California housing starts fell for the 14th consecutive month in April 2007, declining 30.4 percent compared with the construction pace recorded one year earlier, the California Building Industry Association (CBIA) recently reported. Based on the number of building permits issued, 10,355 new housing units were started throughout the state in April, with single-family units accounting for 69.3 percent of the starts.
During the first four months of 2007, California housing starts totaled 43,418, a 28.2 percent decline compared with housing starts during the same period one year earlier. Construction activity is lagging across most of the state, with big declines in a few select areas.
According to CBIA Chief Economist Alan Nevin, nearly 50 percent of this year's decline in single-family housing production stems from the Riverside/San Bernardino and Sacramento markets, while the decline in multifamily construction is in Los Angeles County and the Bay Area.
**Taken from the California Association of Realtors Bulletin, dated May 30, 2007.
Thursday, May 31, 2007
Consumer Confidence Improves, Suggests Slow Economic Growth (article)
The confidence level of U.S. consumers improved this month, buoyed by a more favorable assessment of current economic conditions, according to yesterday's report from The Conference Board. Following a two-month decline, the Board's Consumer Confidence Index increased to 108 in May, up from 106.3 in April.
The Present Situation and Expectations indexes also improved, rising to 136.1 and 89.2, respectively. Despite the gain in consumer confidence, "The short-term outlook remains cautious, and rising gasoline prices are having a negative impact on consumers' inflation expectations," said Lynn Franco, director of The Conference Board Consumer Research Center.
"Confidence levels continue to suggest growth, albeit at a slow pace."While Americans showed more optimism about present-day conditions this month, concerns about the job market continued. According to the report, the proportion of consumers anticipating more jobs to open up remained unchanged at 13.3 percent, and the percentage of consumers anticipating their incomes to increase in the near-term edged down to 17.7 percent from 18.4 percent in April.
**Taken from the California Association of Realtors Bulletin, dated May 30, 2007.
The Present Situation and Expectations indexes also improved, rising to 136.1 and 89.2, respectively. Despite the gain in consumer confidence, "The short-term outlook remains cautious, and rising gasoline prices are having a negative impact on consumers' inflation expectations," said Lynn Franco, director of The Conference Board Consumer Research Center.
"Confidence levels continue to suggest growth, albeit at a slow pace."While Americans showed more optimism about present-day conditions this month, concerns about the job market continued. According to the report, the proportion of consumers anticipating more jobs to open up remained unchanged at 13.3 percent, and the percentage of consumers anticipating their incomes to increase in the near-term edged down to 17.7 percent from 18.4 percent in April.
**Taken from the California Association of Realtors Bulletin, dated May 30, 2007.
California Home Sales Decrease 27.8% in April (article)
The median price of an existing single-family home in California increased 6.2 percent in April and sales decreased 27.8 percent compared with the same period a year ago, C.A.R. recently reported. "April sales fell in part because of tighter credit standards and growing concerns about the impact of subprime loans on the market," said C.A.R. President Colleen Badagliacco.
"Throughout the state inventory levels have increased to their highest levels in recent years, giving buyers more time to view a greater variety of homes and sellers who set realistic prices an edge in the market."According to the report, the median price of an existing, single-family detached home in California during April was $597,640, a 6.2 percent increase over the revised $562,820 median for April 2006.
Also last month, closed escrow sales of existing, single-family detached homes in California totaled 373,280 at a seasonally adjusted annualized rate, down 27.8 percent compared with the sales pace recorded one year earlier and down 13.3 percent from home resale activity in March 2007."
Although the median price of a home in California continues to rise, this reflects the fall-off in sales in the lower-priced markets of the state where new home inventories and foreclosures are competing with the existing home market," said C.A.R. Vice President and Chief Economist Leslie Appleton-Young. "Fewer sales from these regions coupled with modest gains in some of the stronger coastal markets are pushing the median price for the state up slightly."
**Taken from the California Association of Realtors Bulletin, dated May 30, 2007.
"Throughout the state inventory levels have increased to their highest levels in recent years, giving buyers more time to view a greater variety of homes and sellers who set realistic prices an edge in the market."According to the report, the median price of an existing, single-family detached home in California during April was $597,640, a 6.2 percent increase over the revised $562,820 median for April 2006.
Also last month, closed escrow sales of existing, single-family detached homes in California totaled 373,280 at a seasonally adjusted annualized rate, down 27.8 percent compared with the sales pace recorded one year earlier and down 13.3 percent from home resale activity in March 2007."
Although the median price of a home in California continues to rise, this reflects the fall-off in sales in the lower-priced markets of the state where new home inventories and foreclosures are competing with the existing home market," said C.A.R. Vice President and Chief Economist Leslie Appleton-Young. "Fewer sales from these regions coupled with modest gains in some of the stronger coastal markets are pushing the median price for the state up slightly."
**Taken from the California Association of Realtors Bulletin, dated May 30, 2007.
Wednesday, May 30, 2007
Listing Appointments go "up in the air"
This week my listings appointments have been changing every day!!
The universe or someone/something is wanting me to spend more time doing other things in a way...that was a good excuse today to get out to the movies while Yvette and I both had a chance.
Enjoy yours, my friend!!
ILUN
The universe or someone/something is wanting me to spend more time doing other things in a way...that was a good excuse today to get out to the movies while Yvette and I both had a chance.
Yesterday, actually got to spend more family time as well, with Nonna and even saw Papa for a few minutes....while I stuffed envelopes of the article reprints of "Broker/Agent Magazine" when I was featured. I'm hoping to get that out by the first week in June.
Right now, I still have another listing appointment that has been set for a week....we'll see if it happens....by Monday....? I'm fine either way, it's just been interesting watching things unfold. ;)
Also, glad I got to enjoy the afternoon in casual attire....am headed to a different gym than my usual tonight and then a healthy meal.....hopefully will be a great evening.Enjoy yours, my friend!!
ILUN
Paparazzi Shots...
Today I'm lucky and happy to share with you that I got to visit and spend time with my sister, Yvette. Isn't she gorgeous?!! I called her fresh out of her workout, she ran home, showered and took off to meet me....the spur of the moment times are sometimes best, aren't they? It was nice to dress down for a change as well....
We went to see "Brooklyn Rules" and enjoyed it.....there were some good parts, for sure.
Afterwards, we walked around the city and then I was showing her around a bit, and we ended up shopping for a few minutes....before we had to get back to our day jobs...LOL
It was fun and Thanks for coming out, Yvette!!
We went to see "Brooklyn Rules" and enjoyed it.....there were some good parts, for sure.
Afterwards, we walked around the city and then I was showing her around a bit, and we ended up shopping for a few minutes....before we had to get back to our day jobs...LOL
It was fun and Thanks for coming out, Yvette!!
Brooklyn Rules
Saw this and thought it looked interesting:
Written by three-time Emmy winner Terence Winter ( The Sopranos ), BROOKLYN RULES is a powerful drama about loyalty, friendship and sacrifice. Set in Brooklyn circa 1985 against the backdrop of John Gotti's rise to power, the film revolves around three lifelong friends whose different ambitions shake their enduring bond and threaten their lives.
Freddie Prinze Jr., Scott Caan, Jerry Ferrara, Mena Suvari and Alec Baldwin star.Michael (FREDDIE PRINZE JR.), the narrator, is a lovable charmer with the soul of a con man who successfully scams his way into the pre-law program at Columbia University. In contrast to Michael's desire to leave the Brooklyn streets behind, his close friend Carmine (SCOTT CAAN), a handsome lady-killer enamored of the Mafia lifestyle, wants nothing more than to stay there.
Rounding out the trio is Bobby (Entourage's JERRY FERRARA), an endearing cheapskate who longs for a simple life of working at the Post Office and settling down with his fiancée. While at Columbia, Michael falls for a beautiful young student named Ellen (MENA SUVARI), a society girl whom he initially wins over with his preppy schoolboy cover.
As their relationship blossoms, leaving the streets behind seems increasingly possible, but when Carmine catches the eye of Caesar (ALEC BALDWIN), a feared mobster who controls their Brooklyn neighborhood, Michael and Bobby are drawn into that world despite their reluctance to get involved.
BROOKLYN RULES is about the choices faced by three young men when the right path is not always the easiest to follow, and when being a loyal friend can mean making the ultimate sacrifice.
Monday, May 28, 2007
Eye on LA....
Remember that show??
OMG, got to spend a little bit of time in LA County over the weekend....doing a little furniture shopping and just being out and about....Here are a few pics....
Celebrated Papa's Birthday this weekend....
and enjoyed some family time.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY, PAPA!!Here are a few of the pics.
Saturday, May 26, 2007
Quote for the day....
"Whatever the mind can conceive and believe, it can achieve. "
- Napoleon Hill (1883-1970) American writer
- Napoleon Hill (1883-1970) American writer
Friday, May 25, 2007
Thursday, May 24, 2007
Charitable Contributions....Make a Difference!!
I made a charitable contribution to an organization recently and it was good to give the money to a worthy cause.
I urge anyone who can spare up to 10% of their annual income to consider giving some of it away.....and making a difference.
Think outside the box.
I urge anyone who can spare up to 10% of their annual income to consider giving some of it away.....and making a difference.
Think outside the box.
Current Time in Nashville....
Was wondering what the time difference is for TN this am, and thought I'd share this link and website with you if you're wanting to look up times, etc.
Click here: Current local time in Nashville - Tennessee - U.S.A.
www.timeanddate.com
Click here: Current local time in Nashville - Tennessee - U.S.A.
www.timeanddate.com
Fast Facts
Calif. median home price - March 07: $580,090 (Source: C.A.R.)
Calif. highest median home price by C.A.R. region March 07:Santa Barbara So. Coast $1,200,000 (Source: C.A.R.)
Calif. lowest median home price by C.A.R. region March 07:High Desert $320,830 (Source: C.A.R.)
Calif. First-time Buyer Affordability Index - First Quarter 07:25 percent (Source: C.A.R.)
Mortgage rates - week ending 5/17:
30-yr. fixed: 6.21%; Fees/points: 0.4%
15-yr. fixed: 5.92%; Fees/points: 0.4%
1-yr. adjustable: 5.48%; Fees/points: 0.7%
(Source: Freddie Mac)
**Taken from the California Association of Realtors Bulletin, dated May 23rd, 2007.
Entry-Level Housing Affordability at 25% in California
The percentage of households that could afford to buy an entry-level home in California stood at 25 percent in the first quarter of 2007, compared with 26 percent for the same period a year ago, according to C.A.R.'s First-time Buyer Housing Affordability Index (FTB-HAI).
The minimum household income needed to purchase an entry-level home at $480,670 in California in the first quarter of 2007 was $96,910, based on an adjustable interest rate of 6.3 percent and assuming a 10 percent down payment. First-time buyers typically purchase a home equal to 85 percent of the prevailing median price. The monthly payment including taxes and insurance was $3,230 for the first quarter of 2007.
At 44 percent, the High Desert region was the most affordable in the state, followed by the Sacramento region at 43 percent. Santa Barbara was the least affordable region in the state at 12 percent, followed by the Monterey region at 19 percent.
**Taken from the California Association of Realtors Bulletin, dated May 23rd, 2007.
The minimum household income needed to purchase an entry-level home at $480,670 in California in the first quarter of 2007 was $96,910, based on an adjustable interest rate of 6.3 percent and assuming a 10 percent down payment. First-time buyers typically purchase a home equal to 85 percent of the prevailing median price. The monthly payment including taxes and insurance was $3,230 for the first quarter of 2007.
At 44 percent, the High Desert region was the most affordable in the state, followed by the Sacramento region at 43 percent. Santa Barbara was the least affordable region in the state at 12 percent, followed by the Monterey region at 19 percent.
**Taken from the California Association of Realtors Bulletin, dated May 23rd, 2007.
Wednesday, May 23, 2007
Go See and Research (Man on the Moon)
I was up early this morning...yes, at the crack of dawn or haze (lol), and have been catching up on my research. Looks like I may be listing a home in Rialto ($300K-$400K), next week, as well as a property in Alta Loma (1/2 acre - near you, R, approx. $710,000)...and it's been exciting.
Have another property coming up in Upland soon.....around low $400's.....
Toni is sitting here and almost won't leave me alone. Didn't realize cats could be so affectionate and playful all in one. She watches my mouse on the screen as I'm researching and wants to play with it.
Should be getting some interesting market news soon.....I will pass on to you, via the blog, as soon as it comes.
THANKS for your concern about my website being down Monday - Tuesday...You guys are the best!! Take Care and Enjoy Your Wednesday!!
My Best,
Todd
Tuesday, May 22, 2007
Picconi starts Celebrating His Birthday a Few Months Early!!
Well, it's official....the birthday lunches began today...
Thank You to M for the wonderful lunch at Sisley's. Also, Thanks to J for our service and great meal!!
Can't wait to have the leftovers after my workout tonight....
M is the kind of gal that you definitely want to be your friend and also is a contribution in a no~nonsense kind of way. Wish we could have another deal together, M!! Let's do it.
THANK YOU AGAIN FOR A WONDERFUL LUNCH AND TIME.
OUR FRIENDSHIP IS IMPORTANT TO ME.
Todd
an offer on Sunnybrook arrived today ;)
Currently working on countering an offer on Sunnybrook that we received today.
I hope we can work this out...Seems the Buyer is very serious and my Seller is too.
Wouldn't it be nice if it all worked out?
Off and headed to workout now and then back to work in a few hours to counter our offer later tonight. Hope I can sleep tonight....LOL
Ciao Ciao~~
Todd
P.S. Glad my website is back up...Thank You AA!!!!
Monday, May 21, 2007
CONGRATULATIONS TO A & A!!
One of my clients got married over the weekend......
Here are some of the photos.
They are very happy!! So are the kids!!!
Thanks for sharing these with me (and allowing me to share them),
A & A!!
My Best Wishes,
Todd
Blocking things out....getting to the "other side"
Have you ever tried to block something that happened to you (or at least it felt like that), out?
It's funny how we can block things out of our mind that are painful in some way or another.
Glad we got that mechanism when we were created.
I recently spoke with one of my relatives who is doing just that right now. It's terrible. I suppose it's the best that they can do at this point in their life. The thought that it's so out of their control, has become almost unbearable.
I let them know they are important to me and that I was there for them.
I have used this mechanism more than once in my life and am sure will have to in the future.
I appreciate the learning experiences that come my way. Isn't there always something you can learn? I believe there is, especially if you're an information seeker, or student.
I also feel it's important to apply yourself in situations with the integrity that will carry you through something, and beyond. As best as you can!!
It's good to be thankful for things, like insights.
Afterall, it's because of insights that we're sometimes able to get to the "other side".
Toni is cracking me up running around playing today...
Who's Holding Up Your Mirror?
Recently, was lucky to have one of my most interesting and revealing conversations of the year.
It really was amazing!!
I was talking with a longtime friend and we were discussing the reality
of certain situations. How when you think everything is fine and that some of the
people that you know seem normal. How they can surprise you.
I was most touched @ how it seems that in some situations (not every)
that there can be times of discovery of things that you may or may not to ever
find out about someone. Well, the truth is usually revealed at some point or another.
What I saw out of this situation was myself.
I saw how the worst "out of sorts" kind of feelings, even months after something
has happened, that one specific person is feeling.
I saw the vulnerability that was so amazing, it made me feel
as if I had actually experienced the same thing.
(what a gift that someone could share it this way, eh?)
Well, in that moment, and I will also reveal that there was some regret, possible
self hating for what had happened, I saw myself.
I also feel compelled to tell you that I so just wanted to let this person know
that everything is going to be alright.
I saw the desperate~ness that comes
with some feelings of regret, that we've all had at some point or another.
I just wanted to hug this person and not let go until they stopped tearing up!!
(had to check my welling up in at the door)
Wowee!!
The compassion that can come from two friends just sharing things that have
happened to each other or just to one of them, can be so overwhelming, in a good way.
Is it called bonding, or trust, or friendship?
It's important to
be there for one another,
in good times and bad.
Friendship is a gift.
Note from Rick Lozano....KTTV/Fox Eleven
Just got this from Rick Lozano.....Hope I'm able to somehow support this....and maybe you know someone who can also??
Thanx!!
Todd
Hello Mr. Picconi,
Rick Lozano here from KTTV/Fox Eleven. I came across your business card and wanted to extend an invitation for your company to participate in a wonderful event.
If you have golfers in your office this could be an outstanding business opportunity to go along with the exciting day it promises to be on the course.
Welcome to the 2nd annual Toys For Tots Celebrity Golf Tournament which will be played at the prestigious Industry Hills/Pacific Palms Golf & Conference Center on December 7th. Mingle with the Stars from the Sports & Entertainment industries as well as other business professionals.
Enjoy a round of golf for four people (plus a celebrity partner), prizes, food & drink, entertainment and its all capped off with "Casino Night" in casual attire that very same evening (Yes, its a Friday night)!!!.
Please let me know if you will join us. Your tax deductible donation of $1,500.00 will help underprivileged children from throughout Southern California enjoy a wonderful Holiday Season.
If you need any additional information, please contact me at this email address, or by phone...310-801-6594.
Thanks again,
Rick Lozano
positive expectancy
whatever you are seeking is seeking you out also.....just got this from my friend, M!!
THANX M!!
See you soon.....
THANX M!!
See you soon.....
Not taking your Vacation Time? Why not.....(article)
Good Morning Everyone!!
I'm hoping you had an excellent weekend....I'm working on my stuff while at the home inspection on Overland Drive....so far, the inspection is going well.
Found this article earlier and wanted to share w/you....do you take your vacation time? I hope you're saying, "I take more than my company gives me....." because then that means you're probably living.....Happy Day!!
http://hotjobs.promotions.yahoo.com/vacation/article2.html
I'm hoping you had an excellent weekend....I'm working on my stuff while at the home inspection on Overland Drive....so far, the inspection is going well.
Found this article earlier and wanted to share w/you....do you take your vacation time? I hope you're saying, "I take more than my company gives me....." because then that means you're probably living.....Happy Day!!
http://hotjobs.promotions.yahoo.com/vacation/article2.html
Sunday, May 20, 2007
Cannes Opening Weekend...
Movie stars turn out for opening weekend of the most exclusive film fest in the world.....
Here is the link to their official website:
thought for the day...from another longtime dear friend...and client
Nothing is worse than missing an opportunity that could have changed your life.
DA
DA
quote from a friend...
got this from a longtime friend and client the other day.....it's taken out of context but still thought I'd include it here....it's my quote for the day......
"Getting old stinks so live it up!"
CB
"Getting old stinks so live it up!"
CB
Fast Facts...
Calif. median home price - March 07: $580,090 (Source: C.A.R.)
Calif. highest median home price by C.A.R. region March 07:Santa Barbara So. Coast $1,200,000 (Source: C.A.R.)
Calif. lowest median home price by C.A.R. region March 07:High Desert $320,830 (Source: C.A.R.)
Calif. First-time Buyer Affordability Index - Fourth Quarter 06:25 percent (Source: C.A.R.)
Mortgage rates - week ending 5/10:
30-yr. fixed: 6.15%; Fees/points: 0.5%
15-yr. fixed: 5.87%; Fees/points: 0.5%
1-yr. adjustable: 5.48%; Fees/points: 0.7%
(Source: Freddie Mac)
**Taken from the California Association of Realtors Bulletin, dated May 16th, 2007.
Calif. highest median home price by C.A.R. region March 07:Santa Barbara So. Coast $1,200,000 (Source: C.A.R.)
Calif. lowest median home price by C.A.R. region March 07:High Desert $320,830 (Source: C.A.R.)
Calif. First-time Buyer Affordability Index - Fourth Quarter 06:25 percent (Source: C.A.R.)
Mortgage rates - week ending 5/10:
30-yr. fixed: 6.15%; Fees/points: 0.5%
15-yr. fixed: 5.87%; Fees/points: 0.5%
1-yr. adjustable: 5.48%; Fees/points: 0.7%
(Source: Freddie Mac)
**Taken from the California Association of Realtors Bulletin, dated May 16th, 2007.
FLORIDA, CALIFORNIA POST MOST NEW FORECLOSURE FILINGS
The number of foreclosure filings across the nation exceeded 100,000 for the ninth consecutive month in April, with foreclosure activity increasing in all but 12 states, according to RealtyTrac's "April 2007 U.S. Foreclosure Market Report." Florida and California led the country with the most foreclosure filings last month, with 30,505 and 14,318 foreclosures, respectively.
In California, foreclosures decreased 3 percent from the previous month but were up more than 200 percent from April 2006.On a month-to-month basis, foreclosure activity may subside during the upcoming summer months, according to the report.
However, slower home appreciation and tighter lending standards in the mortgage market are likely to push the number of defaults above last year's levels for the remainder of 2007. The national foreclosure rate in April 2007 was one new filing for every 783 households.
**Taken from the California Association of Realtors Bulletin, dated May 16th, 2007.
In California, foreclosures decreased 3 percent from the previous month but were up more than 200 percent from April 2006.On a month-to-month basis, foreclosure activity may subside during the upcoming summer months, according to the report.
However, slower home appreciation and tighter lending standards in the mortgage market are likely to push the number of defaults above last year's levels for the remainder of 2007. The national foreclosure rate in April 2007 was one new filing for every 783 households.
**Taken from the California Association of Realtors Bulletin, dated May 16th, 2007.
SUBPRIME CONCERNS CONTINUE TO AFFECT BUILDER CONFIDENCE (article)
Builder confidence continued to diminish this month amidst concerns about subprime lending and its impact on the mortgage market, according to yesterday's report from the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB). For the third consecutive month, the Association's Housing Market Index (HMI), which gauges builders' perceptions of current and future home sales, declined three points.
The HMI now stands at 30, the lowest level since September 2006. An HMI below 50 indicates more builders view sales conditions as poor versus good."The crisis in the subprime sector has infected other parts of the mortgage market as well as consumer psychology, and as a result the housing outlook has deteriorated," said NAHB Chief Economist David Seiders.
"We're now projecting that home sales and housing production will not begin improving until late this year, and we're expecting the early stages of the subsequent recovery to be quite sluggish."All three HMI components decreased this month. The component measuring sales expectations for the next six months declined three points to 41, while the components gauging current sales and buyer traffic decreased to 31 and 23, respectively.
**Taken from the California Association of Realtors Bulletin, dated May 16th, 2007.
The HMI now stands at 30, the lowest level since September 2006. An HMI below 50 indicates more builders view sales conditions as poor versus good."The crisis in the subprime sector has infected other parts of the mortgage market as well as consumer psychology, and as a result the housing outlook has deteriorated," said NAHB Chief Economist David Seiders.
"We're now projecting that home sales and housing production will not begin improving until late this year, and we're expecting the early stages of the subsequent recovery to be quite sluggish."All three HMI components decreased this month. The component measuring sales expectations for the next six months declined three points to 41, while the components gauging current sales and buyer traffic decreased to 31 and 23, respectively.
**Taken from the California Association of Realtors Bulletin, dated May 16th, 2007.
Positive Mental Attitudes....Thanks C!!! Loved this one..
Positive Mental Attitude!!
We can all learn a lesson from this great old girl! The 92-year-old, petite, well-poised and proud lady, who is fully dressed each morning by eight o'clock, with her hair fashionably coifed and makeup perfectly applied, even though she is legally blind, moved to a nursing home today.
Her husband of 70 years recently passed away, making the move necessary.
After many hours of waiting patiently in the lobby of the nursing home, she smiled sweetly when told her room was ready. As she maneuvered her walker to the elevator, I provided a visual description of her tiny room, including the eyelet sheets that had been hung on her window.
"I love it," she stated with the enthusiasm of an eight-year-old having just been presented with a new puppy
"Mrs. Jones, you haven't seen the room . just wait."
"That doesn't have anything to do with it," she replied.
"Happiness is something you decide on ahead of time. Whether I like my room or not doesn't depend on how the furniture is arranged... it's how I arrange my mind. I already decided to love it "It's a decision I make every morning when I wake up.
I have a choice; I can spend the day in bed recounting the difficulty I have with the parts of my body that no longer work, or get out of bed and be thankful for the ones that do. Each day is a gift, and as long as my eyes open I'll focus on the new day and all the happy memories I've stored away just for this time in my life.
Old age is like a bank account, you withdraw from what you've put in. So, my advice to you would be to deposit a lot of happiness in the bank account of memories.
Thank you for your part in filling my Memory bank. I am still depositing.
Remember the five simple rules to be happy:
1. Free your heart from hatred.
2. Free your mind from worries.
3. Live simply.
4. Give more.
5. Expect less.
We can all learn a lesson from this great old girl! The 92-year-old, petite, well-poised and proud lady, who is fully dressed each morning by eight o'clock, with her hair fashionably coifed and makeup perfectly applied, even though she is legally blind, moved to a nursing home today.
Her husband of 70 years recently passed away, making the move necessary.
After many hours of waiting patiently in the lobby of the nursing home, she smiled sweetly when told her room was ready. As she maneuvered her walker to the elevator, I provided a visual description of her tiny room, including the eyelet sheets that had been hung on her window.
"I love it," she stated with the enthusiasm of an eight-year-old having just been presented with a new puppy
"Mrs. Jones, you haven't seen the room . just wait."
"That doesn't have anything to do with it," she replied.
"Happiness is something you decide on ahead of time. Whether I like my room or not doesn't depend on how the furniture is arranged... it's how I arrange my mind. I already decided to love it "It's a decision I make every morning when I wake up.
I have a choice; I can spend the day in bed recounting the difficulty I have with the parts of my body that no longer work, or get out of bed and be thankful for the ones that do. Each day is a gift, and as long as my eyes open I'll focus on the new day and all the happy memories I've stored away just for this time in my life.
Old age is like a bank account, you withdraw from what you've put in. So, my advice to you would be to deposit a lot of happiness in the bank account of memories.
Thank you for your part in filling my Memory bank. I am still depositing.
Remember the five simple rules to be happy:
1. Free your heart from hatred.
2. Free your mind from worries.
3. Live simply.
4. Give more.
5. Expect less.
Saturday, May 19, 2007
the look of love...
Good Morning!!
Gettin' ready for my sister's birthday today and also have an am appt before that. She wanted me to bring Toni with me (notice, I spelled it differently? Found out Tony is a girl on Wednesday at the vets office, lol) to have a play date with her kitty...well, next time....
Hope that Toni continues to settle in...she has already used up one of her lives in her first week with me....
Was just listening to a cd that I made months ago and heard Diana Krall's "The Look of Love"....nobody does that song better than she does in my ears.....Bye for now!!
Happy Saturday!!
Gettin' ready for my sister's birthday today and also have an am appt before that. She wanted me to bring Toni with me (notice, I spelled it differently? Found out Tony is a girl on Wednesday at the vets office, lol) to have a play date with her kitty...well, next time....
Hope that Toni continues to settle in...she has already used up one of her lives in her first week with me....
Was just listening to a cd that I made months ago and heard Diana Krall's "The Look of Love"....nobody does that song better than she does in my ears.....Bye for now!!
Happy Saturday!!
Thursday, May 17, 2007
Hey You ~ Madonna's New Song....Free Download!!
Here is a link to a free download of Madonna's Live Earth song, "Hey You"....It's free for the next week and I believe once they reach a certain level of downloads, MSN is donating 25 cents for every download to charity?
It's uplifting....Enjoy....just listening to it for the first time myself.
http://liveearth.msn.com/green/Madonnadownload?wa=wsignin1.0
Have just listened to it about 5-10 times on repeat while closing out a file at the office and I love it!! It's cool, because she wrote the song so you can relate to it, on more than one level....Good Job Madonna and for charity too!! (big smile)
It's uplifting....Enjoy....just listening to it for the first time myself.
http://liveearth.msn.com/green/Madonnadownload?wa=wsignin1.0
Have just listened to it about 5-10 times on repeat while closing out a file at the office and I love it!! It's cool, because she wrote the song so you can relate to it, on more than one level....Good Job Madonna and for charity too!! (big smile)
Wednesday, May 16, 2007
SOLD OVERLAND TODAY ;)) PRICE REDUCED ON SUNNYBROOK TODAY TOO ;)~
We SOLD Overland Drive today....Woohoo!!
Got a price reduction on Sunnybrook Avenue this afternoon and hoping to have it sold also, very soon.
Got to see some very special clients today....
I appreciate the opportunity to work with and for you, R & M!!
Hope you had a great rest of the night.....
Todd
one door closes, another door opens
Whoever made that saying up, had some kind of wisdom, eh?
I liked it also and was thinking about how flexible you have to be nowadays, no matter what your profession is....etc...and thought it's funny when seasons change or something changes, there are a few ways you can look at it.
You can be drug screaming all the way....and resent or not enjoy what you're having to do.
Or you can just try to go with the flow....you know, take the path of least resistance.
I'm grateful for D, for getting me hooked up today with something that I couldn't have done on my own. THANK YOU!!
Tony is doin' well settling in....and he's just all over the place right now....just got home and waiting to get a delivery so I can go back out tonight still....one of my friends just said, your job sounds like a bummer....you know, it can be, but so is yours at times, right?
here's enjoying what we do and also the change of seasons....Thanks for your wisdom yesterday, P...you really help me when I need it....how do you know what I need before I do?? LOL
Talk w/you later....
Todd
I liked it also and was thinking about how flexible you have to be nowadays, no matter what your profession is....etc...and thought it's funny when seasons change or something changes, there are a few ways you can look at it.
You can be drug screaming all the way....and resent or not enjoy what you're having to do.
Or you can just try to go with the flow....you know, take the path of least resistance.
I'm grateful for D, for getting me hooked up today with something that I couldn't have done on my own. THANK YOU!!
Tony is doin' well settling in....and he's just all over the place right now....just got home and waiting to get a delivery so I can go back out tonight still....one of my friends just said, your job sounds like a bummer....you know, it can be, but so is yours at times, right?
here's enjoying what we do and also the change of seasons....Thanks for your wisdom yesterday, P...you really help me when I need it....how do you know what I need before I do?? LOL
Talk w/you later....
Todd
Why are some people so unhappy? GET A LIFE, WOULD YOU?!!
Remember, a while back I submitted and even copied my blog with a press release that I had attended Gary Watt's Seminar? (about a week or so ago)
Well, that was back in February and someone called me today about it and said it was misinformation and it was irresponsible of me to allow it to run because it was misleading to the public.
You can take what I said in the press release as gospel, or take it as someone reporting what they heard and saw, and at the time they saw it. That's all I did.
I'm sure the newspaper heard something about all this and I'm not surprised because I'm used to some people always having to put their two cents in. I also have the right to put mine in too....
Well, that was back in February and someone called me today about it and said it was misinformation and it was irresponsible of me to allow it to run because it was misleading to the public.
You can take what I said in the press release as gospel, or take it as someone reporting what they heard and saw, and at the time they saw it. That's all I did.
I'm sure the newspaper heard something about all this and I'm not surprised because I'm used to some people always having to put their two cents in. I also have the right to put mine in too....
Tuesday, May 15, 2007
Monday, May 14, 2007
We are Family ~(;
I was fortunate recently to have lunch with some special people...we've known each other and they've been part of my family for about 15 years...? I may be off a bit, but you get the idea.
Thank You guys for meeting me on short notice....and being a contribution to my life all these years!! It was a great way to spend my time off of work...Thanks Ladies and Young Lady. (;
I Love America!! Her Smile Gets Insured....(article)
One of my favorite young actresses got her smile insured recently...She's one of the stars of "Ugly Betty" and I first saw her in "The Traveling Pants" ...and she has been a very hard working actress and had to overcome certain issues that I applaud her for!!
Here's a link to the article:
GO AMERICA!!!!!
Sunday, May 13, 2007
Top Places for Getaways under $100K....and even an hour away?
Here's a link that I found and thought it interesting:
Click here: Vacation and Second Home Buying, Listings, and Investments - AOL Real Estate
**the best part is that one of them is in our very own backyard.....and it even snows there sometimes!!
Click here: Vacation and Second Home Buying, Listings, and Investments - AOL Real Estate
**the best part is that one of them is in our very own backyard.....and it even snows there sometimes!!
A Good Offer on Overland Drive arrives...
How much better can this weekend get?
Positive expectancy?? YOU BET!!
I have received a very good offer on Overland Drive that I hope gets accepted this week. I am working on it and the clients seem like "the ones"...even their Realtor does...he's experienced and seems very honest....two big +'s in today's world of real estate.
Should have another offer tomorrow or Tuesday.....two offers in one week!!
Thanks to my Sellers for hanging in there during this interesting time.
I appreciate you R & M!!!
I have received a very good offer on Overland Drive that I hope gets accepted this week. I am working on it and the clients seem like "the ones"...even their Realtor does...he's experienced and seems very honest....two big +'s in today's world of real estate.
Should have another offer tomorrow or Tuesday.....two offers in one week!!
Thanks to my Sellers for hanging in there during this interesting time.
I appreciate you R & M!!!
Tony joins the Picconi Ranks....
My horoscope for today was interesting....not sure what to think of it? Here it is:
Some changes are coming your way when it comes to this funny thing called love -- especially regarding those rules you thought were etched in stone. This is a great thing: You can kick old habits that were holding you back.
That aside.......I spent the afternoon/late am with my family today...and that included my 91 year old Grandmother that I'm so grateful is still fairly healthy and can walk pretty much on her own...although she's very hunched.
It was an exciting afternoon and ended up having to go to Petco (or whatever it's called...LOL...have a feeling I will be there again later this week?) for yup, you guessed it, my new pet.
My sister, Yvette, got me a surprise and talk about a SURPRISE!! Yes, got a new pet....and his name is Tony. I hope to have pics of him on here soon....it was interesting and seems very fated...he's sitting w/me on my chase lounge as I write you this and he's enjoying some much needed rest from his long (I'm sure it seemed like forever) afternoon.....I believe he'll settle in well and he is a welcome addition to the Picconi Clan....Please Welcome, Tony Picconi!!! Hope you get to meet him sometime.....
Thank You to my Sister....she always has such a great way of gift giving....she's very gifted in this way....and it was really wonderful to have so much time with them today....some of you know I haven't spent much time with my family of late...
Papa seemed overall happy and Yvette was a bit uneasy (her stalker issue comes up later this month around the 17th, they may let him out of prison) and I've been trying to be helpful today and listen and hope that he won't be dumb enough to come back around, etc.....Please keep my dear Sister in your positive thoughts that he goes and starts a new life.....and/or somehow finds the girl he thinks lives at Yvette's house...THANK YOU, I really appreciate it!!
Well, bye for now...have some work to get caught up on...yes, I know.
night!!
Some changes are coming your way when it comes to this funny thing called love -- especially regarding those rules you thought were etched in stone. This is a great thing: You can kick old habits that were holding you back.
That aside.......I spent the afternoon/late am with my family today...and that included my 91 year old Grandmother that I'm so grateful is still fairly healthy and can walk pretty much on her own...although she's very hunched.
It was an exciting afternoon and ended up having to go to Petco (or whatever it's called...LOL...have a feeling I will be there again later this week?) for yup, you guessed it, my new pet.
My sister, Yvette, got me a surprise and talk about a SURPRISE!! Yes, got a new pet....and his name is Tony. I hope to have pics of him on here soon....it was interesting and seems very fated...he's sitting w/me on my chase lounge as I write you this and he's enjoying some much needed rest from his long (I'm sure it seemed like forever) afternoon.....I believe he'll settle in well and he is a welcome addition to the Picconi Clan....Please Welcome, Tony Picconi!!! Hope you get to meet him sometime.....
Thank You to my Sister....she always has such a great way of gift giving....she's very gifted in this way....and it was really wonderful to have so much time with them today....some of you know I haven't spent much time with my family of late...
Papa seemed overall happy and Yvette was a bit uneasy (her stalker issue comes up later this month around the 17th, they may let him out of prison) and I've been trying to be helpful today and listen and hope that he won't be dumb enough to come back around, etc.....Please keep my dear Sister in your positive thoughts that he goes and starts a new life.....and/or somehow finds the girl he thinks lives at Yvette's house...THANK YOU, I really appreciate it!!
Well, bye for now...have some work to get caught up on...yes, I know.
night!!
Madonna gets a new song...
Got this from one of my friends...Thank You Madonna Sean!!
They are saying this will be available next week, but nothing on madonna.com yet...
Madonna's new song with Pharrell is called "Hey You" and willbe a Microsoft-branded Live Earth charity download almost by the timeyou read this
They are saying this will be available next week, but nothing on madonna.com yet...
Madonna's new song with Pharrell is called "Hey You" and willbe a Microsoft-branded Live Earth charity download almost by the timeyou read this
Saturday, May 12, 2007
In Honor of My Mom on Mother's Day....
Here are some pics of my Mom when she was late teens.....I wanted to put them on here to share them with you in her honor.
Happy Mother's Day (again) to all the great Mothers of the world.
I salute you!!
Love,
Todd
Meet Artist Alexander Volkov....
http://www.greenhousegallery.com/cgi-bin/mp/getworks.pl?artistid=1,040
check out Alexander.....a friend of mine just loved some of this artist's work and sent me the link.....
I'm at an Open House and haven't had anyone come by for two+ hours....am still baking cookies, and the phone is pretty quiet.....Mother's Day come early?
Hope you're enjoying this sunny, beautiful weekend!!
Best,
Todd
check out Alexander.....a friend of mine just loved some of this artist's work and sent me the link.....
I'm at an Open House and haven't had anyone come by for two+ hours....am still baking cookies, and the phone is pretty quiet.....Mother's Day come early?
Hope you're enjoying this sunny, beautiful weekend!!
Best,
Todd
Two Articles of Note....Foreclosures & Slow April...(article)
Friday, May 11, 2007
More WEREP Wine Tasting Pics
Congratulations to RJ for your job, and I wish you all the best in your first year at UCR in the Fall. I'm really excited about the trip to Europe this Summer!!
F, JJ and T ~ Your were so fun outside and we hadn't even gotten in yet!!
Great to see you, E!!
Our Wine Bartenders....A BIG THANK YOU for keeping us all as happy as could be....
C ~ Hope to see you next week in Covina!! :)~ I know it's gonna be great....Congratulations and I'm very proud of you.
Night Everyone,
Todd
More WEREP Wine Tasting Pics
It was great that many of the employees of Joseph Filippi Winery spoke and it was also educational. They also, I hear, on the tour of the facility, filled everyones custom etched WEREP wine glass with wine out of a barrel!! Thank You to all at Filippi who helped make our event a success!!
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