From The Desk Of Lissa Uder, Your Lebanon MO Real Estate Agent

16.88ac For Your New Home or Hunting (Pennington Dr.)

Wed, 09 Dec 2009 22:24:08 -0600

Would you like to build a home on 16.88ac just a few miles from I-44 and the hospital in Lebanon, Missouri? Here's your chance.

This property is tucked into an area just off blacktop on a private drive. It is mostly wooded with an approximate 1 acre area cleared for a homesite. It already has electricity and county water runs up the property line.

As an added bonus, you'll get a spring and pond stocked with bass, crappie, and catfish that you can see from the homesite.

Mobile homes welcome. Very affordably priced at $44,900. All offers considered. For more details, visit www.lissasells4u.com or call 417-426-5091/417-718-5091.

$50,000 to $65,000 Residential Listings Needed in Laclede County Mo

Wed, 09 Dec 2009 21:37:31 -0600

With the extension of the $8,000 tax credit for First Time Home Buyers, I am very busy trying to locate the perfect home for several clients. The following is a list of what I'm in search of:

1. 3 or more Bedrooms

2. Lebanon Schools (Missouri)

3. Structurally sound.

4. 5+ years remaining life of roof.

5. Plumbing, sewage, and electrical systems in good repair.

6. Properly functioning heating and air units.

7. 18 inches or more clearance in crawl space.

8. Price in the range of $50,000 to $65,000

If you're ready to upgrade your home and receive the $6,500 tax credit and have a home that meets the above criteria please give me a call at 417-426-5091 or 417-718-5091. You can also email me at lissasells4u@earthlink.net.

Sherry's Hope For Others Relay For Life (Laclede County) Rev Up For A Cure Poker Run 2009

Fri, 11 Sep 2009 05:32:36 -0500

I've always agreed with the saying "Loud Pipes Save Lives". Here's one more example.....

Come out and help us make some noise!

1st Annual (2009)

Sherry's Hope For Others

Relay For Life Team

Rev Up For A Cure

Poker Run Proceeds Benefit Relay For Life

Sunday, October 11, 2009 (Rain Date will be Sunday, October 18)
Registration starts at 11:30-Last bike out by 1:00
Taking off from CA's Trikes & Trailers (18959 Hwy 64, Lebanon)
$10 for single hand $15 for couple ($5 each for 15 & under) (Includes a meal at the final stop)
Approximate 100 mile ride
First prize is 25% total event registration fees
Door prizes, raffles, 50/50
Autos Welcome

Donations Proudly Provided By:

CA's Trikes & Trailers

Realty Executives

Action Design

Auto Zone

Lil Bit's Creative Crafts

Howard's Truck Repair

Stacy & Jeff Harrill

Chopper Shop (Richland)

Senor Peppers Grille & Cantina

Sherry's Hope For Others

Kum & Go (N. Jefferson)

Lebanon Cycle Center

Ozark Harley Davidson/Buell

Martin's 1-Stop

The Real Estate Co.

O'Reilly's Auto Parts

The Leather Boutique

Hey Jude

A Helper Premier GMAC Real Estate

Jeffries Abstract

LSK (Lebanon Suzuki-Kawasaki)

Shelly's Sign Shop

Melton's 64 & 73 C-Store

Journey's End Roadhouse

Gail Gilbert, REALTOR

Brown Realty

Don't miss this opportunity to show your support and help find a cure for cancer while having a little fun! For more information, please contact Sherry's Hope For Others.

2 Open Houses on Brook in Lebanon, MO Sat. Aug 29, 2009 1-3pm

Mon, 24 Aug 2009 10:52:58 -0500

Open for admiration! 2 Homes on Brook St. in Lebanon, MO. Saturday August 29, 2009 from 1-3pm. This is your chance to see two beautiful homes.

324 Brook St.

Hosted By: Lissa Uder

All electric 5 bedroom 3 1/2 bath home located on a corner lot. With over 3400sq ft. there's lots of room for everyone. A few of it's features include a finished basement, two fireplaces, formal dining, and several living areas. You won't want to miss this one!

Priced to sell this weekend at $169,900

401 Brook St.

Hosted By: Teresa Hough

Better than new, this 4 bedroom 2 1/2 bath home has been completely remodeled with too many updates to mention. Just a few are a finished basement, all electric, 3 living areas, and a fireplace.

Everything about this home is impressive with an unbeatable price! $159,500

From Lebanon, take North Hwy 5 and a left on Brook St. call Lissa at 417-718-5091 or email lissasells4u@earthlink.net for more information.

Home With Hobby Wing on 57.7ac 10253 Hwy E Eldridge, MO 65463

Fri, 24 Jul 2009 09:15:02 -0500

This custom built 2 bedroom 2 1/2 bath (approx 3600mostly finished sq ft) home with 2600sq ft of living space is truly a unique find.

Upon walking through the formal entry, you have a choice of entering the west wing, or the spacious living area. The window wrapped living and family rooms are the perfect places for family fun, relaxation, or entertaining. The family room opens onto the sun-porch, which is even more relaxing with a view of tranquil beauty.

You'll actually enjoy cooking in your country kitchen which boasts gorgeous custom ash cabinets, island workstation, pantry, and dining counter. The floors are made of tile and the appliances are included.

The library is a place you can go to escape inside your favorite book, surf the net, or get caught up on your work.

The master bedroom is another place to find serenity with it's exit onto the sun parlor. The country is right outside your door as you step out onto your own private deck and breathe in the picturesque view. This room also offers a large area with his/hers cedar lined, mirrored wardrobes and plenty of room for storage. The master bath features a his/hers vanity and whirlpool tub with double shower heads.

If you had chosen the door to the left when entering the formal entry, you'd find an entire wing of amazing possibilities. Here, you'll find the huge utility/maintenance area which includes a shower and restroom facilities, as well as an oversized 2 car garage. In between there are three rooms, one with a double stainless steel sink and all with floor drains. This is also where you'll find the huge indoor workshop.

When you step outdoors, you'll realize you're truly in paradise. This 57.7 acres has been magnificently landscaped by mother nature with a little help from the owner. Close to conservation areas, it is home to wildlife of all kinds and the owner has began clearing an area to increase the qail population. There is a year round creek and two stocked ponds as well.

This home with its own fun-loving personality can be yours for only $250,000 with 57.7 acres or $199,000 with 5 acres. Click on main photo or visit www.lissasells4u.com for more pictures and details or to schedule a private tour.

Open House/Yard Sale Sat July 11, 2009 8am-4pm

Tue, 07 Jul 2009 08:49:46 -0500

Join me Saturday July 11 from 8:00am to 4:00pm for your opportunity to pick up some exceptional purchases.

You can purchase this 2005 Fleetwood DWMH on a 0.88ac lot for only $70,000. While you're there, shop the owner's yard sale for other values.

Visit the Virtual Tour for a preview of the property.

Directions: From the St. John's Hospital in Lebanon, take Hwy MM approximately 4.5 miles to the property on the left. You'll see the signs. 25387 Hwy MM, Lebanon, MO.

2545 Copperwood Lebanon, MO 5 Bedroom 3 1/2 Bath

Wed, 01 Jul 2009 15:06:01 -0500

This 3500sq ft. all electric home is just waiting for your large or extended family. Like two homes in one, the upper and lower levels both have bedrooms, bathrooms, kitchens, living rooms, storage, bonus rooms, and garages.

The lower level even has a storm room. Both kitchens feature stainless steel appliances.

You won't believe this one! Call today to schedule your private tour.

Open House Sun June 28, 2009 1-3pm 16934 Cannon St. Lebanon, MO

Mon, 22 Jun 2009 12:39:58 -0500

Join me for a tour of this 3 bedroom 2 bath country home just a few miles outside of Lebanon. This 1544sq ft. home sits on 0.72 ac and includes a 23 X 24 2 bay workshop with insulated cielilngs.

There is an extra large crawl space with lighting/electricity and gravel floor for safety and protection in our Missouri weather. The house has been pre-wired for a generator as well.

If you have a puppy that loves to run outdoors, you'll feel secure knowing it's confined within the limits of an underground pet fence without the restraints of a lead.

Virtual Tour: Click on the picture.

You don't want to miss this one! It's priced at only $115,000 and ready for new owners to make themselves at home.

Address: 16934 Cannon St. Lebanon, MO

Directions: From Lebanon, take Hwy 64 and make a right on Hwy AA. Then a left on Cannon to this home on the left. Watch for signs.

Open House Sat June 13, 2009 2-4pm 374 Rosenthal Lebanon, MO

Thu, 11 Jun 2009 10:23:29 -0500

Please join me Saturday June 13, 2009 from 2-4pm for a tour of this beautiful new home located at 374 Rosenthal in Lebanon MO.

This immaculate new home sits in a quiet neighborhood with lightly traveled streets. This is the perfect location and house for raising a family. You'll have plenty of space for life and entertainment with 2400sq ft., large rooms and a 0.46ac yard.

The 14 X 22 kitchen boasts hardwood floors, gorgeous cabinetry, and stainless steel appliances. Exit through the double doors onto your upper level deck.

The large 15 X 28 Master Bedroom is located on the upper level and has enough space for your king sized bed, furniture, and a sitting area. It also has a walk in closet and master bath.

On the upper level, you'll also find the 14 X 20 living area, 8 X 6 utility room, and another bedroom and bath.

The lower level features the garage, 1 bath, 2 bedrooms, and storage.

You absolutely must see this one!

Directions: From Lebanon, take North 5 and make a right on Hwy YY. Then a Left on Rosenthal to the last home on the left.

Virtual Tour

Poker Run-Get Them In The Door At Your Open House

Thu, 14 May 2009 11:07:47 -0500

Lynn Michaels recently wrote a post titled "If You Feed Them, They Will Come" in response to a post written by Kathy Sperl-Bell's "Are Broker's Open Houses Effective?". I'm going to keep the chain going with this one.

For some reason in this area of Missouri, typical Broker Open Houses don't seem to be very effective at all. You may have a few show up one time, and none the next. There is always lunch provided, but it seems alot of money is wasted providing a delicious meal just to through it out. Even give-aways don't attract as many as one would hope.

One thing we have found that works more often than not is an Open House Poker Run. Not only do the participants get their tummy's full, they have a little fun. So, here's what you do.

Find 5 participants that want to open up a listing. You'll have better participation from REALTORs if each is from a different office.

Each of the five need to grab a pack of cards. Each deck needs to be different in appearance.

Each of the five should donate a little cash to buy a prize. ($10 each will buy a nice gift card or gas card).

Make sure every agent in your market gets an invitation to attend, whether by flyer, email, etc.

We usually stagger the times that the homes are open a little bit. First one from 11-12, second from 11:30-12:30, etc.

At each listing, have a food item. Such as, at the first one scheduled, provide the drinks (something that can be taken with the agent when they leave). Second, appetizers. Third, main course. Fourth, dessert.

Have feedback forms at each listing. After each agent tours the home, ask them to fill out the feedback form and give them each one random card from your deck. And at the last home, after they get their last card they turn in their "hand". (Or you can have a meeting place after the tours to turn them in.)

The agent with the winning hand of course, gets the prize.

Every body loves a good hand of poker! You get food, fun, and feedback!

Realtor.com Is It Worth It?

Wed, 13 May 2009 08:30:13 -0500

In today's ever changing market, I find it even more important to be the best I can possibly be. I tend to do all that I can to get my listings out there for the world to see. If I can attract that one buyer that just happens to be the person that thinks my listing is the perfect property for them, I feel I'm doing my job. Well, at least part of it.

When I list a property, you'll find it everywhere on the net. Mostly syndicated, but I have several sites I place them on myself. Problem is, our MLS doesn't allow the feed of the comments section. With most of the syndicated sites, Realtor.com included, all the potential person sees is a few pics and very basic information. Unless you pay a phenomenal fee to add your own information.

I have had several buyer clients that have asked for more information on properties they have seen on realtor.com. This makes me wonder if I'm missing out because I have opted to not cough up the dough to add more information to my own listings and have them branded.

I know there are several REALTORs(R) here in the rain that use this site as a tool in your marketing plan. Is it worth it? Have you noticed an increase in the sales of your listings (whether by you or another agent) because of this site? Strangely enough, I'm not that concerned about getting leads from the sites I use. Just selling my listings. I'm on a pretty tight budget this year, but want to get these properties sold.

14 Deadly Sins For Your Real Estate Career...

Sat, 09 May 2009 13:51:09 -0500

Or maybe it should be titled "Lissa's Pet Peeves" or "Just Another Rant".

Word of mouth is our biggest and best method of advertisement in this business. If these are your typical behaviors, don't complain when you lose your clients to another agent. I'll be waiting for them.

1. Over-inflating the value of a home in order to get the listing. This practice will make you famous for being a liar and the agent that didn't sell the home. Is that really working for the seller? You know you can't sell it if you overprice it. So essentially when you do this YOU'RE ONLY WORKING FOR YOURSELF! BAD AGENT!

2. Contacting another agent's seller to say the agent is doing a crappy job in order to steal a listing.This opens up a whole new can of worms! Do you have any idea what the relationship is between the client and their agent? Bet you didn't know they'd been BFF, huh?

3. Sign a listing argeement and never step foot inside the residence. Come on, how can you sell a house if you don't even know what it looks like inside? How can you advertise it if you don't see for yourself what it's positive aspects are? How can you accurately describe it to an inquisitive caller?

4. "Bad Mouthing" other agents. Talk about making yourself look inadequate. Makes a person wonder what you're saying about them! If a the other person you're talking to starts to complain about an agent, it's really not difficult to say "we all do things a little differently".

5. Showing up late for appointments with your clients. You may think this gives the appearance that you're really busy or important, but your clients probably see it as you being irresponsible and not very dependable. Buying or selling a home can cause enough anxiety without having to wait around for you.

6. Making appointments to show properties and not showing up or canceling.The seller of this home is definitely going to remember you. But not in a very positive manner. Give them something to remember. If your potential buyer cancels, keep your appointments anyway. You already had the time blocked out and the seller will definitely be happy when you say "I'm sorry, my buyers had to cancel but I thought I'd take the opportunity to see what your home had to offer for future buyers". If you can't make it or have already seen the home, at least have the decency to cancel the appointment. It only takes a few seconds.

7. Placing a "For Sale" sign in the yard and expect the property to sell itself.Let's pretend for a moment that the McRib is back at McDonald's and that is the only item on their menu you will eat. How would you know they were offering it again if they didn't advertise it?

8. Showing properties while wreaking of alcohol.This should be a no brainer. Hello!!!

9. Failing to disclose pertinent information about a property. If half of the drywall and the floor covering in the entire house has recently been replaced because the house flooded, WE WANT TO KNOW! Simply telling us that it has new carpet and tile is not enough! Same goes for deterring your buyer from an area with a flaw in hopes they won't notice.

10. Leaving all the lights on and doors unlocked after showing a property. OK, so when I was a child one of the phrases I heard most was "you weren't born in a barn" because I would leave the bedroom light on or walk out leaving the front door wide open when it was 100 degrees outside and the air conditioner was running. But as every parent hopes, I grew up. Learned to be responsible and considerate towards others. Again, this only takes a few seconds.

11. Ignoring emails and phone calls.Are you really working for your seller when you don't answer inquiries or get back with the agent that is trying to make an appointment to show their home? Don't avoid their calls because you don't have any good news to tell them. They may just want to discuss a price reposition with you. Do you want it to be said that you are inaccessible?

12. Telling me you don't want my offer because you have an interested party. It isn't about what YOU want. It's about what YOUR SELLER needs!

13. Show up at the office in a low cut blouse, mini-skirt, fish net hose, and platform stilettos. What exactly is it you're selling?

14. Telling an inquiring buyer that you'll call them back with the information about a specific property and not doing so for over a week. My buyer now. We had an offer accepted a few days ago. Sorry you missed out!

When it comes down to it, who are you working for? The consumer or yourself. Either way, proper etiquette is essential. If you don't give the consumer what they need, you get tons of bad publicity. You lose business.

Please feel free to add some of your own. This list is just the beginning of the thoughts in my head.

29511 Pelican Lebanon, MO

Tue, 28 Apr 2009 16:20:18 -0500

Lissa Uder | A Helper Premier GMAC Real Estate | 417-718-5091

29511 Pelican, Lebanon, MO

Are you looking for more than 5 acres that isn't in a subdivision?
Here it is!

9.5 acres Vacant Land

offered at $35,000

Lot Size

9.5 acres

DESCRIPTION

Are you looking for more than 5 acres that isn't in a subdivision? Here it is! Build your home on 9.5 acres with utilities in place. this one is located just a few miles from Lebanon. Property is set up for horses with a barn, corrals, pond, fescue, and fencing. There is even a 6X6 inground concrete storm shelter for the good 'ole Missouri weather.

see additional photos below

LOCATION FEATURES

9.5ac Ready for your new home and horses

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

29511 Pelican	Mostly Cleared Land
6x6 Concrete Storm Shelte	Outbuildings
Loafing	Pond

Contact info:

Lissa Uder

A Helper Premier GMAC Real Estate

417-718-5091

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Apr 28, 2009, 1:14pm PDT

32553 Orchard Dr. Lebanon, MO

Tue, 28 Apr 2009 15:28:44 -0500

Lissa Uder | A Helper Premier GMAC Real Estate | 417-718-5091

32553 Orchard Dr., Lebanon, MO

Efficient 28 X 70 Fairmont home on 15ac m/l

3BR/2BA Manufactured

offered at $96,900

Year Built	1990
Sq Footage	1,848
Bedrooms	3
Bathrooms	2 full, 0 partial
Floors	1
Parking	1 Car garage
Lot Size	15 acres
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

Located off of N. Hwy 5, this home is just approximately 8 miles from town. Efficient 28 X 70 Fairmont home w/6" walls and heat pump. It has a gas log fireplace in the family room, that could easily be converted to wood. The kitchen has 2 skylights, a built in desk & island. Huge master bath with skylight & walk-in-closet. Beautiful property!!

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

Central A/C	Central heat	Fireplace
Walk-in closet	Family room	Living room
Dining room	Dishwasher	Stove/Oven
Laundry area - inside	Balcony, Deck, or Patio	Yard
Swimming pool

COMMUNITY FEATURES

Garage parking	Guest parking	Storage space(s)
Swimming pool(s)

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

32553 Orchard	Kitchen
Living Area	Family Room w/Fireplace
Master Bath	Workshop

Contact info:

Lissa Uder

A Helper Premier GMAC Real Estate

417-718-5091

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Apr 28, 2009, 12:05pm PDT

What Are You Waiting For?? The Time To List Is NOW

Tue, 28 Apr 2009 07:40:41 -0500

Home buyers have been lurking in the shadows of the internet for quite a while now. They've been looking at listings day after day, waiting for the right time to step into the light and let their presence be known. They've been still and quiet, but are starting to get restless. And now they're ready to move. Crawling out amongst those of us in the real estate world. Asking the professionals to help them get the best deals on the perfect property.

Why should this matter to you? Because your property isn't listed and readily available for the buyer to see. Here's just a few reasons that now is the time you should hire me to sell your home.

TAX CREDIT

The new tax credit for home buyers, of up to $8,000, is helping to get them out in the open. Let's face it, everybody loves free money! When they realize the government is going to GIVE them money just for buying a home, they're all for it.

SPRING FEVER

Yes, spring is here, indeed! And with it comes an itch. An itch to do something, go somewhere, get busy, and move. It's also the peak time for home sales. Write an offer today, wait a month to close, get moved and settled in before the summer hits with full force. Then they're ready for bar-b-ques and family get-togethers with plenty of time to relax before the next school year.

THE BOTTOM OF THE MARKET IN LACLEDE COUNTY?

Buyers have been waiting and waiting on that one word to be said...Bottom. Everyone wants to time the market perfectly to get that killer deal. But buyer's are beginning to realize that nobody really knows where "bottom" will land. They're becoming fearful that if they wait too long the prices will start going up, and they will have missed their opportunity.

I'M SERIOUS ABOUT SELLING HOUSES

I'm not in the market of listing houses. I'm here to sell them. It's no big secret that listing a property costs me money until it closes, and I can't afford to lose a dime. I'm hungry, and I like to eat. Real estate isn't a hobby or part time job for me. It is my way of life.

FINDING THE PERFECT HOME FOR THE BUYER

Yes, there are homes available for these buyers. But is the perfect home available? Can they find it? Buyer's may look at dozens of properties before picking one to buy. Even the one they choose may not be the perfect home. They eventually either get frustrated or settle for second best. Your home may be just the one they're looking for so let's get it on the MLS for everyone to see!

Give me a call and we'll work together to present your home to the buyers and get it SOLD.

25402 Grindstone Rd Lebanon, MO-All Electric 3/2 on 10 Acres

Wed, 24 Dec 2008 09:10:12 -0600

Have you been looking for a home in the country but close to town? The freedoms of living outside of the city limits with the convenience of being just 5 short miles from the hospital, shopping, and recreation? I've found it for you.

Perfect location on a lightly traveled road, just 1/10 mile off of blacktop.

This one comes with a stocked pond within sight of the house. The 10 acres is approximately 75% wooded and has a nice cleared area around the house for a garden, playground, and animals.

There is also an extra hookup for water and electricity.

The 3 bedroom 2 bath home has over 1350sq ft of living space with newer floor coverings, electric furnace, water heater, and central air.

The home also features a pantry and 8X14 utility room.

Move in ready and priced at only $99,900.

For details, call Lissa at 417-718-5091 or visit

14550 Hwy Z Falcon MO, Everything You Want More Than You Need

Wed, 15 Oct 2008 09:49:09 -0500

SORRY, THIS ONE IS NO LONGER AVAILABLE. CALL OR EMAIL ME AND I'LL FIND THE PERFECT HOME FOR YOU.

This 2 story home has everything you want and more than you need. 5 bedrooms allow plenty of room for the kids or visitors and there are 2 1/2 baths so there's no need to hurry.

You'll enjoy cooking again in this kitchen with lots of counter and cabinet space along with a pantry for extra storage. You'll find a vaulted cieling and a ceramic tile floor. Want to spend more time with the kids? There's room for them at the bar to sit and chat or do homework while you cook.

Make your guests feel welcome in the 18X16 living room in front of the gas log fireplace. This room has a vaulted ceiling with gorgeous wood beam accents that give it a cozy feel.

Want to treat them to a Bar-B-Que? Cook and serve it up on the patio just outside the 13'3X13'9 Dining Room.

Guests planning to stay the night? The perfect guest room is located upstairs. They'll be very comfortable in this 16'9X16 bedroom that has a fireplace of it's own.

You will be quite comfortable too in your bedroom (the Master), which is also located upstairs. The 25X16'6 room has his/her closets and a dressing area. Double doors lead out onto your own private balcony. The 9'7X10 Master Bath features a whirlpool tub and walk in shower.

You won't believe the size of the Family Room! It measures 15'6X45'. Yep, that's right 45ft. One large room with two areas. One could be the family area, the other a game area. Step out the double doors and enjoy a relaxing moment on the balcony.

This Wonderful 2875sq ft home is nestled on 10 beautiful acres in the country off a blacktop road. Only approximately 25 miles from Lebanon and about 35 miles from Fort Leonard Wood. Like to hunt or just watch the wildlife? This property backs conservation land and there's lots to see.

Where else can you find a property with all this for just $174,900? What a bargain!

Call Lissa at 417-718-5091 or visit to schedule your own private tour or for more information.

14320 Dunklin Lebanon, MO 65536 Hunter and Fisherman Paradise

Wed, 15 Oct 2008 08:22:56 -0500

SOLD!

Wouldn't it be nice to start and end your day on a hunter's retreat without having to leave home? Now you can! You can live in this exceptionally well built 3 bedroom 1 1/2 bath log home nestled privately on 80 secluded acres. Tucked into the land and hidden from all the hustle and bustle of life, you cannot see any neighbors or even the road from the house. Instead, look out the window of your choice and see an abundance of wildlife or your own 3/4 acre pond stocked with crappie, catfish, bass, and perch.

No expense was spared in the craftsmanship of the 1600sq ft. home that was built in 2003. It is constructed with cedar D-logs and insulated with R-38. The septic is installed to city codes and the well is approximately 408 ft. deep. This home is heated with a heat pump. Even the oversized garage with workspace is finished.

In the loft, you'll enjoy a 7X7 nook overlooking the land and 3/4 acre pond. There is lots of storage and a door in place ready for an upper deck to be built. This 16'3X20'3 room is perfect for the third bedroom or spacious enough for a game room. Just out of view, there is a second pond that is in the process of being stocked.

Inside, you'll find peace and comfort next to the wood burning fireplace in the 19'X18'8 living area or simply lounging in any of the rustic rooms. To be in the great outdoors, you can relax on either of the full length, covered decks on the front and back of the home. Step out the Master bedroom or dining area doors and right into your hot tub on the back deck which overlooks the pond.

It's like going on a hunter's vacation right in your own home. You won't want to miss this opportunity for only $298,000!

Call Lissa at 417-718-5091 or visit for more details or to schedule a tour.

4141 Hwy 83 Bolivar MO, Your Search For a 3/3 With Basement, Pool, and Workshop Is Over

Mon, 13 Oct 2008 16:16:59 -0500

Discover the joy of country life with the convenience of being only 2 miles from town.

This 2400sq foot home is perfectly positioned on 5 mostly cleared acres just a few minutes from the hospital in Bolivar. You won't know whether to spend your leisure time indoors in the family room located on the lower level, or outside by the pool.

You'll be delighted with all the cabinet and counter space in the kitchen. There's plenty of storage for all of your cooking utensils and room to make biscuits. Furnished with a smooth top ceramic stove, built in oven, dishwasher, and side-by-side refrigerator. All appliances are 2-3 years old.

Enjoy your breakfast in the dining area, or from the magnificence of the bright & cheery sun-suite. This 14'X12'5 room has a vaulted ceiling, tile floors, and perfect view of the pool. Step out the door and enjoy your coffee on the sun-drenched patio.

There's lots of room to unwind in the 20'4 X 11'7 living room. or downstairs in the 39'4 X 13 family room on the lower level. This area would make a perfect guest apartment with it's own bath, exit to a 1 car garage, 2 closets, and both inside and outside entrances. There is already a refrigerator in place and a great area for installing a mini-kitchen. It also features a gorgeous ventless gas fireplace.

Find your dreams in one of the 3 bedrooms on the main level. The spacious 18'7X15'8 master bedroom has a sitting area and the master bathroom features his/hers sinks.

The whole gang will love the exterior features. The extraordinary patio wraps around the 18 X 35 pool. There's an area in the corner for the hot tub (negotiable item), room for lounging, and a BBQ area.

The 2 year new 30 X 40 workshop is perfect for making clever things and fixing what isn't even broken. You'll find several electric outlets, including 220, water is ran up to the building, and the 12 foot walls are well insulated. The electric meter and breaker box are separate from the house.

There have been several upgrades made to this property in the past few years. Some of them include:
*Sand filter & pump for the pool
*Vacuum system for cleaning the pool
*30 year roof with architectural shingles
*Gutters with guards
*2 heat pumps (Tappan)
*Water softener
*Water heater (50 gal)
*Pressure tank
*Downstairs carpet
*Tilt out, double pane windows
*Ventless gas fireplace with remote
*Kitchen appliances
*Workshop

The owner of this house is so confident in it that they are providing a home warranty.

There are several negotiable items with this property including:
*Hot tub
*Farm Pro 2420 tractor
*Snapper Finish Mower
*Blade
*Field roller
*Patio furniture
*Sears stainless steel gas grill

Feel free to call Lissa at 417-718-5091 or visit for more information or to schedule your private tour.

Landon's Story...A Family To Learn From

Fri, 04 Apr 2008 11:01:06 -0500

I first met little Landon when he and his parents came into the office to discuss a vacant lot they were interested in purchasing. It was a chance meeting, actually. Patti and Dan were looking at a lot that was listed with X company when they noticed another one in the same subdivision that they liked even better. While strolling around on it, they noticed one of my signs lying in the ditch covered with leaves and called me. It wasn't my listing. The sign had been stolen from another property about a month before. They called me. With a little difficulty, I got all the information they needed and we all met at the office.

So, what is it that makes this family so special? In the few months that I have known them they have taught me incredible lessons, without even realizing it! I have learned preserverance, committment, compassion, trust, love, the list goes on and on. This is such a strong family and the bond between them is among the greatest I've ever seen.

I am trying to organize a fundraiser for this family and asked Patti to write me a story about Landon and his life. Before reading, grab a kleenex and settle in. To be only 16 months old, this boy sure has a story! This is what she wrote:

"Landon is the only son of Daniel and Patti Stouder. Mom's pregnancy was normal, so the family found out of all the medical problems after Landon was born. Landon was born at 37 weeks and that was only because they induced due to his head size of (15 ¼) and mom's borderline high blood pressure. He was born at lake Regional Hospital in Osage Beach Missouri. After trying to give birth to Landon for 18 hours between Doctor and parents it was decided that it was time to do a cesarean. Landon was in no distress but the delivery was not progressing. Landon was born with low blood sugar but with a little glucose water it came up to normal. Birth weight was 9lbs 12oz. The nursery attendants were very concerned about his breathing and called the Pediatrician in to evaluate him. Landon was retracting and breathing very rapidly. They also realized that the left side of his chest was larger then the right. Later his breathing eased and he was able to stay in the room with his parents. The next days after birth started to bare bad news but he was able to go home with Mom and Dad on the 3rd day of life. Leaving the hospital parents were informed that Landon had a large heart murmur, Hyposadis, and was a bit Jaundice. The Pediatrician set up an appointment with a Cardiologist and told parents that the murmur was probably just because of him being such a big baby.

The first appointment was just his routine newborn check up. That is when Patti expressed her concerns about the ridge going down the center of Landon's head with hard lumps on the top and that he was not eating much plus sleeping most all of the time. Patti was told that she was just being a paranoid mom and not to worry. After expressing still the uneasiness and concern again about knowing what the lumps were, they sent family to the hospital from skull x-rays. The next morning the nurse from the Pediatricians office called Mom, she asked if she was by herself and sitting down. She proceeded to tell Patti that Landon's skull was fused together and his brain had no room to grow, could result in death. Later that week the family went to see the Cardiologist and were told that Landon had a 3/8' hole in his ventricle and would need a surgical repair within 3 months. The Doctor prescribed a diacritic, heart med, and told family they needed to get his Jaundice checked out immediately . So now the family knew that their baby who was perfect in their eyes would have to have heart surgery, restricted brain growth and possible severely Jaundice. The next morning Landon was taken to get his Jaundice checked and it was dangerously high, so they emitted him to the ER and transferred him to Colombia Children's Hospital.

After the admitting evaluation the family was informed that surgery was needed much sooner than 3 months. As the next few days went by Landon's Jaundice was not getting much better. So the parents were unable to even hold him due to the need of the bilruben-lights and blanket he needed to treat the Jaundice. Landon was not eating so a feeding tube was put down his nose to give him proper nutrients. Landon was now 10 days old and had lost down to 8.5lbs. Plans are made to do surgery because Landon is now only fighting to survive and considered failure to thrive. The energy to breath and supply his body with oxygen is almost to much for Landon.

Landon's Jaundice is better now. But as each Doctor does their pre-op evaluation the decision of surgery grows sooner and finally at only 18 days old Landon underwent heart surgery. As they opened his tiny chest his heart began to fibulate and they shocked it with the paddles to bring back into a normal rhythm. The Thoracic Heart surgeon explain to Mom and Dad that Landon what much sicker than expected and if the surgery was not performed then, they could have lost him at any point. The surgeon also found that instead of 1 large VSD, he had 1 large VSD, 2 small VSD's, and a small ASD. The 3/8 VSD was patched and ASD was closed during surgery but the two smaller VSD's would close over time. In infants the sternum in sutured instead on wired and the incision is glued instead of sutured, so Landon's incision looked good, considering.

The incision was healing and but something just wasn't right. The look in Landon's eyes showed such pain and uneasiness. The nights got harder and harder to leave him until one night Landon got to coughing and his incision opened. The Surgeon said that it was best to re-open the entire wound so that they could clean it and it would heal at the same rate. So10 days after his initial heart surgery they scheduled a scar revision. But what the doctors thought would only be a minor scar revision, turn out to be the 1st day that we came close to losing Landon. His sternum had fell apart and was just laying on top of his heart. But this time the surgery was performed in the ICU room so no life saving or reviving equipment was on hand. Landon's heart was again fibulating then would drop off to nothing. The Doctor told Patti that an internal blood pressure was never lost, although at times no pulse was found. The surgeon and team worked on Landon for 8 hours, which seemed like an eternity. Dan was at work three hours away but once getting the call came to hospital to wait for the outcome. The surgical team would stabilize him and then something else would go wrong. From Landon's malnutrition the closure of his chest was so hard they had to wire his sternum up, down, and then across. To close his incision they had to pull all the extra skin and tissue to the middle of his chest and suture then staple it to keep it from re-opening. He remained in ICU and on the vent for close to 2 months before they tried to begin weaning him. During a lot of this time Mom and Dad were unable to touch Landon or even talk in the room because it would stimulate him. They had to keep Landon sedated so he wouldn't fight and cause himself more pain. When Landon was able to wean off the vent he had to get use to being held again because of the lack of interact for so long. He was trying to eat but was not able to take in enough so they kept the feeding tube to supplement what he wasn't taking in by mouth. Patti was with Landon almost day in and day out, so she learned the daily care that was going to be needed in order to take him home.

When Landon finally got to go home he had many medical attachments and devices. He went home with an external pacemaker, oxygen, feeding tube, and medicine port. (a Boravic) The family was offered nursing to help with care and relieve parents but the service did not work out. Parents, with Patti now being unable to return to work chose to take full care and responsibility of Landon. Landon was followed very closely so the family had several appointment every week or sometimes every two weeks. He was in and out of the hospital every two weeks for lung and other severe issues for months. The issues ranges from many pneumonia's to a collapsed lung. Other sickness that he was hospitalized from were a couple blood infections. The Doctor's could not explain the frequent respiratory illnesses, they always said it was due to how sick he was originally. Landon was being seen by every specialist that could possibly help him or make any suggestions in how to better his quality of life.

After consulting with a neuro surgeon parents found out that the ridging on top of Landon's head was called Sagatial Craniosynstosis. Yes it does cause restriction in brain growth but only left and right. The brain could still grow front to back. Landon's forehead was starting to protrude and his eyes started to look stretched. So after being highly recommended we chose to go to San Antonio for Landon's Strip Craniotomy. An organization called Angel Flight flew the family down to San Antonio. The Doctor who performed Landon's Strip Craniotomy invented the procedure, which is a less invasive way to remove the fused portion of the skull. The new procedure was the best know, around because the blood lost and recovery time was so minimal. Surgery went very well, but once again stuck on the vent and far from home. Landon's lungs were still having trouble clearing and it was believed that Landon had pneumonia again. The expected time parents had planned to be in San Antonio was a week including the time to fit and receive Landon's reshaping helmet. Combination of the helmet and rapid grow of an infants head in the 1^st year are the keys to the new procedure. Two weeks later parents were able to take Landon from the hospital and get his helmet. In was Christmas time and the family was going to have to spend Landon's 1^st Christmas away from home and their families. Through Angel Flight the family was not going to get to go home until after the holidays. But an individual brought plane tickets for the family for a Christmas gift, so on Christmas Eve they family flew home.

Landon's 1st winter he was in and out of the hospital for several respiratory issues. The family spent a lot of time apart. Then spring came and the Doctor's still had no explanation of why he was continuing to have lung problems. They started by testing Landon for Cystic Fibrous which was a huge fear in the family eyes, having that Landon had been in and out on the hospital so much already. But to the Doctor's surprise the test came back fine and not even close to questionable. So they decided the then step was to do a lung biopsy and test the tissue for toxins from his heart medicine. To limit the times of intubations and anasethia they combined the biopsy, a scar revision, and bronchial scope. The scar revision was for an abscess that had came up to the side of his heart surgery incision.. The scope was to see his airway and try to find more answers as well. But since Landon's first intubation the Anasethologist knew he was a tough intubation and during the procedure again they almost lost Landon. Landon started to code, so they had to do an emergency tracheotomy. Again this hospital stay was unplanned and ended up being an entire month. Patti and Dan had to learn how to care for Landon with the trach, changing of the trach and how to handle all emergency situations.

Again parents took full care of Landon once going home. Since the trach has been placed he has continued to have many infections and hospital stays. The results of the Lung biopsy were normal and due to the emergency tracheotomy they were unable to scope Landon's airway. The abscess turned out to be a suture that had been left from his heart surgery. After months of no explanations and the treating physician being unable to practice any longer, Landon's care was transferred to Children's Mercy Hospital in Kansas City, MO. Parents were tired of hearing that they had no answers or explanation for why or what was going to happen with Landon. Since the heart surgeon was not in practice no surgical produces could be preformed due to Landon still having Tachycardia. Parents did research and were going to take him to directly to Mayo Clinic in Rochester but decided to try Mercy first since it was closer to home. Even after Mercy resumed Landon's care he still had a few months of back to back hospital stays. Almost all the tests were repeated and through trail and error the ENT and PICU Doctors were able to find that Landon has Bronchial and Tracheal Myolsia. Which means that his airway is floppy/soft and when he get upset or sick it collapsed. Which now explains the frequent lung infections, Pneumonia's, and times of lack of Oxygen. But still after proper ventilation Landon continued to get sick, so in a cautionary sense the Doctors thought it would be in his best interest to hold all oral intake. Short term they put an NG Tube down his nose but then insert a Mikey. They now thought that Landon could be aspirating. So by laparoscopic they inserted a Mikey Button and done a fundoplation at the same time to prevent reflux. After surgery was completed the GI surgeon told parents that the surgery took longer due to Landon's oversized Liver. In the post-op evaluation a routine ultra sound has performed and it was found the surgery was successful and all nutrients would be given through the Mikey.

Since the Mikey has been placed and the lungs have been clearing up, due to proper ventilation Landon has been able to stay at home with only minor sicknesses. Landon still has his trach and is currently on a home vent to properly support his airway and give him the proper ventilation. Although he still has his Mikey, Landon is starting to practice eating to prepare for his swallow test coming up the first part of April. He is now starting to wean off the vent during the day. Now that Landon can be off the vent he is able to use his speaking valve and laughing out loud. No word yet but he is learn a lot of new sign language. Although his airway is still soft his last visit to ENT they were able to look down with a scoped and said his airway is getting much better. It still collapses but not completely. Since Landon has been able to stay health and no major sickness he can focus on his developmental progress. He is starting to walk with little help and ankle braces.

In June Landon is looking at a combination of the following surgical procedure; his Hypospadis repair, Bilateral Ear tubes, a Bronchial Scope, and a tissue biopsy of the trachea.

Landon is currently being followed by:

Cardiology for his Tachycardia.

ENT for Tracheal/Bronchial Myolasia, hearing, sinuses, and speech

Pulmonology for vent and lung care.

Ophthalmology for bilateral laziness of his eyes.

Urology for Hypospadis

Gastrology for GI bloating and possible food allergies

Radiology for routine Liver ultra sounds, swallow tests, and chest x-rays

Weekly the following therapies come to the house to work with Landon:

Occupational Therapy to work on fine and gross motor skills; hands and eye coordination and walking

Physical Therapy to work on gross motor skills; baring weight, sitting, and walking

Speech Therapy to work on feeding, vocalization, and communication with visual and hand signs

Developmental Therapy to help Landon to know how to react to disabilities and other children with special needs.

Landon has a daily routine of activities to help strengthen and help with his development. Through First Steps (Therapy Program) and the Insurance Company Landon has been provided with some equipment but is in need of much more to help him continue to progress in his development. After the age of 3 years old First Steps no longer with provide for Landon's needs so he will be the responsibility of the school system. The school has no way of providing equipment for every child so they each have to bring their own. Although Landon is progressing very well he still will not have the endurance to last all day at school without some equipment to help me be mobile. The family travels to KC every other week for an combination of appointment. Most of the time going up and back the same day, but sometimes having to stay overnight. With all the medical commitments the family still spends a lot of time apart. Landon is on a long list of meds for the above complications, but all seem to be helping him.

God blessed our lives with Landon and through him we will endure until the end!!! Daily he is growing and making improvements. Landon smiles even if he is having a bad day, his smile could brighten anyone's day.

Things have been hard but we wouldn't change a thing."

Every time I see or talk to this family, I learn something new. I look forward to a life long relationship with them.

Expired Home Owner, Tell Me How You Really Feel

Thu, 03 Apr 2008 07:27:15 -0500

A few months ago, I posted a blog asking how to inspire the owner of an unsold home to complete a survey. The questionnaire was intended to be used as a learning tool for me to better understand what goes through the mind of these home owners and how to better serve my clients. I received several responses from those in the real estate profession, but never expected to receive a comment here from one of these living, breathing owners. This is what the owner had to say:

"When the listing expired on our home, we received 30 calls from wanna-list realtors on the day after the listing expired -- DESPITE THE FACT THAT WE'RE ON THE DO NOT CALL LIST. The calls began coming in at 7 AM.

Hey, realtors, FOLLOW THE LAW and CHECK THE DO NOT CALL LIST before you begin harassing home owners. I didn't appreciate the flooding of calls and the mountain of voicemails.

Home sellers are intelligent enough to proceed on their own when selling their homes. STOP THOSE TACKY, INTRUSIVE, AND ANNOYING TACTICS -- THE HARASSING CALLS, THE ANNOYING MAILINGS, AND THE UNWANTED DOOR KNOCKING.

Don't call us ... we'll call YOU."

It was signed by "Realtors stop the harassment"

This is exactly the reason I do not like phone calls and door knocking. I also find them intrusive.I try not to do anything to other people that I wouldn't appreciate myself. I am guilty of the annoying mailings though. Usually a letter mailed out more than a week after it expired, followed by a weekly series of postcards that I have created. The reason the letter goes out late is because I know these people are being bombarded with these things.

I don't want to be pushy. I want to help these people sell their home as much as I want my buyer to have a selection of homes to choose from. I don't want my buyer to have to "settle" for a home when I know the one that expired last month would be perfect for them. Which is one of the areas that the phone calls the seller's get starts to annoy me. In how many of these calls does the home owner hear the phrase "I have a buyer for your home, but need to list it to show them" when they do not have a ready, willing, and able buyer for that exact home? The owner hears it so much that when I really do have a buyer, one that brought the home to my attention, even, the owner thinks it's just another ploy because they've heard it already.

I know that not every owner of an unsold home feels this way, but I thought I would share this view point with you.

Spring Storm Brings Damage To Lebanon Mo

Mon, 31 Mar 2008 20:58:11 -0500

It was 11:55 this morning and I heard the sound of my cell phone ring above the storm sirens that had been sounding for about 15 minutes. It was Ozzy's "Dreamer" coming through the tiny speaker on the phone and I know it isn't family calling. I have this tone set for numbers my phone does not recognize. For a brief moment, I wonder if I should stop gathering up essentials and see who is calling in the middle of the storm. I answer and hear the sound of my daughter's voice asking "Mom? You're not cleaning are you?" I have a habit of cleaning the house in the middle of bad storms and tornado watches. I chuckle and ask "where are you?". She giggles and says "under a table with everyone piled up on top of me." She was in a class at school. I feel that is a safe place for her.

A few hours later, the storm appears to be over. It had ran north of town and the severe part missed us. Thank goodness. The day can go on as usual. We have another system moving in, but it will be a little while. My husband decides he wants to go to a gun shop abut 30 miles from here, so we head out. After about 10 minutes, it starts to rain so hard we could barely see 30 feet ahead of us, but my husband being the stubborn man he is, keeps driving. I nervously sit in the passenger seat watching as the water fills yards and ditches.

We make it to the store just to find them closed and turn around to head home. By this time, every 1/4 mile or so, there was 4-8 inches of water over the road. The fields have turned to rivers. Bluffs into waterfalls. I can't wait to get home. My cell rings again, playing the "Dreamer" tone. I suspect it to be my daughter telling me they have canceled her evening class due to the weather. Her phone is out of minutes and she is using a friend's. I answer and there is no body there. I try to call the number back, to no avail. A pre-recorded message stating the customer I am trying to reach is not available. Now, I'm getting really nervous. Redial. Redial. Redial.

As we get close to town, we notice traffic is backed up about a half mile outside of town and decide to divert to a road around the traffic. This one leads right in front of the school that houses kindergarden and 1st grades. It is also full of traffic and parked cars on both sides of the road. Up ahead, in the parking lot I see red and blue lights in the parking lot close to the bus shed. As my eyes search for a reason, I spot the school bus lying on it's side in the middle of the lot. Nervousness turns to near panic as I still cannot reach my daughter. This is about the time she is transferring busses at this very location. Redial. Redial....ring, ring, "Hi Mom, where are you?". Thank God! She is still at the high school. They hadn't released the students because of the weather. We make a right at the end of the street and head to pick her up. Relief washes over me as she gets into the van. Time to head home. I hear the sherrif on the radio report that there were no injuries except for the driver of the overturned bus, who had been transported to the local hospital.

After the storms are over, we head out on the road with my camera to look at the damage. The city says it was caused by 70 mile per hour wind, but it's so localized it appears to have been a tornado. There were no sirens. No warning.

5 homes are without roofs tonight. Some are covered in tarps and others with people on them trying to repair what they can. Debris lines the fences, yards, and vacant lots surrounding these homes. A carport on top of a house. Two of the school band trailers were picked up and tossed into the empty field behind the school. Total damage. The awning on the school ripped off, chainlink fence picked up out of the concrete, 1/2 inch bolts and all. Shattered glass all over the parking lot.

I am thankful tonight for many things. Primarily that there have been no fatalities reported from this rude visit from mother nature.

Evil Mutant Attack Squirrel

Sun, 30 Mar 2008 19:55:51 -0500

I needed to run out to a piece of land today to check it out for a client and since it actually reached 65 degrees today, I decided it was warm enough to hop on the bike for a change. I had been waiting for a rise in temp since I've only been on the bike 3 or 4 times in the last few months. It had sprinkled on and off most of the morning so I grabbed my full faced helmet and headed down the road on the ‘04 Harley Softail.

It was a beautiful ride. We're starting to see a little bit of green and the daffodils are in bloom. You can't pay for better therapy. Or so I thought!

On the way home, I took a shortcut through Lebanon on Washington Street - a nice little neighborhood with wide streets and slow traffic. As I passed an oncoming car, a brown furry missile shot out from under it and tumbled to a stop immediately in front of me.

It was a squirrel, and must have been trying to run across the road when it encountered the car. I wasn't going very fast, probably about 25mph, but there was no time to brake or avoid it -- it was that close. I hate to run over animals, and I really hate it on a motorcycle, but a squirrel should pose no danger to me and I was about to meet another oncoming car.

I barely had time to brace for the impact. Animal lovers, never fear. Squirrels, I discovered, can take care of themselves!

Inches before impact, the squirrel flipped to his feet. He was standing on his hind legs and facing my oncoming Softail with steadfast resolve in his beady little eyes. His mouth opened, and at the last possible second, he screamed and leapt!

I am pretty sure the scream was squirrel for, "Bonzai!" or maybe, "Die you gravy-sucking, heathen biker scum!" The leap was nothing short of spectacular...This was a super-squirrel!

He shot straight up, flew over my handlebars, and impacted me squarely in the chest. Instantly, he set upon me. If I did not know better, I would have sworn he brought 20 of his little buddies along for the attack. I'm almost sure I saw one taking pictures from the side of the road. Snarling, hissing, and tearing at my clothes, he was a frenzy of activity. As I was dressed only in a long sleeved T-shirt, fingerless gloves, and jeans this was a bit of a cause for concern. This furry little tornado was doing some damage!

Now, I'm just a little girl, but it takes a lot to intimidate me. But picture a 115 pound gal on a red and chrome Harley, dressed in jeans, a T-shirt, and leather gloves, puttering at maybe 25 mph down a quiet residential street, and in the fight of her life with a squirrel. And losing...

I grabbed for him with my left hand. After a few misses, I finally managed to snag his tail. With all my strength, I flung the evil rodent off to the left of the bike, almost running into the right curb as I recoiled from the throw. That should have done it. The matter should have ended right there.

It really should have. The squirrel could have sailed into one of the small front yards and gone on about his business, and I could have headed home. No one would have been the wiser. But this was no ordinary squirrel. This was not even an ordinary angry squirrel. This was an EVIL MUTANT ATTACK SQUIRREL OF DEATH!

Somehow he caught my gloved finger with one of his little hands and, with the force of the throw, swung around and with a resounding thump and an amazing impact, he landed squarely on my BACK and resumed his rather antisocial and extremely distracting activities. He also managed to take my left glove with him! The situation was not improved. Not improved at all.

His attacks were continuing, and now I could not reach him. I was startled, to say the least. The combination of the force of the throw, only having one hand (the throttle hand) on the handlebars, and my jerking back unfortunately put a healthy twist through my right hand and into the throttle. A healthy twist on the throttle can only have one result. Torque.

The engine roared and the front wheel left the pavement. The squirrel screamed in anger. The Bike screamed in ecstasy. I screamed in .. well .. I just plain screamed. Man did I scream!

Now picture a 115 pound gal on a red and chrome Harley, dressed in jeans, a slightly squirrel-torn T-shirt, wearing only one leather glove, and roaring at maybe 50 mph and rapidly accelerating down a quiet residential street on one wheel, with a demonic squirrel of death on her back. The girl and the squirrel are both screaming bloody murder.

With the sudden acceleration I was forced to put my other hand back on the handlebars and try to get control of the bike. This was leaving the mutant squirrel to his own devices, but I really did not want to crash into somebody's tree, house, or parked car. Also, I had not yet figured out how to release the throttle...my brain was just simply overloaded. I did manage to mash the back brake, but it had little effect against the massive power of the bike.

About this time the squirrel decided that I was not paying sufficient attention to this very serious battle (maybe he was an evil mutant NAZI attack squirrel of death), and he came around my neck and got INSIDE my full-face helmet with me.

As the faceplate closed part way, he began hissing in my face. I am quite sure my screaming changed intensity. It had little effect on the squirrel, however. The RPMs on the Softail maxed out (since I was not bothering with shifting at the moment), so her front end started to drop.

Now picture a 115 pound gal on a red and chrome Harley, dressed in jeans, a very raggedly torn T-shirt, wearing only one leather glove, roaring at probably 80 mph, still on one wheel, with a large puffy squirrel's tail sticking out of the mostly closed full-face helmet. By now the screams are probably getting a little hoarse.

Finally I got the upper hand ... I managed to grab his tail again, pulled him out of my helmet, and slung him to the left as hard as I could. This time it worked ... sort-of. Spectacularly sort-of ...so to speak.

Picture a new scene. You are a Lebanon cop. You and your partner have pulled off on a quiet residential street and parked with your windows down to do some paperwork. Suddenly a 115 pound gal on a red and chrome Harley, dressed in jeans, a torn T-shirt flapping in the breeze, and wearing only one leather glove, moving at probably 80 mph on one wheel, and screaming bloody murder roars by, and with all his strength throws a live squirrel grenade directly into your police car.

I heard screams. They weren't mine...

I managed to get the big motorcycle under control and dropped the front wheel to the ground. I then used maximum braking and skidded to a stop in a cloud of tire smoke at the stop light at Elm St. I would have returned to 'fess up (and to get my glove back). I really would have. Really... Except for two things.

First, the cops did not seem interested or the slightest bit concerned about me at the moment. When I looked back, the doors on both sides of the patrol car were flung wide open. The cop from the passenger side was running for his life, with the K-9 doing his best to take the lead. The cop who had been in the driver's seat was standing in the street, aiming a riot shotgun at his own police car.

So, the cops were not interested in me. They often insist to "let the professionals handle it" anyway. That was one thing. The other?

Well, I could clearly see shredded and flying pieces of foam and upholstery from the back seat. But I could also swear I saw the squirrel in the back window, shaking his little fist at me. That is one dangerous squirrel. And now he has a patrol car. A somewhat shredded patrol car ... but it was all his.

Thank goodness this light takes forever to turn green! I think once I got stopped I was almost frozen from fear. I took a deep breath, as I slowly looked back to make sure the squirrel was not about to launch another attack. The cop from the passenger side and dog were running down the street as the one with the shotgun pumped another round into the back seat of the car, screaming like a little girl.

Just as the light turned green, I regained my composure and headed in the direction of home. I have never been so happy to park the bike in the garage. Then it was off to a shower, antibiotic ointment and lots of bandaids.

Note: Although I did get out for a ride today and looked at property, I did not encounter any attack squirrels. It was a beautiful and relaxing ride. This is my version of another persons story.

Property Owners-Be Aware Of Meth Labs (Part 4) Cleaning Up

Sat, 29 Mar 2008 06:50:59 -0500

A generalized cleaning will not remove the toxic waste and chemical residue of Meth production. Do not try to clean it yourself! Even law enforcement and other first responders face health risks when they enter a lab before it is cleaned or ventilated, unless they are protected by Haz-Mat gear. If not properly decontaminated, anyone who moves into a former lab site will be exposed to all the health dangers associated with Meth, as mentioned in part 1 of this series.

There are five major methods of an indoor meth lab cleanup. The method used will depend on the what chemicals are found, the processes used, and how long the lab was active. It is possible in rare cases, that the building be demolished in order to clean up the contaminates. Most situations, though, will require a combination of the following recommended measures.

Ventilation: When solvents and other chemicals that may have soaked into the walls are slowly vaporizing indoors, ventilation may reduce contamination and decrease odors.

Removal: Furnishings, draperies, carpeting, paneling, wallpaper, and other porous items that evaluators believe cannot be cleaned using other methods must be disposed of according to the type and degree of contamination. Some materials may not be suitable for landfill disposal but will have to be disposed of by a licensed contractor.

Neutralization: Where acids or bases have been used, the potential for harmful effects may be reduced or removed through neutralization. Acids may be neutralized with solutions of sodium bicarbonate (baking soda), and bases may be neutralized by using weakly acidic solutions of vinegar or acetic acid in water.

Detergent-Water Washing: Some nonporous and semi-porous surfaces, such as floors, tiles, walls and ceilings, can be scrubbed with detergent and water solutions.

Encapsulation or Sealing: For some surfaces, contamination may be covered with layers of oil-based paint, polyurethane or other approved materials.

It is important to keep in mind that the type(s) of cleaning necessary depends on a variety of factors. What may be appropriate in one situation will not be acceptable in the next.

After the residence has been cleaned using these guidelines, it is advisable to have your property evaluated and tested. Especially If you are concerned about any remaining contamination, or if your property still has an odor, visible staining, or causes physical irritation to those exposed. Also, if you are concerned with liability issues, you should consider having the property tested. Sampling is an expensive option, but may provide peace of mind for property owners and families. You may want to contact your insurance carrier for advice and assistance.

If you fail to disclose the meth history of the property and/or fail to have it properly cleaned, the matter could end up in litigation. If you find a meth lab on your property, please save time, money, stress, and possibly the life of another by having it properly cleaned.

Property Owners-Be Aware Of Meth Labs

Property Owners-Be Aware Of Meth Labs (Part 2) Common Ingredients

Property Owners-Be Aware Of Meth Labs (Part 3) Recognizing A Lab

Property Owners-Be Aware Of Meth Labs (Part 3), Recognizing A Lab

Fri, 28 Mar 2008 06:35:18 -0500

The ingredients used to make methamphetamine in clandestine laboratories are generally household products that by themselves present little danger, but when combined can have serious toxic and explosive effects.

If you came in contact with a methamphetamine lab operation, how would you know it? What ingredients and equipment would be present? What should you do if you find a meth lab? Learn the signs of a potential Meth lab to protect your family and your property from catastrophic damage:

A strong smell that might resemble urine, or an unusual chemical smell like ether, ammonia or acetone.
Little or no traffic during the day, but lots of traffic at extremely late hours.
Extra efforts made to cover windows or reinforce doors.
Residents never putting their trash out.
Lab materials surrounding the property (lantern fuel cans, red chemically stained coffee filters, clear glass jugs and duct tape).
Vehicles loaded with trunks, chemical containers, or basic chemistry paraphernalia - glassware, rubber tubing, etc.
Laboratory glassware being carried into the residence.
Inhabitants smoking outside due to fumes.
Propane tanks with fittings that have turned blue.
An usual amount of cold tablet containers that list ephedrine or pseudoephedrine as ingredients.
Jars containing clear liquid with a white or red colored solid on the bottom.
Jars containing iodine or dark shiny metallic purple crystals inside of jars.
Jars containing red phosphorus or a fine dark red or purple powder.
Coffee filters containing a white pasty substance, a dark red sludge, or small amounts of shiny white crystals.
Bottles containing sulfuric, muriatic or hydrochloric acid.
Bottles or jars with rubber tubing attached (including soft drink bottles).
Glass cookware or frying pans containing a powdery residue.
An large number of cans of camp fuel, paint thinner, acetone, starter fluid, lye, and drain cleaners containing sulfuric acid or bottles containing muriatic acid.
Large amounts of lithium batteries, especially ones that have been stripped.
Soft silver or gray metallic ribbon (in chunk form) stored in oil or kerosene. Secretive/protective area surrounding the residence, like video cameras, alarm systems, guard dogs, reinforced doors, electrified fencing.
Iodine or chemical stained fixtures in the kitchen and bath in sinks, tubs, and reddish stains in carpets or on wallpaper.
Excessive yellow stains on walls and wood work due to exposure to iodine.
Corrosion of metal fixtures (vents, vent hoods, etc.) due to exposure to iodine.
White powder spills on countertops and floors.
Excess coffee filters, plastic baggies, match book covers with striker plates removed, torn lithium battery casings, antifreeze containers, lantern fuel cans, drain cleaner and duct tape.

If spray starch applied to such carpet or wallpaper stains turns purple, the stain is caused by iodine, a key ingredient in Meth manufacturing. The presence of such stains may indicate previous Meth lab activity in the home.

Signs of Meth lab activity outside a home include burn piles, dead or dying vegetation or buried trash piles.

If You Find a Lab

Do not touch anything in the lab area and do not sniff any containers. Do not turn any electrical power switches or light switches on or off. Do not open or move any of the containers with chemicals in them.

Whatever you do, do not smoke, eat or drink anywhere near a methamphetamine laboratory.

If you come in contact with a meth lab, you should decontaminate yourself and your clothing as quickly as possible, and wash your hands and face thoroughly. Call your local authorities immediately and explain your concerns. Do not attempt to gather evidence on your own and never handle any of the materials that may be associated with a lab.

Cleaning up a clandestine meth lab is a dangerous and complicated process which should be handled by trained professionals. Do not attempt to clean up or dispose of a suspected meth lab yourself.

Visit my next blog and we will discuss the methods of decontaminating meth labs.

Property Owners-Be Aware Of Meth Labs

Property Owners-Be Aware Of Meth Labs (Part 2) Common Ingredients

Property Owners-Be Aware Of Meth Labs (Part 4) Cleaning Up