Tiger at the Black Pine Wildlife Sanctuary in Albion, Indiana - 04/29/12 09:22 PM
If you look at nothing else tonight.... check out this photograph that Roberta Kayne shot of a tiger at the Black Pine Wildlife Sanctuary in Albion, India. Then go tell her what an AMAZING photograph it is. It is SERIOUSLY feature worthy!
Via Roberta Kayne, CRS, ABR, SFR, RRS, Realtor, Re/Max Affiliates -614-537-4564 (Dublin & Central Ohio Homes):
 

I went to the Black Pine Animal Sanctuary in Albion, Indiana, last week.  Black Pine is a non-profit exotic animal sanctuary, a "last chance" refuge for captive-raised non-domestic animals in need.  They give "rescued and retired exotic animals a safe haven, … (3 comments)

Speechless Sundays: I'll Fly Away - 04/29/12 08:32 PM

… (16 comments)

Camp Meeting Begins Monday with Burning Hope - 04/29/12 08:32 PM
Camp Meeting 2012 ♥ Monday ♥ Burning Hope



Camp Meeting 2012 will open up with a BANG!

Monday, April 30 - Saturday, May 5, 2012
Riverside Adventures
Highway 19 and the Trinity River Bridge
Look for the BIG tent!






Brother Jim Parrish of Burning Hope in Trinity, Texas drew the Monday night opening service.  (May 1, 2012)


You can bet your boots that Brother Jim will set the stage for Camp Meeting 2012 and get us ALL fired up for Jesus.



Supper will  be served at … (2 comments)

Nolan Ryan to Speak at SHSU President's Speaker Series - 04/29/12 02:21 PM
Nolan Ryan to Speak at SHSU President’s Speaker Series

Nolan Ryan is scheduled to speak at the President’s Speaker Series at the Gaertner Performing Arts Center at Sam Houston State University at 6:30 p.m. on Monday, April 30, 2012.


The event is FREE and open to both the students AND the general public.  It would be a good idea to get there early!

Nolan Ryan to Speak at SHSU President’s Speaker Series
… (4 comments)

How do you hyperlink on an iPad while writing an ACTIVE Rain Post? - 04/29/12 02:20 PM
Cheryl Ritchie is always sharing cool tips with us and here is another one! In this post she shares with us how to put a hyperlink in your blog using your iPad.  Thank you Cheryl!!
Via Cheryl Ritchie, Southern Maryland Real Estate (RE/MAX 100):
How do you hyperlink on an iPad while writing an ACTIVE Rain Post?
Okay, issued this NEW Margaret Rome challenge of the iPad day, I found an old post I wrote about http://www.webmonkey.com/2010/02/html_cheatsheet/
This page gives you a cheat sheet of HTML codes.
On the cheat sheet I found this one...<a href="URL"></a> which creates a hyperlink.
Hmmmmm....Visit www.GoldenResults.com Hot on … (0 comments)

Saturday's Shots: StairMaster - 04/28/12 08:56 PM

… (19 comments)

Today it was Tent Raising Time in Riverside, Texas - 04/28/12 02:31 PM
CAMP MEETING 2012



It’s tent raising time again at Riverside Adventures in beautiful Riverside, Texas!

What’s the tent for?

I’m glad you asked!

The tent is for Camp Meeting 2012 which is an old fashioned tent revival.



What’s really cool about this revival is the fact that it is put on by 5 local churches.


Each night a church is responsible for serving supper, a pre service concert, working childrens camp, and preaching the word.

Supper is served at 5:30 and it is inexpensive. Something like $2 or $3 … (13 comments)

READ with the Dogs at the Huntsville Public Library - 04/27/12 08:45 PM

Huntsville Public Library Hosts READ With the Dogs

 
Monday ♥ April 30, 2012

 
@ 4:00 pm
 

 
Registration is recommended.
(936) 291-5472

ReadingEducationAssistanceDogs   READ with the Dogs is a program that helps children improve their reading skills by reading to a registered therapy dog

 
TheREAD with the Dogs program is sponsored by the Huntsville Public Library and will continue the last Monday of each month.

 
Please register by calling (936) 291-5472

 
Huntsville Public Library Hosts READ With the Dogs

… (8 comments)

BBQ Safety Tip! “Warning Exploding Lighter” - 04/27/12 08:45 PM
Here's a safety tip from John and Debbie McCormack. Seriously, this could have happened to just about any of us. Thank you to the Q-Man for sharing the story with us. ♥
Via John McCormack- AlbuquerqueHomes.com (Albuquerque Homes Realty * www.AlbuquerqueHomes.com):
BBQ Safety Tip! “Warning Exploding Lighter”Here is a little BBQ safety tip people should seriously heed. Today my wife and I fired up the BBQ for a little lunch break.  I had been storing my long stem lighter underneath the cover of the side burner on the grill.  I lit the BBQ with that lighter and set it aside as we … (0 comments)

What you can do on an Active Rain Blog Post with an iPad only! - 04/27/12 08:43 PM
It seems that the biggest complaint about the iPad has been the inability to insert photographs in to our blogs. Well... not any more! Thanks you Cheryl Ritchy for figuring it out and then sharing it with us in the rain! ♥
Via Cheryl Ritchie, Southern Maryland Real Estate (RE/MAX 100):
What you can do on an Active Rain Blog Post with an iPad only!
Okay, check today's post at http://actvra.in/zjP
I have four new homes to be built in Prince Frederick MD. The Builder is a Car Buff and has a knack for drawing HUGE Crowds to his Charity Events.
No, the … (0 comments)

Optimize your URL on LinkedIn ~ Just Clean it Up! - 04/27/12 08:39 PM
Here's a great LinkedIn tip by Rainmaker Janis Borgueta. This girl is always full of great information. Please stop by her post and give her a high five!!
Via Janis Borgueta, Realtor ~ New Construction Homes ~ Newburgh NY ( Key Properties of the Hudson Valley 845-527-7115):
 Do You Know How to Optimize Your URL on LinkedIn?
How? ~  Just Clean it Up!
LinkedIn and Google ~ Please Find Me!
Did you know that Google “likes” LinkedIn and favors it in the search engines?  Knowing that is nothing new to many of us. What many don’t know is that we can … (0 comments)

Friends Don't Help Friends Commit Mortgage Fraud - 04/27/12 08:37 PM
When a friend or loved one is having a hard time, we often find ourselves wanting to help. Here's a post warning you AGAINST helping them by purchasing their short sale. Read Chris Ann's blog to find out why!
Via Chris Ann Cleland, Associate Broker, Northern VA (Long & Foster REALTORS®, Gainesville, VA):
Friends Don't Help Friends Commit Mortgage Fraud
Being a Northern Virginia Short Sale Agent, I sure do get some interesting calls.  I often wonder if my phone should be monitored by the FBI mortgage fraud squad.  They might find some of the questions I get interesting.  Of course, not … (0 comments)

SOLD! 120 Royal Oaks in Forest Hills Subdivision in Huntsville - 04/27/12 01:05 PM

SOLD ♥ 120 Royal Oaks in Huntsville, TX





I am excited for my wonderful first time home buyers! This morning we closed on this beautiful home located at 120 Royal Oaks in the Forest Hills subdivision in Huntsville.


This 3 bedroom, 2 bath, 2 car garage, was listed with Pam Markham of Markham Realty and Pam has been a joy to work with.


The seller's of this home have another closing today on the home that they are purchasing. Because of this, the buyers and sellers were gracious and worked … (10 comments)

Huntsville Texas Olive Garden Grand Opening - 04/26/12 08:29 PM

Huntsville Texas Olive Garden Grand Opening


Residents of Huntsville, Texas are very excited about the upcoming grand opening of the Olive Garden Italian Restaurant on Interstate 45 located in the front parking lot of Target.  


The Olive Garden has announced the official opening date of  Monday, April 30 at 4:00 pm.  


You can bet your boots that lines will be out the door for the first month after the opening date. But for the “Tour of Italy”.... it will be worth the wait! YUM!!


Huntsville Texas Olive Garden Grand Opening
… (12 comments)

GCWA to Host Annual Spring Roundup at Bethy Creek Resort - 04/25/12 07:24 PM

Gulf Coast Wakeboarding Association to Hold Spring Roundup at Bethy Creek Resort
 

 
The Gulf Coast Wakeboarding Association is holding its annual spring roundup at Bethy Creek Resort this weekend, April 27 and 28.
  
 
 
 Hotel room are already booked solid, but there are still RV sites and tent site available.


 
 
Wakeboarding enthusiasts, come on out, even if you do not have a boat!

Friday: Freeride
 
Saturday: Freeride, Double Up Contest ($10 entry fee/$300 to winner), Crawfish.

Check out the event's page on facebook!



Gulf Coast … (11 comments)

Sterling Island on Lake Livingston - 04/25/12 06:21 AM
 
Sterling Island on Lake Livingston
 
Sterling Island is a residential subdivision located on the northern end of Lake Livingston. Properties front the Trinity River and others have a water view of Bell and Ford Lake. There are a mixture of brick, frame, and mobile homes in Sterling Island. 
 
Sterling Island is located in Walker County. Residents have a mailing address of Huntsville, but it is really located close to Riverside, Texas. Children residing in Sterling Island attend schools in the Huntsville Independent School District.
 
Sterling Island on Lake Livingston
… (19 comments)

Tuesday's Treasures: Bird Lady - 04/24/12 08:43 PM

… (15 comments)

Defending Against the Enemy of Homeowners Everywhere - 04/24/12 08:40 PM
Termites are swarming right now and are cause for alarm. They can cause thousands of dollars worth of damage to your home. Check out this post by William True. Defend against termites today!
Via William True - Sarasota Real Estate (True Sarasota Real Estate):
All the hard work and money you put into your home can be futile if you're not defending against the most devastating enemy of homeowners everywhere: termites.
Unfortunately, you may not realize that termites have targeted your home until the damage is already catastrophic. Most homeowner’s insurance policies don't cover termite treatment or repairs to termite damage. Here are some … (2 comments)

Attention Huntsville Texas! VOTE for a Fruit Orchard - 04/23/12 08:06 PM
Attention Huntsville Texas! VOTE for A Fruit Orchard

1. Go online at www.CommunitiesTakeRoot.com,

2. Click on Register

3. Fill in the blanks and submit

4. Click on Vote Now

5. Type  77340 in the Zip Code Box

6. When the map pops up, Double Click on Huntsville

7. Then click on VOTE FOR THIS LOCATION!
 
 
Tada!

You just voted for Huntsville, Texas to get an orchard!

Thanks!


We have VERY little chance to win since we are competing against Houston.... but...
Let it not be for a lack … (7 comments)

Semi-Speechless Sunday: Bring Isabel Home - 04/23/12 08:04 PM
You never know what state Isabel's abductor may have brought her to. Someone may see this post and know something. Have you seen her? Call 911 NOW!
Via Emmary Nicholson ChRC® Tierra Antigua Realty - Tucson AZ (Steinborn Referral Associates - Las Cruces, NM):
This is Isabel Celis. She's 6 years old and went missing from her home overnight Friday/Saturday in Tucson. Law enforcement is out in full force, as are neighbors, looking for her. Police don't have much information to go on.
And it's breaking my heart.
I don't know the family at all but to know such a sweet little … (0 comments)

April is National Volunteer Month - 04/23/12 03:36 PM
April is National Volunteer Month


I had no idea that April was National Volunteer Month until the Activities Director from Ella Smither called and invited me to a luncheon at the nursing home.


We were treated to Schlotzsky’s sandwiches, chips, fruit, sodas AND they gave us a beautiful red rose and a box of Russell Stover chocolates.


When given the opportunity to speak, one of the volunteers from Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church stood up and told how he “thought” that he was signing up to, in some way,  “give” something to the residents. He … (14 comments)

One of these could be yours .........so what are you waiting for people? - 04/22/12 08:30 PM
Okay folks... Roger is going to be some kind of bummed if we do not enter this contest. NOT being a movie girl makes this SUPER hard. If any of you have a brilliant idea (I'll even take a bad one at this point) -- leave it in the comment below. I have to enter. I can't let Roger down!
Via Roger Mucci (Shaken...with a Twist):
One of these could be yours  .........so what are you waiting for people?   Check out the official rules for the Contest - Be The "Star" of Your Own Movie! and lets see how creative you can be.  You … (4 comments)

2012 Salmon Lake Gospel Bluegrass Festival - 04/22/12 08:13 PM

15th Annual Bluegrass Gospel Music Festival

@ Salmon Lake Park
Grapeland, Texas

 
Thursday through Sunday

May 24, 25, 26, and 27, 2012


 
Admission Prices
3-Day Pass $50.00
Thursday $15.00
Friday $20.00
Saturday $20.00
Sunday FREE



 
 
Schedule
 
THURSDAY
Bama Blue Grace
Hwy 19
Wise Country

♥ ♥ ♥
 
FRIDAY

Bama Blue Grace
The Batten Family
The Herrins
White Dove
Wise Country
 
♥ ♥ ♥
 
SATURDAY

The Batten Family
The Herrins
The Marksmen
White Dove
 
♥ ♥ ♥
 
SUNDAY MORNING (27th) … (4 comments)

Will your computer connect to the internet after July 9, 2012? - 04/22/12 06:48 PM
I read about this in our local newspaper but did not go online to check the computer until I saw this post by Amy Jones. She makes it easy to click and then follow the insturctions. It only takes a second. Why not check yours now? Thanks, Amy!
Via Amy Jones ~Voted Chandler's BEST REALTOR Also serving Sun Lakes & the East Valley (RE/Max Infinity in Chandler, Arizona):
If your computer is infected with DNS Changer, you may not even know it.  But, you'll find out the hard way (if it is) on July 9th when you will no longer be … (0 comments)

Celebrate Earth Day 2012 - 04/22/12 04:20 PM
I didn't write an Earth Day blog because I really don't do the whole Mother Nature thing. Going Green? Love the earth? Love the Creator. That's my thought!! But I do love this post from Cathy Bureau! 
Via Call Cathy Bureau (210) 560-1891 buy or sell your home (www.GreenHomeRealtySA.com):
CELEBRATE EARTH DAY 2012
It's Sunday. I'm wrapping up my morning social media coffee time so I can get ready for church. I am thinking about the relationship between earth and God. I don't believe in Mother Nature, I believe in God the Father, creator of the universe who granted us stewardship … (0 comments)

Silent Saturday: Guarded Heart - 04/21/12 08:29 PM
 
 

 
What a difference just ONE day can make!
 

 
Two Days....
 
 

… (19 comments)

What to Do BEFORE your Stager comes to Your House- 8 Helpful Tips! - 04/21/12 08:16 PM
Here'a  a wonderful post by Kathy Streib. Let me warn you, if you are sipping on some sweet tea, swallow before you read this, or you may be cleaning up your monitor. 
I love blog posts that are both helpful AND funny! Enjoy!
Via Kathy Streib-Home Stager-Palm Bch County South Florida - 561-914-6224 (Room Service Home Staging):
If you're planning on selling your house you may have decided to invest in the services of a Professional Home Stager.  To make the most of your time AND to get the most out of the consultation there are things you can do BEFORE the Stager … (4 comments)

Huntsville Public Library is Looking for Literacy Volunteers - 04/21/12 02:13 PM

Huntsville Public Library is Looking for Literacy Volunteers



If you are looking for a great way to pay it forward in your community, the Huntsville Public Library is looking for Literacy Volunteers.

If you are interested in helping with the Huntsville Public Library’s‘English as a Second Language’ OR ‘Adult Basic Education’ programs, please call Natosha Gibbs, (936) 291-5472, at the Huntsville Public Library, weekdays from 9 am to 1 pm.

Tutor training will be Saturday, April 28 from 9 am to 4 pm and you must be pre-registered and have completed some online coursework PRIOR … (4 comments)

Habitat for Humanity Concert Fundraiser - 04/21/12 11:44 AM
 
Habitat for Humanity Concert Fundraiser

 
Sunday ♥ April 22, 2012 ♥ 4 pm @
 
 

2400 Sycamore Avenue
Huntsville, Texas 77340
 
 
 
 
Huntsville Men’s Choir

Director: Norman Ward
Accompanist: Cynthia Cross

 
The Huntsville Senior Adults Choir
Directed by Harley Rex
will also preform.

 
Admission is free.
 
Donations for Habitat for Humanity are greatly appreciated!
 
 
Habitat for Humanity Fundraiser Concert
 
 
… (3 comments)

Friday's Fotos: One of Those Days.... - 04/20/12 09:29 PM
Have you ever had one of those days.....
You’ve had someone take a bite right out of  you...
You’ve got a thorn in your side...
and you’re just feeling a little twisted?
Well THANK GOODNESS IT’S FRIDAY!
You have the weekend to heal...
The thorn will work its way out....
...and by Sunday evening you will have all of the kinks ironed out!

Enjoy your weekend! ☺


… (19 comments)

Lake Livingston Waterfront Home Sellers Need to List NOW! - 04/20/12 03:11 PM

Lake Livingston Waterfront Home Sellers in Walker County Should List NOW!



In the first quarter of 2012, there were 11 waterfront homes on the northern end of Lake Livingston that sold. The price range was $50,000 for an old, mobile home... all the way to a $650,000 brick beauty.


I found it interesting that 10 of the 11 homes that sold were in San Jacinto County.


What was going on in Walker county?


Well let me tell you what is going on.

NOTHING!


In Walker County, there … (19 comments)

A Thankful Thursday Bloom - 04/19/12 09:11 PM

… (15 comments)

Waterwood Women's League Garage Sale - 04/19/12 08:22 PM
Waterwood Women’s League Garage Sale


Saturday ♥ April 21, 2012

From 8 am to 2 pm

at the Fire Station located at
Waterwood Parkway North
off of FM 980


♥ Garage Sale ♥
♥ Bake Sale ♥
♥ Sausage on a Stick ♥

Raffle for:

♥  Garden Basket  ♥
♥  Mary Kay Basket  ♥
♥  Wine Basket ♥


Proceeds from the Waterwood Women’s League Garage Sale will fund scholarships for high school students by the Waterwood Women’s League.

Waterwood Women’s League Garage Sale

… (4 comments)

Wordless Wednesday: Smokemont Grist Mill - 04/18/12 09:03 PM

 

… (26 comments)

Northside Baptist Youth Girls Conference - 04/18/12 07:14 PM

Northside Baptist Church Hosts Youth Girls Conference

Northside Baptist Church is hosting a youth girls conference, ‘A Princess for the King’ this Saturday, April 21, 2012 from 8 am to 4:30 pm.  The conference is designed for girls in grades 7-12.  


Activities to include:

♥ Fashion Show♥ Testimonies
♥ Lunch♥ Worship
♥ Makeover

Groups and Individuals are welcome!!



I am thrilled to say that Riverside Baptist will be bringing a group to this event. Your church can bring a group, too! It's all about Jesus!


To register your princess, … (1 comments)

Texas A&M Aggie Muster (Huntsville, Texas) - 04/18/12 03:39 PM
Texas A&M Aggie Muster (Huntsville, Texas)

The Huntsville A&M Club is hosting the annual


Aggie Muster


Saturday ♥ April 21, 2012

at


Faith Lutheran Church and School
111 Sumac, Huntsville, Texas  77340
(State Hwy 30 toward the Fairgrounds)


All Aggies and their family members are invited to attend.


Texas A&M Aggie Muster (Huntsville, Texas)
… (4 comments)

You Can Still be a Great Agent and be Nice Too - 04/18/12 02:58 PM
There is nothing fancy about this post. There are no pretty fonts or gorgeous photos..... but the message is good as gold. I hope that you will stop by Thomas Craig's blog and give him a HIGH FIVE!
Via Thomas Craig (Re/Max Crossroads):
You  Can Still be a Great Agent and be Nice Too
I try my very best to treat everyone I meet as I would like to be treated. In an effort to be 100% honest and completely objective…there are times when I fail miserably. We all do. We are mere mortals…but that shouldn’t keep us from trying to be … (0 comments)

RainMaker Boot Camp - 04/18/12 02:15 PM
There are lots of things going on here in the rain. RainCamp is tomorrow and here is a Boot Camp for new members (or not so new members) to help them get a grasp on what this whole thing is about. RainCamp is amazing... don't skip it for this one. If you are new to the rain, take the time to do both. You won't be sorry!
Via ActiveRain Corp.:
ActiveRain is proud to announce our new RainMaker Boot Camp training series!  Members blog on ActiveRain so they can generate leads, get referrals from the relationships they build on our site and … (0 comments)

'Twelve Angry Men' at the Old Town Theatre - 04/18/12 01:55 PM
'Twelve Angry Men' at the Old Town Theatre

The Huntsville Community Theatre Presents



'Twelve Angry Men'
 
7:30 pm on
Friday, April 20 and 27
Saturday, April 21 and 28


2 pm on
Sunday, April 22 and  29



Tickets are as follows:


Adults ♥ $10
Seniors or Military ♥ $8
Students with ID and Children under 17 ♥ $5


Pick Up Your 'Twelve Angry Men' Tickets at:


Cloud Nine Health and Energy Store
1212 University Avenue

or

Main Street Program
1203 University Avenue

… (3 comments)

Country living is the best... - 04/18/12 06:08 AM
You learn something new at ActiveRain every day.  Check out this post by Lindsey Hasford about country living. I grew up in Dallas and moved to the country in 1994. I guess I just THOUGHT I had been "countrified."  ☺
Via Lindsey Hasford (Coldwell Banker Vision):
Okay, so I know I'm really really biased. But I DO love country living... minus the snakes. We are as close to having a farm as you can get without having a farm in so many ways and I wouldn't change it for the world. Little duckies went to live in their new pen outside tonight (so … (5 comments)

Tuesday's Treasures Under the Sea - 04/17/12 09:15 PM
 
Tuesday's Treasures Under the Sea

I shot these at the aquarium in Wilmington, North Carolina.
 

 
The octopus was really cool. I always pictured them as black.

Luna the Albino Alligator was a big hit!
 

 
A close up of the octopus!
 

 
There was one of these that turned colors, red, purple, green and yellow. I took a video clip of that one. It was super cool. If I ever figure out how to get it off my phone and on youtube, I'll post it! :)
 
That's all folks!
 
… (21 comments)

Mr. & Mrs. Seller, Have You Actually SEEN Your Home's MLS Entry? - 04/16/12 07:46 AM
If your home is on the market, you should be googling your address AND looking at the MLS entry. This is what your potential buyers are doing. If it doesn't look GREAT, ask for things to be changed. New pictures, new write up, whatever it takes as long as it represents the property correctly. No asking for waterview to be added when you can only see the water by walking to the middle of the street in front of your house and looking left!
Via Liz and Bill Spear RE/MAX Elite Warren County Ohio: Cincinnati to Dayton (513.265.3004 www.LizTour.com):
Mr. & Mrs. … (0 comments)

Riverside Area Camp Meeting 2012 - 04/15/12 09:08 PM

Riverside Area Camp Meeting 2012

April 30  through May 5, 2012


The Riverside Area Camp Meeting 2012 is an old fashioned tent revival that lasts from Monday through Saturday. Five different churches participate nightly in the revival.  Each night a different church is responsible for providing servers for the meal, providing workers for the children’s camp, the pre-service music, and bringing the message.
The pastor’s names are placed in a container, and the days of the week are placed in another.  A day is drawn and then a pastor’s name is drawn.   On Saturday the pastors and … (12 comments)

Speechless Sundays: Pink Dogwood - 04/15/12 08:45 PM

I shot this photograph while on vacation in North Carolina. The Dogwood is the state flower of North Carolina. While we do have lots of white Dogwoods in Texas, this was my first experience of seeing the pink ones. They are gorgeous! 
If they (North Carolina)  were going to have a state flower and a state flowering tree, I would recommend the Azalea and the dogwood. Both were spectacular this year!
… (11 comments)

Saturday's Shot: Red is for Love ♥ - 04/14/12 07:45 PM

I have always loved roses. They are so pretty and the smell is amazing. But if you cut the rose from the bush, it quickly dies. We are no different. We are the rose, and Jesus is the vine. When we try to live our lives without him, we quickly loose our bloom.

The grass withereth, the flower fadeth: but the word of our God shall stand for ever. Isaiah 40:8

Jesus is The Word. The Word is our vine.

Let's stay attached to The Word.

Let's Bloom for Him.



… (20 comments)

How to Save a Choking Pet - 04/14/12 09:19 AM
When I read this post by Toni Weidman, my first thought was.... WOW, that is EXACTLY what I would have done. Guess what. I would have been wrong. Perhaps you would too! Check out How to Save A Choking Pet!!
Via Toni Weidman- New Port Richey-FL Homes (Re/Max Sunset Realty-Trinity-Holiday-Port Richey-Hudson):
How to Save a Choking Pet
One of the saddest things that can happen to you is losing a pet especially when you feel helpless because you don’t know what to do to save it.When a friend lost her dog because he was choking on a toy and she had no … (0 comments)

Spring cleaning ~ homemade cleaning recipes - 04/14/12 09:15 AM
Just in time for SPRING! Dorie Dillard provides us with some GREEN recipes to help us get a clean home while protecting our environment! Thank you, Dorie!!
Via Dorie Dillard Realtor® Canyon Creek NW Austin TX homes for sale (Coldwell Banker United Realtors):
It’s that time of year that brings out the “nesting” in all of us. Whether you are de-cluttering and cleaning to get your home ready for market or just cleaning for cleaning sake, you will want to use good old fashion cleaning recipes for the best results!
Many homeowners don’t realize cleaning products can be made from household pantry … (0 comments)

Friday's Fotos: Raccoon Eyes - 04/13/12 08:31 PM

… (22 comments)

Burning Hope to Hold Spring Revival - 04/13/12 06:33 PM

Burning Hope to Hold Spring Revival


204 E Pegoda Road (
Highway 356)

Trinity, Texas 75862

(936) 594-3623





Singer/Songwriter and Author of

"I'll Run With You"

Boyd Chisum


to preach and lead praise & worship at the



Burning Hope Spring Revival


Friday, April 20 7:00 pm
Saturday, April 21 3:00 pm
Sunday, April 22 10:45 am



Burning Hope Spring Revival


… (3 comments)

Better Homes and Gardens - Anderson Properties 2011 Awards Luncheon - 04/13/12 12:20 PM


Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate - Anderson Properties 2011 Awards Luncheon


As many of you know, I work in a little town on Lake Livingston. Our office became a part of Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate - Anderson Properties in May of 2010. Since then, our broker has purchased several other offices all over the great state of Texas.  Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate - Anderson Properties has grown tremendously.


Yesterday our broker, Mike Huff, held the Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate - Anderson Properties 2011 Awards Luncheon.


Living … (8 comments)

ActiveRain Meet-Up in Orange County, CA - 04/13/12 12:06 PM
Hello ActiveRainers. I am re-blogging this post with the hopes that you will see it, watch the video, and decide on going to an ActiveRain meetup near you!! You will NOT be sorry!!
Via Richard Yates - Broker (Coldwell Banker Real Estate):
ActiveRain Meet-Up in Orange County, CA
The most recent ActiveRain MeetUp in Orange County, California was hosted by Stacey Smith & Christine Donovan, on 4/10/12 from 3-5pm, at The Yard House, 71 Fortune Drive, Irvine, CA  92618.


 


Stacey Smith, Christine Donovan, Lauren Selinsky and Tim Lorenz
* Iris Stuart, Cecelia Ariaz and Mary Finney … (0 comments)

Using Social Media While Avoiding the Pitfalls - 04/13/12 11:35 AM
I am guilty about posting photographs during vacations. YIKES! I will try to withold the temptation to do so in the future. I'm even guilty of posting vacation blogs here in the rain. NOT that any of you would be tempted to rob me.... but.... I clearly understand Myrl's point!
Via Myrl Jeffcoat (Real Living Great West Real Estate):
Real Living Great West Real Estate(916) 635-0420http://www.myrljeffcoat.com
 
 
… (0 comments)

I Ran Across Luke 8 in the Church Parking Lot - 04/12/12 09:17 PM

 
And some (seed)  fell upon a rock; and as soon as it was sprung up, it withered away because it lacked moisture. Luke 8:6


In the parable, the seed is the word of God.  (Luke 8:11)

They on the rock are they, which, when they hear, receive the word with joy;
and these have no root, which for a while believe,
and in time of temptation fall away. Luke 8:13
 
I do not want to be like this flower that I found in the church parking lot.
 
Because it has no root, … (9 comments)

Wordless Wednesday: Cherokee Pride - 04/11/12 08:18 PM

… (22 comments)

April 14 - Dorcas Wills Hosts Crawfish Boil - 04/11/12 08:49 AM

April 14 - Dorcas Wills Memorial Baptist Church Crawfish Boil

Dorcas Wills Missionary Baptist Church is hosting a Crawfish Boil on  Saturday, April 14, 2012 from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm in their Family Life Center. You may dine in or carry out. $8.00 per ticket. Please call the church office to reserve your ticket early!! (936) 594-3822.
Dorcas Wills Memorial Baptist Church Crawfish Boil


… (10 comments)

Make Your Home Irresistible to Buyers - 04/11/12 08:45 AM
If you are considering selling your home, here are a few great tips from Sheila Newton to place your home  at the TOP of the buyer's list!
Via Sheila Newton Team~Anderson & Greenville SC Real Estate/ Foreclosures/Short Sales (RE/MAX Realty Professionals):
 
When selling your home is a priority, you need to realize that an ordinary home with ordinary features is not going to grab potential buyers’ attention. You need to go beyond ordinary and make your home irresistible to every homebuyer. Regardless of whether you have owned your home for one year or forty years, you will probably need to … (0 comments)

Triple Header.......Birthday Party that is..................... - 04/11/12 07:57 AM
Roger is throwing a birthday party for the Q-man. Sheila, and Mimi! Won't you join him! Please leave your comments on Roger's post so the birthday boy and girls will see it! :)))
Via Roger Mucci (Shaken...with a Twist):
There are days I would forget my own head if it wasn't attached.  The other day I wrote on John McCormack's Facebook wall and wished him a Happy Birthday.  I knew I was days early, but I told him I was old and if I waited, I'd forget.  Truth be known, I forgot it was today.............my bad!  
Well I'm not going … (0 comments)

Tuesday's Treasures: Get Ready! Get Set! GO! - 04/10/12 09:16 PM

… (13 comments)

Riverside, Texas! Donate Blood - Get a Free Great American Cookie Coupon! - 04/10/12 08:47 PM
 
Riverside VFD Hosts Blood Drive
 
 
 
The Riverside Volunteer Fire Department is hosting a Blood Drive on Saturday,  April 21, 2012 from 12 noon to 6 pm at their FM 980 station in Riverside.

Donate or ATTEMPT to donate and receive a coupon for a free cookie from Great American Cookie! 
 
 

 
Tara Lynn Johnson, a volunteer at the Riverside Volunteer Fire Department is looking forward to seeing lots of community support for this event.
 

 
You never know when it will be your family's turn to need blood. Won’t you pay it forward by Donating Blood at the Riverside VFD … (4 comments)

Is There Value in Staging A Home Before You Put It On The Market? I Just Don't Know, What Do You Folks Think? - 04/10/12 08:42 PM
If you are considering putting your home on the market, check out this post by stager, Laura Baker. It clearly shows that staging your home IS the way to get buyers in your door. You can not sell your home if it isn't shown! STAGING PLEASE!!
Via Laura S. Baker, (920) 728-4118, Realtor ~ First Weber Group (South Central WI, bakerl@firstweber.com):

Is There Value in
Staging A Home
Before
You Put It On The Market? 
Oh I Just Don't Know, What Do You Folks Think?


Did you know that 93% of buyers search the … (0 comments)

Huntsville Christian Women's 'Hats of Spring' Luncheon ♥ Thursday April, 2012 - 04/10/12 10:42 AM
Huntsville Christian Women’s 'Hats of Spring' Luncheon
 

Put on your fanciest HAT and Join the

Huntsville Christian Women's Club on

Thursday, April  19, 2012
 
from 11:30 am to 1 pm
 
at the

Elkins Lake Clubhouse
632 Cherry Hills Drive
Huntsville, Texas 77340
 
You will also enjoy a Spring Fashion Show presented by Sue's Boutique on the Lake followed by Cindy Walker who will be sharing her testimony.

Reservations are required. Please
Call  by April 16th:  (936) 295-2030
 
Don't forget your hat!!
 
Huntsville Christian Women’s 'Hats of Spring' Luncheon
 
… (6 comments)

Marvelous Monday Photos: He Knows the Intent of Our Hearts - 04/09/12 07:48 PM

… (17 comments)

Inspirational Words from Forney, TX Tornado Victims of 4/3/2012 - 04/09/12 07:29 PM
I thought this was EXCELLENT reporting on the aftermath of the Forney tornado. Totally FEATURE WORTHY.... but they can't feature EVERY worthy post, so it is up to us to re-blog them so that more people get to see them. Be sure and stop by Patricia's blog and give her the HIGH FIVE!!
Via Patricia Feager (Keller Williams Realty):
What started out as a joyful new listing for me, turned into a Tornado Tragedy. Yet the people are amazing. They are strong. They are sending us a message. As I walked among the debris and what remains of Diamond Creek Subdivision, in the City of … (0 comments)

Annual Garage Sale at the TLRVFD - 04/09/12 07:16 AM

Annual Garage Sale at the TLRVFD

The Thomas Lake Road Community Association will hold their annual garage sale on Saturday April 14, 2011 from 8 am to 2 pm.
Residents are asked to bring donated garage sale items to the Thomas Lake Road Volunteer Fire Department on Friday, April 13st.  Volunteers will be there to receive goods at 8 am.
The TLRVFD Garage Sale committee is still looking for volunteers to help, so... if you can help out, - OR - if you need help getting items to the fire station, please call:
Bruno Rybarski     (936) 594-3894
The Thomas Lake Road … (9 comments)

Sunday Shot: Just Out For an Easter Morning Ride - 04/08/12 09:09 PM

I shot this photo this morning as we were leaving the Great Smokey Mountain National Park. We had pulled over for a little break and this guy buzzed by while I was shooting the scenery. He came out of nowhere and was gone in a blink of an eye.  While everyone else was out hiding eggs, this guy was enjoying some of God's creation! Just out for an Easter morning ride!
… (19 comments)

Huntsville Public Library ♥ Story Hour: Old MacDonald Had a Book - 04/08/12 08:49 PM
Huntsville Public Library ♥ Story Hour: Old MacDonald Had a Book



Wednesday  ♥ April 11, 2012


This weeks theme is 'Old MacDonald Had a Book' focusing on farm animals. The purpose of Story Hour is to promote your pre-schooler's reading skills and hep them to develop a love for reading.

 
Bring your child so they can also enjoy:
 

 
♥ crafts ♥
 
♥ dance ♥
 
♥ finger puppets ♥
 
♥ songs ♥
 
♥ storybooks ♥
 

Visit the library website at www.myhuntsvillelibrary.com for additional information.


… (0 comments)

A Flying Purple People Eater! - 04/08/12 08:42 PM

While we were visiting the Cape Hatteras National Seashore, we came across this spaceship and I yelled "STOP! I have to take a picture of this for Vegas Bob!"
My husband didn't even ask..... I'm sure he knew it had to be another one of the ActiveRain family that he is likely to meet one day. After all... that was how we ended up at Cape Hatteras!
Anyway....
When I saw the spaceship I knew that Vegas Bob's Family was here, and I figured that he would appreciate the family photo. 
So here you go VB! 
… (3 comments)

American Legion 'Operation Sock It To Me' Sock Drive - 04/08/12 08:35 PM
American Legion 'Operation Sock It To Me' Sock Drive


Benefiting VA Hospitals

Donations to be accepted through

Tuesday ♥ April 10, 2012


Drop off white crew socks suitable for amputees and other hospitalized veterans at the


American Legion

1919 Industrial Boulevard
Huntsville, TX 77320


Cash donations are also being accepted.

For More Information Call



(936) 291-0129
or
(936) 661-6359

American Legion 'Operation Sock It To Me' Sock Drive

… (0 comments)

PicMonkey Set to Step In When Picnik Goes Dark - 04/08/12 08:24 PM
Okay! I just tried it! It is SUPER easy. I just did the basics.... auto fix, shadows, added ©JoniStaples, and drop shadow frame. It was just like Picnik. I am THRILLED!!!
Via Pat & Wayne Harriman - Broker/Owners Wallingford CT Real Estate (Harriman Real Estate, LLC (203) 672-4499):
PicMonkey Set to Step In When Picnik Goes Dark



For those of us who are lamenting the pending loss of one of the best image editing sites on the planet, Picnik.com, there is another possible replacement looming on the horizon.
While lurking in one of my favorite Facebook groups tonight (Tech … (0 comments)

SUNDAY BLESSINGS ~ EASTER BLESSINGS - 04/08/12 08:04 PM
I searched ActiveRain for Easter posts. I read many great posts, but this one by Paula McDonald really tells what Easter is all about. His name is Jesus.
Via Paula McDonald, The Woodlands, TX ~ 936-203-0279 (Chevaux Group, PLLC):
SUNDAY BLESSINGS ~ EASTER BLESSINGS
 
For Christians everywhere, Easter Sunday is a very special day.  This day reminds us of the entire promise and message of the Bible.    Resurrection, Renewal and Righteousness. 
 
Jesus overcame death itself providing all Christians with the promise of a new life with Him.  I know where I am going after my time is complete here … (0 comments)

Considering 5 of the Major Components of Photograph Composition. - 04/08/12 07:54 PM
Check out this informative post by William Johnson on photography composition. I love his panning photo. THAT is not easy!! Stop by his blog and tell him THANKS for this great information!!
Via San Diego Real Estate Voice authored by William Johnson GRI CRS e-Pro CDPE (RE/MAX Associates):
I thought it might be useful to show an example of each of the descriptions so you can see first hand how these elements can be best utilized for an interesting photo.

Symmetry
Shots that use symmetry can be sometimes boring, but if your composition includes other elements of composition such as shadows, … (2 comments)

Elk at Smokemont in the Great Smokey Mountains National Park - 04/07/12 08:18 PM


My family and I are traveling back home from North Carolina. We spent the last two nights in the Great Smokey Mountain National Park. The campground that we stayed at was called Smokemont, and it was beautiful. No water, no sewer, no electricity.... it was all about nature!Every night the elk could been seen grazing along the road at dusk. This beauty was not the least bit afraid of all of the cars stopping to take photos.  I have so many beautiful shots...

He stopped, looked right at me and posed for several shots. Although this is … (14 comments)

Scrambling For Directions To The Perfect Hard Boiled Egg? Try These Tricks! - 04/07/12 07:55 PM
I got a kick out of this post by Laura Baker. It just goes to show that you can learn how to do just about anything on ActiveRain. Even how to boil an egg! :))
Via Laura S. Baker, (920) 728-4118, Realtor ~ First Weber Group (South Central WI, bakerl@firstweber.com):

Scrambling For Directions To The Perfect Hard Boiled Egg? 
Try These Tricks!

 
1.  Buy Eggs a week early for easy peeling!
2.  Fill a 4 quart kettle with cold water, fill half with cold water.
3.  Line the kettle with a hand towel.
4.  Gently set eggs … (3 comments)

Free Online Photo Editing - Picnik's Twin Brother - 04/07/12 07:48 PM
Here's another post about iPiccy. I did try it but did not find it to be as easy as Picnik. BUT it will do until I can find something else. 11 more days of Picnik. :( Boo Hoo!!
Via Brad Andersohn (Zillow - Outreach Manager):
In a frantic scramble last week to find a replacement for the Picnik.com closure on April 19th, I had written a post featuring 7 different FREE photo and graphic editing sites. 
However, some many of my online friends were hoping to actually find a replacement editor that was similar or at least closer to the same look … (3 comments)

Sensei/Grasshopper - An April Challenge! - 04/07/12 07:44 PM
If you have not already heard, here is a new challenge from Mary and Dick Greenberg that personifies what ActiveRain is all about. Helping and/or being helped. Check it out!!
Via Dick Greenberg (Coldwell Banker - Fort Collins, CO):
ActiveRain may be the most complete repository of real estate information and expertise available in the galaxy. With over 2.5 million blog posts in the archives and over 220,000 members, it's an information-rich environment that can help anyone find and use tools to improve their business model, adopt and adapt new technology, and achieve success.
And while ActiveRain makes Herculean efforts to help … (0 comments)

Sunrise Service and Easter Music Concert ~ Riverside, Texas - 04/07/12 07:25 PM
Sunrise Services and Easter Music Concert
 
 
 
Sunrise Service @
Riverside United Methodist Church Gazebo
 
♥ ♥ ♥ 
 
 
 7:00 am



♥ ♥ ♥  THEN ♥ ♥ ♥

9 am Services - RUMC

10 am Services Broyles Chapel  ~ OR ~

11 am Services and Easter Concert
@ Riverside Baptist
 

 
 
 

 
The Riverside Community Choir
 
 
will present
 
 
Then Came the Morning


 
Riverside Baptist Church
2359 FM 980 East
Riverside, Texas

11 am

 
Sunrise Serives and … (2 comments)

Saturday's Shots: Riding the Waves - 04/07/12 10:24 AM

… (11 comments)

Friday's Foto: The Beach - 04/06/12 10:17 AM

… (13 comments)

Thankful Thursdays: (on Friday) Memories - 04/06/12 10:14 AM
Memories
Sorry : I had no electricity or phones. We are in the Smokey Mountains until tomorrow. Better late than never... 
This Thankful Thursday I am thankful for my sweet friends in North Carolina. I am thankful for the time I was allowed to spend with them and for the memories that I now have to take back to Texas with me.
For those of you who may be new to ActiveRain and may find it a little odd how we comment to each other like we "know" each other.... and how we call each other "friends"...
Well... we really are. … (10 comments)

The Mortgage Corner to the Rescue, AGAIN!! - 04/05/12 04:55 AM
SOLD! ♥ 59 Carolina Way in Carolina Cove


This 2 story log cabin overlooking Lake Livingston in beautiful Carolina Cove is now CLOSED!


This was one of those deals where the buyers started out with their own lender. It was off to shaky ground when they lied to them right off the bat. He was told they could close in 2 weeks. I put a 3 week closing date and the lender immediately asked for an extension. THEN... A week before closing they told them that they needed some new things and it would be another two … (11 comments)

Wordless Wednesday: I'm Speechless! - 04/04/12 08:53 PM

… (28 comments)

Mayflower Bakery ♥ Huntsville, Texas - 04/03/12 08:00 PM
Mayflower Bakery ♥ Huntsville, Texas


My family has been purchasing Italian Cream Cakes from Mayflower Bakery for YEARS!

We get them for birthdays, holidays, family reunions and just about any other excuse we can think of. Sometimes we stop by and buy it by the slice -- it’s that good!


They have all kinds of great treats: donuts, cookies, pastries, pies...

I recently heard that Mayflower Bakery's chicken salad sandwich was ‘to die for.’


Really? How good can a chicken salad sandwich be?


I didn’t think much about … (8 comments)

Pet Project Contest - 04/03/12 07:56 PM
There are several really cool challenges/contests going on right now. Here's one for pet lovers! I just glanced over at my hubby. He is laying on the couch with Zoe (our Maltese)  wrapped around his neck like a scarf. Yep! We are pet lovers! If you are too, check this ActiveRain Challenge out!
 

  Via Mona Gersky,GRI,ABR~MoonDancer Realty~ Western North Carolina (Buyer & Seller Representation):
　
As pet lovers and REALTORS, we have the dual advantage of much needed knowledge of resources to help our furry friends and the humans who love them. This seemed like an ideal combination to … (0 comments)

Fellowship of Huntsville Easter Celebration - 04/02/12 08:10 PM
Fellowship of Huntsville Easter Celebration


Saturday ♥ April 7, 2012


From 10:00 am to Noon @
Rain or Shine!

Activities to include:

Crafts
Easter Devotion
Easter Egg Hunt
Games
Moon Walk
Music
Refreshments


Please have your child bring 1 dozen plastic eggs with individually wrapped candy or treat inside.


Meet at the Fellowship Hall behind the church.


For more information call (936) 291-2570


Fellowship of Huntsville Easter Celebration

… (7 comments)

Contest - Be The "Star" of Your Own Movie! - 04/02/12 08:07 PM
The wait is finally over! Rogers's contest details have been released. Not an easy challenge for this girl. I hardly watch TV and the last movie that I went to see was Courageous. I can't wait to read everyone else's posts! This is going to be fun! Who knows... Maybe I will come up with something! :))
Via Roger Mucci (Shaken...with a Twist):
 Here it is folks, the April Fools Day Joke that's NO JOKE!
********************
Being the movie buff that I am, I thought it would be a great idea to have a little contest.  This could give you the opportunity … (0 comments)

Speechless Sundays: Cape Fear - Wilmington, NC - 04/01/12 08:55 PM
 


 
 
 
 
… (22 comments)

FUMC Huntsville Hosts Easter Festival - 04/01/12 08:36 PM

First United Methodist Church Easter Festival

Saturday ♥ April 7, 2012

From 2 pm to 4 pm

1016 Sam Houston Avenue
Huntsville, Texas 77320

Activities to include:

Crafts
Cupcake Walk
Easter Egg Hunt
Face Painting
Games
Inflatable Slide
Moon Walk
Popcorn
Snow Cones
Visit With the Easter Bunny


First United Methodist Church Easter Festival

… (1 comments)

American Legion Easter Egg Hunt and Come Fly a Kite Event - 04/01/12 08:10 PM

American Legion Easter Egg Hunt and Come Fly a Kite Event

Saturday ♥ April 7, 2012

10:00 am at the

American Legion - Sam Houston Post 95

1919 Industrial Boulevard
Huntsville, TX 77320

Menu:

Hot Dogs
Lemonade

The Come Fly a Kite Event will begin at 11 am and awards will be given for best home made and best store bought kites.

For More Information, Call:

(936) 295-0700 or (936) 662-0735

American Legion Easter Egg Hunt and Come Fly a Kite Event

… (5 comments)

 
Ar-photo Ambassador_large

Joni Staples ♥ (936) 650-9017

Huntsville, TX

More about me…

Your Huntsville and Lake Livingston REALTOR®

Address: 3642 State Highway 19 N, Huntsville, TX, 77320

Office Phone: (936) 594-8166 x 3

Cell Phone: (936) 650-9017

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