First day of summer June 21

The summer real estate market, what’s in store for buyers and sellers? Would like to recap the results of the spring market activity: the Real Living HER website has noticed an increase in website visitor activity throughout the spring season. RealLivingHER.com has attracted more than 190,000 visitors per month. Buyers click thru to see the listings that have the most photos and it’s a real great way to showcase a listing.

Columbus Board of Realtors Statistics

The statistics for the amount of homes that are for sale vs. homes that have sold: we are seeing signs of stability in the housing market. Home sales and prices increased, inventory levels are down compared to spring levels in 2008. With less houses coming onto the market listing prices tend to rise, 6,756 homes have sold year to date. There have been many first time buyers in the market taking advantage of the first time home buyer tax credit.

The Spring Real Estate Market

The 2009 Central Ohio real estate market has been quite busy lately. Recently I have listed many nice homes. When a new listing is obtained a checklist of activities must be completed to provide the seller with good exposure to buyers who are in the market to make a home purchase.

Photos, photos and more photos

Excellent photos are very important to the marketing process. As the old saying goes a picture is worth a thousand words. Photos make an impression on a buyer, so numerous photos added to a listing will result in buyers wanting to stop by for a personal tour. You need to get the buyer thru your front door, good photos creates the ‘gotta see that house’ syndrome.

The importance of the list price

Accurate pricing is so important in today’s market. If the price is too high difficulty is added to the process. The first few weeks a home is listed there should be a flurry of activity of buyers and agents previewing the home. A more accurate price will attract buyers to want to look at a home. If there are no showings the list price is too high. Many showings but no offer is a sure sign the list price needs to be adjusted downward. There is always a magic number that will catch the buyer’s attention. Statistics show that the sooner a home goes into contract after it’s initially listed the more money the seller will net. The longer a home sits on the market its “old news” buyers start to think that something is wrong with the house; if a seller receives an offer it’s usually very low.

Strict Appraisal Requirements

Recently both FHA and conventional appraisers have new guidelines that must be followed when calculating value. An appraiser must complete a detailed report which is submitted to the buyer’s lender to certify the value of a home. If comparable sales within the past six months do not support the sale price then the home will not appraise. This spells trouble, sellers and buyers have to renegotiate, if terms cannot be agreed upon the house falls out of contract, the sellers then have to put their home back on the market.

$8,000 Tax Credit

Calling all first time home buyers, don’t miss out, take advantage of a deal of a lifetime. It’s a gift; the Federal Government is giving you a big fat gift, all you have to do is purchase a home. Yes there are a few requirements but they are minimal for most. If you take advantage of this tax credit you will look back and whisper to yourself joyfully, boy did I luck out when I purchased my first home. FHA lenders are allowing the $8,000 to be used in addition to the required 3 1/2% down payment; talk to your lender that has pre-approved you for more details. Buyers I will guide you thru the home buying process.

Housing affordability

Buyers have tremendous purchasing power there is a good selection of homes for sale in all areas of Central Ohio. First time home buyers don’t forget about the $8,000 tax credit. Homebuyers who make their purchase between Jan. 1 thru Dec. 1, 2009 are eligible for the credit so don’t delay; December will be here before you know it. Keep in mind it takes time to find the home that is right for you. It can take up to 45 days or longer to process your loan so the clock is ticking; don’t miss out on being able to claim your $8,000 gift.

Peace of mind

Mid-June, Real Living HER rolled out the Peace of Mind Plan. Many buyers would like to purchase a home to take advantage of today’s low interest rates along with the good selection of homes that are priced right. Buyers are hesitant due to the economic realities that we are facing. The Real Living’s Peace of Mind plan is designed to provide comfort to buyers, giving them confidence to make a home purchase. If a home is financed thru Real Living Mortgage, Real Living will provide you with one year of insurance benefits that cover a monthly mortgage payment of up to $1,500 for up to six months if you become involuntarily unemployed during the first year you are in your new home.

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Hammock time

Recently a past client invited me to be her friend on facebook; of course I accepted the invitation. I have enjoyed reading and participating in the conversation. From the conversation I have learned that upon entering the spring season many dads have mentioned hammock time. What a great way for dad to relax on his special day napping in a hammock in the shadiest area of the backyard.

Fire up the grill

Many dads just can’t wait to cook on their man size grills, some Central Ohio outdoor living spaces are quite elaborate. What’s important to most dads is having the family gather to enjoy a meal together that might include hamburgers, hotdogs, brats and maybe a steak. No celebration is complete unless there is dessert. Dad would sure enjoy a dish of ice cream from either Graeters, Handel’s or Cold Stone Creamery all popular Columbus area specialty stores that sell delicious ice cream treats.

Take me out to the ball game

The Columbus Clippers baseball team has a new home. Has dad been to the new Huntington Park stadium located in the Arena District in downtown Columbus Ohio; if not, tickets to a game would be a great Father’s day gift. The new fan friendly stadium is very cool; so many interesting places to watch the game from. Bring a blanket so you can sit on the grass, there are patios and terraces, a 110-foot bar overlooking the field, an open-air rooftop with bleachers. Dad just has to go to see for himself; he will not be disappointed. The day I stopped by to take a photo of the new stadium the game was sold out I am told it’s a very popular place.

How about a round of golf

There are numerous golf courses in the Central Ohio area, some are exclusive, many are private and some are public. There are over 35 courses in Franklin County, 26 in Delaware County and many are also located in Licking and Knox counties. Some of the most famous golf courses are the Muirfield Village Golf Club, Dublin, Scioto Country Club, Upper Arlington, The Golf Club, New Albany and the Double Eagle Club Galena. The most popular public courses include the Phoenix in Grove City, Raymond Memorial Golf Course near Hilliard and the New Albany Links.

A special Father’s Day’s treat at BJ’s Restaurant

Browsing thru the Columbus Dispatch Sunday newspaper I noticed a grand Father’s Day advertisement. On June 20 and 21 every dad that visits BJ’s will receive a commemorative print glass and a chance to win a Premier golf Getaway. BJ’s Restaurant is located at 1414 Polaris Parkway, Lewis Center Ohio. Great selections to choose from including deep dish pizzas, pastas, burgers, steaks, ribs, chicken and more…

A tribute to all Central Ohio dads

When you are a small child your dad looks very tall, his voice is so deep sometimes stern but loving. It was fun to curl up in his strong arms which makes you feel so secure you knew he would protect you. Most modern dads spend as much time as they can with their children. The older generation dads loved their children but they didn’t show much emotion. Being in the real estate biz I see how dads interact with their children, many are involved in their sports activities, give them a helping hand with their school projects, some are gourmet chefs they know how to make a mean mac-n-cheese and of course hot dogs on the grill is their specialty. As the children grow into adults they come to realize that their dads really did do their best they gave as much as they could. Now on their special day take a moment to wish them a very special Happy Father’s Day.

A special Father’s Day Gift

Dads if you have never owned a home the federal government is offering you an $8,000 gift, the First Time Home Buyer Tax Credit. If you are thinking about purchasing a home Real Living HER is offering a Pease of Mind Mortgage Payment Protection Program. If you would lose your job, the Payment Protection Program will help you pay your mortgage up to 6 months. Thinking of purchasing a home now is the best time to buy, interest rates are the lowest they’ve been in years. I currently have a good selection of listings with awesome backyards just perfect for hammocks.

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Spring is the best time to sell a home

When I meet with prospective sellers the question always is asked, when is the best time of the year to sell a house. Although houses are sold anytime throughout the year, springtime is definitely the best time to sell. Curb appeal certainly looks the best when the grass is green and flowers are in bloom. Statistics show that there are more buyers in the market when spring weather has arrived. The bar graph gives you an indication of the sales activity that occurs throughout the year.

It’s official - spring has arrived

On March 20, 2009 the calendar indicates that it’s now spring. To most it feels like spring when the days are warm and sunny and the forsythia and the daffodils are in bloom. In the real estate biz we recognize that buyer interest is rising by the increase of internet activity that occurs on our listings. Recently there has been a significant increase of visitors to the Real Living HER website.  

Fabulous opportunity

The 30 – year mortgage rate fell toward record lows on March 19, 2009 after the Federal Reserve made a huge purchase of mortgage –related securities. The combination of low mortgage rates and the first time buyer tax credit is an opportunity that should be taken advantage of. I just listed a home located in the Powell area. This home has been updated and is well maintained; it shows very well on the internet which has created great interest. 

Buying or selling a home

Most people that I talk to are curious about what is really happening in the real estate market. You can’t depend on what is said in the media; after all, those folks don’t sell houses for a living. There are two sides to a story. Yes there are sad stories of houses going to foreclosure and it’s a very depressing situation. There are many happy stories of joyful buyers purchasing a home at a wonderful value and at an unbelievable low interest rate. Most sellers are happy that their homes have sold. Homes are being listed and sold so if you are able to take advantage of these opportunities you should not delay.

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2009 Grand Leprechaun   

The Dublin and Powell Ohio St Patrick’s Day events are celebrations of Irish culture. It is believed that there are over 34 million Americans that have Irish ancestry. In Dublin, the capital of Ireland, there is a multi day St Patrick’s Day festival that includes a parade, family carnival, singing and dancing. The past weekend festivals in Dublin and Powell Ohio are reminiscent of the festivities in Dublin Ireland. 

 Everyone is Irish for a Day

Dublin Ohio lives up to its namesake. The Dublin Ohio St Patrick’s day parade is usually held the Saturday prior to March 17 which seldom falls on a Saturday. The parade started at 11:00 a.m. sharp led by Tom Seitz the 2009 Grand Leprechaun. It was a mild day so the streets were lined with many revelers. From many areas it was a challenge to see the parade if you didn’t come early enough to get a front row view. No matter were you stood you could hear the bagpipe brigade that made everyone tap their feet. The crowd enjoyed viewing the playful clowns and listing to the three Dublin high school marching bands, there were colorful floats, Irish step dancers, gymnast, and gals dancing on very tall stilts.

 The Blarney Hop

The Shoppes at River Ridge along with the American Cancer Society Relay for Life hosted the Blarney Hop which followed after the parade. At the hop there was food, inflatable games, children’s crafts, face painting along with many other fun activities. There was a large tent outside the Oakland Nursery Garden store that was large enough to accommodate Irish dance shows along with gardening demonstrations. To make sure everyone could enjoy the entire event a shuttle trolley was provided by the River Ridge merchants. At the Blarney Hop raffle tickets could be purchased that will benefit the American Cancer Society Dublin Relay For Life. Someone is going to win a trip for two to San Francisco, a diamond and emerald pendant and more. If you missed the hop, raffle tickets will be available until June. To purchase your tickets call 1-888-227-6446, extension 3205.

 St Patrick’s Day celebration in Powell

On Sunday March 15, 2009 the Kinsale Golf and Fitness Club sponsored a fabulous St Patrick’s Day celebration that was a public free event. The weather was truly a gift of Irish luck it was the warmest and sunniest day of the year. The flags that lined the road to the event were a beautiful sight. I arrived just in time to enjoy the Shamrock Club bagpipe band; that beautiful music is just too hard to describe. As I walked thru the event I notice the kids were having so much fun. There was face painting, a balloon artist, inflatables, a basketball court, Irish dancers, along with a performance from the Irish band Lone Raven. Now to make sure your year is full of good luck, Irish stew, corn beef and cabbage and green refreshments were available to keep up with Irish tradition. 

 Wishing you a very Happy St Patrick’s Day

I am sending you a four leaf clover.  As per the legend, the four leaf clover carries the following message - the first is for hope, the second for faith, the third for love and the fourth for luck. Remember the first day of spring is March 20, 2009   

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2nd annual Carnival Event 3/14/09

The Johnnycake Corners Elementary PTO puts so much work into making the carnival a success. Many volunteers work hard to make the day enjoyable and profitable. I attended the carnival last year it was a fun day for the kids and parents a wonderful event.

 A great fundraiser

 All the profits from the carnival help to provide additional resources for the school. Last years carnival was very successful kudos to those that organized the very first carnival since the school just opened in the fall 2007.

Such a fun day

A great day for the kids to put their energies into playing games and eating their favorite foods. Not sure what will be availed this year you will just have to attend. Kids I am rooting for you, hope there is cotton candy and hot dogs again this year.

Silent auction and raffles

Many items have been donated. Last year there were beautiful baskets full of goodies to bid on. A boy’s bike and an American Girl Doll will be included in this year’s raffle. It’s always an honor to be asked to provide a donation to this special event.

Chrissa the 2009 American Girl Doll of the year

When called to make a donation to the carnival I was very happy to donate Chrissa. Every year the American Girl Doll company announces a brand new doll that is only available for one year. I love the message that Chrissa conveys, she is a girl that stands up for herself and others, she speaks out against bullying.

Please do attend 

Johnnycake Corners Elementary School
2nd annual Carnival
March 14, 2009 - 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
6783 Falling Meadows Drive
Galena, OH 43021

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A winter treat at the Ohio Expo Center 

When visiting the show my tour always begins by walking thru the garden exhibits because it makes me feel that spring is just around the corner. Strolling through the garden displays allows you to enjoy the creativity of area landscape architects. This years garden creations illustrate favorite Hollywood movie themes such as Herbie the Love Bug, Jurassic Park, Mamma Mia, The Secret Garden, Raiders of the Lost Ark, Lord of the Rings, Mary Poppins and my personal favorite Ratatouille. The Cedarbrook Landscaping Center created the Ratatouille display which makes you feel like you are in Paris complete with an Eiffel Tower, a French café with an outdoor pizza oven. I even shook hands with Remy the rat from the bistro named “La Ratatouille. Chef Auguste Gusteau the owner of the best restaurant in Paris, talks about his bestselling cookbook “Anyone Can Cook!” As visitors walk thru the Ratatouille garden they are surrounded by weeping willow and birch trees, rhododendrons, roses and lilacs which give this garden an extraordinary fragrance and a beautiful burst of color.

 Garden and home improvement ideas

Throughout the garden expo many exterior fireplaces give visitors ideas of what can be added to a new or existing outdoor living space. The fireplaces have been constructed to accommodate wood or gas logs. No garden show would be complete without a huge display of garden tools, mowers and mulch. The crowd was quite intrigued as they listened to Mel Bartholomew the developer of the square foot garden which is built in a box which produces more vegetables or flowers in less space. Mel’s garden techniques require fewer chemicals, less water and little weeding, tilling or digging. The garden expo is housed in its own building; all the home improvement vendors are located in another huge building. You can learn so much about what’s new on the market. If you are building a new home or need to replace a furnace, air conditioner, windows or a roof, you will be able to compare many products at the show

Solar roof vent and engineered counter tops

Insulation made from recycled newspapers

Every year at the show I always discover so many interesting products. The solar attic exhaust fan at the Able Roof display caught my attention. The vent is easy to install, no electrical wiring is required, sunlight powers the exhaust fan which removes hot unwanted air from an attic. I was impressed with a granite composite counter top that is constructed to fit right over an old countertop, no demolition, installs in one day, is resistant to heat, scratches and stains. The countertops are fabricated using crushed granite, quarts or glass to produce a beautiful engineered surface, the red glass countertop at the show was really gorgeous. I learn something new everyday. When I stopped by the Nu-Wool cellulose insulation display I was informed by the vendor that this insulation in now installed in all newly built Dominion Homes, a Central Ohio home builder. This energy-saving insulation if made from recycled newspapers it has superior thermal and air infiltration properties. Nu-Wool is considered a green product that is environmentally friendly; I was told that it could save up to 40% on energy bills.

Special Appearances

Dedicated Days

Demonstrations

There are special days during the show packed full of interesting venues for senior citizens and kids too. You can pick up many cooking, gardening and home improvement tips. Meet HGTV star designers Kim Myles and David Bromstad. The day I attended the show Kim Myles made an appearance she was fun to listen to; her message which was that decorating can be done on a budget. I learned that color is important to bring warmth to a home which can be accomplished by painting a room. A few cans of paint is not that expensive and if you don’t like the color just paint over it. Draperies and area rugs can really change the personality of a room. To my surprise a client’s young son made a special appearance at the show. Abhik a piano prodigy is only 7 years old he awed the crowd with his classical music. 

Still time to attend the show  

Don’t miss out many of the show exhibitors are offering special discounts. Discount tickets can be purchased at Home Depot. Show dates February 28 thru March 8. Ohio Expo Center, (Ohio State Fairgrounds) 717 E. 17th Ave.                                                   

Remy the rat from the  Ratatouille garden display was at the French café with the outdoor pizza oven.

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Open house activity at a Worthington Ohio area condo

Last Sunday there was an open house at 68 Highbluffs Blvd. I wanted to provide an update on what was discussed at the open house.  The day was cold and dreary typical February weather; was hoping for a sunny day.  I was pleasantly surprised at the number of prospective buyers that stopped by. The condo is listed at $186,900 so it wasn’t surprising that all the open house guests were first time buyers. There was a little confusion about the terms of the first time buyer tax credit which was signed into law on February 17, 2009.

 Great opportunity for first time buyers

Some buyers were unsure if they could take advantage of the tax credit if they purchased a condo. All the buyers were aware of the tax credit they just were not sure of the following provisions.

• Only owner occupied single family homes, condos and town homes qualify, must be a principal residence
• Purchase time frame is from January 1, 2009 thru November 30, 2009
• Credit is for 10% of the value of the home up to $8,000 ($4,000 for a married individual filing separately)
• Buyer’s income can’t exceed $75,000; joint return income not too exceed $150,000
• Definition of a first time buyer - have never owned a single family home, condo or town home or those without an ownership interest within the previous three years
• No repayment is required unless the buyer ceased to use the home as a principal residence within 36 months of the date of the purchase then the total amount is due.  

Condo purchase scenario

One interested buyer asked what needed to be done to purchase this condo

• Buyer needs to provide the seller with a lender pre-approval letter
• If a buyer is approved for an FHA loan they will need a 3.5% down payment $6,541
• Closing cost could range from $1,500 to $2,100 depending on the lender and title company charges 
• Principal/interest payment would be $1,003, taxes $301, mortgage insurance $85 condo fee $115 – total estimated monthly payment would be $1,504 based on a 30 year FHA loan with 5% interest.
• If you had $400 in monthly debt your annual income should be no less than $56,000 a year

 Looking to purchase a real deal

I had the following comments from the open house attendees. Is this condo a model, the buyers loved all the quality features such as the  ceramic tile floors, quality carpet, 42” maple cabinets, stainless steel appliances, rubbed bronze lighting fixtures, 3 floors of finished living space, so much storage space, gas log fireplace and the huge kitchen pantry. Both bedrooms have a private bath, the front load washer and dryer does remain, there is a two car garage, maintenance free living and yes you will have fun at the clubhouse and pool.

In conclusion

If you are a first time buyer please do not delay; the tax credit is a home buying incentive that you should not pass on. A few years ago I was fortunate to purchase a Toyota Prius which enabled me to take advantage of a tax credit that was available at that time; that credit is no longer offered. So don’t miss out on what could be the best investment of your lifetime. Before making any financial decisions it’s best to talk to a tax accountant and a reputable lender. At Real Living HER we have a Wells Fargo mortgage affiliate who is always available to explain the loan process in detail. If you are interested in learning more about the mortgage process please don’t hesitate to contact June Zepp, e-mail June.e.Zepp@reallivingmortgage.com office 614-825-8806

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 Staging vacant listings

It all started in 2007 when I listed many homes that were vacant. Upon obtaining these listings I knew that if they were given personality they would fetch a quicker sale. Working on a limited budget it was imperative that all of the staging selections were good quality, stylish and pleasing to the eye. 
 

Entry, living room, dining room kitchen, family room, bath

The entry is the most important area of the home. It’s the first and last impression the buyer will have of the home. It doesn’t take much to make the entry appealing a wreath on the front door, a nice throw rug which will allow the buyer to wipe off their shoes upon entering the home. If the area is large enough a small table with a lamp and a floral arrangement makes the entry quite pleasing.

Furniture selection

My allotted staging budget allowed me to purchase a living, dining room and kitchen collection. What has been learned from the staging experience is that it really doesn’t take much furniture to make a room look great  A limited amount of furniture makes a room look larger; just the right arrangement gives the room personality. Neutral colors work best which goes with any decor. A leather sofa and chair was selected for the family room staging which gives this room a casual look. Living rooms call for a more formal look so a nice Pottery Barn style sofa and chair was chosen. The dining room furniture consisted of an urban styled round dining table with matching dining room chairs accented with the popular X back styling. A matching side board gives the dining room a gorgeous touch. The kitchen is staged with a tall gathering table with wrought iron chairs.

 Accent pieces make a difference

 As the old saying goes it’s the small things that really make a difference. The Home Goods retail store is a very good source to purchase trendy accent items at very economical prices. Items purchased at the Home Goods store were pieces that brings the kitchen countertop to life such as a ceramic canisters set, a cute tin display sheet with the caption make from scratch, in the winter season a hot chocolate pot sitting on a tray with two mugs gives the home a warm and cozy feel. The kitchen being the heart of the home, it is very important to change the accent pieces to be in tune with the holidays and the four Central Ohio seasons. Some of the display items that are added upon the approaching holidays range from a box of valentine chocolates, St Patrick’s Day shamrock cookies, chocolate Easter eggs. In the spring a basket of tulips or daffodils are added, patriotic centerpieces at the 4th of July, a lemonade pitcher is a great summer accent piece, fall is time to display pumpkins and autumn leaves, fresh pine sprays and holiday ornaments are a great way to display the cheer of the last holidays of the year.

Lamps, end tables, a coffee table and a rug

 Lamps, end tables and a coffee table were chosen to make the living and family room collections complete. A really cool shag area rug is added to either the living room or the family room wherever the rug looks best. The rug is very versatile and was chosen to tie a room together. A nice coffee table book makes the house feel like home.

Pamper that bathroom

A luxurious towel set is added to the first floor bath along with a display of soap from Bath and Body Works. If space allows a candle arrangement is also a nice addition.   

 So many homes staged 

 I have been staging homes for two years now using all the items mentioned above at no extra charge to the clients’ homes that I have listed. In a market that has been challenging this service has paid off. Upon getting a home staged a good percentage of the time I have to make moving arrangements to pack up and move my collections on to another listing soon after a home is staged because the staged home has gone into contract. I am on a first name basis with the Leaders Moving Company. 

A very happy ending

The last listing that was staged received an offer quickly. The seller was very pleased and so was I because the buyer decided that she wanted to purchase all the furniture that was staged in that home. It took extra effort to plan setup and move all the staging collections. Now when I obtain a vacant listing I start dreaming of the personality that home could have if it was staged. Maybe just maybe I will stage again and start over with a new furniture collection.  

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Houses for sale

Are like a valentine candy box full of special chocolates. Buyer’s that are looking to purchase a home is like choosing a chocolate from that special valentine box of candy; you never know what a home really looks like until you physically take a tour inside.

Those chocolates look so good

A listed home may present itself beautifully on the internet, upon reviewing those gorgeous photos you just are not able to pick up on a strong pet smell. Now don’t get me wrong I love our furry friends; if they are not maintained they can be a source of undesirable odors. Photos also don’t give you a good sense of the location of a home. Is a home located next to a busy road, a train track, is the backyard large enough. Upon reviewing a home online you can obtain a very good idea of the features that a home offers. Sometimes you are surprised after making a chocolate selection that caramel just might be a maple cream.

So many flavors to choose from

A good percentage of home buyers begin their home search online so, sellers, great photos of your home are a must to attract a prospective buyer. Great photos make a home appear more valuable. Buyers you must do your homework; make a list of all the features you are looking for in a home, including the neighborhoods that are most desirable to you. Sellers make sure your home is staged just right so buyers can picture themselves living in your home. Everyone has their favorite flavor in the valentine candy box.  Every home has its own flavor along with every buyer looking to select that perfect flavor that they will enjoy.

Your favorite chocolates could be gone soon

Traditionally after the super bowl game is over buyers become serious about their home searches.  Now is a great time to purchase a home; interest rates have been hovering around the 5% range for a 30 year fixed mortgage loan. There is still a good selection to choose from so if you are serious about purchasing a home just like all the chocolates in the valentine candy box they don’t last forever. Great news for first time buyers in Central Ohio; the Ohio Housing Finance Agency is now offering a down payment assistance grant loan product. All homebuyers using this grant must complete a homebuyer education program. Serious buyers you need to make your home selections soon before all your favorite chocolates are completely gone from the Valentine candy box.

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Happy New Year… 2009 will be here soon…

I am sitting at my desk typing on my computer. All client greeting cards have been processed the old fashion way via a first class stamp. Call me an old fogey; for me it’s fun to open a holiday card from a family member or a friend it gives me a warm fuzzy feeling that I just can’t get from an e-mail. I love it when glitter spills out of a card and if a handwritten note is included that is very special because it’s becoming a lost art.

Text and e-mail messages are all the rage these days

The Real Living HER Worthington office recently participated in a Salvation Army bell-ringing event. I was struck by the message at the top of the kettle. For those who don’t carry cash you are now able to make a charitable contribution via a text message.

Almost everything and anything can be given or purchased online

You can text a contribution to the Salvation Army. The Mid Ohio food bank has a dedicated button that allows you to make contributions online.  Almost everything and anything can be given or purchased online even live Christmas trees; yes a live Christmas tree can be shipped right to your front door. I am thinking that the next generation will do absolutely everything online. Years from now I guess everyone will have to tour a museum to see what a newspaper looks like because many newspaper companies are filing for bankruptcy due to so much information that can be found online.

It’s amazing what you can find online

While compiling my Christmas cards I was listening to Christmas carols on YouTube, thought that you would enjoy listening to the carol below. Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

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