My Kansas City Home Life...

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2012-01-20T11:04:00.000-06:00

Page 11 of 366 ... Keep informed

2012-01-11T13:06:00.000-06:00

1) Post Office news for Prairie Village, KS residents... One of my favorite websites (www.pvpost.com) posted that the future of our Post Office is in jeopardy. Please plan on attending the meeting on Wednesday, January 18th at 4pm in the lobby (3710 W. 73rd Terrace, PVKS 66208). For more information!

2) Before casting judgement on Tim Tebow, please read the book "Pros and Cons"

3) Looking for a home in the Plattsburg, Lathrop, Smithville area, visit Woodward's list of properties for sale at kchomes

4) What do you think about a law preventing you from collecting rain water? Read this article

Silence is Golden... NOT

2012-01-10T09:24:00.003-06:00

I've been going crazy not blogging. My silence may not have bothered you much but I like typing. Losing my laptop and all my data put a crimp in my style. After thirty days with none of my ideas at my disposal, I push aside my frustration at my recent loss and regroup my thoughts... Many trends to evaluate, many local haunts to praise and many lives to discuss! The biggest project to tackle is creating a positive home environment...

To increase the flow of my idea juices, I flip through my "kchomes" magazine:

Open publication - Free publishing - More kansas

2012 is here ! Kansas City Homes for sale: December 29, 2011

2011-12-31T11:32:00.000-06:00

A announcement from HUD:

The last issue of 2011 rings in the New Year with a plethora of homes for sale:

Open publication - Free publishing - More kansas

Kansas City Homes for sale: December 15, 2011

2011-12-14T08:21:00.001-06:00

Open publication - Free publishing - More kansas

Establish Rules #5: Thou shalt not BITE

2011-12-05T11:49:00.001-06:00

The first step to solving your problems is to admit you have one... Right? Not for me, I accept that I am a nail biter. For brief interludes throughout my forty years, I pamper my nails with beautiful products. I replace the teeth with nail files and force myself to use every time the urge hit to do some gnawing. For a couple of months, I refrain from the habit; However, I hit a stress point and the chewing begins.

Spying some alluring colors of nail polish at Bijin Salon & Spa, I investigate the display. At first the colors call me but the words "3 Free" speak to my inner eco child. Butter London contains no formaldehyde, no toluene and no DBP. Why wait until the New Year to shed those habits... I pronounce today, "Stop biting thou nails." I arm myself with a beautiful array of nail polish and a nail recipe.

Here's my plan:

Clip, not bite, and file those finger nails.
Make my nail recipe to hydrate and remove dry skin: Combine 2 cups Sugar and 1 cup Olive Oil and then rub concoction all over hands, especially your nails and cuticles. Relax for 15 minutes listening to your favorite music playlist. Finally, rinse off your hands with warm water. You may want to use a warm washcloth to remove excess oil.
Since splurging on Butter's "Nail Fertilizer", coat my nails with this strengthener.
Gaze at the metamorphosis while painting with rosy sparkles.

My phone rings... I believe Steinbeck aptly describes my new situation: “The best laid schemes o' mice an' men / Gang aft a-gley.” (aka: "The best laid plans, often go awry"). I hope I can complete my plan before the New Year !

Love Brookside ... For your consideration !

2011-12-01T12:11:00.001-06:00

I don't normally promote specific listings on my blog but I find myself cheering the sale of this home. These sellers called me a couple of months ago to get information about advertising in "kchomes" magazine. They observed all my online efforts and loved the colored printed piece.

Immediately following my conversation, their Realtor, Chris Norman, contacted me to place an ad. In a brief discussion, the agent and I discovered that we shared a mutual person. His mother taught Biology at my high school, and she was the most endearing and enthusiastic teacher that I had the privilege of knowing.

Now let's get this home sold... Brookside home! New exterior paint! Close to plaza, medical schools, waldo area! Minutes from shopping & eat. Hardwoods under all carpets, finished family rm or rec rm, formal dining room, great room, & living room with a fireplace! Lots of character in this home and in neighborhood. Fenced in back yard with patio. Tall mature trees lining the streets. $199,950. Contact Chris Norman at 816-507-7776.

Establish Rules #4: Toilet

2011-11-28T14:41:00.001-06:00

Once upon a time, Zoe and Zach (The Z's) happily flushed the toilet with giggles. However, it took just one visit from their older brother to break their perfect habit. He never flushes the toilet and the kids harangued him about keeping the toilet clean. Proudly, my step son announced that it was not environmental friendly to keep flushing all that water away and that he only flushes once a day at his home. The Z's love to save the planet and embraced their beloved brother's behavior. After a couple of weeks, they began screaming at me to clean the toilet because it looked "DISGUSTING".

I took my cue to teach them about flushing in a "environmentally" safe way by using non toxic chemicals:

Flush the toilet after every use
You can clean it since you guys created the "DISGUSTING" bowl
Here is 1 cup of vinegar ... Pour the vinegar into the toilet
Set the timer for 30 minutes
After 30 minutes, take this toilet brush and 1/2 cup baking soda AND scrub away to remove the stains

To get a sense of the prowess of vinegar and baking soda, I have the "BEFORE" picture here:

If you prefer to avoid vinegar, BORAX is a great alternative and can be discovered at the below hardware stores:

Euston Hardware in the Village at 6955 Tomahawk Rd (913-262-4737)
Westlake Ace Hardware at Corinth Square located at 4049 Somerset Dr (913-381-7750)
Waldo Hardware in Kansas City, Missouri at 126 West 75th St. (816-523-2244)

Kansas City Homes for sale: December 1, 2011

2011-11-28T09:23:00.001-06:00

Open publication - Free publishing - More kansas

Blessings Counted !

2011-11-24T11:00:00.001-06:00

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

Establish Rules #3: Dishes

2011-11-20T11:02:00.001-06:00

Lots of dishes accumulate during the Thanksgiving Feast week. In our household, it's the same piles and same whines as any other week. My monkish chant, "dishes in the kitchen," seems to cause giggles amongst the kids instead of inducing action. Choosing my battles wisely, I decide to break with tradition of using the fine china and silver and present my table with paper products. The New Dime Store in Brookside and Tiffany Town in the Village may have just what I need to keep me from losing my voice from all those chants. After the holidays, I will begin my dish campaign.

YELP !

2011-11-18T23:56:00.001-06:00

Write reviews and post your faves at www.yelp.com !

Kansas City Homes for sale: November 17th, 2011

2011-11-16T11:03:00.001-06:00

Open publication - Free publishing - More kansas

Establish Rules #2: Fight

2011-11-14T08:02:00.001-06:00

Tension and anxiety raises during the next two months. Title Boxing Club at 7600 State Line, PV, KS can help you alleviate the grumpies plus help keep the holiday foods building up in those thighs! Let's keep in mind the rules of fighting fair:

No Insults
No Blaming
No Yelling
No Force
No Divorce Talk
No Past Talk
Just saw this quote on a FB friend's status and thought so apropos:
"Speak when you are angry and you will make the best speech you'll ever regret."
"Play fair. Say you're sorry when you hurt somebody" ~Robert Fulghum

"Thank you" seems so lacking Bless all of the Veterans ...

2011-11-11T12:12:00.001-06:00

Establish Rules #1 Shoes

2011-11-10T10:06:00.001-06:00

Begin the no shoes rule: Leave shoes at the door. This will keep the dirt at bay from all the weather elements entering your home !

My own horror inside the frig...

2011-11-07T09:56:00.000-06:00

With so many kids opening therefrigerator for the last couple of months, I’m not sure I want to clean thisbeast before Thanksgiving Dinner preparations. I thought Halloween passed butnot at our house. Inside our frig looks like a miniature haunted house with redgoop running down one side of the white interior and dark brown sticky globs onthe shelf.

It’s time to instill rulesabout the refrigerator :

Wipe up spills immediately
Wipe rims of condiments beforeplacing inside
Check for spoilage to throw outitems past their prime
Drip prone items, berries & defrosting meats, place on a rimmed plate
Wipe with moist soaped cloththe Front doors and handles

Did they say snow? Winter Prep of Home

2011-11-03T08:35:00.000-05:00

Indoor Preparations presented by Dan Vick RE/MAX Results (816-210-7359)

The most obviousitems to address as the winter months approach center largely around ensuringthat your home remains warm. Regardless of your heat source there arepreventative measures that should be taken to ensure that you remain warm andsafe inside your home. Some of the most important areas to assess include:

Furnaces - regularannual furnace inspections will help keep your furnace in good repair. Cleaningor replacing furnace filters monthly during the operating months will also keepyour furnace operating efficiently.
Oil Heaters - likefurnaces, oil heaters require annual inspections and maintenance. Annualinspections should include: inspecting the chimney, cleaning the pipes toremove soot build up, replacing the air filter, checking oil pressure andcleaning the oil filter bowl. Oil supplies will need to be replenished.
Fireplaces -periodic cleanings should be performed by a chimney sweep to remove soot andcreosote buildup to prevent chimney fires. It is also a good time to ensure thatwoodpiles are sufficiently stocked for the winter months with well-seasonedwood. Woodpiles should be located in a dry location and in an area away fromstructures to prevent granting wood-eating insects, such as termites, easyaccess to your home.
Inspect windows anddoor for leaks - replacing cracked windows, or sealing air leaks around doorsand windows will not only make the winter months more comfortable, but willalso lower the costs of heating your home. One method of sealing leaks aroundwindows is by using a removable caulking product which allows for easy removaland restoration of functionality for windows with the return of warmer weatherin the spring.
Evaluate smoke detectorsand related safety equipment - the ending of daylight savings time is an idealtime to replace batteries in smoke detectors and any other battery-poweredsafety or emergency equipment. It is also a good time to evaluate existingsmoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors and fire extinguishers in terms oflifespan and whether they provide an adequate level of coverage. Smokedetectors and fire extinguishers are generally considered to have a lifespan of10 years, whereas carbon monoxide detectors have a lifespan generally rangingfrom 2 to 5 years. Beware that batteries in the carbon monoxide detectors maystill function after the actual carbon monoxide sensor has ceased beingoperational.

Kansas City Homes for sale: November 3rd, 2011

2011-11-01T12:06:00.001-05:00

Open publication - Free publishing - More house

Samhainophobia*...

2011-10-31T09:45:00.000-05:00

I thank my lucky stars that the Zs don't have this phobia ... The Zs schedule a profitable night with pillowcases in hand ... They plot their course for ultimate gains in the treat department from the merchants of Corinth Square and The Village Shops and then a detailed course throughout the neighborhood!

HAPPY HALLOWEEN and be safe :)

*Samhainophobia refers to an abnormal and persistent fear of Halloween. This time of year may also stir up other phobias such as the fear of: cats (ailurophobia), witches (wiccaphobia), ghosts (phasmophobia), spiders (arachnophobia), the dark (nyctophobia), and cemetaries (coimetrophobia).

Diá de Los Muertos... This weekend see some skeletons

2011-10-28T10:21:00.003-05:00

At the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art ...
"Have you ever wondered about the skulls and skeletons associated with Mexico’s Day of the Dead? Originally part of Aztec traditions, these calaveras were adopted and repurposed by José Guadalupe Posada (1852-1913) to become the whimsical skeletons we know today."

José Guadalupe Posada: Voice of the Mexican Common Man... October 29, 2011—February 12, 2012

Books that go bump in the night...

2011-10-26T21:06:00.001-05:00

I found a paranormal series that has kept my interest after the fifth book!

Mercy Thompson Series by Patricia Briggs!

Stygiophobia ... Dante and Rodin!

2011-10-24T10:33:00.000-05:00

Both create the "Gates of Hell". If you suffer from Stygiophobia or Stigiophobia or Hadephobia, you may want to avoid reading Dante's Inferno or skip viewing the reproduction of Rodin's monumental door depicting the suffering souls of Dante's hell.

Rodin's sculptures at the Nelson-Atkins Museum brings Dante's "Divine Comedy" to the forefront of our imaginations ! The Rodin Exhibit at the Nelson runs from October 2011 through June 3, 2012 in the Bloch Lobby at the Nelson Atkins Museum of Art.

Kansas City homes 4 sale ... Look no further for that perfect home!

2011-10-20T09:35:00.002-05:00

Open publication - Free publishing - More house

Devils, Pumpkins and Cats ... Copyright issues?

2011-10-18T23:43:00.004-05:00

I just can't get enough of these old Halloween cards ...

Would I being breaking any copyright laws if I printed them on photo paper, mounted them on card stock and mailed them to my friends?

Wiccaphobia... Live on the edge with Halloween Cards

2011-10-17T10:15:00.000-05:00

Witches play predominately on Halloween cards! If a loved one has "wiccaphobia", avoid sending them a card with a witch! Tiffany Town in the Village stocks a plethora of cards! (3924 W. 69th Terrace, PVKS 66208, 913-362-7070). If the craft bug bites, Paper Source on the Country Club Plaza carries all the supplies needed for your creations! (621 W. 48th Street,Kansas City, MO 64112, 816-753-2777)

Pawprint Fashions ...

2011-10-14T08:58:00.002-05:00

Fashion designer, Isaac Mizrahi, stopped by Martha Stewart's show a couple of years ago discussing Halloween fashions for your dog. Ahhh, if only we had a fashion designer to cut and sew costumes for our pets. Never fear, no work needed to sport your costumed furry friend. The Zs discovered simple hats for our Luke that already came assembled at Land of Paws. Three locations to serve the Kansas City populace:

Corinth Square ... 4021 Somerset Drive, PVKS 66208 ... 913.341.1011

Briarcliff Village ... 4155 N. Mulberry Drive, KCMO 64116 ... 816.587.2275

Deer Creek Marketplace ... 6772 W. 135th Street, OPKS 66223 ... 913.402.1033

If you are feeling creative and crafty after herding the kiddos, I found some ideas on the web to help:

Superhero: Make a cape out of an old T-shirt and tie it around the dog's neck with velcro. You can add a superhero logo on the T-shirt, made out of felt paper and attached with either the glue-gun or some stitches.
Fairy: If you have some leftover fairy wings from your child, redesign them with an elastic band so that they can fit on the shoulders of the dog
Cowboy: Bandana

Your dog’s comfort and safety comes first!

Cookbook Day ...

2011-10-12T09:20:00.000-05:00

According to holidayinsights.com, October 12th celebrates Cookbook Launch day. The sight suggests buying a cookbook to celebrate this day. I would love to have an excuse to buy a cookbook; However, these sluggish economic times prevents my impulse. Never fear, I always have a solution to satisfy my needs : The Public Library !

In light of the spooky month, I searched "halloween" at Johnson County Library and KC Public Library to find a cookbook relevant to Halloween. I found some real treats:

Kansas City Public Library

Halloween Treats by Donata, Maggipinto

Kraft Halloween by Kraft Foods Co

Frightfully Fun Halloween Recipes

101 Spooktacular Party Ideas by Linda Sadler

Ghoulish Goodies by Sharon Bowers

Creepy Cuisine by Lucy Monroe

Johnson County Library

Halloween by Fay Robinson

Halloween Crafts by Fay Robinson

Cake Pops by Bakerell

Family Fun Tricks and Treats by the FamilyFun

Tricks & Treats by Deborah Harding

Trick or Treat by Morgana De Ville

Halloween by Matthew Mead

Halloween by Martha Stewart

Have a happy cookbook day !

Phasmophobia ... Face your fear of ghosts at the Wornall House

2011-10-09T15:28:00.000-05:00

Ghost Tours and Paranormal Groups

Ghost Tours $15 per person: Take a lantern tour through the John Wornall House and hear about frequent ghost sightings and strange events. Roast a marshmallow around the fire in the yard, and on October 14, 15, 21, 22, 28 and 29th to hear Civil War ghost stories with the Missouri Irish Brigade, Civil War re-enactors. This one is ok for brave kids. Tours start on the hour and typically fill up quick.
Paranormal Investigations $50: Stay from 10pm to 1am in the house and do a real paranormal investigation with Missouri Paranormal Society. Learn how to use their equipment, ask questions, and actually try to detect paranormal evidence. Also, you will receive a tote bag and other goodies. This one is ok for young teens (with parent, as long as they are able to sit quietly in a room and wait for equipment signals) older teens, and adults. October 14,15, 21, and 22, 28, 29 Reservations are required and very limited. Register quickly!
Book a Private Ghost Tour $150: Take our regular Ghost Tour (as described above) but have the house all to yourself. We will open up the house at night for you and your party of any number. You can choose any date (except Oct. 14, 15, 21 22) You get individual attention from the staff and the tour typically lasts longer then the usual hour of our public tours. This is a popular activity for social groups and birthday parties!
Do Your Own Paranormal Investigation $150: The Wornall House is happy to welcome paranormal groups who would like to do their own investigation. Times and dates are negotiable. You bring your equipment.

Call 816-444-1858 for more information or register at the wornallhouse.org website

to reserve your spot today !

Wornall House is located at 6115 Wornall Rd, KCMO

Open Tuesday thru Sundays

Liar Liar Pants on Fire ... Nothing to laugh about!

2011-10-07T14:51:00.000-05:00

Teach your kids about fire today and next week for "Fire Prevention Week". My mother forgot her basic rules 10 years ago when her clothing caught on fire and she lives with the scars and nightmares ever since ...

The "stop, drop, roll" should be a mantra but also discuss the following:

Crawl Low Under Smoke
Never go back into the burning house
Practice an escape plan
Tell them about this National week:
According to legend, on October 8, 1871, Mrs. O'Leary was inher barn, milking her cow. The cow kicked over a lamp which started the GreatChicago Fire of 1871. The fire burned for over 27 hours. When it was over, more than 300 people were killed,100,000 people were left homeless, and over 17,00 structures were destroyed. The Great Chicago fire sparked major efforts in fireprevention. Forty years later, theFire Marshall's Association of North America(FMANA) held the first FirePrevention Day. In 1920 , President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed Fire PreventionWeek.

And what a good time to replace batteries in the smoke detector with a helper holding the batteries for you. If no smoke and fire detectors, quickly make a field trip to the local hardware store to purchase this much needed item!

Comfort food for the romantic bookworm...

2011-10-06T17:20:00.000-05:00

I peruse the bookshelves at Corinth Library on Saturdays.Then on Sundays, I relish time in the kitchen preparing a meal to last.However, my ultimate comfort food can not be recreated in my kitchen nor can Iwrite a novel to save my life.

There are times that you need to pay someone else for yourcomfort. A big bowl of Marco Polo's spaghetti and meatballs finished with ascoop of Murray's* French Silk ice cream satisfies one of my needs.

As I find a repose in these foods, I often feel the need toreread certain books. Not known to be great tomes of intellectual meaning; butpleasurable and quick and satisfying.

The Dead Travel Fast ... Deanna Raybourn ; Anyone But You...Jennifer Crusie ; Night Play (Dark-Hunter, Book 6)... Sherrilyn Kenyon ;Breathing Room... Susan Elizabeth Phillips

Kansas City Homes for sale : October 6th, 2011

2011-10-05T19:34:00.001-05:00

Open publication - Free publishing - More kansas

Following the kc bird ...

2011-10-03T09:26:00.000-05:00

Charlie Sheen, Justin Bieber, Sara Palin, Obama and Lady Gaga aren't the only ones tweeting up a storm ...

Forget "winner" and all the poltical brouhaha, I wanted local kc flavored tweets and discovered the following (no tweeps with stagnant accounts on this list) :

"CowTownChow"

http://twitter.com/#!/jocolibrary

http://twitter.com/#!/RainyDayBooks

http://twitter.com/#!/jasperskc

http://twitter.com/#!/IndigoWild

http://twitter.com/#!/nelson_atkins

http://twitter.com/#!/KCOriginals

http://twitter.com/#!/WYMKC

http://twitter.com/#!/PrairieVillage

http://twitter.com/#!/pvposter

http://twitter.com/#!/KCLibrary

http://twitter.com/#!/PitchStreet

http://twitter.com/#!/inkkcmag

http://twitter.com/#!/KCKansan

http://twitter.com/#!/TheKCRag

http://twitter.com/#!/RGKC

http://twitter.com/#!/TheRoasterie

http://twitter.com/#!/GreenabilityMag

Still fizzing with Coke New Wave ... BUT There's More Buzzing Excitement in the Village

2011-09-30T11:08:00.000-05:00

Coca Cola Freestyle ...

Make your own drinks!

Today, I chose Dansani Raspberry and my son settled on Sprite Strawberry !

The website for the new wave machine: http://www.coca-colafreestyle.com/

You can find the nearest location at their website but here's a few to get you started:

Mr Goodcents 3954 W 69th Terr, Prairie Village, KS

Mr Goodcents 6250 Johnson Dr, SM, KS

Mr Goodcents 6304 Brookside Plz, KC, MO

Mr Goodcents 4100 Rainbow Blvd, KC, KS

Firehouse Subs 4628 J C Nichols Pkwy, KC, MO

Mr Goodcents 13216 W 62nd Terr, SM, KS

Ps Bassi Enterprise 7580 W 119th St, OP, KS

The new UMB building on the former Roney’s Service Station site ... UMB could open for business next Monday, Oct. 3. I love the pocket park with benches !

Pizza 51 West open for business in Fairway at the corner of Mission Road and 60th Street.

What do my QR codes say ...

2011-09-28T21:44:00.000-05:00

Happy Birthday, BLB !

2011-09-27T13:49:00.000-05:00

"When your mother asks, "Do you want a piece ofadvice?" it is a mere formality. It doesn't matter if you answer yes orno. You're going to get it anyway." Erma Bombeck

I plan my mother's birthday more than my own children's. This day has been in the works for months .... We begin at Jim's for a Perm and then I race to get the ice latte from Starbucks to place in her hands while she waits for the hair set.

Afterwards, I surprise her with a trip to Rainy Day Books in Fairway. So fitting, as she introduced me to this bookseller before I entered my teenage years. During my youth, Rainy Day became a weekly pilgrimage, a day of no bickering. Seemed apropos to continue this tradition of cease fire for her birthday. My birthday gift is her choice of a cookbook: The big tome of Gourmet recipes, which weighs more than my mom.

Currently, she relaxes on her couch having a play date with our dog, Luke. While I run around town getting roses and preparing for the evening at BoLings. Knock on wood, she has not criticized nor given me any advice :) More pictures of my mom's birthday will be added tonight !

Well, we stuffed ourselves on crab ragoon and chicken fried rice to wrap up the birthday festivities. So Happy Birthday to my mom!

Kids artwork can snazz up a wall real quick...

2011-09-26T15:02:00.000-05:00

Books add so much to a room ...

2011-09-24T15:02:00.000-05:00

"Books constitute capital. A library book lasts as long as ahouse, for hundreds of years. It is not, then, an article of mere consumptionbut fairly of capital, and often in the case of professional men, setting outin life, it is their only capital." ~ Thomas Jefferson

Packing up your residence ... Be a pack leader ...

2011-09-21T13:20:00.000-05:00

These puppies look for direction from their Pack Leader! They anticipate the big move but want their food as soon as they enter their new digs. Be prepared for moving your pack into a new home and it all begins with packing up your current residence ...

Needed Supplies :

Sturdy boxes - and, lots of them. Wardrobe boxes and other specialty boxes can be purchased at local moving or shipping companies. Quality boxes can also be retrieved from wholesale companies or grocery stores, at no charge, after a shipment.
Packing tape, bubble wrap, and packing peanuts. Other kinds of packing for your boxes can include wadded-up newspaper, old pillows and blankets.
A pair of scissors, a note pad (for an inventory list or reminders) and a dark, water-resistant marker (for labeling) are indispensable during a move.

Boxing Know How :

Each box should weigh no more than 50 pounds. Stereo equipment and electronics should be placed in their original packaging, if possible.
Similar items stay together. Keep bookends with books, light bulbs with lamps, and extension cords with appliances. Small, loose parts can be put in an envelope and attached/taped to the item with which they belong. Keep larger items (such as a cable television cord) in clear bags, and tape these to the underside or back of the item.
Write it down. Labeling each carton will save you from unnecessarily moving boxes over and over in your new home. Assign a number to every room of your new home and label boxes with the number of the room in which they belong. Tape a number to the door of each room in your new home, so, when unloading, you can deposit boxes in the correct location.

Helpful Hints:

Start by packing items you don't use each day, such as holiday decorations, books and fine china. Wrap fragile items in bubble wrap (not in newsprint, as it may rub off on item) and clearly write FRAGILE and TOP LOAD on these boxed items. Let children decorate their own boxes, so they can easily identify belongings when the truck is unloaded.
Consolidate cleaning supplies. Put together a kit of basic cleaning supplies that will stay with you. Clean as you pack items up in your existing home (the inside of kitchen cupboards, the oven, windows) and vacuum each room as it is emptied.
Use your luggage. Fill luggage and duffle bags with clothing, sheets, towels, and toiletries. You'll be able to quickly spot your navy suitcase holding your bed sheets, whereas "Box #166" might remain elusive for days.
Safeguard valuable items. It's a good idea to keep valued possessions, such as jewelry, collections, or small antiques, with you. Check your homeowner's insurance policy to verify what is covered during a move for items that are too large to be taken with you.
Keep important papers with you. Anticipate what information you’ll need at your fingertips in your new home and plan accordingly. A list of these important papers include: birth certificates, school records, mover estimates, new job contacts, recent bank records, current bills, important phone numbers and closing papers.
Consider having easy access to toiletries, linens, garbage bags, light bulbs, pet food, medicines and simple tools for reassembling beds.

Love food ? Love Kansas City ? A blog for you !

2011-09-19T23:08:00.000-05:00

Introducing my new favorite blog ... A Kansas Citian Foodie!

http://www.whatyouremissingkc.blogspot.com/

No need for me to write anything about this blog because you can easily visit it and get wrapped up in all things food in the Kansas City area!

Sharmin's recent posts :

Five Teens and a Babycakes Cupcake Maker (includes a cupcakerecipe with chocolate frosting )
Seasons 52 Announces Plan to Open New Restaurant on the Plaza
Portfolio Kitchen and Home Flagship Store

Kansas City Homes: September 22, 2011

2011-09-19T16:27:00.001-05:00

Open publication - Free publishing - More kansas

Welcome Home Gift Suggestions from my fb buddies!

2011-09-16T08:48:00.000-05:00

Trapp's candles! http://www.trappandcompany.com/
Loaf of good bread, box of kosher salt, bottle ofhoney, & a nice candle in a jar
Bottle of wine! http://www.rimannliquors.com/
Cleaning supplies from Indigo Wild! http://www.indigowild.com/
A free massage http://www.bijinsalon.com/
Flowers http://www.needhamfloral.com/
A customized address stamp... www.vistaprint.com
At a loss for ideas ... Pryde's Old Westport has plethora of items http://www.prydeskitchen.com/

Except the vista print idea, we have suggested Locally Owned and Operated stores!

"Bread, that this house may never know hunger"

2011-09-15T14:12:00.000-05:00

Mary Bailey welcomes the Martini family to their new home in "It's A Wonderful Life." She presents three gifts with the following words:

Mary: Bread... that this house may never know hunger.
Mary hands a loaf of bread to Mrs. Martini
Mary: Salt... that life may always have flavor.
Mary hands a box of salt to Mrs. Martini
George Bailey: And wine... that joy and prosperity may reignforever. Enter the Martini Castle.

The movie scene captures a traditional custom that spans centuries. I like to present a welcome home gift to my friends that have endured the monumental stress of MOVING! Throughout the years, my gift was dependent on my budget. I have given bottles of wine, paper towels, dish soap, hand towels and aloe plants. However, I truly prefer to give a huge package of toilet paper as I recall my many moves and always forgot the TP at my new abode. During all those sweaty moves, you would think that I would remember the toilet paper.

I have always loved this house ...

2011-09-14T08:04:00.000-05:00

|WALK TO LOOSE PARK & THE PLAZA!

091311 ...

2011-09-13T09:49:00.000-05:00

At www.holidayinsights.com

One can find bizarre, unique and special days !!

Defy Superstition Day / Fortune Cookie Day

National Peanut Day / Positive Thinking Day

Uncle Sam Day - his image was first used in 1813

Positive Thinking Day is today. Today is all aboutattitude.... a positive attitude. It's a lot like the ant, when faced withmoving a rubber tree plant thought "I think I can". With that inmind, I just know that everything will go fine from this day forward.

The power of positive thinking is absolutely astounding.Medical research confirms that a positive attitude works wonders at fightingdisease and ailments, from the common cold to cancer. People with an "Ithink I can" attitude, are far more likely to succeed at work, and inaccomplishing every goal they set in life.

Today's Quote: "It takes just a moment to change yourattitude. And, in that quick moment, you can change your entire day." - -Author Unknown

Ask , Ask , Ask ... "Mr. Moving Company, What do you charge?"

2011-09-12T09:34:00.000-05:00

A professional moving company can save you time and keepyour back muscles in working condition, albeit at a financial cost. Here aresome of the most common charges levied by movers.

Packing Materials - Regardless of whether you are boxingeverything up yourself or having the movers pack for you, boxes of varioussizes, bubble wrap, packing tape and loose packing fill will all need to bepurchased. If you rely on the moving company to pack boxes, they will chargetop dollar for packing materials (sometimes double retail value). Movers mayalso impose an additional packing fee.
"Line-Haul" Charge - This is the base charge forthe transportation portion of your move. Line haul charges are based on thedistance of the move and the quantity of moved items (determined either byweight or cubic space occupied).
"Long-Carry" Charge - The "Long Carry"is an additional charge allotted if there is an excessive walking distancebetween your home and the mover's vehicle. .
"Stair" Charge - Similar to the "LongCarry" charge, most movers will add an extra fee if they are required tohaul your furniture and boxes up or down an excessive amount of stairs. Somemovers will charge any stairs in place (by the flight).
Third Party Charges - Many services involved in a move arenot handled by the moving company directly, in which case the movers will passthe charges from third-party companies on to you (typically without markup).Examples of third-party charges include appliance servicing (disconnecting& hookup), disassembly/assembly of exercise equipment or playgroundfurniture/equipment and the crating of fine/fragile items
Insurance Surcharge - The moving industry faces high costsfor trucking insurance. Insurance surcharges help the moving company off-setsome of the trucking insurance costs they pay on the truck(s) that actuallytransport your goods and furniture. Note that an insurance surcharge does notoffer protection against the loss or damage of your goods.
Valuation Charge and Supplemental Insurance - Thevaluation charge compensates the mover for assuming liability of your goodsduring transportation. Moving companies are required by law to have a minimumprotection, and federal law requires interstate movers to offer you the optionbetween two different levels of liability (learn more here). Some movers mayalso offer to sell or obtain for you separate liability insurance on top ofbasic valuation coverage.

Article by Dan Vick with Re/Max kc, 816-453-7400

We will always remember ...

2011-09-11T11:03:00.000-05:00

More "moving" song suggestions from my FB buddies!

2011-09-09T08:46:00.000-05:00

"Roam" B52s
"I Smile" Kirk Franklin
"Last Friday Night" and "Hot 'n' Cold" Katy Perry
"I Want You" Savage Garden
"My Prerogative" Bobby Brown
"Feel Good Inc"
"Immigrant Song" Zeppelin
"Pump Up The Volume"
"Walking On Sunshine"
"Rock and Roll all Nite by Kiss"

Suggestions of some super '80s artists:

Bel Biv Devoe

Madonna

Newcleus

Digital Underground

Cher

If you plan on selling or buying home, don't forget to visit www.kchomes.com for the online property search and "kchomes" Magazine to find great buys!

Moving Music Playlist ...

2011-09-08T10:13:00.000-05:00

While plugging away at the company's bookkeeping, I type to some poppy tunes. After two hours, I need a break from those pesky numbers. Tapping into my "right brain", I distract myself by creating a playlist for those folks preparing for the BIG MOVE.

They require some music suggestions to keep them upbeat while moving to their new digs:

"I Like To Move It"

"Hit Me Up"

"Livin La Vida Loca"

"Shake Your Groove Thing"

"Boom Boom Pow"

"Moves Like Jagger"

"Pumped Up Kicks"

"I Gotta a Feeling"

"Party Rock Anthem (LMFAO)"

"You Make Me Feel"

"Give Me Everything"

"The Happy Feet Movie Soundtrack (Various Artists)"

If you plan on selling or buying home, don't forget to visit www.kchomes.com for the online property search and "kchomes" Magazine to find great buys!

"I like to move it, move it ... "

2011-09-07T11:58:00.000-05:00

While traipsing around the neighborhood, Luke and I saw three moving vans. "Madagascar's" soundtrack ramped up the volume in my head.

I Like To Move It Move It
I Like To Move It Move It
I Like To Move It Move It
Ya Like To (MOVE IT!)

During the musical playing in my head, I decided it was time to publish a series of help with the moving of your household. Today, let's start with my friend, Mary's Moving Checklist:

COUNTDOWN TO MOVING DAY... The following is a timeline to help ensure a smooth move, based on the American Moving and Storage Association's suggestions. Some guidelines may not be applicable, depending on how far you're moving and whether or not professional movers are hired.

EIGHT WEEKS BEFORE YOU MOVE

Obtain a floor plan of your new home deciding what household items you want to keep from your current residence. Begin an inventory of all household goods you are keeping.
Solicit estimates from several moving companies and contract with a mover.
Contact your insurance agent, and ask about your homeowner's policy to determine whether your possessions are covered when moving.
Establish a file for all moving papers and receipts. Begin gathering valuable personal papers that you may need at your destination location, including medical and dental records, school records, birth certificates.

SIX WEEKS BEFORE YOU MOVE

Fill out post office change-of-address cards.
Send your new address to anyone who might need it -- insurance agents, credit card companies, magazine subscriptions, friends, relatives.
Clean out closets and dispose of all items that you will not be taking with you by holding a moving/garage sale or donating items to charity.

FOUR WEEKS BEFORE YOU MOVE

For self moves, reserve a truck or trailer. Obtain necessary moving supplies: boxes, twine, labels, newsprint, bubble wrap.
Start packing (if you are doing it yourself.) If your mover is doing the packing, arrange for it to be done one or two days before loading begins.
Send furniture, drapes and carpets for repair or cleaning as needed.
Begin to use up overstocks of staple foods.

THREE WEEKS BEFORE YOU MOVE

Arrange to have utilities (gas, electric, phone, cable, water) disconnected in your present home, and connected at your new home.
Ready car registration and insurance records for transfer and notify the State Motor Vehicle Bureau of your new address.
Arrange for child-care on moving day.

TWO WEEKS BEFORE YOU MOVE

Arrange to move pets.
Check with mover about moving house plants and chemicals, etc.
If your move is an interstate move, have your automobile serviced and ready for the trip.

ONE WEEK BEFORE YOU MOVE

Make arrangements to pay for your move. (Goods can not be unloaded on delivery day until the bill is paid.)
Transfer all bank accounts.
Cancel newspaper delivery.
Have enough medication to last at least two weeks. Have prescriptions forwarded to a pharmacy at your new destination.
Withdraw items and close safety deposit boxes.

TWO DAYS BEFORE YOU MOVE

Have mover pack your goods (unless doing it yourself.)
Set aside valuable items to carry with you including jewelry, vital documents, money and valuable small items.
Defrost and dry refrigerators and freezers to be moved.

MOVING DAY

Be on hand to answer questions and give directions to movers and stay until they are finished.
Accompany driver for inventory of your household goods.
Complete information on bill of lading (the document evidencing the receipt of goods for shipment, issued by the mover.) Carefully read the document before you sign it, making sure you keep a copy of it and the mover's inventory list with you until your possessions are delivered and any claims are settled.
Before the van leaves, take one final look through the house to make certain nothing has been left behind.
Give the driver directions to your new home and notify the driver and the moving company how you can be reached during the move.

If you plan on selling or buying home, don't forget to visit www.kchomes.com for the online property search and "kchomes" Magazine to find great buys!

It's that time again... Kansas City Homes for sale September 8th issue

2011-09-06T21:19:00.001-05:00

Open publication - Free publishing - More kansas

Comments on Basil from my fb buddies...

2011-09-02T22:32:00.000-05:00

I have some feisty friends and wanted to share their responses about their favorite use of Basil:

"Rathbone"
"A leaf under each armpit"
"My rabbit loves it :-)"

My culinary friends truly enjoyed sharing their Basil loves:

Caprese Salad *

Tomato Pasta Sauce
Fresh Veggie pink Vodka Sauce

Pesto using Grana Padana Cheese

Tomato Basil Soup **

* Caprese Salad, aka Insalata Caprese, combines the simple flavors of mozzarella, fresh tomatoes and basil with a drizzles of olive oil and salt.

** LL's Tomato Basil Cream Soup Recipe

4 c. canned whole tomatoes: crushed (maybe a 28 or 32 oz. can)
4 c. tomato juice or a mix of juice/vegetable or other stock
12-14 basil fresh leaves
1 c. heavy cream
1/4 lb butter
cracked black pepper
salt to taste

Combine crushed tomatoes (I squeeze them in my hands to crush) and juice/stock in a saucepan, simmer for 30 min. Puree in smaller batches with basil leaves in a blender/food processor. Return to pan adding cream, butter, salt and pepper. Simmer another 15 minutes or so over low heat. Yummy with french bread! Sometimes I saute the onions and blend them in too. Enjoy!

Happy Labor Day Weekend !

2011-09-02T13:03:00.000-05:00

I think I will allow my kids to entertain me ... It's their turn !
Be safe !

Beautiful Basil ...

2011-09-01T09:39:00.000-05:00

The only plant that never fails me from seed to flowering plant !
My uses for basil in 2011 :

Gifts of harvested basil to many friends
Chopped leaves thrown into a salad
Many bags of frozen Pesto
5 bars of soap
Leaves scattered on Pizza

Wikipedia reports that "A study of the essential oil showed antifungal and insect-repelling properties. A similar study reported in 2009 has confirmed that extracts from the plant are very toxic to mosquitos. However, the plant is not toxic to rats. Nevertheless, further scientific researches should be warranted, since there are no equivalent reports of its use against humans."

I would love hear your thoughts on Basil !

Where is my Snow White ...

2011-08-31T13:38:00.000-05:00

While Luke and I huff and puff throughout the neighborhood, we stop at a perfectly manicured lawn. While gazing, my mind wonders to Disney's Snow White in which she tidies the Seven Dwarf's abode. My catty brain also screams "compulsive"! I regain mental composure and long for my Snow White to visit my home riddled with nut grass, weeds and sad, spindly shrubs.
We continue meandering down the side walk and I smile with pride of my neighborhood with those folks that take great care of their yards !

Misnomer ...

2011-08-30T14:54:00.000-05:00

Today, I planned to blog about helping out those money blues of today's economics. However, an article at nbcactionnews.com raised my ire :

"The Kansas Humane Society has so many volunteers that it's starting to charge people for giving their time. The society says the $15 charge to volunteers helps cover costs associated with the program." read more of this story

Pros of trees …

2011-08-29T08:00:00.000-05:00

“He plants trees to benefit another generation”, by Caecilius Statius.

Absorbs Carbon Dioxide and releases

Oxygen into our air
Prevents or reduces soil erosion & water pollution

Helps recharge ground water in turn improves water quality

Decrease noise pollution

Trees add beauty and grace. They make life more enjoyable, peaceful, relaxing & offer a rich inheritence for future generations. Call to preview this home for sale… Sue Tinnen with Tinnen Real Estate (816-930-3600) (4 bedroom, 2 baths and under $100K in Plattsburg.)

Landscaping, especially with trees, can increase property values.

Trees help cool your home and neighborhood, break the cold winds to lower your heating costs, and provide food for wildlife. This home presented by Lynn Gambrell of RE/MAX of k.c. (816-405-5442/816-453-7400) (3 bedroom, 1.5 baths and a large wooded lot… $95,000 in Gladstone. )

Photos of homes speak volumes ...

2011-08-27T09:25:00.000-05:00

Kansas City's own, Walt Disney stated, "Of all of our inventions for mass communication, pictures still speak the most universally understood language". During this leisurely weekend, I surfed my website of "homes for sale in Kansas City" to find pictures that grabbed my attention:

Even with an eye catching pic, you want facts about this Oak Grove home: 4 bedroom, 2 baths and so close to Powell Gardens!
Debbie Wyrick of Realty Executives of Kansas City (816-419-3721)

The stone wall, the sculpture and the pink flowers peaked my interest in this listing: Leawood (KS), 2 bedroom, 2 baths and waterfalls !
Charlene Muller of Reece&Nichols Town Center (913-266-5426)

Ahhh, I love the greenness, my all time Vogue color! 4 acres, 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths and in a super school system. You ask, "where is this gem"? My answer, "Overland Park, KS".
Warren and Elaine Bennett of RE/MAX Today (913-248-2412)

My lip therapy quest ...

2011-08-26T14:01:00.000-05:00

For years, I obsessed over my thin, almost non existent lips. I remember my years of ChapStick with thick, gloppy texture. The Stick never protected for long, and I shivered with the thought of constantly swiping the icky tube on my lips. During the winter, I truly needed lip therapy for my cracked lips. I used Blistex and Carmex but the medicinal smell and flavor finally overwhelmed to non-usage.

I remember the years of Bonne Belle's Lip Smackers with all those great scents: Watermelon, Dr. Pepper, Strawberry. My preteen years were spent slathering these collectibles over my lips. You would think I never had dry lips over those years. So not the case, my lips constantly craved the balm. A couple of years later in Europe I discovered a great textured lip balm in a cool rounded tube package: LABELLO. Being young, I had no idea that this smooth "gold" lip tube was not sold in the United States. I bought a couple of flavors and headed back to the States with my new discovery.

The Labello tubes last a few months and my lips felt great. Once used to it's tiny nub, I visited our local drug store and the clerk's blank stare alarmed me. Being blessed during my young adult years, my travels allowed multiple purchases of Labello. Sadly, my travelling days ended and my lips suffered from the loss of my friend, Labello.

Over the years, some of my dear friends would present a tube or two from their travels. I enjoyed maintaining a connection with Labello sampling Passion Fruit and Green Apple. My luck changes when I turn forty-four while wandering the aisles of CVS in Kansas City. I discover an old friend with a different name, Nivea. Their entire line still unattainable in the States; However, my lips adore the limited line: A Kiss of Flavor - Cherry, A Kiss of Moisture, Sunblock, and A Kiss of Shimmer ($2.59 per tube).

The life of the tube... long lasting
The moisture on the lips... long lasting
Smooth lips... long lasting

Now, I need to pursue a locally owned store to carry the Nivea line for lips ... Wish me luck at Bruce Smith Drugs in Prairie Village!

WIndsor Park Trees ...

2011-08-25T12:45:00.000-05:00

Without a car drives me and Luke to walk to the Post Office. This ritual of checking the PO Box has been a part of my life for over one year. My clients send money to this box and I need to have the money tree replenished daily. Sadly, this trek has been "for not", as the box remains empty.

Defeated, we meander through Windsor Park in Prairie Village. The storm left huge limbs on the pathway. As we dodged the debris, I noticed crack branches hanging on for dear life to their tree amongst these tall trees. Thoughts of my weeping money tree disappears. I become angered over the trees shading the pathway. I whip out my camera and snap shots of danger points.

Bonnie begins to stir the pot ...

2011-08-25T12:16:00.000-05:00

I want this blog to be more than promoting "kchomes Magazine" !

Likes and Dislikes
Books
Food
Independent Retailers
Decorating
Individuals living in the Kansas City area
The list is too long to mention in just one post

The time honored cliches, "welcome to my home"; "join the club"; "welcome to my world", seem an inappropriate description of my goal.

WANT A HOME ? Kansas City Homes for sale: August 25, 2011

2011-08-23T07:46:00.001-05:00

Open publication - Free publishing - More kansas

Kansas City Homes for sale... August 11, 2011

2011-08-08T05:52:00.001-05:00

Open publication - Free publishing - More kansas

BASIL Thoughts from kchomes tweets!

2011-07-31T21:51:00.000-05:00

Orzo with Parmesan and Basil : Melt 2 tbsp butter in a saucepan, add 1 cup dry orzo and stir, then add 1 14-oz. can chicken or vegetable stock and bring to a boil. Cover, reduce heat to low, then simmer 15 mins. until liquid is absorbed. Then remove cover and stir in 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese and 1/4 cup coarse chopped basil. Serves 2-3.

Martha Stewart's Strawberry Basil Ice Tea :

black-tea bags
1 pound strawberries, hulled and halved (quartered if large)
1 cup water, plus more for steeping
3/4 cup sugar
1 cup fresh basil, plus more for serving
Ice, for serving
1. Bring 4 cups water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add tea bags, and let steep for 5 minutes.
2. Place strawberries in a bowl. Bring water and sugar to a boil in a small saucepan, stirring until sugar dissolves. Remove from heat, add basil, and let steep for 10 minutes. Strain over strawberries; discard basil. Toss to coat. Let stand until cool, about 25 minutes. Combine strawberries (with syrup) and tea in a pitcher. Refrigerate until chilled. Serve over ice, and garnish with basil.

Kansas City Homes for sale... July 28th, 2011

2011-07-27T11:42:00.001-05:00

Open publication - Free publishing - More kansas

4th Twitter Recipe Puzzle!

2011-07-26T10:56:00.000-05:00

Blueberry Cornmeal Muffins

1 c. all purpose flour
3/4 c. cornmeal
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
3/4 c. sugar
1/2 c. vegetable oil
1/2 c. buttermilk
1 egg
3/4 c. blueberries
1 x 12 cup muffin pan

Preheat oven 400 degrees F and line a muffin pan w/paper muffin cups
Mix flour, cornmeal, baking powder, baking soda and sugar
Whisk together in a separate bowl oil, buttermilk and egg
Stir oil mixture into bowl of dry ingredients - remembering that lumpiness is a good thing when making muffins - and fold the blueberries into your batter
Fill each muffin cup 2/3 full
Bake in oven for 15-20 minutes until a toothpick comes out cleanish

kchomes 3rd Recipe Puzzle...

2011-07-23T13:16:00.000-05:00

Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Cookies!

3/4 cup Butter
1/2 cup Sugar
1 cup brown sugar
1 Egg
1/4 tsp Baking Soda
1 tsp Baking Powder
1 tsp Vanilla
2 cups Rolled Oats
1 3/4 cups Flour
1 cup chocolate chips

Instructions: In a mixing bowl, beat butter with an electric mixer. Add the sugars, egg, powder, vanilla and soda. Stir in flour, chips and oats.

Drop by rounded teaspoons and bake in a 350˚ oven for about 10 minutes. (I usually double the recipe and spread in a pan for cookie bars.) ENJOY!

Within your budget... Kansas City Homes: July 14, 2022

2011-07-12T23:23:00.000-05:00

Open publication - Free publishing - More house

Kansas City Homes for sale... June 2, 2011

2011-05-31T08:17:00.001-05:00

Open publication - Free publishing - More kansas

Full Recipe for Chocolate Muffins....
1    Cup Butter
3    Eggs
1    Cup Sugar
1    Teaspoon Vanilla
2/3 Cup Flour, all purpose
1/3 Cup Cocoa, unsweetened

Instructions: Heat Oven 350 degrees
Begin melting butter in a saucepan over low heat until liquid.
While butter melting, mix eggs, sugar and vanilla in the mixer.
Sift flour and cocoa and then add to egg mixture while beating on low speed.
When fully incorporated, slowly pour butter into the mixture beating on low speed. Mix well. Using a ice cream scoop, scoop batter into muffin cups (or fill half full).
Bake 15-20 minutes or until toothpick comes out clean.

2nd Recipe Puzzle... KCHOMES twitter!

2011-05-23T08:01:00.001-05:00

Cheese Ball
1/2    lb    sharp cheddar grated
1/4    lb    blue cheese
8    Ounce    cream cheese (softened)
2    cloves    garlic - minced
2    Teaspoon    grated onion
1    Teaspoon    Worcestershire
1    Cup    parsley, chopped
1    Cup    pecans, chopped

Instructions: Combine all the cheeses, garlic, onion, worcestershire - Then blend in 1/2 of the parsley & pecan mixture. Roll into 2-3 balls & roll balls in parsley & pecan mixture to coat. Freeze or chill.

Kansas City Homes for sale... May 19th, 2011

2011-05-17T12:44:00.001-05:00

Open publication - Free publishing - More kansas

Recipe Instructions from the 1st Recipe Game:
On Twitter you found the ingredients: potatoes, brie, butter, salt/pepper!

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Grease a 10” deep dish glass pie pan.
Place a layer of potatoes in the pan & season with salt & pepper. Cover with a scant layer of sliced Brie. Continue layering in this fashion until all ingredients are used, ending with layer of cheese. Drizzle melted butter over the top.
Cover and bake for 50 minutes. Uncover and bake 25 minutes more or until browned and bubbly. Slice into wedges and serve.

Kansas City Zoo!!

2011-05-07T10:51:00.000-05:00

The Zoo is open - Nikita wants to see you!

Kansas City Zoo is open daily 9:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. weekdays and 9:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. weekends.
Africa is open, however, there will be a few detours and chimps, zebra, giraffe and rhino are off exhibit due to the construction of the new African Sky Safari Tram.

Due to this construction, daily admission through May 13 is only $9 for adults and seniors; and $6 for children ages 3 -11; and as always, FOTZ Members are free.

Print and Online Marketing. A match made in heaven?

2011-05-06T22:03:00.000-05:00

Spectrum Marketing Group -- Print and Online Marketing. A match made in heaven?
Most online marketing "gurus" will tell you that print is dead. As a smart marketer it is important for you to get the facts to make an informed decision on your marketing mix. What many poeple in our industry fail to do is recognize the difference between specialty print (like magazines) and daily metro news papers.
According to the Pew Research Center for the people and the press, newspaper readership has fallen 14% over the past four years. Although that number may be much smaller than one might think, compare that to magazine readership which has faired much better.
From 2009 to 2010 magazine readership actually has risen by 1% (according to GfkMri). Although those are not significant gains, the past five years have shown magazine readership not only to be stable but to grown in total audience. In fact 4 out of 5 adults read magazines.
The reason why this is important for internet marketers is that it is important to know that magazines rank No. 1 at influencing consumers to start a search online – higher than newer media options. (Source: BIGresearch Simultaneous Media Usage Study) Therefore, it makes sense for many industries to use print media to drive more traffic to their website.
Jeffrey Wotton, 5/5/2011
Spectrum Marketing Group is a multimedia based marketing firm located in New Bedford, MA. We specialize in development and implementation of print and online marketing strategies.

Kansas City Homes for sale... May 5th, 2011

2011-04-30T22:31:00.001-05:00

Open publication - Free publishing - More kansas

Kansas City Homes for sale... April 21st, 2011

2011-04-18T13:24:00.001-05:00

Open publication - Free publishing - More kansas

Kansas City Homes for sale... April 7th, 2011

2011-04-05T16:32:00.001-05:00

Open publication - Free publishing - More kansas

Spring into action with Kansas City Homes March 24, 2011...

2011-03-21T10:38:00.001-05:00

Open publication - Free publishing - More kansas

Kansas City Homes: March 10, 2011

2011-03-06T20:42:00.001-06:00

Open publication - Free publishing - More missouri

EARLY PEEK! Kansas City Homes: February 24, 2011 issue

2011-02-17T09:20:00.001-06:00

Discover your dream!

Open publication - Free publishing - More missouri

Obtain the Best Mortgage Rates by Dan Vick, Re/Max kc, 816-453-7400

2011-02-13T09:57:00.000-06:00

Criteria to Obtain the Best Mortgage Rates... No doubt you're aware that mortgage rates have been low throughout the year. But you may have heard that some buyers or refinancing homeowners are having difficulty obtaining loans at the lowest advertised rates. The loan application process is much more rigorous than in years past and the processing time for loan applications has grown. How can you know whether or not you qualify for the great rates being advertised?

There are five key factors that a mortgage broker will look at when determining the rate you will pay on the loan:

Down Payment… Mortgages can still be obtained with low money down, but having a 20 percent down payment is the best bet if you hope to obtain the best interest rates. If you can afford to make a down payment in excess of 20 percent on the house, you will be in an even better position to take advantage of the lowest mortgage rates.

Assets… Lenders these days are going to be very exacting when reviewing your financial records. They will want to verify that you have the necessary cash to cover the down payment and closing costs. Banks will also want to make sure you have some amount of cash buffer as an insurance policy of sorts. All of this will need to be proven with extensive documentation, and many lenders will want to review several months' worth of your account statements. Lenders will also ask for copies of recent tax returns.

Credit Score… It's no secret that the strength of your credit score greatly affects the type of loan you will qualify for. The magic number to aim for is a FICO score of 700 or better. Clearing the 700 benchmark will qualify you for the best mortgage rates, while a score even just a few points below 700 can cost you as much of a quarter of a point in interest, which equates to thousands of dollars over the life of the loan.

Job Security… Not surprisingly, lenders will want to make sure that your career situation is stable enough that you will be able to continue to make the loan payments on into the future. Banks will want to see documentation to indicate how long you have been with your current employer. Ideally, you will have two years or more employed by the same company.

Loan Type & Loan Length… Adjustable mortgages have lower initial rates overall than fixed-rate loans. FHA loans will typically have a higher interest rate, as will jumbo loans (mortgages taken out on higher-priced homes). As a rule of thumb, fixed rate loans will have higher interest rates as the length of the loan increases, so a 10 year fixed rate loan will have a lower rate than a 15 year mortgage, which will in turn be lower than a 30-year fixed loan. And all mortgage rates vary from state to state and even from city to city, so the rates you see advertised nationally may not be relevant to your search for the right loan.

Kansas City Homes... February 10, 2011

2011-02-07T10:30:00.001-06:00

Find the perfect house/home inside this magazine!

Open publication - Free publishing - More missouri

Making the most out of Small Bathrooms!

2011-02-02T23:49:00.000-06:00

It doesn't take a full remodel or removing walls to open up space in an otherwise small bathroom. Below are some cost-effective methods for making tiny bathrooms feel less closed in.

Pedestal Sinks... Pedestal sinks are not only stylish - they also eliminate the boxy, space-eating traditional vanities that can close off small bathrooms. Switching from a traditional vanity to a pedestal sink will reduce some storage space in the room, so you may want to install small shelving above the sink or additional towel racks/hooks in the room.
Minimalist Storage... When space is at a premium, you may not have room for large storage unit or vanity. Keep only what you absolutely need in the bathroom, ideally in a slim vertical storage unit or on built-in shelving. Store non-essentials like extra towels, bathroom cleaning products and other supplies in the nearest closet.
Light Colors... Larger bathrooms allow you some design freedom to play around with darker colored wall and trim paint, accessories, and major fixtures. In small bathrooms, those dramatic touches can actually make things seem more cramped. Stick with classic white tubs, sinks and toilets and brighter splashes of color on shower curtains, rugs and towels to lighten up the space you have.
Simplify Fixtures... Ornate fixtures can be appealing, but many are bulkier than their simpler counterparts. When space is at a premium, you may opt for sleeker, slimmer fixtures throughout the room.
Pocket Doors... The door swing of traditional hinged doors can make small rooms feel even more cramped. Sliding pocket doors can open up additional space without drastically changing the room itself.
Illuminate... Small spaces without proper lighting will have a drastically more claustrophobic atmosphere. Try combining wall fixtures with overhead lights to improve the aesthetic while providing illumination for applying makeup or shaving. For bathrooms on exterior walls, consider adding a window to let in natural light.

Dan Vick, Re/Max kc (816-453-7400), emails monthly Real Estate Advisor.

Oh the places you can go! Kansas City Homes January 27, 2001

2011-01-26T08:17:00.001-06:00

Open publication - Free publishing - More missouri

Definition of "home" is a congenial environment... Kansas City Homes January 13, 2011

2011-01-10T07:42:00.001-06:00

Kansas City Homes for sale... January 13, 2011!

Open publication - Free publishing - More missouri

Creating Your Very Own "Man Cave", article by Dan Vick

2011-01-02T11:19:00.000-06:00

It wasn't so long ago that many men chose the garage as a place of personal sanctuary-at-home, regardless of their interest in anything automotive. Often cramped and dimly lit, these makeshift hideaways were the stuff of folding-table poker and football games on the spare TV. Today the need for guys to carve out their own space at home is more widely acknowledged. As a result, more and more homeowners are converting their finished basements, attic spaces or spare rooms into masculine refuges. With a little bit of planning (and some savvy negotiation with the lady of the house), you too can create your own customized "man cave".

The Many Styles of Dude Dens... While man caves often revolve around the time-honored rite of male bonding that is spectator sports, there is no single blueprint to a successful male refuge. Some guys turn their basements into full scale game rooms where pool, air hockey and arcade games rule the day. Movie buffs have been known to turn spare rooms into home theaters replete with surround sound and recliners on stadium risers. And a good many men aim to convert their extra space at home into their very own pub, outfitted in their own image.

Getting Started... The last thing you want is a room overly crammed full of anything and everything you can jam into it. Before you begin, start thinking exactly what kind of activities you want to plan around. Is your main goal to have a perfect place to watch the big game? Looking for a permanent home to poker night? Perhaps you want a place to work out in comfort, or even a workshop space. By figuring out the focus of your man cave, you'll be able to tailor furniture, décor and space to match. It may help to pick one element (home theater system, a pool table, jukebox, etc.) as both the centerpiece and inspiration for your man cave.

Space it Out... Carefully measure all dimensions of the space you have available, and do the same when considering the purchase of any furniture, hardware or stand-alone game systems. Maintain open walking paths throughout the room. If you're centering the room around a home theater system, keep in mind that you'll want to keep clear sightlines for the main seating areas in the room.

Durable Materials... Chances are your man sanctuary is going to go through its share of bumps, spills and accidents during game days, poker parties and guy's nights. Choose granite, sturdy laminate or durable wood surfaces for bar countertops, end tables and coffee tables. Pick thicker commercial-grade carpet to withstand tough treatment, and stick with darker colors that won't show every little spill. Thicker carpeting also helps with soundproofing, which will help keep the rest of the household happy.

Essentials... Most man caves will in some way involve three key elements - comfortable seating, a big TV and refreshments just a few steps away.

Seating - Wrap-around couches are a great way to welcome your buddies in style. And there's no going wrong with the classic man cave throne: the recliner.
Theater-Style TV's - Large flat screen televisions have become much more affordable in recent years, and with the expansion of HD sports broadcasts, blue ray and high def gaming systems, the technology is tailor-made for a guy's paradise.
Beverages - With refreshments nearby, you won't be forced to step away from the big game or fold that hand just to get another beverage or grab some more snacks. If you're not able to swing a full enclosed bar, you can purchase smaller portable bars in a variety of styles, or just go with shelving or built-in cabinets to store snacks. Either way, you'll absolutely want to include a small refrigerator in the plans.

Finishing Touches... While you're dreaming big, why not consider a few extras to put your man cave over the top:

Sports Memorabilia
Big Screen TV
Couches
Recliner
Bar area
Neon signs
Bar games: Pool, Darts, Air hockey, Shuffleboard, Foosball
Vintage signs
Poker table
Humidor

Article provided by Dan Vick of Re/Max of kc, 816-453-7400

Homes for sale in Kansas City... December 30, 2010

2010-12-28T09:46:00.001-06:00

Open publication - Free publishing - More missouri

Kansas City Homes for sale... December 16th, 2010

2010-12-12T16:07:00.000-06:00

Open publication - Free publishing - More missouri

Are you looking for a home in all the right places???

2010-11-28T10:26:00.000-06:00

Kansas City Homes... kchomes Magazine helps you find that right place to live!
Look inside the latest edition, December 2nd!

Open publication - Free publishing - More kansas

Idea: Elevated Workspace

2010-11-21T12:34:00.000-06:00

Elevate the workspace to a work of art by channeling your inner artiste -- but first throw out the old rules of composition. Like Picasso, you don't need to be afraid to change perspective or play with color: Hang horizontal shelving vertically, and pepper a neutral area with bright accents.

"An unexpected arrangement has more soul than a laminated prefab home-office monstrosity," says style director Page Marchese Norman.

Even functional pieces can be decorative, like the wastebasket with its gorgeous wood grain. To build a gallery-worthy storage wall, Page and Shane suggest assembling it like a collage: Put up one piece, step back (you may want to ask a trusted friend to weigh in), and add another. Voila!

Read more at Marthastewart.com: Elevated Workspace

Kansas City Homes for sale... November 18th issue

2010-11-15T07:02:00.001-06:00

Open publication - Free publishing - More missouri

As we all prepare for Thanksgiving Dinner...

2010-11-07T13:19:00.000-06:00

Please remember those that we can help have a good holiday, too...

When you purchase your own delectables, look for the scannable coupon at the check-out of your local grocery store AND add this coupon to your food purchase.

Harvesters Check-Out Hunger is a community-wide scannable coupon promotion held in our Kansas City grocery stores every year during the holidays.

Look for the many ways to help hunger in our community! http://www.harvesters.org/

Welcome to Kansas City Homes: November 4th issue with lots of homes to buy!

2010-11-01T10:32:00.001-05:00

Open publication - Free publishing - More missouri

A Fall Freshening of Your Home...

2010-10-23T23:45:00.000-05:00

Inexpensive Home Updates

Exterior Sprucing: Re-painting the front door and trim will give the front of the house the feel of a newer home. A little minor landscaping work (trimming shrubs, cutting the lawn, replacing sod) over a long weekend can dramatically change your home's look. Add some potted flowers on the front steps or entryway. Consider investing in new doorknobs, house numbers and a mailbox as well.

Light Fixtures: If you have older lighting fixtures that date the look of your home, consider replacing them with new, more appealing hardware. While you can certainly spend a lot of money on high-end fixtures, cheaper alternatives are available in a number of styles. Brushed nickel and stainless steel fixtures are especially possible. If replacing all of the fixtures in your house isn't realistic from a financial standpoint, selectively change out fixtures in key areas such as bathrooms, bedrooms and exterior lighting.

Re-Caulk Plumbing Fixtures: Discolored, torn or crumbling caulking around plumbing fixtures can make your home look old and out of repair. By stripping out old caulking and replacing it with a fresh bead of silicon, your bathrooms and kitchen will look subtly revitalized. You can now purchase caulking in a variety of grades and colors, allowing you to match your décor.

Suggestions by Dan Vick of Re/Max kc, 816-453-7400

Kansas City Homes for sale... October 21st issue!

2010-10-17T18:22:00.001-05:00

Open publication - Free publishing - More missouri

Kansas City Homes for sale... October 7th Issue!

2010-10-05T07:56:00.000-05:00

Open publication - Free publishing - More missouri

How to save your "local economy"!

2010-09-28T08:35:00.000-05:00

Kansas City Homes for sale... September 23rd, 2010

2010-09-22T12:47:00.001-05:00

Open publication - Free publishing - More missouri

Fall Gardening... Colors abound...

2010-09-16T08:11:00.000-05:00

Spark up your late-summer garden with plants that add color and interest even as fall’s cooler temperatures arrive. By choosing plants that offer features such as colorful foliage, attractive seed pods, and interesting textures!

You can pick up local vibrant plants at your local garden center... These are my favorite Garden Centers...

Soil Service (7130 Troost Ave., KCMO; 816-444-3403) or one of the Suburban Lawn & Garden (105th & Roe; 913-649-8700/4 West 135th Street, KCMO; 816-942-2921)

Kansas City Homes for sale...

2010-09-08T12:07:00.000-05:00

Open publication - Free publishing - More missouri

Where can we find your favorite CUPCAKE?

2010-09-01T17:40:00.000-05:00

The Reading Reptile, the best children's bookstore, expands with a cupcake counter...
Le Petit Rouge Bakery 816.753.0441
328 W. 63rd St. in Kansas City, Missouri

You can purchase cupcakes on the following days...
Tuesday-Friday 11am-5pm
Saturday 10am-4pm
Sunday 12-3pm.

Please let us know your favorite cupcake store!

My Kansas City Home Life...

Pinterest Love:

Page 11 of 366 ... Keep informed

Silence is Golden... NOT

2012 is here ! Kansas City Homes for sale: December 29, 2011

Kansas City Homes for sale: December 15, 2011

Establish Rules #5: Thou shalt not BITE

Love Brookside ... For your consideration !

Establish Rules #4: Toilet

Kansas City Homes for sale: December 1, 2011

Blessings Counted !

Establish Rules #3: Dishes

YELP !

Kansas City Homes for sale: November 17th, 2011

Establish Rules #2: Fight

"Speak when you are angry and you will make the best speech you'll ever regret."

"Play fair. Say you're sorry when you hurt somebody" ~Robert Fulghum

"Thank you" seems so lacking Bless all of the Veterans ...

Establish Rules #1 Shoes

My own horror inside the frig...

Did they say snow? Winter Prep of Home

Kansas City Homes for sale: November 3rd, 2011

Samhainophobia*...

Diá de Los Muertos... This weekend see some skeletons

Books that go bump in the night...

Stygiophobia ... Dante and Rodin!

Kansas City homes 4 sale ... Look no further for that perfect home!

Devils, Pumpkins and Cats ... Copyright issues?

Wiccaphobia... Live on the edge with Halloween Cards

Pawprint Fashions ...

Cookbook Day ...

Phasmophobia ... Face your fear of ghosts at the Wornall House

Ghost Tours and Paranormal Groups

Liar Liar Pants on Fire ... Nothing to laugh about!

Comfort food for the romantic bookworm...

Kansas City Homes for sale : October 6th, 2011

Following the kc bird ...

Still fizzing with Coke New Wave ... BUT There's More Buzzing Excitement in the Village

Mr Goodcents 6250 Johnson Dr, SM, KS

Mr Goodcents 6304 Brookside Plz, KC, MO

Mr Goodcents 4100 Rainbow Blvd, KC, KS

Firehouse Subs 4628 J C Nichols Pkwy, KC, MO

Ps Bassi Enterprise 7580 W 119th St, OP, KS

What do my QR codes say ...

Happy Birthday, BLB !

Kids artwork can snazz up a wall real quick...

Books add so much to a room ...

Packing up your residence ... Be a pack leader ...

Love food ? Love Kansas City ? A blog for you !

Kansas City Homes: September 22, 2011

Welcome Home Gift Suggestions from my fb buddies!

"Bread, that this house may never know hunger"

I have always loved this house ...

091311 ...

Ask , Ask , Ask ... "Mr. Moving Company, What do you charge?"

We will always remember ...

More "moving" song suggestions from my FB buddies!

Moving Music Playlist ...

"I like to move it, move it ... "

It's that time again... Kansas City Homes for sale September 8th issue

Comments on Basil from my fb buddies...

Happy Labor Day Weekend !

Beautiful Basil ...

Where is my Snow White ...

Misnomer ...

Pros of trees …

Photos of homes speak volumes ...

My lip therapy quest ...

WIndsor Park Trees ...

Bonnie begins to stir the pot ...

WANT A HOME ? Kansas City Homes for sale: August 25, 2011

Kansas City Homes for sale... August 11, 2011

BASIL Thoughts from kchomes tweets!

Kansas City Homes for sale... July 28th, 2011

4th Twitter Recipe Puzzle!

kchomes 3rd Recipe Puzzle...

Within your budget... Kansas City Homes: July 14, 2022

Kansas City Homes for sale... June 2, 2011

2nd Recipe Puzzle... KCHOMES twitter!

Kansas City Homes for sale... May 19th, 2011