Yvonne's Gilbert AZ Real Estate and Community Information Blog

Family Fun at San Tan Flat, Queen Creek AZ

Yvonne Brown (Century 21 Northwest) — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 00:59:08 -0500

I have to say that I am not a huge country fan. I don't choose to listen to it, but I don't moan and cover my ears when I hear it either. When some friends of ours wanted us to join them for an evening of live country music I figured I'd give anything a shot.

So on a Saturday night my husband and I headed to the San Tan Flat in Queen Creek with our toddler and preschooler and some family friends not sure what to expect. Just a short drive from our home in Gilbert, when we arrived we found a great family atmosphere with reasonably priced food and enough excitement for the kids to keep the whole family engaged, entertained and happy.

Although there is an indoor restaurant we chose to sit in the large outdoor eating area. Wooden picnic-style tables are arranged in a horseshoe shape with a round dance floor right in the center. When we arrived it was early enough in the evening that the band hadn't taken the stage yet and children of all ages flocked to the center and turned the dance floor into a playground. The large group of kids proceeded to organize their own game of "duck, duck, goose" which my children thoroughly enjoyed!

The food was reasonably priced and came up quickly despite the crowd. I didn't even mind that food was ordered at the busy counter inside and then had to be picked up and brought back to your own table. I was just so happy to have found a place where we could go out for the night and have everyone be happy!

Although it was 100 degrees we did take advantage of the individual fire pits placed by each section of tables so that the kids could roast marshmallows. I'm looking forward to that enjoying that particular feature again in the cooler months!

When the band did come on the kids continued to rule the dance floor dancing up a storm to the "country fusion" band. Although I had no idea what that was I found myself enjoying the music and joining my kids on the floor.

Overall it was a great experience and as a mom looking for kid-friendly restaurants this rates high on the list. When you're ready for your night out with the kids check out their website at http://www.santanflat.com/.

Power Ranch Market Trends for June 2008

Yvonne Brown (Century 21 Northwest) — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 00:31:26 -0500

June saw an increase in Power Ranch home sales of over 50% from this same time last year. Homes sold in June ranged from $160,000 - $625,000 with an average price of $289,874 and 121 days on the market. Although just a slight increase over the previous month, this just goes to show that more and more buyers are ready to come out and play! It's a fun time to buy as there are many choices for every budget.

Not quite ready to buy, but you want to experience the many amenities of Power Ranch? Not to worry, there are plenty of rental homes available ranging from just under $1000 to $3000 or more. This fantastic South Gilbert community offers something for every budget while providing access to some of the area's best pools and parks not to mention an endless supply of walking trails surrounded by lushly landscaped grounds.

Need more information on one of the Phoenix Valley's best loved master-planned communities? Contact me today for a personal tour and assistance finding your perfect place to call home!

All statistics from ARMLS.

Yvonne Brown, Century 21 Northwest, 480-543-7330

Power Ranch Market Trends for May 2008

Yvonne Brown (Century 21 Northwest) — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 23:31:02 -0500

In May we saw a total of 27 homes sell in the lovely neighborhood of Power Ranch located in Gilbert, AZ. This is up 44% from this time last year. Home prices ranged from $165,000 - $480,000 showing that there truly is a home out there for every buyer's budget. The average home sold for $256,935 with only 95 days on the market.

This South Gilbert Community provides many amenities for its residents and a fantastic location convenient to shopping, schools, recreation and the 202 San Tan freeway. For a personal tour of homes currently available in your price range or for more information on Power Ranch real estate trends, please contact me today!

All market statistics from ARMLS.

Yvonne Brown, Century 21 Northwest 480-543-7330

East Valley Swimming Lesson Resource Guide

Yvonne Brown (Century 21 Northwest) — Sat, 03 May 2008 18:08:17 -0500

Warm weather is here and that means more time in the pool! If you are looking for swimming lessons for your child in the East Valley communities of Gilbert, Chandler, or Mesa use the links below as a starting point for your own research into finding the right facility or instructor for your family.

Here's to a safe and fun pool season!

Aloha Aquatic Center will soon offer two Gilbert locations for year-round indoor swim lessons. http://www.alohaaquaticcenter.com/

Aqua Tots provides lessons at their facilities across the valley as well as in the Gilbert community of Power Ranch. http://www.aqua-tots.com/

Aspire Kids Sports Center in Chandler offers year round swim lessons in addition to gymnastics, dance and other children's programs. http://www.aspirekidsports.com/

ASU Polytechnic in Mesa offers various levels of lessons with sessions running through the summer. http://www.poly.asu.edu/campusrec/swimlessons.html

City of Chandler Aquatics Program registration is ongoing based upon the session start date. Complete information on lessons as well as city water facility can be found at http://www.chandleraz.gov/default.aspx?pageid=301

City of Gilbert Aquatics Program begins swim lesson registration for city residents May 13^th. http://www.ci.gilbert.az.us/parks/aquatics.cfm

City of Mesa Aquatics Program registration has started, view the complete summer schedule at http://www.cityofmesa.org/parksrec/aquatics/default.aspx

Evo Swim School offers lessons year - round at their indoor facility where they have viewing rooms with free wi-fi as well as a sibling play area. http://www.evoswimschool.com/

In addition to swim lessons, Swim Kids USA also offers classes in gymnastics and dance. http://www.swimkidsaz.com/

The Gilbert community of Val Vista Lakes offers swim lessons at the community pool for residents. http://www.valvistalakes.org/

Valley of the Sun YMCA offers various programs for members and non-members at both their Chandler/Gilbert and Mesa locations as well as across the valley. http://www.valleyymca.org/

Water Works on Wheels provides lessons in three convenient locations in the Chandler/Gilbert area. http://www.waterworksonwheels.com/

Curious about East Valley Real Estate? I can help! Contact me today for availability of homes for sale or rent in your area or to receive a complimentary market analysis of your home!

Yvonne Brown

Century 21 Northwest

480-543-7330

http://www.yvonnebrownrealtor.com/

Summer Fun at Artistic Motion Dance

Yvonne Brown (Century 21 Northwest) — Thu, 03 Apr 2008 11:47:23 -0500

If you're looking for something different to do this summer check out the new Artistic Motion Dance Studio in Gilbert, AZ. Located at the corner of Queen Creek and Higley in Gilbert, Artistic Motion has a full summer program to keep boys and girls of all ages active and out of the sun! The dance studio is conveniently located to the Gilbert communities of Power Ranch, San Tan Ranch, Cortina, Coronado Ranch, Seville and Shamrock Estates.

Owner and Artistic Director Mandi Lutz has created a warm, nurturing environment for all her students. Her knowledgeable and caring staff of instructors encourages interest and excitement in dance and has students looking forward to their next class. Dancers as young as 12 months to adults can choose from various styles ranging from ballet and jazz to hip hop and tumbling.

For the complete summer schedule and list of available classes visit http://www.artisticmotiondanceaz.com/. Registration for the summer session began April 1^st and classes will fill quickly. Call 480-284-7300 for summer tuition rates or for details on having tuition prorated for your summer vacation!

Interested in Gilbert Real Estate information? I specialize in Gilbert new and existing homes sales and leasing. Visit http://www.yvonnebrownrealtor.com/ to search the valley for your next home to purchase or lease.

Yvonne Brown

Century 21 Northwest

480-543-7330

Gilbert AZ Restaurant Profile: Barro's Pizza

Yvonne Brown (Century 21 Northwest) — Tue, 04 Mar 2008 21:11:02 -0600

Sometimes it can be hard to find a truly family or kid friendly restaurant. One of our favorite places to go as a family is Barro's Pizza. The closest location to us is on the corner of Power and Queen Creek in the Safeway shopping center. With a toddler and preschooler it's hard for our family to go out for a peaceful dinner together. Barro's takes all the stress out of a night out and is fun for us all!

The casual pizza joint has fantastic pizza and a super friendly staff. On a Friday or Saturday night you might have to keep your eye open for a table (as you do seat yourself), but even if there is a wait it's worth it. The back portion of the restaurant features a children's play area with a play kitchen with all the accessories, a play house and child sized tables and chairs. While the other wall-mounted tv's are turned to sports, there is a tv in this area just for the kids. There are quite a few tables and booths in this section so you have a clear view of your children playing from your table.

The last time we were in on a Saturday night we easily got a table by the play area and our two children played happily while my husband and I sat and actually got to have a conversation together. Our pizza took about 45 minutes to arrive but for once we actually enjoyed the wait since everyone was happy and having fun! It was nice to have a leisurely evening and not feel rushed or worry about the kids being ticking time bombs!

Next time you are looking for family fun on a Saturday night check out Barro's - you just might see me there!

Interested in Gilbert AZ Real Estate? Give me a call for personal service whether you are buying, selling or renting!

Yvonne Brown

Century 21 Northwest

www.yvonnebrownrealtor.com

Why I Love My New Palm Centro

Yvonne Brown (Century 21 Northwest) — Tue, 04 Mar 2008 19:55:43 -0600

I have never had so much technology in the "Palm" of my hand! I have always had a standard cell phone and depended upon my trusty paper planner. Now that my 2 years are up and I can finally upgrade my Motorola Razr (which I can't stand) I took the leap to the next level - the Smartphone.

I have to admit my number one reason for choosing the Centro over the more advanced Palm 750 was price. Considering this is my first Smartphone I also didn't think I could justify the extra costs for features I wouldn't know I was missing.

As I'm on AT&T my only color choice was the Glacier White which at first was enough to make me want to wait a few months until the black comes out. Surprisingly the white/green color scheme has grown on me and I'm so in love with the phone that I'm not longer bothered by the color. The touch screen is extremely responsive and the colors crisp and brilliant.

Having my task list and calendar on my phone ensures that I am reminded several times a day as I am always on my phone. The contact feature is amazing because not only do I always have my address book with me, but I can add detailed notes such as birthdays, anniversaries, directions, or where and how we met.

Also a great feature is the memo pad. I keep grocery lists so if I happen to have an extra moment I can swing through the store and don't have to try to remember what I needed. I have yet to play with the voice memo feature or many of the other fun features this little phone has to offer.

The coolest feature of all is my ability to use the phone to receive professional ekey service through my MLS. I no longer have to carry a bulky display key "just in case" and better yet I have push button access to preselected sections of my MLS without accessing the internet! I specify the areas and price range and those homes are searchable on my phone. I think my memory allows up to 18,000 listings!

My husband went ahead and purchased the exact same phone and I can now sync both of our phones to the computer so he always has a copy of my calendar and knows where I am. I can also add tasks and alarms so I am no longer the nagging wife - I can blame it on the phone!

For those of you already on a PDA or Smartphone this might not have enough features to be comparable. But for my first venture into the Smartphone arena this is great! If you are considering upgrading technology consider the Palm Centro. I have yet to have a complaint but I'll let you know!

Yvonne Brown

Century 21 Northwest

Little Kicks Soccer Comes to Power Ranch

Yvonne Brown (Century 21 Northwest) — Mon, 03 Mar 2008 19:06:24 -0600

Looking for a fun activity for your 3 - 5 year old? Little Kicks Soccer in cooperation with Power Ranch will start it's Spring Season March 11. Your littlest soccer star will have the opportunity to run and kick right in their own backyard! The program will run from March 11 - May 6. Weekly practice will be held Tuesdays at Ranch House Community Park located at the corner of Haven Crest and Ranch House Parkway in Power Ranch. For complete program details and registration information, please visit http://www.kickskids.com/. Happy Kicking!

Yvonne Brown

Century 21 Northwest

Find the Perfect Mother's Day Gift While Supporting a Mom-Owned Business!

Yvonne Brown (Century 21 Northwest) — Fri, 04 May 2007 13:02:02 -0500

Mother's Day is just around the corner! Are you still looking for the perfect gift for that special mom, sister, aunt or grandma? Check out these local mom-owned businesses for unique gifts that are sure to please!

"Got Junk? Need Ca$h?" is the perfect way to help mom eliminate the clutter! This great service will assist you with the local sale of your household items and clothing without the hassle! Misty Cox gotjunkneedcash@yahoo.com 360-896-5454

Mary Kay Cosmetics offers a variety of products to help your special woman look and feel her best! Visit Jeannie on the web to place an order, do a virtual makeover or find more information! Jeannie Cropsey, Independent Beauty Consultant www.marykay.com/jcropsey 360-606-8830

JSKimages provide quality portraits in the studio or will come to you! Gift certificates are available for those priceless family portraits! Kristen & Jesse Kamerick jskimages@yahoo.com http://www.jskimages.com 888-575-4624

Visit www.huggabears.comfor unique gift ideas! Owner Michelle Tourtillott is offering a Mother's Day special on personalized tote bags which include three to five pictures and an inspirational quote of your choice for only $15 each - a great deal! Michelle Tourtillott www.huggabears.com

Wine Shop at Home is offering a special Mother's Day gift basket with a bottle of champagne, spa products, cookies and other treats for only $99! Other gifts include guided wine tastings and a monthly wine club! Visit Monique on the web for complete details. Monique Shearer www.tasteourwine.com

What woman doesn't love a little pampering? Give mom a gift certificate for a mother/daughter spa appointment with makeovers, lunch or dinner and a complimentary picture afterwards. Terri Engle Relaxing Moments Mobile Day Spa www.relaxingmomentsspa.com 866-636-2789

Elevate the Desperate Housewife in your life to "Woman of the Year" with the Desperate Housewives Spa Package for only $130! Gift certificates are also available for 30, 60 and 90 minute sessions of body and energy work. Amy Bean, LPTA, LMT, Reiki Master BodyWise Massage and Healing www.body-wise.net 503-780-1478

Tastefully Simple offers a wide selection of convenient, easy-to-prepare gourmet foods designed to help people spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the rest of their lives! Great gift packages start at only $17.99! Katie Holley ID #0064780 katie_holley@msn.com www.tastefullysimple.com 360-773-6100

These unique custom gifts and jewelry are sure to be a hit! Bracelets are available in baby, child and adult sizes and are made with sterling silver, fine glass beads and pearls! Kristina McElroy Quality Northwest www.qualitynorthwest.com

For information on Clark County Real Estate, please visit me at www.yvonnebrownrealtor.com!

Wishing you all a very Happy Mother's Day!

Yvonne Brown, Your Clark County Real Estate Agent

Finding My Own Voice in Localism

Yvonne Brown (Century 21 Northwest) — Thu, 03 May 2007 13:13:23 -0500

Sarah Cooper put up an awesome postabout how sharing her interests helps her connect with others through localism.

I thought I'd take a moment to share with all of you Localism fans how I incorporate my interests into my local posts!

The mother of two young children, I spend much of my free time running to this activity, playgroup or event. I am constantly looking for the newest kids activities or classes, family friendly hotspot or that fun, unique family event. I thought, why not make this work for me?!?!

My Localism posts have been focused on great local kids activities. I also write about local seasonal events and more recently about charitable events. I also include seasonal themes in my writing. To date, the blog with the greatest views on Localism was about where to find local Easter egg hunts!

My newest adventure in blogging is a topic that is close to my heart - supporting locally based mom-owned businesses. I recently wrote a brief profile on a local "momprenuer" who is using her business to reach out to other moms. I am currently working on a post that features local mom-owned businesses who are offering great gifts for Mother's Day.

I hope this gets some of your creative juices flowing. Thanks again Sarah for inspiring me!

You Can Help "Stamp Out Hunger"

Yvonne Brown (Century 21 Northwest) — Mon, 30 Apr 2007 02:13:15 -0500

Join your local letter carrier in the fight to end hunger! May 12^th is the national Stamp Out Hunger food drive. To participate, simply leave a bag with your non-perishable donation next to your mailbox prior to your mail delivery for your letter carrier to collect.

The National Association of Letters Carriers has been working to "Stamp Out Hunger" for 14 years. The food drive is a nationwide effort and the largest one day food drive in the United States. Food donations are delivered to local food banks and shelters. Your participation in this year's food drive can make a difference!

Yvonne Brown, Realtor

www.yvonnebrownrealtor.com

Another hand in our pockets

Yvonne Brown (Century 21 Northwest) — Fri, 27 Apr 2007 01:16:57 -0500

Gas prices are going up so fast I can hardly keep track. We know that gas prices affect just about everything we purchase. The cost of transportation affects the produce and other foods we buy in the grocery store, airplane tickets, even the cost of having a pizza delivered has to go up. In our line of work we can't help but to spend a good part of our day in the car!

Below are some of my favorite websites for finding cheap gas.

http://www.gasbuddy.com/ This site was of no use to me here in Vancouver, WA, but it could be a great source for some other areas. The great thing about this site is that when you click on your state it refers you to multiple websites to choose from. Prices seem to be updated more often than the 48 hours they promised on one site, so it seems fairly reliable.

http://autos.msn.com/everyday/gasstations.aspx?zip=&src=Netx This was my favorite site as it was easy to use, provided a map and claimed to update prices every night so you can check first thing in the morning before you head out.

http://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/gasprices/states/index.shtml This one is tied for placement as my favorite site. When you click on your state you are given multiple sites to choose from organized by major cities in your state. The website for my city not only provided prices for regular, plus and premium, but marked the best price by color so it was easy to find who had the lowest price for each grade.

http://www.motortrend.com/gas_prices/ I had to click through state, county and city to finally get to my current gas prices, but the site also lists all three grades and uses colors to easily point out the best prices. The best part was that it gave the date and time of the last update so you know you are getting the most up-to-date info!

Also, don't forget to check your local grocery stores such as Fred Meyer, Safeway, Albertsons and Vons who might be offering fuel discounts with a minimum purchase as well as your local warehouses such as Costco who usually offer very competitive fuel rates. Good luck to all of you!

How do you capture leads from open houses?

Yvonne Brown (Century 21 Northwest) — Thu, 26 Apr 2007 21:17:11 -0500

There have been several great blogs written on open houses recently. Last Sunday I just did my first open house which I thought was quite successful based on the amount of traffic I had through. However, after some serious I thought I realized that I haven't come up with a good way to capture leads from the open house. Many of you do this successfully. I am curious as to what methods work best for you. Do you make a "sign-in sheet" or use a beautiful store bought guest book. Or do you give them enough valuable information during your time together that they come back to you?

Thanks for stopping by and I appreciate any and all suggestions!

Lockwood Creek Open House Sunday 4/22

Yvonne Brown (Century 21 Northwest) — Sat, 14 Apr 2007 02:47:56 -0500

Join me Sunday April 22nd from 1 - 4pm at 1515 E 4th Way in picturesque La Center! This beautiful upgraded 2598 square foot home was built in 2006 and boasts vaulted ceilings in the master bedroom, gas appliances, covered patio and a 4th bedroom/bonus room all on a private lot in the quiet neighborhood of Lockwood Creek! This home is convenient to the very best of La Center and within walking distance of the library, post office, park and schools. Come experience everything this home has to offer for yourself!

For more information about buying, selling or relocating to Clark County Washington please visit me at http://www.yvonnebrownrealtor.com/

Yvonne Brown, Realtor

Your complete source for Clark County Real Estate!

Working with a Real Estate Agent – Finding Your Perfect Partner

Yvonne Brown (Century 21 Northwest) — Tue, 10 Apr 2007 03:05:14 -0500

Buying and selling real estate can be extremely exciting and stressful all at the same time! A professional real estate agent is an invaluable resource during the process and it's important that you find the right fit for your family! Here are a few things to keep in mind as you search for your perfect partner.

One of the most obvious ways to come across a great real estate agent is the tried and true method of referrals. A referral from a trusted friend or relative can help you navigate through a sea of agents! Although an agent may come highly recommended, schedule a casual meeting prior to entering into a relationship. Your real estate professional should fit your personal needs and style.

With an important transaction such as real estate, your comfort level is #1. You must be comfortable with the agents selling style, marketing tactics, knowledge level and availability. Working with someone who makes you uncomfortable is no fun! Your chosen real estate professional should be a partner who shares a common goal!

An agent who has the willingness to describe to you and educate you on the home buying or selling process is a great asset! As an informed consumer you'll also know that you are working with a professional who is confident enough in their own level of knowledge to teach it to someone else.

Kindness and common courtesy are paramount in any partnership. Returning phone calls and e-mails in a timely manner as well as basic communication skills are easily overlooked yet make all the difference. Never assume - always be ready and willing to ask questions! What we don't know when buying or selling a home COULD hurt us!

Most importantly, working with a professional who truly LISTENS and puts your best interests first will make for a much smoother transaction! Real estate isn't just about buying or selling property, it's about realizing dreams, reaching goals, building families and starting new chapters! I wish you and your family the best of luck in your next chapter!

For more information about buying, selling or relocating to Vancouver Washington please visit me at http://www.yvonnebrownrealtor.com/

Yvonne Brown, Realtor

Your complete source for Vancouver and Clark County Real Estate!

Clark County Neighborhood Associations

Yvonne Brown (Century 21 Northwest) — Mon, 02 Apr 2007 16:53:54 -0500

Clark County Neighborhood Asoociations provide communities with a great way to connect with each other! Whether you rent or own, getting involved with your neighborhood association is the perfect first step to improving the areas we love! Associations help to build a sense of community and that feeling of community is just one of many reasons to love living in Clark County!

The Clark County Neighborhood Outreach program provides a number of services free of charge for neighborhood associations. Visit their website below for details on neighborhood association boundaries, individual association contact information, services offered, and assistance for starting your own neighborhood association!

It's your community, get involved! http://www.clark.wa.gov/neighborhoods/associations.html

I am your source for everything Vancouver! Please contact me for assistance with buying or selling real estate, general real estate questions or relocation assistance. This is one of life's greatest journeys and I'd love to take the ride with you!

Yvonne Brown, Realtor

www.yvonnebrownrealtor.com

First Time Homebuyers - What are YOU Looking for in a Home?

Yvonne Brown (Century 21 Northwest) — Thu, 29 Mar 2007 01:41:05 -0500

As a home buyer there is so much to think about, especially in today's market where buyers typically have several homes to choose from in any given price range! Please read on for a few things to consider when searching for your perfect home!

1. LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION!!! This will mean something different to everyone. You must figure out what it means for YOU! Do you need a home that will make for an easy commute? Or are schools your #1 priority? Maybe you'd prefer land where you have room to roam, or are you a city dweller who thrives on being in the middle of it all?

2. Move-in Ready or are you a DIY? With the HGTV craze and the boom in DIY (do it yourself) projects maybe you'd prefer a property that needs your custom touch. If that isn't your thing, there are plenty of properties out there where the updating and major decorating have already been taken care of for you.

3. Distinguish between the "Must Haves" and the "Would Likes". You don't always need what you think you need. Be honest with yourself and outline your minimum requirements. You never know what you might find out there! Although sometimes too much choice can be confusing, leaving yourself open to options can sometimes help you find that perfect place!

4. Be an Explorer! If you are able and willing take the time to explore and get to know the unique personality of the neighborhoods that you are considering. Visit the grocery stores, restaurants, coffee shops and boutiques to get a feel for the atmosphere of the area. This goes back to the question of location.

5. It's not just about the numbers. Yes, the number of bedrooms is important, but how you plan to use the space is what counts! Different configurations of space can offer perfect solutions for your individual needs. Don't forget to look at properties that offer bonus rooms, basements, attics, and lofts in addition to bedrooms.

Best of luck and don't forget amid all the stress and work to have fun! There is nothing like achieving the dream of homeownership!

I specialize in Vancouver, WA and Clark County, WA Residential Real Estate and would be happy to answer any questions you may have!

Visit me at www.yvonnebrownrealtor.com!

10 Tips for a Smoother Move

Yvonne Brown (Century 21 Northwest) — Thu, 22 Mar 2007 16:31:04 -0500

The tips below come from years of experience! As the daughter of a Naval Officer and the spouse of a former Marine I am a self-proclaimed moving expert! I hope these tips help make your next move a little less stressful!

1. Pack each child a "moving survival kit" or better yet have them pack it themselves. The kit should include non-perishable age appropriate snacks, drinks, books, toys, and/or portable, non-messy art projects. This will help keep little ones busy as well as help them to feel a little more at home in the new place. If your child is old enough to choose and pack their own selections it might be a good distraction freeing up a little of your time!

2. Pack a small kit of things the family will need right away. Toilet paper, paper towels, all-purpose cleaner, light bulbs, trash bags and a flash light will make life a little easier until you can find the necessities you need!

3. Take the time to mark each box with as much detail as possible. Start with the room the box belongs in and then a one or two word description of items inside. This will make choosing which boxes to unpack first a little easier, saving you the trouble of opening and digging to find things you might need.

4. Keep a moving file or notebook that contains contact information for utility companies, your new address and phone number, your real estate agent and your loan officer. Also, make sure these contacts all have a transition phone number for you such as a cell phone or the name and number of a relative who can reach you.

5. Think ahead - does your family take prescriptions on a regular basis? If so make sure you have plenty until you get settled in and transfer the prescription to your local pharmacy. Some national chains such as Walgreen's allow you to refill at any location in the country. Do you have plenty of baby supplies easily accessible to get you through the first few days? If you have children who will be starting school right away make sure to leave any needed school supplies out.

6. Don't let important papers get lost in the shuffle. Birth certificates, shot records, medical records, etc. should be clearly marked and not thrown in with other less important household papers.

7. Don't forget to call or visit your bank to change your address and phone number. Banking documents are not always forwarded.

8. If you can, do your research on local utilities and schedule turn on appointments a couple of weeks in advance. It can sometimes take phone or cable companies a couple of weeks to fit you in. This will help make the transition a little smoother.

9. If moving into a community where your moving truck will be blocking others parking spots, garages or a main driveway, try to introduce yourself to neighbors right away. Let them know that you will be trying to unload as quickly as possible and apologize for any inconvenience. If they come home in a bad mood to find someone blocking them you can easily get off on the wrong foot. But with a heads up (when possible) you might be able to diffuse a potential situation.

10. Try to enjoy the excitement of your new home!

Moving to Vancouver, WA? Visit me at www.yvonnebrownrealtor.com for more community information and links!

MeMe - It's my turn - thanks for sharing the fun Cyndee!

Yvonne Brown (Century 21 Northwest) — Thu, 22 Mar 2007 00:54:25 -0500

It has been so fun for me to read all about everyone else! Thanks Cyndee for tagging me - I gladly accept your challenge!

•1. I skipped my junior year of high school. I also spent each of the three years in a different school. I did my freshman year in Portsmouth RI, sophomore year in Oceanside CA , and senior year in Chesapeake VA. (My dad was in the Navy - still is!) Overall, I attended 8 schools from kindergarten to high school.

•2. I met my husband at a New Year's Eve party and we were married less than a year later in Las Vegas. The night before we got married we were in the casino. On a whim we played what was to be our wedding date (17) and it hit! I think we won $400 not to mention taking it as a definite sign that we were meant to be! 6 years and 2 beautiful daughters later he can still melt me with his smile!

•3. My grandfather, Charles DeBow, was one of the first five Tuskegee Airmen. The Tuskegee Airmen were the first Black pilots to ever serve in the military.

•4. The craziest thing I ever did was move from CA to WA with a newborn and 2 year old while recovering from a c-section. Let's just say my husband unloaded the moving truck all by himself....

•5. I am dedicated to supporting women in business. I started a local networking/marketing group, Mom to Mom, for "mompreneurs".

Thanks for reading. I now tag Julie Ferenzi Katie Wojtkowski Cynthia Sloop

Sorry if any of you have already been meme'd :)

What I Learned From My 2 Year Old.... And How It Applies to Us All

Yvonne Brown (Century 21 Northwest) — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 10:31:04 -0500

I am one lucky lady! I have two beautiful girls who find new ways to amaze me everyday! Yesterday as we were leaving the grocery store my 2 year old waved, smiled and said hello to an older gentleman as we walked by. His grumpy scowl was replaced by a big grin instantly! My little darling had made an impact on this strangers day with the smallest of gestures.

It was then that I was reminded of how simple it can be to touch someone's life. There are so many opportunities for us to do this on a daily basis, yet so often we don't take the time. As Real Estate Professionals we come into contact with so many people! We have amazing opportunities to touch people everyday! Who will you touch today?