Current Entries November 30, 2009. Hmmm...just watched a show on robots. The illusion of reality seems to be on "body language", which is a strange concept, asap! Even though the "face" of this robot is a mask a la Darth Vadar, it has a personality. What does that mean? If an object mimics the human condition, and one has empathy for the object, as one might have for the "live" version, what does that mean? What is it, then, to be human? What are the responses of the observer? I love the constant unexpectedness of the 21st Century, which is just being created now, now that we are relinquishing the desire to stuff the 20th Century models into the new terrain of the 21st. So, if we can create avatars that mimic the human experience, and the avatar world enjoys an emotional response, what does that mean? What is it to be human? Well, we may think we have the answer to this conundrum, but do we, in this blurred universe that the digital world has delivered to us? Hmmm...am pondering the singular question of these opening days of the 21st Century...what is it to be "human"? How wonderful, in our culture/our time, that I can even ask the question. Lucky me, to be here, to be here "now". November 29, 2009. Today is the first Sunday in Advent...don't forget to light the first of the four candles of the Advent Season: the candle of Love. So important to bring light into this darker time of year, as we drift towards the shortest day of the year, and the beginning of "real Winter"...officially, it starts on December 20th. Did you miss Santa's arrival, yesterday, via floatplane (Salt Spring Air)??? You get a second opportunity to greet Santa and his elves, when they visit by boat, closer to Christmas. The boat comes from Bellingham, with stops in the San Juans and on the Southern Gulf Islands, finishing up on Salt Spring Island. This is an annual treat, and not to be missed! Wintercraft at Mahon Hall, Fulford and Beaver Point Halls with their annual craft fairs, ArtSpring gallery offerings...next weekend, begins this annual artists showcase. Lots of gift ideas! Special seasonal dinner menu at Calvin's Bistro! The Village is full of light and cheer...enjoy the season! November 28, 2009. Here's an opportunity to enjoy an oceanview acreage, close to town, zoned for main home, separate guest cottage, and separate studio! If desired, sellers will pass along their proposed house plans. Sunny, quiet, sunset view of ocean. Pond on property. Landscaping would create great privacy on this 3+ acre parcel. It's a "best buy" on special Salt Spring Island, awaiting your pleasure. Great holding property. Motivated seller. Bring your architect, and let's walk this gem soon! November 27, 2009. This Sunday begins Advent, the Season of Expectancy, in the Christian calendar. Regardless of one's personal spiritual belief system, one can learn "life lessons" from all faith based models of experience. The four candles of Advent, each one lighted on the Sundays leading up to Christmas Day, are for: Love, Joy, Hope, Peace. These are essential concepts in this fractured world we inhabit, and worth meditating on, for all of us. Some years ago, I came across a poem, written by a Howard Thurman, in his work "Meditations of the Heart", which I thought was an inspiring message to take into this darker time of year, and beyond: "I will light candles this Christmas: Candles of joy despite all sadness, Candles of hope where despair keeps watch, Candles of courage for fears ever present, Candles of peace for tempest-tossed days, Candles of grace to ease heavy burdens, Candles of love to inspire all my living, Candles that will burn the whole year through." I will be lighting the first candle of the Advent season, this Sunday, and thinking of this poem's message. November 26, 2009. Happy Thanksgiving to all our friends in the U.S. This day of celebration and gratitude, among family and friends, can inspire all of us. November 25, 2009. Here's a terrific opportunity for a waterfront buyer on special Salt Spring Island! This great dock awaits your boat... Currently, a panabode cottage is on site, tucked into one side of the property, two bed/one bath, plus an adjacent double garage (also panabode construction). This winterized cottage/home is tenanted, so 24 hr. notice to view same. The huge plus of this property is that it is very private, enjoys s/sw/w exposures, has a dramatic panoramic ocean, islands, mountain viewscape, and the best building site for a new home is waiting your development ideas. Enjoy the cottage dwelling for now, keep your boat at your own dock, and build your dream home later. A best buy opportunity, in a premier area of Salt Spring Island. November 24, 2009. Adventure time for me....am finally out of the airboot, out of the ankle brace and big running shoes (I slipped on slick arbutus leaves, while showing property, back in early September, and ended up with a very bad sprain/torn ligaments in ankle), and am now back into regular shoes/driving myself. I had to have designated drivers, while in the airboot, as it was my right ankle, of course, so couldn't drive. Had great volunteers, including super clients! Today, back under my own steam, I am off on the ferries and up the new Sea to Sky highway, to attend a real estate seminar in Squamish. Realtors have to take continuing education courses, so many within a two year period, and one can decide "where" to take them, when offered. Tomorrow is the actual day of the course (9 to 4), but can't get there unless I travel today. After all that rain/wind, hope the road conditions are good. Depending on snow reports, I may carry on to Whistler, the day after...want to check out the promotional venues I've put together, for my listings, for the Olympic discovery moment. More details? Give me a call! Yes, I do have snow tires, but I'm such a snow wimp! Will report in...apparently, Whistler has had more snow, for the time of year, that in any other year. Should be beautiful, and, of course, I'll be checking out their Christmas lights! November 23, 2009. Here's a treat...the Nylons perform at ArtSpring tomorrow evening, November 24th (call the ticket office for details!), with their terrific Christmas concert! Yes, it's gloomy/stormy on the outside, but it's definitely full of flair and fun on the interior. Be there! Don't forget to enjoy Mona Fertig's show at Mahon Hall...this is also the venue for the book launch of the second in her series on B.C. artists. Mona, of the famed Mothertongue Press, will be on hand. We are so lucky, here on Salt Spring, to have such talent in our midst. Light Up is the 27th, and Santa arrives on the 28th (first trip for him...via floatplane, Salt Spring Air. An annual event, and lots of fun for children of all ages. Have to admit, I enjoy a Santa sighting, year after year. Still feeling a little "grinch"-like? I defy you to be a curmudgeon about this season of glow and lightness, after a trip to Ladysmith. It's so close...a short ferry ride from Vesuvius to Crofton, and a meander down the "old road" through Chemainus, and then you're at Ladysmith. Go in the "main entrance" off the Island Highway, and be totally amazed at the lighting of this town. It wins the best decorated town award, for B.C., year after year, and you'll see why. It needs a couple of passes, slowly, in the car, to really appreciate all the effects. If you find yourself in Victoria, then it's the Festival of Trees at the Fairmont Empress...if you have time, enjoy Christmas tea here, too. The trees are to benefit the B.C. Children's Hospital...you get to vote for your favourite, with a $2 donation. Lovely to wander the Edwardian splendour of the Empress, and to soak up the trees of light. Remember, too, that it's so important this year, perhaps more important than ever, to give as generously as possible so that those less fortunate can share our pleasure. If you've never read Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol, but only seen the film versions, then perhaps check this out. In a time of need, financially, Dickens quickly wrote this classic, and it has yet to be surpassed as a message of the importance of caring for others. Put up those lights, have candles at dinner, put out the dark.... November 22, 2009. "Worship by cultivating nine fields: Diet. Herbs. Clothing. Recitation. Movement. Meditation. Creativity. Teaching. And most important: Compassion." (Deng Ming-Dao: "Tao...Daily Meditations"). November 21, 2009. Mark your calendars! Santa has a busy schedule, on Salt Spring Island, on November 29th. He arrives, via floatplane (Salt Spring Air), at 1 p.m. Children are welcome to greet him at the floatplane dock! At 1:10 p.m., Santa travels aboard a Salt Spring Fire Dept Truck, and heads to Mahon Hall. From 1:15 to 3 p.m., free photos of the kids with Santa, at Mahon Hall. (Will also be Arts & Crafts activities, Cookie Decorating, big screen Holiday Videos (courtesy of Island Star Video), hot cocoa & goodies). Enjoy! (A non-perishable item or a donation to the food bank would be welcomed). The IODE is celebrating 95 years of service on Salt Spring Island. So many groups have received help from the fundraising and generosity of the IODE membership, over the years. Don't know much about this group? Check it out! New members welcomed. Mother Tongue Press launches the latest in their "artist series". This is the book launch of the second Unheralded Artists of B.C., with the opening of the show taking place on November 21st, today, at Mahon Hall. The show remains open until Nov. 28th, daily. Don't miss this, and be sure to speak with Mona Fertig about the impetus behind this series. You'll be glad you did! At Fulford Hall, on Nov. 28th, enjoy an all-star old-time band, and one of the best callers in North America, for a night of dancing. Never been to an old time dance? You have a treat awaiting you! Admission is $10 at the door, music begins around 7:30 p.m., and Fiddleworks will be providing the concession for the evening. Have fun! Moby's live music: tonight it's Jazz/Folk/Blues, with James Conway (8 to 11 p.m.), and Sunday it's Jazz (Wanda Nowicki and Friends) 7 to 10 p.m. Enjoy! Don't forget Scrooge meets the Duke, tonight at ArtSpring, at 8 p.m., with a 2 p.m. show tomorrow, Sunday. Yes, the Christmas Light Up Decorating Contest takes place again, with judging on Nov. 27th. Such talent on display in the shops and banks...a pleasure to wander the Village. Salt Spring's newest gallery opens in Grace Point Square, on Nov. 27th, with open house on Saturday, November 28th (11 to 4). Artists in attendance - refreshments served. Called Starfish Gallery & Studio, the space joins J. Mitchell Gallery, Steffich FineArt Gallery, and Frankly Scarlett -- all gems in Grace Point Square. Enjoy dinner, too, at Bocados Bistro and Auntie Pesto's. Chef's Creations and Live Music, every weekend, at the Harbour House Hotel Tonight, it's Vaughn Fulford and the Folke Fiendes! Fulford Community Hall's Christmas Artisan Fair is Friday, Dec. 4th (5 to 9 p.m.), and Saturday the 5th, 9 to 5 p.m., and Sunday the 6th, from 9 to 4 p.m. Shop for gifts from Salt Spring's talented artisans, and enjoy fabulous food and decadent desserts, between browsings. Don't miss this, and don't forget to bring a donation for the foodbank. Appreciated! Did you know that Calvin's Bistro has a 3 Course Special Dinner menu, for only $18.999, called November Blues? Enjoy! Offer expires on Dec. 5th, as Calvin's famous Traditional Christmas Menu starts on December 8th. Book for Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve special dinners at Calvin's. Today is also the Anglican Parish Christmas Bazaar, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at All Saints by the Sea, in Ganges Village. Remember to tune into the local community radio station, too (check out the lineup of programming on their website (www.cfsi-fm.com) at 107.9 on your fm dial. Yes, it's November, but there's lots to see and to do...enjoy! November 20, 2009. Mark your calendars, and take part in the opening of Wintercraft, at Mahon Hall, on December 4th. Lots happening, with craft sales / artists offerings...gifts for your special ones. The following was emailed to me, from the organizer of Wintercraft (the alternate to ArtCraft, in the summer season): "Wintercraft, along with two other traditional Salt Spring Island craft faires at Fulford and Beaver Point Halls, will open concurrently during the weekend of December 4, 5, 6. This festive, weekend-long, island-wide, market of merriment offers an impressive selection of the the finest handmade arts and crafts from the Southern Gulf Islands. Handmade gifts range from; pocket and kitchen knives produced in Salt Spring Island's bronze foundry, high fashion wearables in silk and local fine wool, earthy & elegant tableware, afforable & astounding jewelry pieces, luxurious body products and everything in between. The weekend events taking place range from; the seasonal, sell-out lamb feast at Beaver Point Hall on Friday, December 4th to crepes, lunch and decadent desserts produced full-tilt, from two community kitchens all weekend in Fulford. Wintercraft provides live music, weekend workshops and the widest selection of heartwarming gifts from stocking stuffers to dazzling presents Dec 4 - 20th. Travellers to the island please note that only Wintercraft runs through to December 20th. Fulford Hall: Dec 4 - 6th Beaver Point Hall: Dec 4 - 6th Wintercraft at Mahon Hall, Dec 4 - 20th" Enjoy all these venues! It's our "holiday season" and it's full of elan and verve, island style! November 19, 2009. Gift giving...it's a pleasure to choose something "special" for those on our list. Family, friends, significant others...holiday celebrations carry such meaning, and the annual quality of same allows for a mix of memory and actuality. As we get beyond the small children/grandchildren timeframe, though, with its expectation level of surprises under the tree, perhaps we could think about a different kind of gifting? What about helping with the organizers of turkey dinners for the disadvantaged, those alone on small incomes, those who do not easily "fit" into society's norms? What about helping at food banks? How about hampers and gift packages for those who will not have a celebration this year? What about making up blanket/sandwich packages for street people? What about dropping into hospitals, perhaps reading to long term care patients, most of whom will be on their own? To give funds and / or time, in the name of someone on our list, who can't help personally, is a gesture that will be very pleasing to most recipients. We all want to help out...it's a natural human reaction. As we go into this holiday season, with its celebratory nature, let's also remember those who are alone, lonely, seemingly abandoned. Simple things can so "lift" their spirits, and isn't that what this main celebration is all about? Sharing? November 18, 2009. New friends....no, not the two footed kind (although those are always welcome!). For several years, now, I've been the caregiver for a handicapped relative. They have finally had to leave assisted living, where they were able to be in their own space, and go into a care facility. Big changes, and difficult to digest consistently, though good that 24 hour care is available. My discovery? The relative had a bird, a yellow and gold parakeet. I'm an animal lover, though it's always been cats and dogs, never birds, and have rescued a lot of animals. The bird and I looked at each other. I asked around, to see if any bird lovers out there might like to adopt another. No takers. So...you guessed it! The bird is now sitting in my office, in a new cage, and I have a book on my desk titled Home Bird Care Guide. At night, I cover its cage, so if it hops around it won't set off the motion detector alarm at the office! Have to admit, it's a cheerful sound and I might be imagining it, but it seems to pay attention to what I'm doing, and seems to be chirping welcome, as I walk into the office every morning. Hmmm...do parakeets mimic sound? Have to investigate... Meantime, am thinking of a name...Penny? Polly? Patty? Will let you know. November 17, 2009. Holiday decorations and lighting are starting to show up in my area. No shopping malls where I live, so it's up to the individual retail merchants to do the decorating. At this darker time of year (on the shortest day of the year, which isn't that far off, it's dark here by 4:30 in the afternoon), it's a pleasure to see the lights showing up. We would have to invent a celebration for this season, if it wasn't already in place...to spill light into the darkness is a message of hope to all who pass by. Our local weekly newspaper usually has a "theme", and the best decorated window at a store, or a bank, or an office, gets the prize. One year, the local credit union, who had a lot of separate offices facing the sidewalk, decorated each one like a Victorian shop window...the butcher, the baker, the dressmaker...they deserved to win! Such creativity bounces out at the passersby, and, again, brings pleasure to all. It can be lonely at this time of year, for those who are by themselves, with only memories of "fuller" celebrations. To enjoy the lights, to walk the Village and admire the windows...it's a simple thing, but can be very meaningful. In these more uncertain times, with stress and duress visiiting many people afflicted by the economic downturn, it's essential to remember to practice the simple things, and to light up that darkness that lurks in December. To remember, too, that the foodbank and the hamper program from the grocery stores, and the gift tree from the bank (pick a suggestion, from the tree, and buy a gift for that person...boy of 8, girl of 11...that kind of thing), all need our extra help at this time of year. Charles Dickens understood the point of the season...instead of watching a film or cartoon of same, why not read the original, and pick up a book or find it at the library. A Christmas Carol was written by Dickens at a very troubling time in his life, when he desperately needed money...out of his adversity came a classic with an uplifting message. Remember to light the lights! November 16, 2009. In a transition time, there is "everything" occurring. Difficult to sort out the trend, then, when there's a whirling cloud that spits rain, sometimes, and other times parts to let in some rays of sunshine. I read in media reports on real estate, in my larger region, that it's the best it's been in several years, that sales are flying and multiple offers are the "norm". Then, it turns out that all the activity is in the first time buyer category, or investor buyers, looking for good rentals. There's a price ceiling, then. I also learn, by digging a little deeper, that secondary home/discretionary markets haven't experienced the city/primary residence dynamics. One can put a second home on hold, in a worrying market moment. As usual, the media isn't quite "right" in its reporting. This could be a result of the reporters not being realtors, and so they don't think to differentiate the layers of the business. Busy? Great! Let's go to press! The difficulty with this broad sweep is that it makes sellers in the higher end wonder why they aren't finding themselves rushed off their feet with viewings! It also makes it difficult for the realtor to explain the changed circumstances since August 2008, and why price reductions need to be in their minds, as they assess the marketing of their unique luxury category properties. In rural markets, the same dilemma...the realtor has to explain why the city busyness isn't transferring to the retirement/recreational markets, with the same briskness. Transition times see everything, remember, and eventually it evens out to a broader and more consistent rhythm. Good that there is an uptick, no matter where it's seen. Many buyers remain nervous about acting, and so that more euphoric media reporting might be the thing that propels action, from all those "should I wait? should I act now?" fence-sitters. I see them there, rocking back and forth on that pointy picket fence of indecision! If anyone mentions the inflation word, will they topple? November 15, 2009. On Salt Spring today? Check out Fulford Hall for the great gift ideas...artists are there, with their giftcreations. Candles, Skincare products, Kitchenware, Luxurious body lotions, Kids' toys, Chic baby boutique...and more! 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. -- Shop Locally is the tag line (and support islanders and their home-based businesses). See you there! Don't forget it's Jazz night at Moby's (7 to 10 p.m.). Today, at 2 p.m., is also the last show of the Having Hope at Home play offering (at Mahon Hall). Enjoy this Community Theatre production. Bach on the Rock is also today, at 2 p.m., at All Saints by the Sea...tickets from ArtSpring (250-537-2102). Mark your calendars: Scrooge Meets the Duke is at ArtSpring Theatre, on November 21 (at 8 p.m.) and November 22 (at 2 p.m.). The Newman Family Players and Swing Shift present the Billy Strayhorn/Duke Ellington "Nutcracker Suite" and selections from "Christmas with Scrooge". A fun event! November 17 to 29th, catch the interpretation of five dynamic Salt Spring artists, of "interiors". At ArtSpring's Bateman Gallery, the five artists are: Louise Goodman, Megan Manning, Gillian McConnell, Hamza bin al-Wathan, and Stephanie Denz. Opening reception, with artists in attendance, on the 20th, from 5 to 8 p.m. Such talent on our Island! The annual Christmas Light Up Decorating Contest is on Friday, November 27th. Categories are Best All Round, Best Use of Lights, Most Creative, Best Use of Materials. Salt Spring Businesses step forward every year, and it's always fun to see the creativity that goes into the windows we walk by, every day. So many great businesses in the Village...have you been into Laura Roveda's Windflower Moon lately? Lots of super gift ideas, here, for your nearest and dearest, and also treasures for your own enjoyment. Windflower Moon's logo is: Gifts for the Spirit. Check out the Zen alarm clock, the crystals, the gift books, the specialty jewellery, the clothing, the cards...etc. A softer time of year, a time to slow a little, and to notice the treasures we rush past in the busy summer months...our friends and neighbours are on display, in the Village...enjoy! This Monday will be my last Monday Morning show on the community radio station (www.cfsi-fm.com) -- streaming audio off the website is the way most people listen, as the 107.9 fm only works if you're in the range of the single tower on Island. I've really had fun doing the two hour show, every Monday, and so appreciated the people who agreed to get up early and come in to be interviewed (most chose the 8 to 9 a.m. time slot!). I had help with the production side (I'm not a techie, and the station makes the presenters also do the "mechanics" of the broadcast) was Mark Voyce, co-owner of Bocados Bistro,in Grace Point Square. Mark has film experience, and is taking on a position with the production of a new film, so will be off island during this time. That means I will be losing my valued "side-kick", and techie guy. Seemed a good moment to bring the Morning Show to a close, and let someone else step to the plate of keeping the Island and the talented Islanders "front and centre". New owner at Cafe Talia, takes over this next week...if you've been on the Island for some time, you will remember Louis Renaud, and Luigi's. Louis is returning to the food biz, and plans to retain the charm of Cafe Talia. Welcome him, next time you're by for cappucino. Enjoy the Island's "winter pleasures"..... November 14, 2009. BBC news reports : G20 vows to spur fragile growth US jobless rate rises to over 10% South Korea approves India deal Aspirin 'only for heart patients' Tiny tech sparks cell signal find Early life stress 'changes' genes Early origins for uncanny valley China plans for humanoid Olympics Dalai Lama in Tibet border visit 'Twin Towers' warship in service Obama says health vote 'historic' China pledges $10bn Africa loans November 13, 2009. "We make life real By the thoughts we project." (Deng Ming-Dao: "Tao...Daily Meditations") November 12, 2009. Here's an exceptional holding property, for your investment protection. Close to Ganges and to Fulford Villages, and to lake and ocean beach accesses, and to park hiking/walking trails, this 9+ acre gem enjoys a wonderful serenity, and excellent all day/year round sun exposure. Sunsets from here, too! Ocean, islands and mountain viewscapes at your doorstep. Private! Drilled well developed, driveway roughed in...this is definitely a "best buy" opportunity on beautiful Salt Spring Island! Bring your architect, and let's walk this one soon. Zoned for main home, separate guest cottage, and separate studio. In an area of fine homes...enjoy! November 11, 2009. "When in the arena, Yield not to an aggressor. When outside the arena, Affirm compassion." (Deng Ming-Dao: "Tao...Daily Meditations") November 10, 2009. If you find yourself in "downtown Ganges", on special Salt Spring Island, please drop by my "seaside village" office and say hello! Full real estate information package awaits you...real estate supplement, maps, detail sheets of all listings, from all companies, and weekly updates on what's for sale / what has sold. My office is located at the corner of Lower Ganges Road (the main street) and Rainbow Road, and there is parking behind, off Rainbow. I have a great view of the Harbour, and the Boardwalk, and Ganges Marina. With access to all listings, from all companies, I look forward to showing you all properties in your preferred category. It's important to me that buyers who work with me "see it all", so that they can make that all important "informed decision". I work for the best interests of my clients. In this secondary home / discretionary marketplace area, which describes all Gulf Islands, including the largest and best serviced one in the Southern grouping (Salt Spring Island), it does take time to decide "for" both an Island and then a property on that chosen Island. I do take time, with my client base, as it's a serious and an important purchase. There's always time to '"get it right". Potential impact of the Islands Trust bylaws on a property, water quantity and quality, if on a well, sun exposure, sense of quietness, proximity to amenities, zonings (agricultural land reserve?), etc. -- all questions that require answers. Also important to know market trends, past trends and projections for the future...again, questions deserving of thoughtful answers. A real estate purchase is an investment. Now associated with Sea to Sky Premier Properties (head office is based in Whistler, and there are auxiliary offices in West Vancouver, in Squamish, in White Rock, in Victoria, and I am a branch office on Salt Spring Island), I am the Managing Broker of the Salt Spring office. Sea to Sky Premier Properties is affiliated with Christies Great Estates, which opens up a global/international market to the Gulf Islands, through my office's presence here. Sea to Sky Premier Properties is also a member of the Luxury Real Estate group, another international venue. As an individual, I was invited to be a Regent of the Luxury Real Estate group, and so act in an advisory capacity. Real estate as an industry has seen significant changes over the past few years; an outcome of the "internet revolution", of course! Up to the mid-1970s, companies were in charge of information, and realtors were considered employees. After the mid-70s, it became an agent centric model of business, and this was put in place by Dave Liniger of Re/Max. Many other such "agent centred" companies sprang up. With the advent of the internet, however, the old referral system offered by such business models changed. Suddenly it's a consumer centric model of business. It has been reported that 89% of all real estate transactions start with an internet search. The consumer goes direct, now, seeking information about an area, about listings in that region, about realtors to work with. Lately, in Canada, the mls system, which is there for the benefit of agents with listings, is under pressure to allow any seller to put up their property offering on that system, for a flat fee. This kind of shift from agent to consumer control is profound, and will leave everything "changed". A recognition of such important shifts, and a desire to be of service to my client base, is what created my wish to affiliate with the Sea to Sky Premier Properties group, as I continue my real estate career. It's important to be in a position to allow innovation, and partnerships with offices, not necessarily a part of a franchise model, is, I think, the future of this industry. The internet, which erased time and geography, did create the "global village" forecast by Marshall McLuhan, back in the 60s and 70s. We haven't really yet seen the outcome of the internet revolution, but it's definitely already clear that the consumer of any service is in charge. That includes the service of real estate. This control by the consumer of a real estate offering means that the role of the realtor has changed, too. No longer the expediter of knowledge, the realtor has become more of an interpreter. An editing function, for all that raw data! How may I help you to discover and to purchase your special Salt Spring Island and Southern Gulf Islands property? I look forward to your call! "Your Interpreter Connection for Salt Spring Island and the Southern Gulf Islands...Li Read." November 9, 2009. Here's an exceptional offering...perfect as an extended family retreat, or as a corporate retreat! Subdivision may be possible, on this oceanfront point of land. Current owners do not wish to subdivide, however, and are offering a splendid 64+ acres, as they have enjoyed it since the early 1950s. Cedar, fir, hemlock old growth forest on this parcel, plus arbutus and garry oak groves. Predominantly lowbank oceanfront, 1000s of feet of same, with wide sandy bays, smaller coves, and exceptional land. Walk your own trails! Very softly developed...current owners have camped here, and preserved the essential natural allure of the land. Excellent sun exposure (east/south/west), with superb ocean, islands, and mountain viewscapes. Very private and quiet...like your own private island, and yet it is on Mayne Island, a ferry accessed opportunity, and so enjoys easy access/all amenities nearby. Meadow area, heirloom orchard, historic cabin on approximately 7 acres that has been "opened up" (in the 30s??). In the heart of the best protected boating waters in the world! Bring your architect, and walk this one soon...it is unique and irreplaceable! November 8, 2009. This coming Wednesday is the November 11th recognition of those who have served their country, in the military, who went to war when it was required, and in many cases, did not return. Those who survived gather to remember, and civilians do the same. No soldier seeks war. I've often felt that we are "prisoners of our time". The First World War, referred to at the time as The Great War, was meant to be the war that would end all wars. It did sever a way of life, completely, and the ensuing despair did bring forth a hedonistic party animal lifestyle in the 20s, often described as a time of largesse. The 30s, for those who study history, was marred by another time of societal severing...the Great Depression created dissolution of families, businesses, lifestyles. The Second World War, in the forties, required enormous sacrifices, once again. For those of military age, or living in a country that was suddenly occupied by another country, it wasn't necessarily a "choice" to act in a particular way. That is what I mean by being a "prisoner of one's time". Things afoot, on a large scale, can certainly get a response from us, but we didn't necessarily create the conditions or put something in place. We are, though, always, in charge of our attitude to events that occur in our finite time span. No matter what we may think of military activities, no matter what we may feel about evocative words such as "war" and "peace", we can all remember and respect courage. People in their time, and we don't always fully understand previous time periods from the platform of "today", reacted with patience, with courage, with selflessness, with caring...it is always important to remember valour, an old-fashioned word, yes, but a very real thing. Locally, the Cenotaph service in Ganges Village, at Centennial Park, is a way to observe sacrifice and valour, and the individual actions that helped to create our way of life, today. If you are able to attend, be there, and show your support. Another moment in our community's annual life. November 7, 2009. Tonight, at Fulford Hall, a fun evening of hot Cuban rhythm and dance with the Jose Sanchez Cuban Party, part of the fund-raiser for Terralingua, awaits your pleasure! Traditional Mexican food plus a silent auction of 50 items supplied by local businesses. Call 250-538-0939 for more information! Sunday, November 15th, shop locally and support islanders and their home-based businesses -- 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., at Fulford Hall. The perfect gifts, for family and friends, await your browsing pleasure. All Saints by the Sea is showcasing the talented Chris Jarrett, in a concert that begins at 7:30 p.m., tonight. Tickets are available at Salt Spring Books. Classical to Jazz is showcased by this unique pianist. November 13th is the date when Seonagh Odhiambo will be on island, offering a movement development workshop for dancers and non-dancers. For more information about this event and the overall project in bringing artful attention and healing intent to St. Mary Lake waters, check out www.islandinstitute.com (the project will evolve over the coming year, with a grand presentation in June, 2010). Terrific that Richard Murakami was honoured, recently, as Citizen of the Year, on Salt Spring Island -- very well deserved award! Don't forget to listen into my Monday Morning radio show, on the new community station. If you're in tower range, you can catch it at 107.9 fm, or, if not, it's streaming audio off the website (www.cfsi-fm.com). It's live, I interview lots of Islanders, and Mark Voyce, of Bocados Bistro, in Grace Point Square, is my co-host/producer. Any glitches get to stay, as it's not taped! 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. every Monday. Thank you! November 6, 2009. " The secret of staying young is to live honestly, eat slowly, and lie about your age." (Comedian, Lucille Ball) November 5, 2009. It remains oddly busy, for the time of year! July and August were very "flat", and tourism involved mainly daytrippers out of Vancouver and the Lower Mainland, according to the Chamber's tourist count. Although Vancouver reported bidding wars, and diminished inventory, this did not happen in Victoria or on the Gulf Islands or on Vancouver Island or on the Sunshine Coast. This vibrant action was mainly in the lower end residential options, and involved first time buyers, attracted by lower prices and low interest rates, and by investors looking for good rental properties, perhaps seeking "passive income" opportunities. In a recent newsletter by a well known real estate "guru", in the Lower Mainland, it was noted that 90% of immigration to B.C. goes to Vancouver, with only 4% going to Victoria. Interesting! Surrey and Coquitlam municipalities are looking for expansive options, and are considering allowing developers to create triplexes/fourplexes, where only single family homes were being allowed. In some recreational/secondary home areas, fractional ownership options are being looked at. It is a way of allowing increased useage, although not increased density (on the Gulf Islands, the Islands Trust prohibits growth). Creative ways to allow for influx of population. Yes, it's been a downmarket, and for some areas this slowdown actually began in 2006. Yes, it may be slowly crawling out of this. Economic drivers both cause hesitation/fallback, and also propel (fear can be a driver, and in this case, it's the fear that cash may be the next bubble). Important to be paying attention to "everything" right now, and to be thoughtful, not just reactive, to what we hear. Also important to practice the attitude of gratitude. We are so lucky that we live in this coastal area, as it is truly beautiful, does offer a sense of the natural world that is missing in so many parts of the globe, and it still offers a "safe haven" lifestyle. Meantime, in the short term, it's busying up and we need to pay attention to economics, and not to the weather/time of year...it's irrelevant! If sellers were despairing, that time may be over...action is occurring. Inventory remains "thin", and so buyer's, if they haven't acted already), may find that their window of opportunity, on price points, has evaporated. Stay tuned! November 4, 2009. Here's a great opportunity to own a premier waterfront property on special Salt Spring Island! A "west coast contemporary" design, which offers a main home, currently divided into two sections, with owner occupier in main space, and a tenant in the guest/inlaw "suite", adjacent. Vaulted ceiling, spacious oceanside decking, feature fireplace, upgraded kitchen and bathrroom, open plan lifestyle with expansive views from all prinicipal rooms. Attached double garage. Sunny (s/sw/w exposures), panoramic ocean and island vistas, easy access to beach, private property, and in a quiet area of fine homes, close to all amenities. The plus? A separate garage/workshop, with guest studio above, with its own driveway entry. On community water system, close to park hiking/walking trails, and in the "warm swimming water" part of the island! This is truly a best buy for a quality oceanfront property, on the "year round lifestyle" Gulf Island. November 3, 2009. Throughout Canada's main cities, there has been an upsurge in sales action, year to date, in what I would term "low end residential" -- in other words, property that would be in the realm of a first time buyer, attracted by low interest rates, and also by an investor (looking for viable rental options, for passive income opportunity). Undeveloped land, commercial items, and higher end/luxury properties did not easily find action. In rural areas, predominantly secondary home/discretionary regions, this action also did not take place. Such places can be put "on hold" during insecure market moments. Yes, there is a lot of money, resting in cash, with nervous potential buyers adopting a wait and see attitude. On the one hand, the deflatiion argument has people wanting to remain in cash, so as to benefit from further bargains, particularly in the "move up" properties. I heard from one seller, not in my area, who noted that his property had been shown 17 times in the past five months, all qualified potential buyers, and only one party had "acted" (purchased another home). That left the remaining 16 purposely "waiting"...all of them, according to the realtor, felt that prices would continue to go down, and so they were waiting to benefit from their "clout" as potential cash buyers, when they felt things had "really" bottomed. Newsletters, read by serious people, who did not experience significant losses in Sept/Oct/Nov. of 2008, and who do have cash holdings, project that there will be further severe drops in real estate valuations. One such newsletter, by a respected "deflation sayer", promises there could be further declines of up to 40%, in some areas. This, after the 20 to 30% declines already experienced, in the past year. While this kind of prediction is targeted to a U.S. readership, we cannot assume we will escape anything, just because we live on the Canadian side of the border. In erasing geography and time, the internet evolved the "global village", and so we are all interconnected. On the other hand, the inflation scenario notes the continuing collapses of banks and financial institutions, plus the need of large "global" banks for more government help (the Swiss USB, the U.K. Northern Rock and Scottish Bank, among such), which implies further printing of paper currencies, more bailouts, diminishing value of cash holdings...impending hyperinflation as an end result. This kind of fear would seem to propel such potential investor/buyers back into good real estate hard asset holdings. Such, though, could be condos in Vancouver or townhouse in Victoria, or...not, then, necessarily a second or third home property, in an area such as the Gulf Islands or Tofino/Uclulet or Whistler or Osoyoos, or...such discretionary areas can continue to be put "on hold". However, that very "offset" characteristic of a discretionary area, just a little apart from the potential chaos of a city, if things unravelled, might drive people towards places like the Gulf Islands, with its cap on growth, or to Tofino/Uclulet (same issue of limited inventory), etc. Security, a "safe haven" search, would make such places of more interest than a city market would deliver. Hmmmm...still an either / or proposition, with no middle ground / no grey area in sight...either deflation/collapse or inflation/erosion of value of cash/currency. There we all are, then, still sloshing around in the pool of uncertainty, with no clear indication of where to splash forward....towards the deep end or the shallow? Where did we say we could find that crystal ball? Important, more than ever, to be thoughtful, to practice our peripheral vision (tunnel vision gets us nowhere!) so we can see some movement on the edges that could aid us, to practice our editing function (have to turn all that raw data into real information), and to pay attention to our creative inspiration. There are no real experts...no one "knows". We have to look to ourselves, here, and make some decisions about paths for ourselves. As Heraclitus reminded us, back in Ancient Greece, the only constant in life is change. November 2, 2009. Here's a treasure of a private island, on the doorstep of Victoria, B.C. Close to all amenities, and yet in its own serenely private world, this beauty offers a wonderful main home, with two ensuite bed sitting rooms, a library, games room, country kitchen with oceanside breakfast area, plus formal dining, entertainment size living, indoor pool, nanny suite, formal entry, marble floors.... There are four separate guest cottages, three of them arranged around a small lake, with the fourth enjoying ocean and island vistas. A caretaker's residence, dock, tennis court, plus outbuildings (workshop, generator storage, etc.). A lovely blend of easy-care landscaping, forest, and meadow. This five acre island enjoys beaches, incredible views of islands, ocean, mountains (including the majesty of Mt. Baker), and is connected to power (via cable, from nearby Vancouver Island). A boathouse structure, plus parking stall, is at Canoe Cove, a private marina. Fly in to Victoria Airport, take a 7 minute taxi ride, and be at your dock. Another 8 minutes, via boat, and you're home! Or, arrive by B.C. Ferry, and it's another short 7 minute drive to get to the marina/your dock slip. 24 hr. notice for all viewings. Don't miss this opportunity! November 1, 2009. "After completion Come new beginnings. To gain strength, Renew the root." (Deng Ming-Dao: "Tao...Daily Meditations")

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