 days away.  Stay out of trouble this year and do something special for your significant other.  Here's my headline news:
Even If You Think It's Silly, It's Important, People!
Everyone likes to feel special and NO, you cannot just assume that they know how you feel!  Do something special.  Be creative.  Yes, the benefits will be worth it for many days to come. 
Why do I suddenly feel like Dr Phil?  ...... If only I had his millions!....... Nope, I'd rather be me!
Enjoy your weekend everyone.
… (5 comments)

Ice Carvings in Central Park - 02/05/10 06:42 AM
Today, February 5, is your chance to watch ice carvers at work!  Doesn't that sound just perfect for a cold winter day?  And it all starts at noon in Central Park.  Ice Carvings in Central Park Plaza in downtown Valparaiso, Indiana!
And you probably thought all the fun happened in NYC!  Not true.  Central Park Plaza in Valparaiso, Indianais located at the corner of Indiana and LaFayette, just one block down from the Courthouse Square. 
The fun doesn't stop here.  Ice skating will be open each weekday evening at Central Park and all day on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from now … (11 comments)

Home Show Expo in Michigan City, Indiana - 02/03/10 03:58 PM
If you are even considering making any improvements to your home, make plans to attend the Home Show Expo in Michigan City, Indiana.  Sponsored by the La Porte County Builders Association, the expo will be held on February 12th, 13th, and 14th at the Marquette Mall. 
Professionals from all phases of home building, remodeling, and landscaping will be in the mall's Grand Concourse during regular mall hours.  What a great time to shop for yourself and your home all in one place!  Besides, it's free.  Bring your home remodeling questions and get informed.
Don't miss the Home Show Expo in Michigan City, … (5 comments)

Thought for the Day - That Is My Seat! - 02/03/10 08:37 AM
Humans - Creatures of Habit!  Yes, we are.  How often do we go to a restaurant and order the same thing - again?  Even in church we are guilty of liking things done the same way and in the same order each week.  How many of you have seen this happen in church:
Some people are kind, polite, and sweet-spirited - until you try to sit in their pews!
It is funny to think about but unfortunately this does happen.  Have you been guilty of this?  I have witnessed this exact thing and it is not a pleasant experience.  Besides, it's … (10 comments)

Hot Air Balloons - Yesterday and Today - 02/03/10 08:15 AM
Here it is early in the year 2010 and I just found some amazing photos of hot air balloons in Valparaiso, Indiana way back from 1910.  Can you imagine that?   One hundred years of Hot Air Balloons - yesterday and today. 
As I was looking for other pictures of downtown Valparaiso, Indiana, I found a picture of Flint Lake and Hot Air Balloons in 1910.  That's just down the street of where I now live!  Amazing! I've got to tell you that I was very tempted to just use that picture on my post but I'm afraid that may be considered using someone else's property.  … (2 comments)

The Power of Active Rain in Valparaiso, Indiana - 02/02/10 11:50 AM
What is the Power of Active Rain?  First, of all, Active Rain is a community of real estate professionals seeking to increase their knowledge by staying up to date with all the latest technology and news within real estate.  This is where the Power of Active Rain comes into play.  Here let me explain.
Through the Power of Active Rain and the networking community that is created, those of us on Active Rain are able to learn from each other.  Real estate changes constantly and each closing, contract, listing can have it's own unique circumstances.  Through the Active Rain community, we … (7 comments)

Oberweis Ice Cream and Dairy Store - 02/02/10 09:27 AM
It's the middle of winter, in the 20s, and a light covering of snow in my yard in Valparaiso, Indiana.  So why do I have ice cream on my mind?  Well, because any day is a good day for the flavorful and satisfying ice cream from Oberweis Ice Cream and Dairy Store.  Besides, they carry more than just ice cream! 
At Oberweis Ice Cream and Dairy Stores, you can find all kinds of dairy products including milk and chocolate milk in glass bottles!  When was the last time you had some tasty milk out of a glass container instead of plastic?  … (7 comments)

The Power of ActiveRain, part 2 - 02/02/10 08:05 AM
OK guys, I have to admit it and be truthful!  I re-blogged this for one reason - the link to the Chocolate Publishing Company.  Sorry guys, I know Jim mentioned  so many great friends on this post like Vegas Bob, Al and Peggy Cunningham, and many more but the chocolate did it for me.  I could have just written my own post and put a link to the Chocolate Publishing Company but I don't think that would be fair so instead I've reblogged it.
Comments have been disabled so Jim can get your comments and thanks!
Thank you Jim!

Via … (0 comments)

Real Estate Auctions-- What Buyers Don't Know Can Really Cost Them - 02/02/10 07:47 AM
Here's some great information for buyers to be aware of about real estate auctions from Barb Fischer.
Comments have been disabled so they can be left on Barb's site. 

Via Barb Fischer (RD Brown Real Estate):
If you've been tempted by the "great deals" you've heard that "somebody somewhere" got at an auction, please go in with both eyes open.  Here are a few auction basics which many people are not aware of.
 
 
1. Know the difference between Trustee Sale auctions (usually held at the steps of the courthouse), and private auctions. Trustee sales are CASH only. You don't … (2 comments)

Chocolate Extravaganza in Portage, Indiana - 02/02/10 06:54 AM
The chocoholic in me cannot wait for Thursday, February 4, 2010.  That's the day of the Chocolate Extravaganza in Portage, Indiana. 
Area business will showcase the Best of their Best in Chocolate at the 9th Annual Chocolate Extravaganza.  How does an afternoon of sampling chocolate treats sound?  Oh, do I have to wait another 2 whole days for this?  Waiting is torture! 
Guess what!  The Chocolate Extravaganza is FREE!  Yes, free and open to the public.  Hold your horses and I'll tell you where.  The best of the best chocolate will be at Miller's Senior Living Community at 5911 Lute Rd in Portage, Indiana.  … (2 comments)

What in the World Are You Saying? - 02/01/10 01:40 PM
Have you ever listened to someone intently and still wondered, "What in the world are you saying?"  Growing up in a Spanish and English speaking home, it was quite normal to carry conversations switching between both languages without even thinking about it.  The switch could happen more than once mid-stream in a sentence. 
Not a problem at all, until my husband came into the picture.  Having grown up in the Northeast, where he didn't even hear Spanish spoken, he was totally lost in most conversations.  It was not unusual for my mom to be talking directly to him in English and … (5 comments)

Home Buyers' Frequently Asked Questions, State College and Bellefonte, PA Real Estate - 02/01/10 06:41 AM
Lots of important and useful information all in one post written by Nyssa Smith.
Comments have been disabled to allow Nyssa to get the comments and points.

Via Nyssa Smith REALTOR®, State College Area Real Estate (Kissinger, Bigatel & Brower Realtors):
Home Buyers' Frequently Asked Questions, State College and Bellefonte, PA Real Estate
Many buyers do not fully understand the home buying process and what role a real estate agent plays. The following are some of the most frequently asked questions that buyers ask or don't fully understand.
What does it cost as a buyer to use an agent?  The compensation … (0 comments)

No Greater Gift Than the Present? Oh, But There Is! - 02/01/10 06:09 AM
I am feeling a bit sad right now.  No, a lot sad.  Sad with the reality of where many people, young and old, are with their lives and their beliefs.  I was just on FB and saw this quotation on a young person's wall:
There is no greater gift than the present. Make the most of it.
I guess it's easy to see this as a very positive and happy way to live your life.  But what is the future in a life lived this way?
I'm not and never will be a great speaker or an evangelist, but I've got … (4 comments)