The Last Dahlias of the Season - 11/30/11 11:34 AM
The Last Dahlias of the Season
Dahlias have added to the colors of autumn in Kentlands and it is sad that the beautiful blooms in our home garden are now gone for the season.  We turn to our photographs for fond memories of the images that gave us much pleasure.
Now, we seek the new colors of the season.  Dolores and I just returned from a five day visit to Colonial Williamsburg where we took over 800 photographs.  The colors of the season have changed but are still bountiful.
Please share photographs from your favorite places in the comments for this … (7 comments)

The Caregiver's Prison - 11/30/11 08:22 AM
The Caregiver's Prison
As the baby boomers age, more of them are providing care for their elderly loved ones.
In some instances, the care is obvious, for example, assisting with daily activities such as bathing and dressing. In other instances, the care is slightly less formal and involves things such as meal preparation and medication management. Sometimes caregiving simply involves concern over the aging loved one's well-being and checking to make sure this loved one is OK. The people who provide this care do so out of love, respect, and a sense of duty. But everyone, care providers and care … (16 comments)

Armless Artist Overcomes Obstacles & Produces Beautiful Art - 11/29/11 08:36 PM
What would we do if we had no arms?
Battle Creek real estate professional Michael Delaware was visiting Miami and found inspiration and reasons for much gratitude when he saw an armless artist on the sidewalk.
Enjoy the holiday season!

Dahlia in our home garden in Kentlands. Photograph by Roy Kelley.
Roy and Dolores Kelley Photographs
Via Michael Delaware, CRS, e-Pro (Troxel Realty Co. LLC):
When I was walking through the Lincoln Mall Street area of downtown Miami the other night, I came across a man that was painting a picture while sitting on the sidewalk in front of a gallery.  … (0 comments)

The Best Pumpkin Gingerbread Recipe - 11/29/11 08:05 PM
Pumpkin Gingerbread Recipe
Graham, Washington real estate professional Christa Hobart usually talks about real estate opportunities.  In this post, she share a favorite recipe.  Give it a try and let us know if you like it.
Enjoy the holiday season!

Dahlia in our home garden in Kentlands. Photograph by Roy Kelley.
Roy and Dolores Kelley Photographs
Via Christa Hobart Broker & Co-Owner of Avalon Real Estate (Avalon Real Estate ):
 PUMPKIN GINGERBREAD
 
3 cups sugar
1 cup vegetable oil
4 eggs
2/3 cup water
1 (15 ounce) can pumpkin puree
2 teaspoons ground ginger
… (0 comments)

Special Financing for First Time Home Buyers in Montgomery County, Maryland 11/29/11 - 11/29/11 11:47 AM
Special Financing for First Time Home Buyers in Montgomery County, Maryland
The Montgomery County Housing Opportunities Commission (HOC) has extended the current low mortgage interest rates for first time home buyers until January 31, 2012.
Two 30 year fixed interest rate options, with zero points,  are available for the purchase of homes located in Montgomery County, Maryland.
Option One:  3.625% mortgage interest rate
Option Two:  4.0% mortgage interest rate with a 3% purchase assistance loan for those that need assistance with the cash requirements of a home purchase.  The assistance loan may be applied to the down payment or closing costs. … (12 comments)

Lifeguard Training in Gaithersburg 11/29/11 - 11/29/11 07:45 AM
Registration now being accepted.
Lifeguard Class Schedule and Registration Form pdf fileNOTE: This form is provided in PDF format and can be viewed with the Adobe Acrobat Reader. This format will enable you to view the document as it appears in print. If you do not already have the Adobe Acrobat Reader installed follow the link above to Adobe's free download area. RecXpress Online Registration Page American Red Cross Lifeguard Training classes are offered throughout the year. Living in, or working for the City of Gaithersburg is NOT required to take a course. Those who pass the class and are hired … (9 comments)

Gaithersburg Ski Club Open to Middle, High School Students - 11/28/11 08:56 PM
Gaithersburg Ski Club Open to Middle, High School Students 
Middle and high school students in Gaithersburg are invited to join the Gaithersburg Ski Club.  Purchase a Night Club Card, and take advantage of great skiing opportunities at Ski Liberty and Ski Whitetail every Saturday in January and February. 
Packages vary, and can include equipment rentals, lessons, lift tickets, advantage cards and transportation.  Fees range from $320 to $425.  The bus departs and returns to the Activity Center at Bohrer Park.   
For more information on how to join the Gaithersburg Ski Club, stop by the Activity Center at Bohrer Park, 506 … (5 comments)

Delicious Simple Plum Crumble Recipe 11/28/11 - 11/28/11 06:59 AM
Delicious Simple Plum Crumble Recipe
8-10 ripe plums
4-5 Tbsp. sugar
Chilled cream, to serve
 
For the crumble topping:
½ stick plus 1 Tbsp. unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
1 1/3 cups all-purpose flour          
A pinch of salt
¼ cup sugar
A medium ovenproof dish, buttered
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees and put a baking sheet on the middle shelf to heat.
Halve the plums and remove the pits. Cut the halves into quarters if they are very large. Toss them with the sugar and tip them into the prepared baking dish. (For a special treat, toss the … (16 comments)

Quick Baked Apples Recipe 11/27/11 - 11/27/11 07:03 AM
Quick Baked Apples Recipe

Suggested by Dolores Kelley
Core apples.  Fuji , Braburn, Honey Crisp, or Johnagold are good to use. Try with your favorite apples.
Place in baking bowls.  Put some butter and brown sugar where the core was and  sprinkle with Cinnamon.
Add dried cranberries or raisins around the apples and fill bowl about 1/3 full with fruit juice, wine or soda (your choice).  Diet Coke works.
Bake at 350 degrees for about 30 to 45 minutes.  Some apples cook quicker than others. Test with fork to see if soft.
Enjoy!
Please share photographs from your favorite … (20 comments)

Maryland Cranberry Pie Recipe 11/26/11 - 11/26/11 06:35 AM
Maryland Cranberry Pie Recipe 

Tested by Dolores Kelley
Ingredients:
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup sugar
¼ tsp. salt
2 cups Cranberries
½ cup chopped walnuts
½ cup butter, melted
2 eggs
1 tsp. almond extract
Note:  This pie has no crust.
Directions:
 1.    Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease one 9 inch pan.
2.    Combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Stir in the cranberries and the walnuts, and toss to coat. Stir in the butter, beaten eggs, and the almond extract. (If you are using frozen cranberries, the mixture will be very thick). Spread the batter into the prepared … (26 comments)

White Chrysanthemum IMG_0193 at Brookside Gardens 11/25/11 - 11/25/11 04:38 PM
White Chrysanthemum IMG_0193 at Brookside Gardens 11/25/11
Dolores and I always enjoy visits to Brookside Gardens in the Wheaton Regional Park in Montgomery County, Maryland.  When you visit, be sure to have your camera in hand. Take a look at their website for the current events, exhibits and educational programs. Over 400,000 people visit Brookside Gardens each year.

White Chrysanthemum IMG_0193
We attended the 51st Annual Potomac Chrysanthemum Show at Brookside Gardens on October 22, 2011.  Photograph by Roy Kelley using a Canon PowerShot G11 camera.
Roy and Dolores Kelley Photographs
… (15 comments)

Home Sweet Home - Protecting Your Greatest Investment - 11/25/11 08:30 AM
 
 

Brookside Gardens Dahlia Show.  Photograph by Roy Kelley
Roy and Dolores Kelley Photographs
… (13 comments)

Spider Tortoise IMG_1049 at the National Zoo 11/24/11 - 11/24/11 06:23 AM
Spider Tortoise IMG_1049 at the National Zoo 11/24/11
The decorations of this Tortoise could inspire an artist.  If you would like to see other shell patterns for the Spider Tortoise, just Google the name.  When you photograph the animals at the zoo, you will find that the detailed images will create even stronger memories of your visit and some degree of viewing pleasure for others as you share your photographs.
Normally, I photograph flowers so it is a special treat and lots of fun to photograph animals at the zoo.  Please share photographs from your favorite places in the comments for … (28 comments)

Baby Gorilla at the National Zoo 11/23/11 - 11/23/11 02:22 PM
Baby Gorilla at the National Zoo 11/23/11
It is fun to photograph animals and a special treat to photograph the young ones. Take time to visit a zoo, with camera in hand, and spend a few hours for personal enjoyment.  We are fortunate to be within an easy driving distance to the National Zoo in Washington, DC.
Have a wonderful Thanksgiving. Dolores and I are very thankful that we can share our photographs with you.  Please share photographs from your favorite places in the comments for this post.

Baby Gorilla at the National Zoo
We visited the National Zoo in … (18 comments)

Tasty Spinach Balls Recipe - 11/23/11 02:18 PM
Spinach Balls Recipe
Charlotte, North Carolina real estate professional and ActiveRain blogger Judith Parker is also well know for her skills in the kitchen.  In this post she shares a recipe for Spinach Balls.  Give it a try and let us know what you think.
Have a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday!

The Washington Daffodil Society 62nd Annual Daffodil Show at Brookside Gardens.  Photograph by Roy Kelley
Roy and Dolores Kelley Photographs
Via Judith Parker , CRS, GRI... Charlotte, NC Specialist (Keller William):
This morning I got up early and made these Spinach Balls for our SouthPark Keller Williams Pot Luck Thanksgiving Luncheon.  They … (7 comments)

Snake in Crawlspace - 11/23/11 12:02 PM
Home Inspection Tales
Washington home inspectior and ActiveRain blogger Donald Hester provides some more very good reasons for home inspections.  Every home buyer should request a professional home inspection.
Have a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday!

The Washington Daffodil Society 62nd Annual Daffodil Show at Brookside Gardens.
Roy and Dolores Kelley Photographs
Via Donald Hester NCW Home Inspections, LLC (NCW Home Inspections, LLC):
Snake in Crawlspace- Chelan and Leavenworth Home Inspection ServiceCrawlspaces are always a wonderful place to go. When you hire home inspector, hiring one that will take to time to properly evaluate this area is very important. The home inspector should … (2 comments)

The WORST Home Inspections - 11/23/11 11:28 AM
Home Inspection Tales
New Hampshire real estate professional and ActiveRain blogger Scott Godzyk provides some funny but sad tales of incidents at home inspections.
Have a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday!

The Washington Daffodil Society 62nd Annual Daffodil Show at Brookside Gardens.
Roy and Dolores Kelley Photographs
Via Scott Godzyk, One of New Hampshire's Leading Brokers (Godzyk Realty Group):
Anyone who has been in Real Estate for any length of time will be able to tell you stories that can "wow" the most seasoned of agents. Being it Thanksgoving and the season of giving thanks... Here in the Southern NH area i have had a couple of … (0 comments)

Happy Birthday to Rob Thomas - 11/23/11 07:09 AM
Happy Birthday to Rob Thomas
Best wishes for a Very Happy Birthday and a wonderful year for our friend Rob Thomas in Bristol, Tennessee/Virginia.  Many of us enjoy Rob's photographs of old barns and images on the beautiful countryside in his market area.  His pictures are so inviting that many of us want to visit the area.
Rob always comments on the orange flowers that I post so I found an orange dahlia for him.  Go VOLS!

Dahlia Show at Brookside Gardens in Montgomery County, Maryland. Photograph by Roy Kelley using a Canon PowerShot G11 camera.
Roy and Dolores Kelley Photographs
… (7 comments)

CHOCOLATE BEET CAKE - 11/22/11 08:35 PM

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Courtesy of www.straightfromthefarm.net
 Visit their website for additional pictures     and more receipes.
http://straightfromthefarm.net/2009/08/24/from-the-archives-beet-cake/
CHOCOLATE BEET CAKE
1 C. margarine, softened, divided1 1/2 C. packed dark brown sugar3 eggs at room temp1 1/2 oz. dark chocolate5 medium beets/2 C. pureed beets1 t. vanilla extract2 C. all-purpose flour2 t. baking soda1/4 t. salt1/2 t. cinnamon1/4 t. nutmegconfectioners' sugar for dusting To make beet puree, trim stems and roots off beets and quarter them.  Place in heavy sauce pan filled with water.  Bring to a boil and reduce to a simmer for 50 mins or … (24 comments)

Kentlands Holiday Events - 11/22/11 04:53 PM
Kentlands Holiday Events
Kentlands Holiday Party featuring Santa and Carriage Rides set for December 10
The KCA will be celebrating the season at the Holiday Party on Saturday, December 10th from 6 pm to 9 pm.  Santa will be on hand, so don't forget your cameras!  Horse-drawn carriage rides will return, weather permitting.  Please call 301-948-2071 or email Activities Director, Anita Parks to sign up for this event; the deadline to RSVP is Sunday, December 4.  As tradition follows, we ask that you bring a favorite holiday dessert to share with your neighbors.  
Please remember that all KCA-sponsored events and … (7 comments)

Onion Pie Recipe From Dolores Kelley - 11/22/11 11:04 AM
Onion Pie Recipe From Dolores Kelley

TO MAKE AN ONION PIE
From The 18th Century Recipe Converted For the 21st Century Cook
 
The apples and onions sweeten the potatoes and eggs, and the butter and seasoning tie everything together. A ten-inch springform pie pan works best for this pie with a top crust.
 
4 -5 small Yukon gold potatoes
2 large Granny Smith Apples
2 medium yellow onions
8 large eggs   (You can make it with 4 eggs as well)
3 tsp. Kosher salt
1 tsp. freshly cracked pepper
½ to 1 tsp. ground (or grated) nutmeg
½ to 1 … (22 comments)

Golden Lion Tamarin at the National Zoo 11/22/11 - 11/22/11 06:10 AM
Golden Lion Tamarin at the National Zoo 11/22/11
Real estate professionals tend to work long hours, including weekends, and frequently take too little time for personal and family pleasure.  As you prepare your goals for the coming year, be sure to include time for personal enjoyment.  My friend Joni Staples commented that she had not visited a zoo in over 25 years.  Add your local and regional zoos to your schedule and, with camera in hand, take a few hours to enjoy the visits.
Have a wonderful Thanksgiving!

Golden Lion Tamarin
We visited the National Zoo in Washington, DC … (15 comments)

Dahlia in Kentlands IMG_0037 - Roy and Dolores Kelley Photographs - 11/21/11 07:40 PM
Dahlia in Kentlands IMG_0037 - Roy and Dolores Kelley Photographs
We have a cloudy, rainy day in Gaithersburg, Maryland. The last of the Dahlias in our home garden have faded with the cold weather so we must turn to our photographs for the wonderful colors that we have recently enjoyed.  This Dahlia was in our home garden in Kentlands.
Have a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday.  Please share photographs from your favorite places in the comments for this post.

Dahlia in Kentlands IMG_0037
I enjoy walks through Kentlands and Lakelands, in Gaithersburg, Maryland.  With camera in hand, I attempt to capture the … (9 comments)

Montgomery County, Maryland Board Vacancies 11/22/11 - 11/21/11 07:04 PM
Montgomery County, Maryland Board Vacancies 
 
Currently, there is a valuable opportunity to serve on the following boards or committees:
Commission on Children and Youth Commission Criminal Justice Coordinating Commission Committee on Hate/Violence Noise Control Advisory Board Board of Social Services  The deadline for application is November 30, 2011. You may access vacancy announcements for boards, committees, and commissions through the following link.
 
GCAAR | 8757 Georgia Avenue, Suite 600 | Silver Spring | MD | 20910
 
Posted on ActiveRain as a community service.  Character counts in Gaithersburg.
 
Please share photographs from your favorite places in the comments for … (0 comments)

What has red hair, very long arms and likes to nap in the sun? - 11/21/11 07:33 AM
What has red hair, very long arms and likes to nap in the sun?
You might have to visit the National Zoo in Washington, DC to see this creature, an Orangutan. We had a beautiful Sunday in Maryland and Dolores and I decided to drive into the District to visit the zoo, with our cameras in hand.  Take time to visit your local zoo and take your family along for a wonderful time.
Have a wonderful Thanksgiving and keep your camera handy in case you see a napping Orangutan.

Orangutan in the Sun
We visited the National Zoo in Washington, DC … (19 comments)

Volunteer Needed for the Kentlands Board of Code Compliance - 11/20/11 06:31 PM
Volunteer Needed for the Kentlands Board of Code Compliance
 
There is an opening for a volunteer from the Kentlands community to serve on the Kentlands Board of Code Compliance (BoCC). The BoCC deals with the exterior appearance of Kentlands properties by investigating potential violations of community codes, which include both maintenance standards and the Kentlands Design Standards. The BoCC attempts to informally resolve violation issues and to facilitate remedial action by, for example, working with property owners to establish reasonable compliance dates. Issues are tracked until resolved.
 
The BoCC meets at the Kentlands Clubhouse on the 2nd Thursday of … (3 comments)

Pumpkin Cream Cheese Layer Pie Recipe - 11/20/11 03:43 PM
Pumpkin Cream Cheese Layer Pie Recipe 
This is a great pie for Thanksgiving. It is rich and creamy with a good blend of flavors! It slices pretty and is sure to impress everyone.
Ingredients  1 (8 ounce) cream cheese, softened
1/3 cup sugar
1 egg, beaten
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 prepared pie crust (uncooked)
1 (15 ounce) can pumpkin
1/2 cup brown sugar
2 eggs, beaten
1/4 cup milk
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup pecans, chopped
2 tablespoons butter, softened  
Directions
… (20 comments)

Piano Black Keys - 11/20/11 11:51 AM
Piano Black Keys
Dolores received this email message from a friend and I thought you might also viewing the video.
At Carnegie Hall, gospel singer Wintley Phipps delivers perhaps the mostpowerful rendition of Amazing Grace ever recorded. He says, "A lot ofpeople don't realize that just about all Negro spirituals are written onthe black notes of the piano. Probably the most famous on this slave scalewas written by John Newton, who used to be the captain of a slave ship, andmany believe he heard this melody that sounds very much like a West Africansorrow chant. And it has a haunting, haunting … (6 comments)

Columbia Gorge Winegrowers Thanksgiving Open House Weekend: Nov. 25-27th, 2011 - 11/20/11 08:57 AM
A good reason to visit Columbia Gorge!
Gretchen and Mel Ahrens have shared the Thanksgiving open house events by the area wineries.  Dolores and I visited the area and several wineries many years ago and would love to return. The Columbia Gorge is one of the most beautiful areas in the country and a good destination for vacations or retirees that want a special location.
Enjoy the season of Thanksgiving and be sure to have your camera in hand to capture the special moments.

Conservatory display at Longwood Gardens.  Photograph by Roy Kelley using a Canon PowerShot G11 camera.
Roy … (0 comments)

Is The Road You're Currently On Leading You To The Bristol TN VA Area ... - 11/20/11 08:41 AM
A Beautiful Place
Bristol real estate professional and ActiveRain blogger Rob Thomas is also an excellent photographer.  He posts beautiful photographs of the Bristol area countryside. His photographs provide many of us a good reminder to include southwestern Virginia and Tennessee in our travel plans.  The attractive home prices are tempting to those that are trying to escape from higher cost areas.
Enjoy the season of Thanksgiving and be sure to have your camera in hand to capture the special moments.

Conservatory display at Longwood Gardens.  Photograph by Roy Kelley using a Canon PowerShot G11 camera.
Roy and Dolores Kelley … (1 comments)

Police Warn of Credit Card Theft Incidents Targeting Elderly Victims 11/20/11 - 11/20/11 08:02 AM
Police Warn of Credit Card Theft Incidents Targeting Elderly Victims 11/20/11
Kentlands Neighborhood Watch
Officers from the Montgomery County Police 4th District are investigating several incidents in which elderly citizens have become victims of credit card theft.
On September 9, the wallet of an 89-year-old man was stolen while he was on an elevator in the medical office building located at 18109 Prince Philip Drive in Olney.  On October 20, the wallet of an 87-year-old woman was stolen from her purse while she was shopping at the Giant Food store located at 3860 International Drive in Silver Spring (Leisure World Plaza).  … (14 comments)

Adjust the Attitude with Flower Photographs - 11/19/11 05:17 PM
Adjust the Attitude with Flower Photographs
Some of us get very busy with business activities that lead to a need for an attitude adjustment.  I have found a simple solution.  Pick up you camera and photograph a beautiful flower.  It is very easy to put aside the problems of the day when you focus your attention on a thing of beauty. You might prefer to photograph animals, landscapes, monuments or people.
I like the endless supply of flowers in places like Longwood Gardens in Kennett Square, Pennsylvania.
Please share photographs from your favorite places in the comments for this post.  If … (11 comments)

Montgomery County, Maryland Foreclosures & Short Sales Update Rev. 11/18/11 - 11/18/11 01:17 PM
Lender Owned Foreclosures & Short Sale Pre-foreclosures
Our associate Craig Rosenfeld has posted an excellent report on the residential real estate market in Montgomery County, Maryland.  It is interesting to note that the 90 active listings of lender owned foreclosures represent only 2.9% of the available inventory. The number of lender owned properties is now too low to have an negative impact on the market for the county.
Short sale pre-foreclosures count for 18.4% of the available properties and are causing a continuing problem for home buyers and home sellers in the county.
Enjoy the season of Thanksgiving and be sure … (0 comments)

Shrimp, Baby Bella, & Spinach Pasta in Garlic Butter - 11/18/11 01:02 PM
Northern Bay Recipe
Maryland real estate professional and ActiveRain blogger Keith Gilkey also has the reputation of being a good cook.  In this post, he shares a favorite recipe.  Let us know if you try it.
Enjoy the season of Thanksgiving and be sure to have your camera in hand for those special occasions.

Chrysanthemum Festival at Longwood Gardens.  Photograph by Roy Kelley
Roy and Dolores Kelley Photographs
Via Keith Gilkey - Advance Realty Northern Bay:
I tried this recipe last week and WOW quick easy and good flavor, the asiago cheese really pulls this together. I don't find to many … (0 comments)

Congress Increases FHA Mortgage Loan Limits 11/18/11 - 11/18/11 09:56 AM
Congress Increases FHA Mortgage Loan Limits 11/18/11
Real estate professionals and their home buyer clients will be pleased when President Obama signs  the bill that Congress just passed to restore the FHA loan size to a maximum of $729,750.
The loan limit dropped to $625,500 on October 1, 2011 and that created a problem for many home buyers in higher cost areas like Washington, DC, New York and San Francisco.  FHA financing is very attractive to home buyers that have limited cash resources.  The minimum cash requirement for FHA financing is 3.5% of the purchase price.
Unfortunately, Congress did not … (7 comments)

Blue Cayman Iguana at the National Zoo - Dolores and Roy Kelley Photographs - 11/18/11 06:19 AM
Blue Cayman Iguana at the National Zoo - Dolores and Roy Kelley Photographs
Dolores and I visited the National Zoo in Washington, DC last Sunday.  It was a perfect day to visit the zoo.  The Blue Cayman Iguana was one of my favorite creatures to photograph. Take time to visit your local zoo, with camera in hand, for a most enjoyable day. 
Please share photographs from your favorite places in the comments for this post.

Blue Cayman Iguana
We visited the National Zoo in Washington, DC on a beautiful day, Sunday, November 13, 2011. Photograph by Roy Kelley using a Canon … (22 comments)

Burmese Python at the National Zoo - Dolores and Roy Kelley Photographs - 11/17/11 07:47 PM
Burmese Python at the National Zoo - Dolores and Roy Kelley Photographs
This morning, I posted a blog and photographs of a beautiful tiger at the National Zoo in Washington, DC.  In one of the comments, I was asked if they still have snakes in the exhibits of the National Zoo.  The answer is a definite yes!
Dolores and I enjoyed our Sunday visit to the National Zoo.  Please share photographs from your favorite places in the comments for this post.  Life is good!

Burmese Python
We visited the National Zoo in Washington, DC on a beautiful day, Sunday, November 13, … (17 comments)

Tiger at the National Zoo - Roy and Dolores Kelley Photographs 11/17/11 - 11/17/11 06:15 AM
Tiger at the National Zoo - Roy and Dolores Kelley Photographs 11/17/11
Dolores and I took advantage of the beautiful Maryland weather on Sunday and drove into Washington, DC to visit the National Zoo.  The zoo is only 21 miles from our home in the Kentlands community in Gaithersburg.  The Tiger was obviously anxious for the next meal. This is a beautifully impressive animal and a wonderful subject for photographs.
Please share photographs from your favorite places in the comments for this post.

Anxious for the Sunday meal
We visited the National Zoo in Washington, DC on a beautiful day, … (29 comments)

Chrysanthemum Festival at Longwood Gardens 11/16/11 - 11/16/11 07:03 PM
Chrysanthemum Festival at Longwood Gardens 11/16/11
You still have time to visit Longwood Gardens, in Kennett Square, Pennsylvania to see the Chrysanthemum Festival.  Be sure to have your camera in hand and plan to stay several hours to see the beautiful flowers.  Longwood Gardens is one of our favorite travel destinations.
Please share photographs from your favorite places in the comments for this post.


Chrysanthemum Displays in the Conservatory
The Chrysanthemum Festival at Longwood Gardens always provides opportunities to enjoy and photograph the Autumn Flowers on display.  Photograph by Dolores Kelley using a Canon PowerShot G11 Camera.
Roy … (9 comments)

Lion in the Autumn Sun - Roy and Dolores Kelley Photographs 11/16/11 - 11/16/11 05:47 PM
Lion in the Autumn Sun - Roy and Dolores Kelley Photographs 11/16/11
Sunday was a beautiful day in Maryland so Dolores and I drove into Washington, DC to the National Zoo to enjoy the exhibits and take a few photographs.  The National Zoo is about 21 miles from our home in the Kentlands area of Gaithersburg.  Well, you can't go to the zoo without seeking out the lions.  The were enjoying the unusually mild November weather.
Normally, we photograph flowers.  So, it was fun to focus on the animals for the afternoon.  We highly recommend a visit to the National Zoo when … (29 comments)

Chrysanthemum Festival at Longwood Gardens 11/14/11 - 11/15/11 08:09 PM
Chrysanthemum Festival at Longwood Gardens 11/14/11
It is not too late to visit Longwood Gardens to enjoy the Chrysanthemum Festival in the Conservatory.  If you have not been to Longwood Gardens, this exhibit is a very good reason for you first visit.  Thousands of beautiful blooms await you and your camera.  It is one of our favorite travel destinations.
Please share photographs from your favorite places in the comments for this post.  Enjoy the season of Thanksgiving and be sure to have your camera in hand to capture those special moments.

The Chrysanthemum Festival at Longwood Gardens, October 29 - … (11 comments)

FHA Mortgage Limit To $729,750 - 11/15/11 03:04 PM
FHA Mortgage Limit To $729,750
It appears that the House and Senate will restore the $729,750 maximum loan limit for Federal Housing Administration (FHA) backed mortgages for two years. Unfortunately, this increase does not apply to conventional financing and the maximum loan amount will stay at $625,000.  This failure to increase the conventional loan limit will have an impact on many prospective home buyers.  Mortgage lenders are already offering alternative solutions.
With this bad news for the real estate industry, we may wish to turn our thoughts to beautiful flowers.

Maryland Orchid Society Show, Timonium Fairgrounds, March 11, 2011. Canon PowerShot G11 camera. Photograph by Roy Kelley.
… (6 comments)

The Colors of November at Longwood Gardens 11/15/11 - 11/15/11 11:29 AM
The Colors of November at Longwood Gardens 11/15/11
Take time to enjoy the colors of the season.  A good place to see a variety of beautiful colors in flowers is Longwood Gardens in Kennett Square, Pennsylvania. This is one of our favorite travel destinations.
Please share photographs from your favorite places in the comments for this post.  Have an wonderful season of Thanksgiving and be sure to have your camera in hand to capture the special moments.

The Chrysanthemum Festival at Longwood Gardens always provides opportunities to enjoy and photograph the Autumn Flowers on display.  Photograph by Dolores Kelley using … (18 comments)

Pennsylvania Dutch Potato Filling Recipe - 11/15/11 11:09 AM
Thanksgiving Recipe from Will Hamm
Colorado real estate professional Will Hamm is also know for his cooking skills.  In this post, Will shares another of his favorite recipes and memories of family life in Pennsylvania.
Enjoy the season of Thanksgiving and be sure to have a camera in hand to capture those special moments.

The Chrysanthemum Festival at Longwood Gardens always provides opportunities to enjoy and photograph the Autumn Flowers on display.  Photograph by Dolores Kelley using a Canon PowerShot S90 Camera.
Roy and Dolores Kelley Photographs
Via Will Hamm Real Estate in Colorado (Cornerstone Homes Realty/Metro Brokers):
Both of … (0 comments)

Delaware Farm-style Chicken And Slippery Dumplings - 11/15/11 10:15 AM
Comfort Food
Maryland real estate professional Keith Gilkey normally writes posts about about the real estate market.  In this blog, Keith shares his expertise as a cook and provides a favorite recipe.  This looks like a wonderful recipe for a chilly day meal.
Have an outstanding week and enjoy the season of Thanksgiving.  Be sure to have your camera in hand to capture those special moments.

The Chrysanthemum Festival at Longwood Gardens always provides opportunities to enjoy and photograph the Autumn Flowers on display.  Photograph by Dolores Kelley using a Canon PowerShot S90 Camera.
Roy and Dolores Kelley Photographs
… (1 comments)

Winterizing Your Home - 11/15/11 09:01 AM
Should you winterize your home?
Real Estate professional John McCormack provides some good advice for owners of properties that will be vacant for a while.  For extended absences it is always good to have someone checking the property on a regular basis.
Have an outstanding week and enjoy the season of Thanksgiving.  Be sure to have your camera in hand to capture those special moments.

The Chrysanthemum Festival at Longwood Gardens always provides opportunities to enjoy and photograph the Autumn Flowers on display.  Photograph by Dolores Kelley using a Canon PowerShot S90 Camera.
Roy and Dolores Kelley Photographs
Via … (1 comments)

Bristalone Recipe - 11/14/11 03:30 PM
Bristalone Recipe
Ormond Beach, Florida real estate professional Al Raymondi usually talks about real estate.  In this post, his thoughts turn to good food as he shares a favorite of his mother's recipes.  Let us know if you try it.
Enjoy the season of Thanksgiving and be sure to have your camera in hand to capture the special moments.

Chrysanthemum Festival at Longwood Gardens.  Photograph by Roy Kelley.
Roy and Dolores Kelley Photographs
Via Al Raymondi, Ocean View Realty Group in Ormond Beach Florida:
Via Al Raymondi, Ocean View Realty Group in Ormond Beach Florida:
Bristalone, one of my Mother's … (0 comments)

Historic Designation Requested For Kentlands Firehouse - 11/14/11 08:54 AM
Historic Designation Requested For Kentlands Firehouse
Notice - Joint Public Hearing: HD-34 (Kentlands Firehouse), 12/5/2011 
CITY OF GAITHERSBURG31 South Summit AvenueGaithersburg, Maryland 20877Telephone: 301-258-6330 NOTICE OF JOINT PUBLIC HEARING
The City of Gaithersburg Mayor and Council and Planning Commission will conduct a public hearing at the time and place noted below.
Meeting: MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL MEETINGApplication Type: HISTORIC DESIGNATIONFile Number: HD-34, Historic Designation Application - Kentlands FirehouseLocation: 321 FIREHOUSE LANEApplicant: CITY OF GAITHERBURG HISTORIC DITRICT COMMISSION Day/ Date/Time: MONDAY, DECEMBER 5, 7:30PMPlace: GAITHERSBURG CITY HALL
IMPORTANT
The application requests historic designation of the Kentlands Firehouse at 321 Firehouse Lane, Gaithersburg, … (11 comments)

The Colors of November at Longwood Gardens 11/14/11 - 11/14/11 08:48 AM
The Colors of November at Longwood Gardens  11/14/11
Last Tuesday, Dolores and I attended the Chrysanthemum Festival at Longwood Gardens in Kennett Square, Pennsylvania.  If you have never been to Longwood Gardens, you should add this location to your travel plans.  The colors of November are every color you might imagine in beautiful flowers.
If you happen to need an attitude adjustment, it is easy to put aside the problems of the day while you focus your camera on a beautiful flower. Enjoy the season of Thanksgiving and the beauty provided by nature.
Please share photographs from your favorite places and have … (8 comments)

Maryland Turkey Stuffing Recipe From Keith Gilkey - 11/14/11 06:51 AM
Maryland Turkey Stuffing Recipe
Maryland real estate professional Keith Gilkey also loves to cook and in this post shares a favorite Thanksgiving recipe.

Yellow Chrysanthemum
The Chrysanthemum Festival at Longwood Gardens, October 29 - November 20, 2011.  Our visit was on Tuesday, November 8, 2011.  Longwood Gardens is located in Kennett Square, PA.   Photograph by Roy Kelley using a Canon PowerShot G11 camera.
Roy and Dolores Kelley Photographs
Via Keith Gilkey - Advance Realty Northern Bay:
With Thanksgiving around the corner I wanted to share my turkey stuffing recipe with everyone. This is a mild stuffing with a lot of flavor.
… (0 comments)

Think hard before you walk away - 11/14/11 06:31 AM
Think hard before you walk away
Albuquerque real estate professional and ActiveRain blogger John McCormack provides some very good advice to real estate professionals and their clients.
Transactions are killed every day because buyers, sellers and their agents fail to make the next steps in the negotiations process. It is best not to quickly reject proposals but, instead, take the time to reflect on how to make the deal happen.

Yellow Chrysanthemums
The Chrysanthemum Festival at Longwood Gardens, October 29 - November 20, 2011.  Our visit was on Tuesday, November 8, 2011.  Longwood Gardens is located in Kennett Square, PA.   … (0 comments)

White Squirrel - 11/13/11 04:24 PM
White Squirrel
Our friend Ruth Murphy provided this shot of an albino squirrel in Centerville, Maryland. This is a very unusual Maryland squirrel. Maybe this image is good luck!
If you have some special pictures, please share them in the comments for this post.

… (21 comments)

Spoon Mums at Longwood Gardens 11/13/11 - 11/13/11 08:07 AM
Spoon Mums at Longwood Gardens 11/13/11
If you enjoy Chrysanthemums and other autumn flowers, now is a good time to visit Longwood Gardens in Kennett Square, Pennsylvania.  Kennett Square is located just west of Wilmington, Delaware. The current exhibit in the very large Conservatory is the Chrysanthemum Festival.  It is a good place to spend a day for pure pleasure and any needed attitude adjustment.
Longwood Gardens is one of our favorite travel destinations.  It is about 127 miles from our home in Gaithersburg, Maryland. 
If you need a hobby that you can take into retirement, try travel and flower photography.  … (14 comments)

Autumn Rose in Kentlands - 11/12/11 07:15 AM
Autumn Rose in Kentlands
I enjoy my regular walks through the Kentlands and Lakelands communities in Gaithersburg, Maryland.  With my camera in hand, I seek the changing colors of the season.
It was still dark for my early walk this morning and the sky was lighted by a full moon.
Have an outstanding weekend and please share photographs from your favorite places. 

Thursday, November 3, 2011 walk through Kentlands with camera in hand.  Seeking the colors of autumn.  Photograph by Roy Kelley.  Canon PowerShot G11 camera.
Roy and Dolores Kelley Photographs
… (21 comments)

Thousand Bloom Mum At Longwood Gardens - 11/11/11 01:26 PM
Thousand Bloom Mum At Longwood Gardens
A single Chrysanthemum plant with 1,000 blooms is one of the featured displays in the Conservatory at Longwood Gardens in Kennett Square, Pennsylvania.  The Chrysthemum Festival runs until November 20 so you still have time to make the trip to Longwood Gardens with your camera in hand.  It is one of our favorite destinations and we try to attend all of the major exhibits during the year.
Please share photographs from your favorite places in the comments for this post.

The Chrysanthemum Festival at Longwood Gardens always provides opportunities to enjoy and photograph the … (18 comments)

Veterans Day Letter From Michelle Obama 11/11/11 - 11/11/11 12:56 PM
… (3 comments)

People who Live in Glass Houses Should Try to Protect the Birds - 11/11/11 09:54 AM
Save The Birds
Connecticut real estate professional and ActiveRain blogger Chris Canfield offers a good suggestion for those that have large window areas in their homes that are being struck by flying birds.  Thanks, Chris, for sharing the solution.
Enjoy the season of Thanksgiving and be sure to have your camera in hand to capture the special moments.

Red and Gold Chrysanthemum
The Chrysanthemum Festival at Longwood Gardens always provides opportunities to enjoy and photograph the Autumn Flowers on display.  Photograph by Dolores Kelley using a Canon PowerShot G11 Camera.
Roy and Dolores Kelley Photographs
Via Chris Canfield, ABR, CRS, … (0 comments)

Horse Property Near Pinehurst/Southern Pines in a Gated Lake Community - 11/11/11 09:34 AM
Horse Owners Finding Land Bargains in Pinehurst, NC
Pinehurst real estate professional and ActiveRain blogger Dawn Crowley just posted this information on what looks like a really great deal for a horse property in the Pinehurst area.  This should attract buyers from Maryland and northern Virginia.  Pinehurst is a beautiful area and the buyer market is full of opportunities.
Enjoy the season of Thanksgiving and be sure to have your camera in hand to capture the special moments.

Red and Gold Chrysanthemum
The Chrysanthemum Festival at Longwood Gardens always provides opportunities to enjoy and photograph the Autumn Flowers on display.  … (0 comments)

Discounts and specials to thank our dedicated veterans! - 11/11/11 08:23 AM
Discounts For Veterans On Veterans Day
Yardley, Pennsylvania real estate professional and ActiveRain blogger Anne Costello provides some timely information on discounts that are available for veterans on Veterans Day.
Thanks to every individual and family that has served our country.
Enjoy the holiday season and be sure to have your camera in hand to capture the special moments.

Red and Gold Dahlia
Brookside Gardens, Dahlia Show, National Capital Dahlia Society, September 25, 2010, Wheaton Regional Park, Wheaton, Maryland. Montgomery County.
Roy and Dolores Kelley Photographs
Via Anne M. Costello (Weidel Realtors):
Discounts and specials to thank our dedicated veterans! … (0 comments)

Kick-off the Holiday Season at Gaithersburg’s Jingle Jubilee - 11/11/11 07:41 AM
Kick-off the Holiday Season at Gaithersburg’s Jingle Jubilee    
Joyful caroling, a dynamic dance demonstration and a magical tree lighting make for a fabulous night of family fun as Gaithersburg rings in the holiday season at Jingle Jubilee.  The festivities take place at the City Hall Concert Pavilion in Olde Towne on Saturday, December 3, 2011 beginning at 6 p.m.
This joyous event, perfect for families with young children, features caroling and sing-alongs with the Gaithersburg High School Holiday ensemble and a lively performance by the students of Impact Performing Arts. 
Costumed characters, lots of holiday giveaways and a magnificent tree lighting … (16 comments)

General Hatch to Deliver Remarks at Gaithersburg Veterans Day Observance - 11/10/11 04:49 PM
… (4 comments)

Montgomery County, Maryland Foreclosures & Short Sales Update Rev. 1/10/11 - 11/10/11 02:47 PM
Montgomery County Foreclosures and Short Sales Report
This report was prepared by our associate Craig Rosenfeld at RE/MAX Realty Group. Craig assists many of our home buyer and real estate investor clients in the Maryland and Virginia suburbs of Washington, DC.  Thanks, Craig, for this report.
  Maryland Chrysanthemum Roy and Dolores Kelley Photographs
Via Craig Rosenfeld (RE/MAX Realty Group):
<!--StartFragment--> Montgomery County, Maryland Foreclosures & Short Sales Update Rev. 11/10/11
81 (2.6%) of the 3,148 active homes for sale in Montgomery County, MD are REO properties while 558 (17.7%) are short sale pre-foreclosures.   Fannie Mae- Freddie Mac- HUD-  If you are … (1 comments)

Suburban Maryland Real Estate Market Statistics, October, 2011 - 11/10/11 11:52 AM
Suburban Maryland Real Estate Market Statistics, October, 2011
 
Monthly statistics are available on the tenth of the following month.
 
Montgomery County, MD
 
Real Estate Market Statistics for Montgomery County, Maryland:  During October, there were 634 closed sales in Montgomery County, MD, down 9.43% from last year.  The average sold price was $411,221, down 6.45% from last year, with an average of 85 days on the market. The median sold price at $327,250 was down 6.50% from last year. The average sold price was 91.9% of the average original list price.
The real estate market statistics for the past … (2 comments)

Support A Marine On The 236th Birthday Of The United States Marine Corps 11/10/11 - 11/10/11 08:28 AM
… (8 comments)

Experience Cultural Delights in an Elegant Setting with Music at the Mansion Series 11/10/11 - 11/10/11 05:40 AM
Experience Cultural Delights in an Elegant Setting with Music at the Mansion SeriesPosted 11/10/11  
 
Gracing the landscape since 1900, Gaithersburg’s Kentlands Mansion provides an intimate setting for an evening of musical delights.  With the new Music at the Mansion series, patrons can enjoy a variety of musical styles in the elegant surroundings of this stately home.
On Saturday, November 26, the Mansion hosts Around the World with Silver Roots.  Shawn Wyckoff (flute) and Maria Millar (violin) perform a rich blend of classical and world music with luxurious tone, technical mastery and superb musicianship.  The flute and violin are two of … (12 comments)

Sandhill Cranes Flock To Albuquerque - 11/09/11 08:32 PM
Sandhill Cranes
Albuquerque real estate professional and ActiveRain blogger John McCormack likes to keep up informed on what is happening in his area. It this post, he alerts bird watchers that this is the time to see Sandhill Cranes.  Thanks, John, for the blog and the video.
Via John McCormack- Albuquerque Homes Realty (Albuquerque Homes Realty):
A sure sign that Albuquerque’s fall has arrived is the very unusual and almost prehistoric sounds of the Sandhill Cranes migrating to their wintering grounds in the Middle Rio Grande Valley and beyond. During the warm day, cranes find food in open fields, foraging for seeds, … (0 comments)

Do you have ornamental cabbage in your garden? - 11/09/11 06:56 PM
Do you have ornamental cabbage in your garden?
When I walk through Kentlands, I see a lot of ornamental cabbage.  It seems that many love this plant but I am told that others do not care for it.  What are your thoughts?
Please share photographs from your favorite places in the the comments for this post.


Ornamental Cabbage
Thursday, November 3, 2011 walk through Kentlands with camera in hand.  Seeking the colors of autumn.  Photograph by Roy Kelley.  Canon PowerShot G11 camera.
Roy and Dolores Kelley Photographs
… (7 comments)

What are you thankful for? 11/09/11 - 11/09/11 02:26 PM
What are you thankful for?  11/09/11
ActiveRain and DocuSign are having a contest with two choices. The first choice is to say what we would do if we had an extra three hours or more or extra time each week.  That gets most of us thinking about our favorite activities. The second choice is to write about what we are thankful for.  I have already created those extra hours for personal pleasure so I will focus these comments on counting a few of my blessings and the things for which I am very thankful.
I am thankful that Dolores and I … (7 comments)

Do you owe more than your house is worth? - 11/09/11 01:55 PM
New Hampshire real estate professional and ActiveRain blogger Scott Godzyk offers some very good information for mortgage loan borrowers that find themselves in financial distress.

Chrysanthemum Show at Brookside Gardens
Roy and Dolores Kelley Photographs
Via Scott Godzyk, One of New Hampshire's Leading Brokers (Godzyk Realty Group):
Here in Manchester NH about 1/3 of people who have to sell their homes, owe more than their house is worth in today's market. Some owners can no longer afford their payments and think foreclosure is their only option. Other home owners need to sell due to being transferred, marriage, divorce or illness … (0 comments)

Gaithersburg Adds New Location to Safe Speed Enforcement Program 11/9/11 - 11/09/11 05:41 AM
Gaithersburg Adds New Location to Safe Speed Enforcement Program 11/9/11
 
A new location has been approved for enforcement efforts under the City of Gaithersburg’s Safe Speed Program.  The speed enforcement cameras, which became operational on November 1, 2011, are deployed in both directions of Christopher Avenue.  The posted speed limit on Christopher Avenue is 30 miles per hour.
Jurisdictions within Montgomery County were granted the authority to operate the cameras in 2006.  Conducted in conjunction with the City of Rockville, the Town of Chevy Chase and Montgomery County, Gaithersburg’s Safe Speed Program authorizes the use of the cameras in residential … (10 comments)

Emergency Alert System Test - 11/08/11 08:38 PM
Emergency Alert System Test
Tomorrow, Wednesday, November 9 at 2 p.m., the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will conduct the first ever nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System (EAS).
The test will occur simultaneously across the United States and the U.S. territories and will last approximately 30 seconds, after which regular programming will resume. The test will appear on all broadcast radio and television stations, cable television systems, satellite radio and television systems, and wireline video service systems. This will only be a TEST.


Autumn Leaves in Kentlands.
Thursday, November 3, 2011 walk through Kentlands with camera in … (8 comments)

From the Gaithersburg City Manager: Property Maintenance - Be Our Eyes in Your Community 11/08/11 - 11/08/11 06:15 AM
From the Gaithersburg City Manager: Property Maintenance - Be Our Eyes in Your Community 11/08/11
 
There are a lot of things that impact quality of life - the education of our children, ease of transportation, job opportunities, and access to cultural amenities.  While it might not be at the top of everyone’s list, neighborhood integrity certainly impacts our sense of community as well.
There are reasons why there are rules and regulations when it comes to maintaining your property.  A well-maintained home speaks to caring individuals committed to preserving the integrity of a community.  It helps Gaithersburg  remain a desirable … (11 comments)

Beauty in the details 11/7/11 - 11/07/11 09:28 PM
Beauty in the details 11/7/11
Every real estate professional knows that the success of every transaction requires great attention to the details. Many of us have polished our skills with thousands of transactions.
Some of us do forget to pay attention to the details of the quality of our lives and the details in the beauty provided by nature.  Take a closer look at those autumn leaves and your may find beauty in every leaf.
Focus your camera on a pretty leaf or a beautiful flower and you will find that it is easy to set aside the problems of the moment. This … (4 comments)

FREEBIES for Veterans in Observance of Veteran's Day - 11/07/11 08:31 PM
Restaurants offer meals to veterans
Sacramento real estate professional and ActiveRain blogger Myrl Jeffcoat provides some good information on available meals for veterans on Veterans Day.

Thursday, November 3, 2011 walk through Kentlands with camera in hand.  Seeking the colors of autumn.  Photograph by Roy Kelley.  Canon PowerShot G11 camera.
Roy and Dolores Kelley Photographs
Via Myrl Jeffcoat (Real Living Great West Real Estate):
A number of local and national restaurants, cafes and business offer FREEBIE to Veterans in observation of Veteran’s Day.  Here is a list of a few located in the Greater Sacramento Region:
(1) OUTBACK STEAKHOUSE - For … (2 comments)

Just Listed in Bonaire Georgia 31005 - Governors Estates Subdivision - 11/07/11 08:39 AM
A very nice home in a very inviting subdivision.  The thing I like the best about the area is the combination of very nice people and very attractive home prices.
Have a great week and be sure to have your camera in hand to capture those special moments.

Sunday afternoon, November 6, 2011, walk through Kentlands and Lakelands.  Seeking the colors of autumn.  Photograph by Roy Kelley.  Canon PowerShot G11 Camera.  Roy and Dolores Kelley Photographs.
Roy and Dolores Kelley Photographs
Via Anita Clark Realtor® Warner Robins Homes for Sale ~ Warner Robins Real Estate ~ (ColdwellBanker SSK Realtors ~ … (0 comments)

Cleaning An Egged Car 11/07/11 - 11/07/11 06:04 AM
Cleaning An Egged Car 11/07/11  
Every now and then cars in our neighborhood have been egged.  So, many have asked how to remove the eggs.
Ted Blitgen provided these tips for his Kentlands neighbors
A solution for removing the egg:If you've ever been victimized by neighborhood pranksters or vandalism, you've likely had your car egged. While discovering an egged car is nerve racking, trying to remove the egg and yolk creates further irritation. The key is to remove the egg stain shortly after the incident. However, if the egging occurred overnight, or while you were out of town, the yolk … (23 comments)

Good excuse for autumn fat - 11/07/11 06:03 AM
Good excuse for autumn fat
If you are a squirrel, you have a good reason to fatten up before the winter season. The rest of us will still have to suffer with our diets.
I met this furry neighbor on my Sunday afternoon walk through Kentlands. Life is good in Maryland.
Please share your photographs in the comments for this post. Perhaps, you might have images of other good reasons to fatten up in the fall.

Photograph by Roy Kelley using a Canon PowerShot G11 camera.
Roy and Dolores Kelley Photographs
… (17 comments)

What is your favorite autumn color? - 11/06/11 02:34 PM
What is your favorite autumn color?
I just returned from a long walk through the Kentlands community in Gaithersburg, Maryland.  The leaves are brilliant with their fall colors. It is hard for me to select a favorite color.
The Dahlias are still blooming even though we had snow last weekend. Life is good!
Please share your favorite autumn photographs in the comments for this post.

Brookside Gardens, Dahlia Show, National Capital Dahlia Society, September 25, 2010, Wheaton Regional Park, Wheaton, Maryland. Montgomery County.
Roy and Dolores Kelley Photographs
… (13 comments)

The Colors of Autumn 11/06/11 - 11/06/11 07:31 AM
The Colors of Autumn 11/06/11
I enjoy walks through the Kentlands community in Gaithersburg, Maryland.  With my camera in hand, I try to capture some of the changing colors of the season. This is an image that is easily missed if you do not look closely at the dried up plants in the flower gardens.
Please share photographs from your favorite places in the comments for this post.

This is what a Coneflower looks like after the blossom is long gone. The location is Kentlands in Gaithersburg, Maryland.  Photograph by Roy Kelley using a Canon PowerShot G11 Camera.
Roy and … (19 comments)

Golden Dahlia For You - 11/05/11 06:37 PM
Golden Dahlia For You
A special thank you flower for all of my ActiveRain friends and supporters.  Please have special thoughts and take positive actions during this season of Thanksgiving.
There are many in our communities that need our help. Now is the time for us to reach out and use our talents to improve the quality of life for others and well as ourselves.
Small actions can be very meaningful.  Raking the leaves or removing the snow for an elderly neighbor will reward us even more than the person we are assisting.  A slice of pie or a ride to … (9 comments)

Getting close to the 900,000 points mark - 11/05/11 05:48 PM
Getting close to the 900,000 points mark
899,552 points Thanks to all of my ActiveRain friends for your comments and re-blogs. 

Brookside Gardens, Dahlia Show, National Capital Dahlia Society, September 25, 2010, Wheaton Regional Park, Wheaton, Maryland. Montgomery County.
Roy and Dolores Kelley Photographs
… (20 comments)

An Attitude of Gratitude - $31.50 Weekly Food Budget - 11/05/11 03:37 PM
An Attitude of Gratitude - $31.50 Weekly Food Budget
The front page of today’s Metro section of The Washington Post features an article titled “A hungry challenge with food stamps” by Teresa Tomassoni.
Food Stamp Challenge participants step into the shoes of the poor
When you view the article at the above link, the photograph you will see shows Rabbi Steve Gutow and his reaction to the only instant coffee he can afford on a weekly food stamp budget.
Hundreds of community leaders across the country have participated in the second national Food Stamp Challenge.  The purpose of the challenge is … (8 comments)

Notice to Kentlands Residents of City Election, City of Gaithersburg, Maryland - 11/05/11 09:02 AM
Notice to Kentlands Residents of City Election, City of Gaithersburg, Maryland
Registered voters are entitled to vote in the City of Gaithersburg Election on Tuesday, November 8, 2011.  This election is for the purpose of electing three City Council Members. Each one of the three candidates elected shall serve a four year term.
Mayor Sidney Katz has circulated a letter requesting support of the three incumbents, Jud Ashman, Cathy Drzyzgula and Ryan Spiegel.  The other two candidates are Paula Ross and Tom Rowse. 
Polls are open 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.  The polling place is Church of Jesus Christ Of The Latter … (8 comments)

Life Is a Journey, Not a Destination so STOP Running the Race - 11/05/11 08:51 AM
Savor the journey
Colorado Springs mortgage loan professional and well known ActiveRain blogger Rebekah Radice provides much outstanding advice for the real estate industry.  This post is worth close study. Begin your new journey today.

Orchid in the Conservatory at Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden in Richmond, Virginia. 
Photograph by Roy Kelley
Roy and Dolores Kelley Photographs
 
Via Rebekah Radice Colorado Springs FHA Loan 203k, VA Mortgage, Loan Pre-Approval (Benchmark Mortgage, Colorado Springs FHA, VA, Pre-Approval):
Ralph Waldo Emerson once commented that life wasn’t simply a destination, but rather a journey.  I would wholeheartedly agree.  I have witnessed the beautiful journey … (5 comments)

What to take to bed with you - 11/05/11 06:53 AM
What to take to bed with you
Notice from Kentlands Neighborhood Watch   KentlandsNeighborhoodWatch@yahoogroups.com
Subject:  What to take to bed with you
Even if your car does not do this, tell all your friends & relatives & neighbors who could use this for help.
Put your car keys beside your bed at night.
Tell your spouse, your children, your neighbors, your parents, your Dr's office, the check-out girl at the market, everyone you run across. Put your car keys beside your bed at night.
If you hear a noise outside your home or someone trying to get in your house, … (17 comments)

Chicken And Gnocchi Soup - 11/04/11 01:53 PM
Chicken And Gnocchi Soup Elkton, Maryland real estate professional and ActiveRain blogger Keith Gilkey also enjoys good food.  In this post, he shares his recipe for Chicken and Gnocchi Soup.  Give it a try and let us know it will be a favorite for the chilly days of winter.

I enjoy walks through Kentlands and Lakelands, in Gaithersburg, Maryland.  With camera in hand, I attempt to capture the colors of the season.  This Dahlia was in our home garden. Photograph by Roy Kelley.  Canon PowerShot G11 Camera.
Roy and Dolores Kelley Photographs
 
Via Keith Gilkey - Advance Realty Northern … (0 comments)

Thinking of buying a short-sale home? - 11/04/11 08:30 AM
Thinking of buying a short-sale home?
Be prepared to be patient.
 
Guest Blog By Harvey S. Jacobs, from Washington Post 
 
We hear quite a bit today about homes selling in "short sales." But just what is a short sale, and how can a prospective home buyer buy a home that is subject to a short sale?
 
A short sale occurs when a homeowner agrees to sell his home to an independent, third-party buyer for less than the outstanding balance on his mortgage. In other words, the net sales proceeds from his sale still leave the homeowner "short" … (7 comments)

White Chrysanthemums in Maryland - 11/03/11 04:59 PM
White Chrysanthemums in Maryland
Autumn is a time to enjoy beautiful flowers in Maryland.  Chrysanthemums are among our favorites. The kinds of Chrysanthemums that most of of us have in our gardens are not what you will see when you attend the shows conducted by the outstanding gardeners in the region.  These pictures are a couple of examples from the recent show at Brookside Gardens. Life is good in Maryland and we are very thankful that we have such beautiful blooms to enjoy.
Please share your favorite photographs in the comments for this post.


We attended the 51st Annual … (10 comments)

Sunny Day Chrysanthemum - 11/03/11 04:47 PM
Sunny Day Chrysanthemum
We have an absolutely beautiful sunny day in Maryland and I thought I would share this beautiful yellow Chrysanthemum with you.  Dolores captured this image in the Conservatory at Brookside Gardens, in the Wheaton Regional Park in Montgomery County, Maryland.
Please share photographs from your favorite places in the comments for this post. We are truly thankful to have beautiful chrysanthemums in Montgomery County. 

Chrysanthemum Display:  Autumn Harvest is the seasonal Conservatory Display at Brookside Gardens. October 8 through November 20, 2011. Our visit was on October 22.  Photograph by Dolores Kelley using a Canon PowerShot S90 camera.
… (11 comments)

Antique Show in Pinehurst Nov. 4-6 at the Fairbarn - 11/03/11 04:38 PM
Selecting an agent in Pinehurst, North Carolina
North Carolina is one of the favorite destinations for Maryland retirees.  Those that love golf always want to consider the beautiful Pinehurst area.  Dolores and I have visited the area and have met with the outstanding real estate professional in the area.  We recommend Dawn Crawley to those that wish to get to know the area and to take advantage of the current buyer market in the region.

We attended the 51st Annual Potomac Chrysanthemum Show at Brookside Gardens on October 22, 2011.  Photograph by Roy Kelley using a Canon PowerShot G11 camera.
… (0 comments)

Governors Estates Subdivision, Bonaire GA 31005 – Bonaire Realty - 11/03/11 04:29 PM
The Best Subdivision Reports
Warner Robins, Georgia real estate professional and ActiveRain blogger Anita Clark is one of the outstanding agents in the ActiveRain network.  What makes her outstanding in her community?  She posts some of the best subdivision reports that are to be found in the real estate industry.  Her reports can be models for agents in other parts of the country.
Best wishes to Anita for continued success!

We attended the 51st Annual Potomac Chrysanthemum Show at Brookside Gardens on October 22, 2011.  Photograph by Roy Kelley using a Canon PowerShot G11 camera.
Roy and Dolores Kelley Photographs
 
… (0 comments)

Wordless Wednesday - Sharing Our Pumpkin Pancakes - 11/03/11 03:57 PM
It is the season for Pumpkin Pancakes!
El Dorado Hills, California real estate professional and ActiveRain blogger DeeDee Riley share a recipe for Pumpkin Pancakes.  Let's give it a try to see if it becomes an autumn favorite.
Autumn in Maryland includes beautiful flowers.  One of our favorites is Chrysanthemums.

We attended the 51st Annual Potomac Chrysanthemum Show at Brookside Gardens on October 22, 2011.  Photograph by Roy Kelley using a Canon PowerShot G11 camera.
Roy and Dolores Kelley Photographs
Via DeeDee Riley El Dorado Hills Realtor (916)225-2719 (Lyon Real Estate - El Dorado Hills CA):
Here is the recipe … (0 comments)

Seattle Autumn Leaves - 11/03/11 03:24 PM
Sharing the beauty of autumn
Most of us enjoy the beautiful autumn leaves in our home communities but few of us record those wonderful colors and special moments.  Seattle real estate professional and ActiveRain blogger Judi Boad set a good example of what all of us could do. Judi has created a video that records the autumn leaves in Seattle.
In Maryland, we enjoy our beautiful flowers in addition to the changing colors of the leaves.

Chrysanthemum Display: Autumn Harvest is the seasonal Conservatory Display at Brookside Gardens. October 8 through November 20, 2011. Our visit was on October 22. … (0 comments)

Today I am Thankful for Where I Live - 11/03/11 02:54 PM
Are you thankful for where you live?
Dolores and I live in a wonderful community in an urban environment. Everything is close by and we have the benefits of living in the suburbs of Washington, DC.
However, when I read Joni Staples' post on the life in the the small Texas town of Riverside, population, 425, I was reminded that a small community can provide a quality of life that is hard to beat.
Life is good but all of us wish for it to be better.  Thanks to Joni for her message.
Enjoy the season of Thanksgiving.

Chrysanthemum Display:  … (0 comments)

Do you have Chrysanthemums in your fall garden? - 11/03/11 07:49 AM
Do you have Chrysanthemums in your fall garden?
In Maryland, Chrysanthemums are among our favorite autumn flowers.  They are seen in a variety of colors and shapes.  The recent Potomac Chrysanthemum Society Show at Brookside Gardens offered a wonderful opportunity to enjoy a large display of blooms grown by the regional expert gardeners. 
If you missed the show, you still have time to visit the Chrysanthemum Display in the Conservatory at Brookside Gardens. Dolores captured this photograph of a yellow Chrysanthemum in the Conservatory.  During this season of Thanksgiving, it is good to remember the beautiful flowers that nature has provided for our pleasure.
… (13 comments)

TOUR THE WOODLANDS ~ VILLAGE OF GROGAN'S MILL - 11/02/11 09:29 PM
Tour The Woodlands
Texas real estate professional and ActiveRain blogger Paula Hamilton-McDonald provides a very good example of a community localism that provides excellent information for prospective purchasers.
Paula should receive flowers for her good work so we are providing this beautiful Maryland Chrysanthemum.

We attended the 51st Annual Potomac Chrysanthemum Show at Brookside Gardens on October 22, 2011.  Photograph by Roy Kelley using a Canon PowerShot G11 camera.
Roy and Dolores Kelley Photographs
Via Paula Hamilton~McDonald, The Woodlands, TX ~ 936-203-0279 (Chevaux Group, PLLC):
TOUR THE WOODLANDS ~ VILLAGE OF GROGAN'S MILL
This is the first of my series of taking … (0 comments)

Taking a Break - 11/02/11 06:18 AM
Taking a Break
What are you doing to improve the quality of life for yourself and your family?
Dolores and I are taking a break during November and December to enjoy our personal activities.  Many think this is hard to do in the real estate business.  Our associates at RE/MAX Realty Group are among the best in the business and they will be taking care of the real estate purchase and sale needs of our clients.  Yes, we are lucky. You may wish to make plans to take the same kind of break!
During the coming months, we may be spending more … (21 comments)

Autumn Flowers in Maryland - Roy and Dolores Kelley Photographs 11/1/11 - 11/01/11 05:40 PM
Autumn Flowers in Maryland - Roy and Dolores Kelley Photographs 11/1/11
Dahlias are among my favorite autumn flowers. This photograph was taken in our home garden in the Kentlands community in Gaithersburg, Maryland. Yes, Dahlias were blooming when it snowed and some are still blooming after the snow melted.  Our thoughts are with our friends in the northeast that are without power and still facing the problems of clearing snow.
Please share your favorite photographs in the comments for this post.

Dahlia in our home garden.  Life is good in Maryland. Photograph by Roy Kelley.
Roy and Dolores Kelley Photographs
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Roy and Dolores Kelley Photographs & Trustee Sales 11/1/11 - 11/01/11 08:30 AM
Roy and Dolores Kelley Photographs 10/31/11
Where are the lists of Maryland trustee sales?
 
Information for real estate investors.
 
We receive many calls asking about trustee sales. These are the foreclosure auctions that take place at the court house entrance in each of the Maryland counties. Most of the real estate investors that track trustee sales use the following websites that provide information on the majority of the sales in the Maryland suburbs of Washington DC. Some trustees handle their own sales or use different auction companies.
 
Alex Cooper Auctioneers http://www.alexcooper.com/
 
Cohn, Goldberg, Deutsch http://www.cgd-law.com/
 
The … (9 comments)

 
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Roy Kelley, Montgomery County, MD Homes For Sale

Gaithersburg, MD

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Roy Kelley and RE/MAX Realty Group

Address: Roy Kelley, RE/MAX Realty Group, 6 Montgomery Village Avenue, Suite 200, Gaithersburg, MD, 20879

Office Phone: (301) 921-4569

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Roy Kelley advises home buyers, sellers and REO asset managers, in the Maryland suburbs of Washington DC and nearby counties. REO and foreclosures sales. Market area includes Montgomery County, Frederick County, Washington County and Prince George's County. Real Estate blogs


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