1. How to make your own chic silhouette art
(Note: I also suggest using a foam core board that can be purchased from a office supply or craft store. This can eliminate the cutting and painting a border. It may be a bit more expensive, but will save time. All you need to do is print the picture as directed, buy the board, spray glue it on and hang).
Today is perfect. I don’t say that a lot, but I feel I should be saying it more often. My baby just fell asleep after an eventful time at the pool and park and a light afternoon snack. Now that he is down, I’ve poured myself a refreshing drink (one that should be on top selling list at any chichi lounge) and I have set my office up outside, soaking in the rays. It’s simply gorgeous out.
We don’t get many days like this in Vancouver, but wow, when it happens, it’s sensational. I found myself saying how wonderful it would be to have every day like today…and then I thought again; nope.
What about those wonderful rainy nights that make you want to cozy up to the fireplace and watch a good movie, or how about the grey and crappy days that make you feel okay about spending the day at work inside? I think it’s the variety of temperatures, seasons and precipitation that actually make Vancouver so special. It allows us to really appreciate the sunshine when we have it, and acknowledge that the rain isn’t so bad compared to other winter alternatives.
We live in a beautiful landscape. There are ones prettier, however, could I live there? Born and raised in Canada, I know I was fortunate to be given an opportunity to be anything and everything I wanted. Not all have this choice. I think about other places I could move to that have the consistent year round climate similar to the one I am thoroughly enjoying today, but, as tempting as it is, my heart is here in Canada. Even if I were to pick up and leave, I’m sure I would enjoy wherever I may go (US, Australia, New Zealand, Mexico, Spain, Greece, etc…), but it wouldn’t be home.
The funny thing is, I think most people from their native land feel the same thing. That being said, I know many from other countries come here and feel at home as we do. While we are not always welcoming, for the most part we are. Canada is like one gigantic small town. Our largest cities are like mini cities to most and, as such, we have a small town, big heart feel. We offer a vast land with beautiful scenery with relatively low or limited pollution. We celebrate sport, family, socializing and try to stay current with the changing technologies, like the little sibling trying to keep up to our older sister/brother USA.
We may be more expensive, and have recently been shown to be less energy efficient when compared to a list of developed countries, but when you have the equivalent of the population of California spread over the 9,976,140 square kms of land (23.5 times the size of California), the efficiencies and economies of scale are hard to match.
Do I love being a Canadian? Yes. Do I love living in the Metro Vancouver Area? Yes. Am I frustrated with the housing and costs of living in Vancouver? Yes, but I understand and accept why. I believe we are privileged for the opportunity to live here. We have been given access to be able to rent or buy here, while others can only dream to be in our shoes.
To all those who complain about Vancouver’s housing prices, just remember that it’s not a right to be able to buy, but a privilege. You have the same opportunities as anyone else who lives here. If you want to own, make it happen. There are many ways to do it. I know some fantastic financial planners to get you set on a financial plan, I know wonderful Real Estate agents that know the market well and can help you start researching areas, and I’m always available to continually review your mortgage potential. There is a time and a place to buy, but you need to be ready for it. I believe the time is here for many eager buyers wanting to get into Real Estate. Over the next two years, you might have your opportunity; why not get yourself set up for it?
I love Canada, I love Vancouver…it’s a place where I have always felt confident in investing. Right now, I think the world would agree, and maybe it’s something to consider for yourself.
Well, my glass has only but a few ice cubes left, therefore, I think it’s about time for another refreshing beverage…or maybe a siesta.
From my home to yours…
-Irene
2611 Lakha Road, Kelowna
MLS Listing: 10048455
List Price: $2,699,000
Floor Area: 7084
A colleague had mentioned a unique property listing she knew of near Kelowna, BC. This weekend I was driving through the Okanagan and thought it was a fitting time to dip into something a little different than my local neighbourhoods. I would have loved to book a tour of this beautiful equestrian estate, however, my 8 hour + road trip with my 19-month-old son, wouldn’t have allowed for us to really get acquainted with the 7000+ square feet of luxury living. This will be my first blog without stepping foot in the home, but I wanted to share the gorgeous and amazing features that this home has to offer…it’s worth it.
Situated on a vast 23 acres of land, you can enjoy something new every day within your home, guest house, pool, workshop, stable, barn, or spend your time outside in the pastures or orchards; either way you can take in the expansive views of mountains, lakes and valley.
In addition to your 3 bedrooms and 5 bathrooms (plus second residence) there are 6 other rooms you can socialize, eat, play and relax in. From the games room on the second floor to sun room on the main and the family room in the basement, there is a (favourite) space for everyone in your family.
The home and it’s surroundings give a sense of Hollywoodesque Grandeur with an English Tutor design. I envision Julia Roberts riding up on a horse, or Hugh Grant mumbling to a friend outside, sitting on the pool deckside.
A bit of modern mixed with an old classic. The home is decorated to match the existing landscape and country feel, but the house can be adapted to suit any tastes. As a whole the interior space looks welcoming, spacious, and inviting. The exterior is no different, the acreage offers so much for enjoyment and for beauty.
Best of all, one can feel that they have escaped it all in this rural paradise, but in a matter of minutes can be connected with the vibrancy of city life.
Who said you couldn’t have it all…It’s a steal at 2.7 million.
From my home to yours… -Irene
3068 Yukon Street, Vancouver, BC
MLS Listing: V958777
List Price: $338,000
Floor Area: 500
Maintenance Fee: $60
What a beautiful community and home. I know 500 sqft seems small, but this little hide-a-way is perfect for a single person. Tight for a couple, but a wonderfully comfortable place for an individual who likes to entertain and garden.
The unit has a relaxing patio area to enjoy in the summer and a cozy fireplace in the living room to curl up to for the winter. The bedroom is on the smaller side, but there is a closet for clothes and another for the in-suite laundry (I consider a bonus). The bathroom is spacious and the kitchen is definitely the hang out area, but is completely open to the living room.
For the limited properties available in Vancouver (West) for under $350,000, I think this unit is a little gem. The location is fantastic, especially if you wanted to be near downtown, without being in the core. Shops, restaurants and transit galore, all at your finger tips. Not to mention the beautiful treelined streets. As far as I know, the current owner of 5 years has had some changes in their career that has made them decide that renting may be better option for them in the coming months/years.
My suggestion would be to check out the unit for noise. Being a lower level unit, you never know how sound proof a wood frame building is. Other than that, I think this property is worth a visit and serious consideration.
From my home to yours… - Irene
Hennessy Green
#37, 9800 Odlin Road, Richmond, BC
MLS Listing: V954878
List Price: $569,000
Floor area: 1350
Maintenance Fee: $205 (Richmond Utilities included, heat is additional. Access to club house amenities)
Feel immediately at home in a cozy community perfect for raising a young family. This 3 bedroom 3 bath (2 full, 1 half), is laid out like most newer town homes, however, it has additional features that make it feel more like home.
I really enjoyed this unit and could see my family living in the space. That doesn’t happen often, so when it does I feel it has that something ‘extra’. The realtor is the owner and they have keep the place in immaculate condition. Here is my take on the pros and cons:
There are two other units for sale in this complex for price comparison.
From my home to yours… - Irene
