The McLaughlin Group

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 292 10 Acre Oasis

2012-03-01T16:59:00.004-08:00

This one is unreal..10 acre private retreat at the back of Lobo Canyon..Peaceful, private, serene..feels like your in another state but only 5 minutes to the 101. Single level, pool/spa almost 4000 sq. ft. Truly a one of a kind property!

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 291 Keeping it Together

2012-02-28T12:47:00.003-08:00

What a phrase! I think most Realtors truly understand the meaning of this now. The spoiled days of yester year are far behind and now, keeping it together through these transactions, can be brutal. I think the most frustrating and difficult task is dealing with these appraisers. Where do they come from and how did they get here? I do feel like they are alien-like...no accountability, no reasons, no willingness to listen and if you get one that's nice, thank your lucky stars that you got E T on one transaction because on the next one, you may be facing Sigourney Weaver's nemesis. Oh well, keeping it together is where we earn our keep.

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 290 Rubbing it in

2012-02-26T16:18:00.005-08:00

While the rest of the McLaughlin Group is working away at opens and showings, one member slipped off for some fun in the sun. It is great when one gets to do that but most of us don't make the ones suffer who were left behind. Laurie has sent a couple photos of the island with a note expressing her incredible joy over the beach side pool service and drink selections. Rubbing it in on your own team...shame...shame...shame. On the flip side, the office has been a little more work focused and the chatter level is way down. Go figure? Truth be told, the office may have slid back a bit on the fun meter..Oh well, we are happy that she is having fun and when she gets back, the stack of paperwork I have left on her desk, will make her wonder if the fun in the sun was worth it.

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 289 Lake Tour

2012-02-25T12:45:00.002-08:00

If anyone is curious about some of the homes at the lake, Janet and Kelly will be at 2170 East Lakeshore. You can swing by Sunday 1-4 and from there see a number of lake houses. Here is a an inside shot of one of the homes.

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 288 Another Peek

2012-02-24T08:08:00.004-08:00

Here is another peek at the new one on Malibou Lake.

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 287 Marvel on the Lake

2012-02-22T20:29:00.000-08:00

Well, here it is the newest and coolest house on Malibou Lake. Completed last year this architectural gem needs to be marveled at. Open loft style interior coupled with a unreal location and spectacular views of the lake and mountains. We will release for showings on Thursday and anticipate a flood of activity.

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN - day 286 Teamwork

2012-02-21T12:41:00.000-08:00

Win together, lose together, play together, stay together.

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN - day 285 President's Day

2012-02-20T16:05:00.000-08:00

In honor of all our presidents.....

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 284 The Birth of a Neighborhood Part 2

2012-02-18T16:15:00.000-08:00

Here is a blog about The Vintage community that I wrote about a few months ago. It is fitting to revisit because two days ago we released the final phase of the development...So here it is from day 21.. Attached is a one photo of one of the new homes. Check out the our website to view the 8 new homes.

Driving through the Vintage community the other day, I reflected back on my days of hiking and looking for snakes where this community now sits. I first need to commend the developer for maintaining the character and natural beauty of this place. Obviously, when you build, the land never looks the same, but Vintage did a magnificent job of keeping it special. What is really cool is to see the transformation from a raw piece of land into a neighborhood where families are loving living there. Kids playing on the quiet street, a mother deer and fawn on the side of a newly landscaped yard, foraging away. We talk about a house becoming a home, but this is a 10 plus year endeavor where families are enjoying the fruits of a developer's vision. From King Snakes to hand shakes, from childhood play to handing the keys over. I do not think I could ask for a better 40 years, I'm a lucky guy.

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 283 Fabulous Single Story

2012-02-16T22:16:00.000-08:00

Just listed this fabulous single story in Thousand Oaks..Here is the link to our online magazine so take a peek and let us know what you think. 4+3.5, over 3600 sq ft on over 1/2 acre.

http://www.themclaughlingroup.com/ibrochure-single/index.cfm?listingid=33158

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDSWIDEOPEN - day 282 Valentine's Day

2012-02-14T16:09:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentine's Day,

On this day, remember those who love you, so remember to love them.

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 281 Orlando

2012-02-13T15:26:00.000-08:00

Just under 10,000 wild agents whooping it up during the state of the company address. Truly impressive that in only 29 years KW has risen to the number 2 largest real estate company and is poised in 2012 to overtake the number one spot. Lots of new technologies and ideas from all the classes and break out sessions. Market dinner tonight with the 11 members of the WLV office that ventured South for some education and some fun.

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN - day 280 Just Another Day in Westlake Bay Paradise

2012-02-10T16:33:00.000-08:00

Hi, I'm Laurie's mom. I was walking my tiny Maltese, Gundy, through my condominium complex this morning, reflecting how blessed I am to be living in such a lovely community. There must be 500 trees in my neighborhood, from plum to pine, to sycamore, and even the ones without leaves look beautiful.

I remember reading that Dave & his group sold 60 homes last year -- 60 homes, even with this slow economy. Then I realized one of the reasons why......who wouldn't want to live here? Westlake Village, Thousand Oaks, Agoura, Oak Park -- the list goes on and on, and every area is as perfect as the last. Of course, I have to admit that Dave and his staff are pretty awesome, with a work ethic that's hard to beat. I may be biased, but having been a teacher for over 26 years, I definitely know an A+ when I see it!

This is Sandy,Laurie's mom,from The McLaughlin Group,keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN - day 279 Winter Blues

2012-02-09T12:09:00.000-08:00

Funny how so many people suffer from depression in the winter months from lack of sunlight, fresh air and warmth. We Southern Californians rarely have that excuse. What a fantastic day we have. It doesn't cost a thing....get out there, soak it up, breathe it in and hold that smile. Not many people in the United States have received this gift today. Enjoy!!

This is Laurie, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 278 The Blood of Life

2012-02-08T13:58:00.000-08:00

So appreciative of our clients who showed up today to provide the blood of life to the kids served by LA Children's Hospital. I am always moved by those who take the time and offer their energy, blood, charity, and gifts to those who are in need. What a fantastic opportunity we had today to offer children more hope than they had when the day started. The impact of life giving blood to just one may change the world someday. Thank you again to all who gave.

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 277 5 Years

2012-02-07T13:25:00.000-08:00

Talk about time flying by. I blogged just 5 days ago about 18 years and Kelsey but today I blog about 5 years with Miley. Hard to believe I get another chance at raising another daughter. What a truly remarkable daughter this one is; sweet like the sweetest candy, beautiful, sensitive, caring and full of life. The bluest eyes one could ever imagine and 5 years ago today, she came out via c-section reaching for the stars. I took this shot right after delivery and since those initial screams she has been a dream child. The cycle of life for me began again; coaching soccer, trips to the zoo and all the things I did when Kels and Kins were that age. Miley has been a shot of adrenaline to me. She keeps me young, happy and energized. She looks up to her sisters and worships the ground they walk on. She is a sweet sweet blessing to her grandparents and a gift to her entire family. 5 Years ago today I had my 3peat, There is nothing better in this life than a little daughter who thinks you walk on water. Happy Birthday, Miley Rae, you are very very special!

This is Dave, proud dad of Miley, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 276 Eli vs. Tom

2012-02-06T19:14:00.000-08:00

Those were two great QBs doing battle yesterday and I thought how for two weeks, they planned, schemed and prepared for the big game. I compare it to a listing appointment when I know I'm up against a really good agent. I know, it's not a football game but it is a competition with a winner and loser and I like to win. So, when we I have a listing appointment, it's game on. With a goal of 80 listings for the group, we can't afford to have a bad game. 10 AM Tuesday morning, the front doorbell will ring and the kick off is underway.

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 275 Image at Lavaggio

2012-02-03T16:35:00.000-08:00

Image for so many people is so important and it starts with pulling up in your automobile. This will be the 3rd blog in the series on Lavaggio. We are so pleased to be partnered up with them and highly recommend their services. If you are someone who uses your car as a mobile office, you will want to make sure that Lavaggio is a frequent stop for you. When you drop by please tell Lydia that The McLaughlin Group sent you their way.

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 274 18 hours that led to 18 Years

2012-02-02T11:05:00.000-08:00

I can't believe 18 years has gone by so fast. It was a windy night at Westlake Hospital when Kelsey popped out after an easy 18 hour labor. :) Easy for me that is. Today I reflect on what an amazing daughter I have. First memory was waking up at 2 in the morning on 1/17/94 thinking this is it and being a first time Dad, I did not think the earth would shake but it was shaking big time. Of course it turned out to be the Northridge quake but just a couple weeks later Kelsey shook our world with her appearance. I remember holding her and crying and was so taken with the little bundle. Kelsey has been a dream daughter. Smart, beautiful, athletic and kind and if you asked any of her friends or family, they would all echo the same thoughts. The Senior Class President at Agoura High, Co-captain of the varsity soccer team, and headed off to SMU in the fall. I am super proud of the young lady and my greatest honor in this life is to be called her dad. 18 hours that led to a truly amazing 18 years. Happy Birthday Kelsey, you are one very special young lady.

This is Dave, proud dad of Kelsey, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN - day 273 Lavaggio Platinum Club Membership

2012-02-01T14:18:00.000-08:00

Treat yourself to a 12 month Platinum Club Membership to Lavaggio. This is a $4,600+ value for only $1,975 plus an additional 20% off if you bring in this blog page! What do you get?
EVERY DAY - Full service signature wash
EVERY QUARTER - Ultimate detailing
WHEN YOU NEED IT - New vehicle protection
WHEN YOU NEED IT - Lease return detailing
PLUS - Complimentary dining from Bellini Bistro, access to meeting rooms, concierge services, special events, executive shuttle service, priority scheduling and preferred member pricing on additional services.

Can you get any better than that???

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN - day 272 Car Detailing At A New Level

2012-01-31T14:55:00.000-08:00

Hey there,

This is an introduction to our newest blog partner in our network of vendors that we highly recommend. I had the great pleasure of meeting Lydia Derian who is the manager and spokesperson for Lavaggio, a high end auto detailing shop on 30205 Canwood Sreet in Agoura Hills. This high end shop coupled with this high energy lady is sure to make all of our car lovers very very happy. I look forward to a long lasting relationship and please make sure to print out out first page of the blog and experience a car detailing experience like no other. For the next couple of days we will highlight what they do better than anyone else and we are so excited to promote this dynamic new business in Agoura Hills. Our blog offer cannot be combined with any other offer.

Lavaggio is an evolution of an idea that began with The Agoura Hills Car Wash. It was created to provide top-quality and customized detailing services for car owners of Southern California who demand excellence. The mission at Lavaggio is to improve the level of workmanship, provide unsurpassed client care with concierge and executive services, provide a lush but comfortable waiting environment for our clients – all at affordable prices! This place is unbelievable! Go to their website, www.lavaggio.net, and navigate through their service menu to see the many packages that are available to meet anyone’s needs. Lavaggio takes professionalism to new heights. This shines through from the moment you arrive at the state-of-the-art detailing facility until they deliver your vehicle to you. As a bonus, Lavaggio is offering 20% off any car service you desire. Simply print the first page of this blog and bring it in. This is a MUST DO!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN - day 271 A Buyer's Eyes

2012-01-30T20:59:00.000-08:00

Showing a lot of property lately to buyers and this is the predatory look I see in most buyer's eyes. You can see they are hungry, sharp and very focused on getting the best possible buy!Nothing wrong with that. If you are a buyer there is nothing wrong with sitting in the tree, waiting for the right meal (deal) to rush out of the brush and strike. The bird is an Eagle Owl that a local falconer brought by for a peek...Awesome Creature

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 270 Sunny Smiles

2012-01-28T08:56:00.000-08:00

Unbelievable morning! If you did not wake up with a smile on your face after looking outside, crawl back in bed, pull the covers over and pause for 5 minutes. Start over and repeat the process 3 times and if you are still not smiling, seek medical attention immediately, for I fear you are not well. For the rest of us, we will race towards sunset with much to accomplish, enjoy and appreciate and we will do it with sunny smiles on our faces.

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 269 Sunset over Sugarloaf

2012-01-25T08:37:00.000-08:00

Driving home last night, I had to stop and take this shot of this majestic Oak and Sugarloaf Mountain. The photo made me a bit melancholy as I pondered the sunset and the symbolic picture of what the sky had painted in front of me. The sunset is so different from the sunrise, both strikingly beautiful, but, they are as far as the East is from the West. Sunset: The end of life or a relationship. Sunrise: life springs forth and hope lives in the new day. Sunset: The flowers of the fields fade into darkness. Sunrise: The flowers unfold and their colors reflect the piercing morning light. Sunset: The predators rise up in Africa and death rules the darkness. Sunrise: The prey bounds for joy as they have lived to see another day. And my favorite of all, Sunset: My cellphone stops ringing. Sunrise: Ring Ring Ring...Hello this is Dave.

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 268 Hot New Property

2012-01-24T11:15:00.000-08:00

This First Neighborhood home in Westlake Village is going on the market later today. This premium cul-de-sac lot with pool and spa will go fast! Copy and paste the link below to see the digital magazine.

http://www.themclaughlingroup.com/ibrochure-single/index.cfm?listingid=32970

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 267 The Scare

2012-01-22T18:58:00.000-08:00

While showing property today at the Vintage Community, I received a disturbing phone call about the website. The site was directing people to a different location other than our site. Thankfully our web operators in Minnesota answered the call and had the domain up and running again. A most horrifying thought considering all the money we spend on the sites and losing www.themclaughlingroup.com would be unimaginable. The stomach and nerves were churning but they resolved it at 6pm so I was able to eat after all.

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 266 Here Comes the Rain

2012-01-20T15:32:00.001-08:00

I don't know folks, I thought it was supposed to be here sometime today. Really glad that it did not come. We snuck in a photo shoot and have a late afternoon showing and the bigger bonus is, I won't have to sit in the rain tonight for the girls soccer game. We do need a little spray to freshen up the hills but I hope it comes while we sleep away and dream of sunny days.

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 265 Annual Shout Out

2012-01-19T10:10:00.000-08:00

Every year I try to shout out to all my friends and family asking for referrals. If any of you know of someone who is interested in buying or selling, please pass them along to our group and we will do our best to give them the professional service that they deserve. I hope 2012 is great for all of us!

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 264 Our Resolutions

2012-01-18T14:57:00.001-08:00

These New Year's resolutions are popular year after year.

1. Drink Less Alcohol
2. Eat Healthy Food
3. Get a Better Education
4. Get a Better Job
5. Get Fit
6. Lose Weight
7. Manage Debt
8. Manage Stress
9. Quit Smoking
10.Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle
11.Save Money
12.Take a Trip
13.Volunteer to Help Others

Come on. Are you kidding me? My resolution was to call my mom more often. Dave's was to let his hair grow out a little longer. Kelly's was to go blond like the rest of the group. Dylan's was to be more like Dave. Janet's was to win the lottery. Shawn's was to learn to dance, SHIZAM!

This is Laurie, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 263 Condo in Calabasas

2012-01-17T20:14:00.000-08:00

Looking for a great starter or nice investment? Stop looking because you have found it. 2 bedrooms + 2 bathrooms, private patio, lower end unit, gated community with pool and gym..Superb location.

Below is the link to the our online magazine.

http://www.themclaughlingroup.com/ibrochure-single/index.cfm?listingid=32198

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 262 The Hounds

2012-01-15T20:37:00.000-08:00

Okay, do you think someone got carried away with the past glories? I can say for certain I had nothing to do with these photos. However, it is a good shot of the hounds in the Orange of Oregon State and the Green of Tulane.

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 261 Saturday Night Out

2012-01-13T16:13:00.000-08:00

Hey, looking for a great evening out. Try this out for Saturday night. The Shoemakers are playing at Cantara Cellars in Camarillo. A little wine and a dose of the brothers are sure to cure any post holiday blues. 7PM to 9PM Saturday Night.

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, Keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 260 George

2012-01-11T20:59:00.000-08:00

Here is a shot of George. He is about 7 years old now. He is the best fed squirrel in the neighborhood; Mango, walnuts, blueberries, pecans, pine nuts etc.etc. Raised on goats milk since the neighbor found him when he was about 2 ounces. I bet the number of animals now that we have removed from homes including birds, snakes, has to near 50 but luckily the calls slow in the winter but come spring they will return. So instead of a licensed realtor, we will be looking for an animal handler to join the group.

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 259 Winter Blues

2012-01-10T15:11:00.000-08:00

Holidays over, refrigerator empty, wine cooler empty, belly bloated, relatives gone and Dave wants a completed marketing plan for 2012 ASAP! I feel just like the beauty in this picture.

This is Laurie, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 258 East Lakeshore

2012-01-09T15:39:00.000-08:00

Back on the market and waiting for the buyer who wants all that lakefront living has to offer.

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 257 Parkview

2012-01-07T13:30:00.000-08:00

Another one fell into the sold column last week. A great house with a fantastic yard and new buyers that are super excited about the community and schools. Poor appraisals from the lending institutions are still wreaking havoc on our market. Hopefully, the over correction by the appraisers will swing back to normalcy this year!

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 256 A Snake in the Pot

2012-01-06T10:00:00.001-08:00

It was late spring Sunday along Three Springs Drive sitting the Brannigan's house open and I was anticipating an eventful open house. This was the second house that the Brannigans had asked us to sell and the previous open houses had drawn in a lot of people. It was about halfway through the open house when I noticed some activity out front. There was a large pot with some type of spring flower in full bloom right at the corner of the garage as people came up to the entry. From the living room window, I saw a lady and two small boys, maybe 8-10 years old jumping around this pot. As I opened the door I asked them politely, "whats happening?". The mom quickly replied for me not to worry, she was just trying to catch a small snake they saw in the pot. I asked what type it was and she calmly told me she had grown up with snakes and knew what she was doing. I said "great," but let me take a look just to see. The canopy of the flower made it almost impossible to see the snake but I did recognize the dark coloration and knew exactly what we were now dealing with. What amazed me was this mom had her hand reaching in and trying to grab this thing and she did not get bit. As I took my leather shoes and moved the flower aside, I said lady, "that's a rattlesnake." She turned white as a ghost and her breathing changed. I think it struck her, she had just escaped, by sheer luck, a very painful, potentially deadly and most embarrassing mistake. The boys were now scared but I looked right at them and said to them "you guys are lucky to have a mom like this, she is like Crocodile Dundee." This was before the Steve Irwin burst onto the seen but the boys knew exactly who I was talking about. They beamed with pride, mom relaxed and whispered a quick thank you. After they were done looking at the house, I grabbed a bucket, captured the snake, went home and had a lesson for Kelsey and Kinsey. They watched our King Snake, take the bites of the Rattler and slowly swallow him down. You see, Kings are great to have around because, the venom of the Rattler, which can kill us, has no impact on the King Snake.

So if you have a snake in the pot, you may want to clearly identify before you say "OOPS."

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 255 Group Photo

2012-01-04T14:49:00.000-08:00

Here is the the new group photo for 2012. We look forward to seeing all of you on the top of the mountain.

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN - day 254 A 2nd Look

2012-01-03T21:34:00.000-08:00

Wanted everyone to take a 2nd look at this awesome lake property. Besides the open floor plan and amazing views, members at Malibou Lake enjoy year round water fun with swimming, boating, fishing and more. Here is a great shot from one of the decks.

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 253 The Eve and the Day

2012-01-01T17:58:00.001-08:00

The Eve: Okay, last night at the Cornell Winery was one of the best New Years celebrations I have ever been at. Tim and his staff treated all 21 of us like royalty. The setting, food, and service was superb. Family and friends rolled on over to the Old Place after dinner to ring in the New Year. For a last minute idea, I give it a 10. For anyone seeking to do a private party just reach out to Djata Grant, the Cornell Wineries event coordinator, she was awesome and I am confident that if any of you plan a perty, you won't be disappointed. Will post a photo of the room tomorrow.

The Day: Up and out by 10 on what many would say was a spectacular day..In fact, while showing a gorgeous view property at noon, the little boy kept asking his parents if he could go inside because it was too hot outside. Other than a splitting headache, (caused by who knows what :)) the day could not have been more beautiful. From 8PM last night to the current post time of 6:18 PM, this New Years Eve and Day will be one of my highlights of 2012. So far, 2012 is lookin good!

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 252 My Favorites

2011-12-31T13:50:00.000-08:00

Instead of writing something new, I thought I would just repost two of my favorites from the year. We started in February and have posted 252 times. We try to keep the blog related to real estate but sometimes it wanders into life's other challenges, however, for the most part, we have been true to it's initial concept. So here are my two favorites: Pit Bulls & Baby Steps, which is a story about a brokers caravan and Marathon, which is my comparison of a marathon, marraige and a real estate transaction.

Pit Bulls and Baby Steps

Crossing the stream in the listing agent's jeep enjoying the broker's caravan along Lobo Canyon, neither myself nor the two lady agents had any idea what peril loomed in front of us. A burned out house on five plus acres with incredible views and a small trailer nestled under the shade trees. As we exited the car, two rather menacing looking Pits, barking, growling & foaming at the mouth, began crashing against the glass trailer door. With each successive blow to the door, the latch is slowly giving way. Now the distance between the jeep, a large fence and trailer are measured by my perceptive and now fearful eye. And it happens, the door gives way and shooting out of the trailer like bullets exiting their gun's chamber, 200 pounds of muscle and teeth have locked on. Instinct and heart rate explode, I am at the top of the fence in seconds, relieved that I still have some life in my legs but now horrified about who I have left behind to suffer a most unfortunate mauling. As I turn to look, the dogs were on them, sniffing, wagging and licking away, just happy to have some friends on their mountain. I am humiliated but quickly shout out from my position on top of the fence, "Hey, the second story views from a new house would be spectacular." Not one of my proudest moments but since that day I have stepped in front of two dogs to take the bite instead of my clients, a Chihuahua and a Pekingese...Baby steps!

Marathon

I heard marriage once described as a marathon. Think about that, being out of breath, aching muscles, blistered feet and dehydrated...it just makes most of us want to run out and get married or if already married, asking, what mile am I at right now? The start of the marathon is exciting with the massive moving crowd and fanfare but check in around mile 14, 15, or 16 and see what's up. Skip to the finish line, more crowds, the exhilaration of completion, champagne and finally, a well deserved rest. So it goes with buying or selling a house, first comes the excitement of coming to terms, then comes the inspections, disclosures, paperwork, appraisals and the worry, stress and fatigue that inevitably hop on your shoulders for the ride. Exhausting! 45 days or so later, you're sipping a martini or lemonade by the pool, the dog is tearing up your yard and your feet are up and you are at rest. The loose toilet, the rat droppings in the attic and the bleeping bleeping smoke detector of the past month are forgotten and you are home. In the middle of your race, day, transaction, or life, you may want to take just a brief moment to ponder your coming rest.

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 251 The Last Work Day

2011-12-30T08:52:00.001-08:00

Many memories, highlights, issues and concerns swirling around in my head this morning as I start work on the last official work day of the year. Although, it has been well documented in this blog that weekends are as busy as weekdays in our field. Since tomorrow is the 31st and the last day of the year, today I will dream that I am a disgruntled 40 to 50 hour a week employee, in some large corporation, watching the clock tick away as I count the hours towards a long 3 day weekend filled with football, friends, family and libations.

It has been a rather eventful year for the corporation, manufacturing in China has been difficult with Typhoons rocking our facilities. A few trips to Iowa to help facilitate the the restructuring of our midwestern strategy, a new boss who I do not see eye to eye with and has me a tad concerned going into the new year. I look out at my calendar and see my meetings are scheduled for the entire year, pending of course, typhoons, company reorganization, competitive breakthroughs and a host of staff issues that will undoubtedly arrive at the most inopportune times. Speaking of the staff, I ponder having to meet with the the same people time and time again, wondering if Charlie will ever improve on his hygiene. I can't stand sitting next to him during the meetings, the smell is unbearable and if that Jill, aka "the Blabberer" extends one more meeting because of that mouth of hers, I swear I will stand up and shove a one of those day old doughnuts right down her throat..Whew! I could get in trouble if anybody at the company were reading my blog today. I don't even want to think about the parking this year, I go to the gym to get my exercise, the company should pay for new shoes since it's a 1/2 mile hike into the office every morning. How many years until I retire? Wow, only 9:30 in the morning, 7 hours still to go, oh no, here comes Jim.......sorry about that, he just can't let it go. I got the promotion 6 years ago and he still comes over and wines but finishes with a barrage of self promotion that is only matched by the late KIM JONG IL. If his team wins the company boiling trophy again, I will make sure he will be the late JIM JONG IL. Oh boy, the final numbers for the year just came in, not to bad, maybe I will have to hit up the big boss for a little raise based on these numbers. Can it please be lunchtime yet? Well, big brother has new internet access rules starting next year, only 15 minutes online per day for personal use time, like checking mail, facebook, etc etc. I am going to maximize my internet time, on this, The Last Work Day of the year.

I know it is not that bad and in fact so many people love their jobs and in many ways I do envy the stability, steadiness and certainty of the corporate life. In fact, I think just having a job is a pretty good thing, just ask around these days. It is fun for me to type away between my appointments and to poke fun at others but most of all to poke fun at myself because I realize how lucky I am. I probably met over 100 new families this year and the interaction with all of them is beyond rewarding. Challenging, fun, emotional, stimulating and I could go on and on. Throw in my team that I get to work with on a daily basis (we have no Charlies, Jills or Jims unless my group things I am one of them) and I realize just how fortunate I truly am.

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 250 Hunt Club

2011-12-28T10:14:00.000-08:00

Hunt Club is an example of a seller who looked at the market, took our advice, priced it appropriately and was rewarded with a quick sale which is tough in this current estate market. Most Agoura estates are on the market for at least 6 months so this was a wise and now happy seller.

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 249 Work, Really?

2011-12-26T10:33:00.000-08:00

On a day like today after a couple days of gorging and with such incredible weather, the questions is work, really? Yep, but hopefully just a couple hours. Photo off the balcony at work.

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 248 Xmas Dinner

2011-12-24T10:26:00.000-08:00

So all the family got together at the lake for our Xmax dinner. Drew and his family had to get back up to the bay area for more functions, so our entire tribe pow wowed an evening earlier than usual. Plenty of food and fun and gifts for all the little ones and then an unexpected family of four shows up out of the blue. A mom and three teenagers not looking for gifts but maybe just a warm meal on a cold night. The photo is one of the teenagers putting in an order with Santa for an over sized drumstick. I am sure as they clamored and clambered back up the Oak Tree, they thought to themselves that Santa had lost some weight and certainly looked more athletic than the big guy in the red suit that mom and dad Racoon had spoke of.

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 247 Showings

2011-12-23T08:25:00.000-08:00

How about this for last minute shopping..Two different showings today for homes. I wish they could buy the house, wrap it up and close in 1 day. That would be a nice present for under the tree. As it stands, if they buy today, it will probably be more of a Valentines Day gift.

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 246 Here KItty Kitty

2011-12-21T15:27:00.000-08:00

You know with the holiday stresses sometimes you just want to avoid all the people and hang with your cat or dog...Here kitty kitty has multiple meanings and I will leave those who know my meaning and those who don't know to have fun with it.

This is Dave, with The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 245 Driftwood

2011-12-20T15:35:00.000-08:00

Just a block from the beach is our new listing on Driftwood in the Oxnard Shores area. Looking for a great weekend escape close by? This is a newer, beautiful 3 bedroom 3 bathroom townhome, highly upgraded and ready to move into. Just log onto www.themclaughlingroup.com and check it out. Tell me a walk on the beach with your best friend is not one of the best things that this life has to offer. Check out Driftwood and maybe you will want drift away to a better place.

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 244 Wagon

2011-12-18T13:15:00.000-08:00

After two year long leases, an interesting neighbor, a long escrow, Wagon will close on Tuesday. What a great house with an amazing setting. The new family and kids will love living there and it will be a very cool holiday moment for them. Another new beginning comes from some others beginnings end!

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 243 The Flood

2011-12-17T12:13:00.000-08:00

This is not the great biblical flood that I am referring to. This is a cautionary note to all who would turn on the water to a house without being inside. Don't do it! You just never know what valve may have been left open when the washer/refrigerator and other fixtures were removed or left on as the water was shut off. Needless to say after 14 years in this business, there are still firsts and talk about taking your breath away. From the holiday party to the flood, I can't wait to see whats next.

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 242 Holiday Party

2011-12-16T08:54:00.000-08:00

Here we are whooping it up at the holiday party! Lots of fun!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 241 Watch, Listen and Observe

2011-12-13T22:01:00.000-08:00

Sometimes words are simply inadequate and fall short of conveying the message one is trying to deliver or the feelings someone is trying to express. Here is an example: Kelsey got nailed in the game tonight at Thousand Oaks and she is attempting to describe the pain she is feeling. Kelsey's words pale in comparison to what her facial expressions, wincing and utterings are conveying. So here is a challenge for Wednesday; Watch the person in front of you, listen to tones more than the words, observe their body language and see if you see a little deeper into that person or realize a greater understanding of what they are saying or not saying. It's only a one day experiment, what do you have to lose? Or, interrupt people, assume you know what they are saying, ignore their body language and move about with your head in the clouds, blinded by your failure to truly watch, listen and observe.

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, hoping to watch, listen, observe and keep it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 240 Tebow for President

2011-12-12T20:55:00.000-08:00

When you are in sales there are two cardinal rules: Don't talk politics and don't talk religion. When you open your mouth in these arenas, there is a 50/50 chance that the other party won't agree with you and why would you jeopardize a potential sale pontificating on your own opinions. Now there are exceptions and a few other rules like don't smoke in front of a client, don't comment on how ugly the family dog is and don't ask the woman of the house if she is pregnant unless you are 100% confident you know the answer already. These can be deal breakers! Most successful sales people generally follow these rues. I will break with tradition and sort of violate the rule and make a bold prediction: In the next 30 years, Tim Tebow will run for the office of President of the United States of America. He will win his parties nomination (I don't know which party), and he will carry Florida and Colorado. After that I have no idea what will happen. Please archive this blog and in 2032 or 2036 refer back and see who was the first to predict it! I will be 78, still typing away, selling retirement digs in the Caribbean and the Blog on that day will read:

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 11551 I TOLD YOU SO! (please refer to day 240)

This is Dave, watching ESPN for the last 2 hours, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 239 Marks

2011-12-11T13:40:00.000-08:00

Finally! It took some time but I am sure the new family is soaking up the views! Closed on Friday.

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 238 Training

2011-12-08T21:00:00.000-08:00

Training someone on a task, presentation or skill, can be a very frustrating experience. When I look at this photo, I ask myself, what type of split I would have to give this guy and would he be able able to close the deal? :)

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate?

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 237 Time Out

2011-12-07T20:43:00.001-08:00

Nothing like a time out in a critical moment to refocus the team, design a play or rest an exhausted squad. A time out in real estate is when you turn your cell phone off. You can refocus, think about solutions or plan new strategies but as long as that thing is ringing, vibrating or chirping, you are in the game and you have to think and play as the calls come in and you never know what the situation, sale or concern might be..TIME OUT It is 9PM and I am taking a Time Out!

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 236 Office Furniture

2011-12-06T13:44:00.001-08:00

After visiting the Boost athletic performance grand opening, The group got motivated and Laurie decided to provide new seating for the group. We have left the lazy recliners and moved on to the exercise body balls. Here you see Kelly handling the paperwork, Laurie talking with Homes and Land and Janet texting one of her buyers. When I took this photo I was on one leg balancing. I think the group will be more productive because of the new seating arrangements.

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 235 Game of the Week

2011-12-04T22:11:00.000-08:00

Monday night at 6 the Charger girls of Agoura take on the Lion girls of Oaks Christian. I don't usually promote local games but in this case I am compelled. Sebastian the head coach of Oaks, is Kelsey and Kinsey's club coach and not only that, there are 3 others on the Agoura team that call him coach during the club season. In addition, 3 teammates on the club team play for Oaks. This weekend ended with a soccer party wrapping up nearly 6 years of club soccer with this group and it is only fitting that many of them meet Monday night at Agoura. It should be a fun evening for all the families and a really good soccer game.

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 234 R and R

2011-12-03T10:28:00.000-08:00

A fun evening last night with great music at Maestros, to be followed up today with a golf party at Sherwood, holiday party at a client's home this evening and then a team soccer party on Sunday. This time of year, although a bit slower business wise, does allow for rejuvenation and relaxation. Lets face it, occasionally you have to pull the car in, change the oil and fill it up with gas and this weekend, this old Cadillac is filling up at the station!

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 233 Sweet 16

2011-11-30T20:32:00.000-08:00

Here she is. A fantastic daughter, an awesome sister, a super person, a fierce competitor, a solid student, a trustworthy friend, a great sense of humor and a kind and gentle soul. All these added up equals one really lucky dad and I am one really lucky dad. December 1, 1995 was one of the greatest days of my life and Kinsey, you continue to make my life and all of our families lives better.

Happy Birthday Kinsey!

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, lovin being the dad of Kins, who helps me keep it real!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 232 Need to Get Away

2011-11-29T18:13:00.000-08:00

Near the end of the day in the office, my sister was showcasing tropical photos from Zihuatanejo, and the thought of the Southwest Airlines commercial kept popping into my mind. "Need to Get Away" Yes yes yes, I do, but I just got back from Canada and had a great time fishing with the brothers, however, it seems like it was not enough. The last couple years I did not take a vacation and now after taking some time away from it all this year, the desire to take off again is strong. Would it have been better not to leave at all? I wonder if sitting on the beach and being totally unproductive would spawn thoughts or desires of wanting to be productive? The only way to truly know that answer is if you never had to work another day in your life, would you still choose to work? Don't get me wrong, I love my job, my group and all the challenges and people that I deal with but after staring at the turquoise waters, I might be willing to try.

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, floating in the TURQUOISE waters (not), keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 231 Bikram Yoga

2011-11-28T20:07:00.000-08:00

After a easy going day around the office, I decided to hit the 4:30 class for a little sweat. For those not familiar with this particular style of yoga, it combines heat (105 degrees), time (90 Minutes) and various strength and stretching poses. I am here to vouch for its intensity and fairly simplistic approach to kicking my .ss! There are periods of pain and struggle and periods of rest and calm and in these latter moments, I can't help but think of some of our current escrows. Struggle and calm, struggle and calm, this class parallels our escrows. I laugh about tying in everything into real estate and often wonder if many just say, "please Dave, enough already;" Sports to real estate, family struggles to real estate, songs to real estate, yoga to real estate, does Dave have a life or is everything about real estate? I do and yes, real estate and my life are all intertwined. Now as my limbs are intertwined in yoga, sweating away and my lips yearning for a splash of water, I think of my escrows...wow! I need help.

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 230 COME ON

2011-11-27T11:34:00.000-08:00

Driving over to check on rat traps for a lease we handled a few months back, I took this photo near the landing at Westlake. Yea, checking rat traps is part of the job, right? Rat traps are not the blog subject today, today is the subject. Come on, look outside today, it is s-unreal, it's ridiculous. When I took the photo at 11:02, it was 79 degrees and crystal clear. Boaters and kayakers on the lake, bikers, joggers, green mountains, fresh air, fall colors and today is November 27th. I would say a vast part of the country would cry foul, claim it's unfair and demand California, at a minimum, be subject to overcast skies and a healthy drizzle. Get outside, soak it in and have spectacular day.

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN - day 229 A Feast

2011-11-25T15:21:00.000-08:00

So Turkey dinner was supposed to begin at approximately 5PM, when the entire clan would gather at the lake for the feast. We arrived in the early afternoon and there before us lay a tabletop full of cheeses, hummus, bruschetta, candies and a host of other snack items along with the compliment of beverages. By 3:30 it was over for me. The stomach had reached capacity and staring at the food was no longer an option. Dylan and I grabbed the fishing poles landed a few bass and returned an hour or so later as the main course was about to be served. Looking past the main course I noticed a berry cobbler and pumpkin pie, decisions had to be made. I grabbed a few pieces of dark meat, the dryer ones, chewed on them for an hour and allowed for repositioning of the abdominal area, which enabled the berry cobbler to be enjoyed fully. Talk about an abundance of food. 22 people and I promise we could still be eating into the night tonight and we may not finish it off. Walking around the zoo today with the little ones, I understand how the lions must feel when they get a hippo for dinner...What a feast!

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 228 Quotes for Thanksgiving

2011-11-23T21:02:00.000-08:00

A couple of quotes for all of us:

A thankful heart is not only the greatest virtue, but the parent of all other virtues.
-- Cicero

Be thankful for what you have; you'll end up having more. If you concentrate on what you don't have, you will never, ever have enough.
-- Oprah Winfrey

Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life. It turns what we have into enough, and more. It turns denial into acceptance, chaos to order, confusion to clarity. It can turn a meal into a feast, a house into a home, a stranger into a friend. Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today, and creates a vision for tomorrow.
-- Melody Beattie

There is a calmness to a life lived in Gratitude, a quiet joy.
-- Ralph H. Blum

and my favorite

He is a wise man who does not grieve for the things which he has not, but rejoices for those which he has.
-- Epictetus

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, wishing all a Happy Thanksgiving!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 227 FIre Country

2011-11-22T20:25:00.000-08:00

I was going through some pictures and realized we have been very lucky the last couple of years with the lack of fires. It's already November and usually in October we have had a fire or two and I can't even remember a Santa Ana condition. Above is a shot from 4 years ago when a couple Malibu fires broke out. Multiple helicopters converged on local lakes to fill their buckets fast. Our local lakes are probably the best resource the fire department has and it is something to watch as these guys swoop in to complete their mission.

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 226 History of Malibou Lake

2011-11-21T18:26:00.000-08:00

Photo courtesy of Universal Pictures MONSTER OF MALIBOU LAKE?--A young Marilyn Harris enjoys some quality time with Boris Karloff on the shores of Malibou Lake in the 1931 Universal classic, "Frankenstein." The cinematic and additional history of the lake is documented in Brian Rooney's new book, "Three Magical Miles."

The following article is from The Acorn:

By John Loesing
Acorn Staff Writer
By John Loesing Acorn Staff Writer

For residents of Malibou Lake and the surrounding vicinity, their story finally is being told.
Brian Rooney, a resident of Malibou Lake for seven years until moving to Orange County, recently completed and self-published a definitive history of the three-mile region that covers the lake, historic Cornell and Seminole Springs.
In fact, Rooney named his 100-page softcover book "Three Magical Miles: An Appreciation of the Past & Present of Malibou Lake and Vicinity."
From the construction of the lake and the early clubhouse in the 1920s, to the many famous movies filmed at Paramount Ranch, the area is steeped in rich California history, Rooney says. He compiled most of his information while taking long walks by the lake and visiting with several old-timers who lived in the area for decades. Rooney credits Gordon Thomas, Earl Bennett and Leon Levinson, who are now in their 70s and 80s, for inspiring the book.
"With their 120-plus years of history and stories, and hearing these great stories, I realized that none of the stuff was written down," Rooney said.
"If these stories aren’t written down they were just going to go away at some point," he said. "When they told the stories, it really opened the floodgates and the more I looked, the better it got."
Working on nights and weekends, Rooney took almost three years to complete his work. Proceeds from the book will go to the Cornell Preservation Organization (CPO), a nonprofit group dedicated to preserving the land, the history and the quality of life inside the "Three Magical Miles."
"It really for the first time has sort of given an insight to this area and why it’s so much of a jewel," said Colleen Holmes, CPO president. "There’s so much history here and so many people who have lived here for so long."
Early Years
Bertram Lackey and George Wilson built the dam that created the lake in 1922, but the basin remained dry until a huge 1926 storm brought millions of gallons of water from Medea Creek and Triunfo Creek into the lake and filled it for the first time.
"The founding members threw a party that lasted for days," Rooney writes.
Since then, the lake has been dry only once, in 1969, when the dam underwent repairs.
The original Malibou Lake Clubhouse, which was actually a lodge with 24 rooms, was built in 1924, but was lost in 1935 to fire and replaced by the smaller facility that stands by the lake today.
Developer H.I Averill, meanwhile, had begun to offer lots for sale.
"In the 1920s, Lakeside lots sold for $600 to $700," Gordon Thomas recalls in the book, "and during the Depression, they went for as little as $50."
Thomas said by the mid-1950s, a graded view lot with a pre-installed septic system sold for the "hefty" sum of $5,000.
By hook or crook, the homes were finally built.
"One of the great old stories is how many of the original cabins at Malibou Lake were built with stolen lumber from Paramount Ranch back when they were shooting movies there actively," Rooney said. "They would walk over to the ranch from the lake … and pick up a few two-by-fours and sheets of plywood and come back."
The charm of Rooney’s book is the photography that it uses. He obtained hundreds of old pictures from a variety of sources, including the Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences, the Ronald Reagan Library, the Calabasas Historical Society and Malibu Creek State Park Docents.
The liberal use of before-and-after shots gives the reader a good perspective on how the area has changed.
"It’s beautifully documented and has a lot of unusual photos," said Nicolas Noxon, CPO vice president and official distributor of the book. "It’s really amazing," Noxon said.
Rooney said sales of the $20 book are by "word of mouth" only and that the first 100 copies sold out immediately. More are being printed.
Rooney also provides the history of several buildings that no longer exist, such as Crags Country Club, said by the Los Angeles Times in 1910 to be "one of the exclusive social organizations of the country with the wildest and most picturesque surroundings."
Located next to the "Rock Pool" in Malibu Creek State Park, the 7,500 square-foot lodge required $1,000 in annual memberships dues, equivalent to $50,000 today. Only the foundation is left.
One building, the 1926 Cornell School, still stands as a private residence.
Also dating back to the mid-1920s: the legendary Rock Store—and from Steve McQueen to Jay Leno—Ed and Vern’s little store continues to attract motorcycle riders of all stripes.
The oldest building in the area is the Sepulveda Adobe, built in 1863 by California pioneer homesteader Don Pedro Alcantra Sepulveda.
Other landmarks include the Lake Enchanto resort, which is now part of Peter Strauss Ranch, and Seminole Hot Springs, discovered in 1912 by a resident who was looking for oil.
If you enjoy whipping your car or motorcycle through the mountains, you’ll be pleased to know the Paramount Ranch Raceway was home to sports car and stock car races. Sports car historian and guest contributor Michael Lynch said the track immediately established a reputation for crashes and controversy and was closed in 1957.
Holmes said she never realized the area carried so many secrets.
"One of the things that stood out ... there used to be a Maypole down by Malibou Lake that was near the country club they had there, which is now gone, but that Maypole is still standing and they used to have the kids come every year and do their thing and I would have never known that’s what it was for.
"[The author] got a before shot and what it looks like now, and to me, it’s very striking," Holmes said.
Celluloid Heroes
Clearly, much of the magic in the "Three Magical Miles" comes from the movie industry and its colorful personnel, who spent almost the entire the 20th Century gallivanting through the area.
Rooney says of the many films shot at the lake over the years, the most famous by far was the horror classic "Frankenstein," a1931 RKO picture.
"Boris Karloff’s famous makeup job was applied in the backyard of makeup artist Jack Pierce’s home in the San Fernando Valley starting at 4 a.m. followed by a drive out to the lake so that the scene could be shot before the heat of the day hit—which would cause the makeup to smear and the prosthetics to unglue," Rooney writes.
Paramount Ranch, just half a mile from Malibou Lake, included productions such as "Santa Fe Trail" (1930), "Gunsmoke" (1931), "The Adventures of Tom Sawyer" (1938), "The Adventures of Marco Polo" (1938), "The Virginian" (1946) and, of course, "M*A*S*H" and "Dr. Quinn Medicine Woman" from modern times.
To make Tom Sawyer feel right at home, studio workers placed a temporary dam on Medea Creek and turned it into the Mississippi River. The star of the movie was a young Jackie Coogan.
In 1966, Elvis Presley shot the motorcycle flick "Spinout," a film that includes scenes from Cornell Country Store, Mulholland Highway and Kanan Road.
And before he was governor and president, actor Ronald Reagan and his wife, Nancy, spent weekends at their 250-acre ranch near the corner of Mulholland Highway and Lake Vista Drive. The Ranch is now part of Malibu Creek State Park.
The book also includes an assortment of indexes, topographical maps and photography foldouts. The National Park Service and California State Parks assisted Rooney in preparing his research.
Copies of the book may be obtained by calling CPO at (818) 734-0775

You can also pick this book up at The Old Place or the Canyon Grill.

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate.

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 225 A day in the life of a

2011-11-20T06:57:00.000-08:00

After the "a" fill in buyer or seller. Imagine how different the perspective and view would be of the very same transaction. You would think that a 10 page purchase contract would enable both parties to have the same view or perspective? Wow! That is not the case. Just look at the "as-is" clause in the purchase agreement and watch how buyers and sellers sink their teeth into that. 15 or 20 days into the agreement and you wonder if you will ever get both parties on the same page. Oddly enough after 30-45 days, the buyer and seller shake hands, close escrow and have come to the same mutual resolutions. Bottom line is when two parties want something bad enough, they figure it out. Now after the "a" fill in the word realtor and ask the buyer or seller.....no don't do that..just enjoy your Sunday.

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 224 Kanan

2011-11-17T19:47:00.000-08:00

This is another one...Finally it closes on Friday. 489 days later, two companies tried to sell it before us and now our group gets to close it out. Sometimes the 3rd time (agent) is the charm.

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 223 Does Your Teddy Need a Bath

2011-11-16T11:16:00.000-08:00

Here is a little promo for "Teddy Needs A Bath". Why would The McLaughlin Group promote such a fantastic product? Our group coordinator is Laurie and her daughter Nicole is the inventor and creator of this wonderful new product. You can find this at Drugstore.com, Teddyneedsabath.com, and very soon it will be on ToysRus.com. You know how I admire people that press on, overcome challenges and realize their dream? Well Nicole is one of those persons who has climbed her mountain.

This is Dave, from The McLaughin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 222 Mountaintop

2011-11-14T21:08:00.000-08:00

When coaching the Agoura girls U14 all-star soccer team at the AYSO National Games in Hawaii, I pointed to the mountain and told the girls that is where we are going, to the top. I told them we are getting to the top one game at at time and we will not enjoy the view until we get there. One last look at the mountain and we started our week-long journey to the championship. One game at a time, never looking ahead, only focused on our current opponent. Isn't it true when we set our goals in the business world, it's much easier to focus on one task, one sale or one report and to build on each success or completed task which allows for the overall goal to be realized. Every step up the mountain has potential pitfalls and even setbacks but overcoming and pressing on can take you to the top. If my group focused on selling 65 homes in January, forgetting we had twelve months to do it in, we would have panicked, lost focus and forgot that we needed to sell just one at at time to reach the ultimate number. Jump back to that week in Hawaii and the girls kicked butt one game at a time and we found ourselves at the top of the mountain in the championship game. We eventually lost in double overtime but all the girls left that game knowing they had reached the top of the mountain and found out the views were sensational.

Here is a shot of that amazing team and the accompanying write up: ALOHA—An incredible season for the girls' U-14 Red Bull All-Star soccer team from Westlake and Agoura concluded with a runner-up finish at the AYSO National Games in Hawaii. Pictured in the front is Bailey Byers. Second row, from left: Kelsey McLaughlin, Bridget Brennan, Nicole Davis, Kinsey McLaughlin. Third row: Leah Dehmohseni, coach Rich Clark, Shiroo Ashtari, Maya Aviezer, Jessica Clark, head coach David McLaughlin, Taylor Harmon, Julie Watson, Brittany Cunningham, Natalie Fersht and coach Reza Dehmohseni. Lauren Ashton and Jenna Haffamier aren't pictured.

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 221 The Moorpark Zoo

2011-11-13T15:48:00.000-08:00

If you are looking for an enjoyable, easy couple of hours with the kids, I highly recommend the Moorpark College Zoo. Lions, Hyenas, Hawks, Eagles, Primates and a host of other animals sure to tickle the little one's curiosity. It is known as America's teaching zoo and every hour the students put on an animal show with their current cuddly and not so cuddly critters. Open every weekend 11-5. Miley and I spent 2 hours today soaking in the great weather and learning about omnivores, herbivores and carnivores. I think Miley was shocked to learn that she was an omnivore especially after watching Bubbles the Pot Bellied Pig perform a dazzling array of tricks.. Below is the link to the zoo, just copy and paste link into browser.

www.moorparkcollege.edu/current_students/teaching_zoo/index.shtml

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN - day 220- For All The Veterans

2011-11-11T08:48:00.000-08:00

From Saving Private Ryan

This is for all the veterans! We are proud, we are humbled and we are grateful for your sacrifice....THANK YOU!

Executive Mansion,
Washington, Nov. 21, 1864.
Dear Madam,--
I have been shown in the files of the War Department a statement of the Adjutant General of Massachusetts that you are the mother of five sons who have died gloriously on the field of battle.
I feel how weak and fruitless must be any word of mine which should attempt to beguile you from the grief of a loss so overwhelming. But I cannot refrain from tendering you the consolation that may be found in the thanks of the Republic they died to save.
I pray that our Heavenly Father may assuage the anguish of your bereavement, and leave you only the cherished memory of the loved and lost, and the solemn pride that must be yours to have laid so costly a sacrifice upon the altar of freedom.
Yours, very sincerely and respectfully,
A. Lincoln

This is the group, The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 219 Wednesday Hump Day

2011-11-09T22:02:00.000-08:00

I have written about Fridays and of attack Mondays but never addressed hump day. So I will attempt to explain why Realtors do not have a normal Wednesday hump day. What we have is a contingency removal day and what that means is we strive to sell homes, put them in escrow and then work to have all contingencies removed. This form can be received on any day, so Wednesday is not critical but the actual day this form is received is. Once the contingency removal form is sent out or received, we can feel comfortable that we have done all we can do. Then we sit back, shift into cruise control and wait for the closing...Right! Like that ever happens especially with the current lending concerns and overall market conditions. Oops, I am changing my tune, Hump day is when the property closes..yea, okay, nope..Then we hold our breath and hope the buyer doesn't call to complain about their new house. Here I go changing again..I can emphatically state, Realtors don't have a hump day. Yep, that is correct, no hump day..I can't wait until Thursday, on the back side of the hump, heading into a slow, laid back, Martini weekend....Liar

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 218 My Love Screams

2011-11-08T19:38:00.000-08:00

Okay before all of you get excited, I will not be screaming about my love. This will be about one of our former clients, in fact my former next door neighbor who relocated to Franklin(Nashville TN). Similar to the Beverly Hillbillies seeking black gold, David and Sheree Grow sought musical gold in Nashville and hopefully with this new song, they have found it. David wrote and produced this song and was executive producer on the video which is exploding on YouTube..Just 6 days and over 1,700,000 views. I would like to say while discussing his septic system and playing a few chords of Lionel Richie for him, he became inspired. Truth be told, we really miss their family and miss the music that often times floated over to our house. After listening to this song, I am sure you will agree that Mr. David Grow is one talented musical man. The McLaughlin Group thinks this song is the bomb and David Grow is the MAN! Available on itunes now.

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 217 Boost

2011-11-07T21:22:00.000-08:00

Last night most of the group attended the grand opening of Boost Athletics & Sports Therapy in Agoura Hills. What is our connection? I can tell you it's not the athletic prowess of our group. Actually the connection is Shawn and it is her husband Craig and his partner Ty who have opened up this unique facility. Here is their mission:

Boost Athletics & Sports Therapy is a full-service health center and performance training facility that focuses on achieving one's health care and fitness goals. Whether you are a weekend warrior, youth athlete, business executive, stay-at-home mom, high school standout athlete, or professional athlete, Boost will design a program for you. Boost is the rare combination that exists only in a few facilities combining a performance enhancement specialist, physical therapist, and a sports doctor all under the same roof. Different from other facilities, Co-owners Ty Twine (Kinesthetic Specialist) and Dr. Craig Sanchez (Sports Doctor) combine to bring every client/patient the highest level of care with the latest in training, medical, and rehabilitative technology.

Their new address is 29399 Agoura Road # 110 Agoura Hills CA 91301
They can be reached 818-735-4900

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 216 Perseverance

2011-11-06T13:14:00.000-08:00

Quotes:

In the realm of ideas everything depends on enthusiasm; in the real world, all rests on perseverance. Johann Wolfgang Von Goethe

Perseverance is failing 19 times and succeeding the 20th.
J. Andrews

and my favorite:
Those who say it cannot be done should not interrupt the person doing it.
Chinese Proverb

So many of my clients, friends and family come to mind when thinking about their successes and failures. I admire those who keep going when it is not easy, who press on though the odds are against them and take ideas, plans or opportunities and persevere to their completion. So many great company stories are remarkable; underlying all the great ideas, inventions, new medicines..it was perseverance plain and simple.

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 215 Remember, Celebrate, Live

2011-11-05T16:04:00.001-07:00

This morning at Griffen's memorial celebration, the Grandpa said it best. Just a little background: After Griffen was born he developed a staff infection that nearly claimed his life, Apparently it lasted about 18 days. So grandpa stood up and said what we thought we might only have for 18 days, we were blessed with for 18 years.

Remember, Celebrate and Live.....In honor of Griffen Kramer

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 214 Pieces of Peace

2011-11-03T21:49:00.000-07:00

Physical pain is easy to feel but how do you feel the emotional pain of someone else? You don't. I can think about what they are going through but I can't feel what they feel. I can only sit, ponder and hope that a friend's pain passes just as the early morning fog dissipates. Here is the problem with the fog analogy: the sun rises, seasons change and the fog goes away, but the hurt of a lifetime stays and the sun can't burn it off and the winds can't blow it away. I don't know the answers but I hope for my friend's sake, that the fog blows away and my friends will find pieces of peace, like safety in hide and seek or an island in the middle of the sea. Because now, for them, a piece of peace, is what life offers.

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 213 Finish Line

2011-11-01T18:17:00.000-07:00

Every year we start the same race to achieve the goals set out before the group. Now we are attempting to sprint to the finish and need 6 more houses to get to 65 for the year. The race is more like a 10k but near the finish, you try and pick up the pace to finish strong. But at the same time we are sprinting for the finish, the start of next years race looms ahead. The head is down, focused on the finish but the preparation for the starting gun in January is getting underway. What will our goals be? What new approaches, strategies and technology will we employ? What will our marketing look like? Oh, almost forget, we still have to finish. focus, prepare, plan, focus, prepare, plan, focus, prepare, plan.This is the most challenging time in the race, crossing the finish line heading to the starting blocks.

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 212 A Brother's Love

2011-10-30T23:23:00.000-07:00

A message from Dillon Kramer to his brother Griffen Kramer posted on facebook:

rip gmoney...u will always be missed and i luv u..u were a great older bro and a mentor to me, u were my laughter, my happiness, my emotions..i luv u so much, u will always be in my mind and heart. i send my prayers.

From a brother's heart comes mighty love!

Our thoughts and prayers go out to all of the Kramer family.

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 211 30 Years

2011-10-29T10:51:00.000-07:00

Tonight is my 30th high school reunion and just a funny set of coincidences. My oldest is the senior class president at Agoura, and the homecoming game was last night against Calabasas which happened to be the same opponent for our homecoming game in 1981. Now putting those things aside, where did the 30 years go? I will look forward to seeing how 30 years has worn on all the classmates. I have tried to review many on facebook and realize, I won't recognize quite a few.

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 210 Hendricks Team

2011-10-28T10:00:00.000-07:00

Here is a shout out to Chris Hendricks at OnQ Financial. I have worked with Chris for over 12 years and he and his team have successfully closed so many loans for us. Last month alone, I think he did 4 for us. He is also the expert when it comes to lending at Malibou Lake. Last night my group had the great privilege of joining Nicole, Lisa and Chris for a fun get together at Malibu Cafe. For anyone seeking a loan, I strongly recommend Chris, his team and the service and knowledge they provide. Here is a a snapshot of his team and link to their site. www.chloan.com

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 209 Finally

2011-10-26T21:06:00.000-07:00

720 days on the market but only 60 days with my group before we sold it. But here is where the finally comes in. 3 appraisals and 2 reviews that took over 2 months. The range in appraisals was over $300,000. This house sold in multiple offers and the struggles with the appraisers has been astonishing. The lack of comparables coupled with appraisers that were out of area and had no clue, made this transaction arduous. Here is a tribute to the buyers and their agent who remained patient and calm and to the sellers who allowed for the necessary time, so that the process could be completed. Every new beginning comes from some other beginnings end. Finally!

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 208 Wine Country

2011-10-25T15:49:00.000-07:00

Who would have thought that the hills above Agoura would have become rich with wine growers. From Scrub Oak to Cabernet, the hills are flowing with great wines from local enthusiasts. Cielo, Rosenthal, Semler and so many more. Not only rich with wine but the locations to enjoy these fine wines and indulge in music and fun is extraordinary. The Sip on Kanan, the Cornell Winery on Mulholland, Malibu Family Wines on Mulholland Malibu Cafe at Calamigos Ranch and the Old Place. So if you are driving about through the Santa Monica Mountains, make sure you plan some time to stop, relax, taste the wine and listen to the sounds of the Agoura/Malibu wine country.

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 207 Modern Westlake Village History

2011-10-24T12:33:00.000-07:00

Excerpts from Greater Conejo Valley Chamber of Commerce

In l963, the American-Hawaiian Steamship Company bought the 12,000 acre ranch for $32 million and, in partnership with Prudential Insurance Company, commissioned the preparation of a master plan for a “city in the country.” Prominent architects, engineers and land planners participated in designing a unique, integrated community that has become a nationally acclaimed model for the planned community concept. “The city in the country” was named Westlake Village and soon became recognized as one of America’s most successful suburbs and finest areas to live, work and raise a family.

Today, a population of 8,905 resides within this beautiful, natural environment of award-winning neighborhoods, thriving businesses and enviable lifestyles. The original master-planned community of Westlake Village is transected diagonally by the Los Angeles and Ventura County line. The Los Angeles County side, consisting of 3,456 acres, was incorporated as the City of Westlake Village in 1981 and became the 82nd municipality in Los Angeles County. The Ventura County side, comprised of the remaining 8,544 acres of the original Russell ranch, was annexed into the City of Thousand Oaks in two portions in 1968 and 1972. The wisdom of the master planners in preserving, protecting and enhancing the natural environment of the area is evident today in the consistent growth and vitality of Westlake Village.

We love working in this area!

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN - day 206 Cancel or Extend

2011-10-22T09:25:00.000-07:00

What do sellers do with buyers that want to extend their contingencies? I think it's simple. If there is no other buyer and there is a likely possibility that the current buyer will close, then a seller should stay the course. The waters are not rich with multiple buyers and I am strongly in the camp of allowing a buyer to take the time, even if extra is required, to finish the escrow process. Don't be a stubborn seller!

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 205 Odyssey Over

2011-10-18T21:54:00.000-07:00

The odyssey ended today with my 3 brothers and 2 nephews. I can only say it was an incredible experience, one that I will not forget. Fishing, discussions, and storytelling that will certainly go unmatched for years. Last night, we ended our journey at the Shady Rest Restaurant on Qualcom Beach recapping the day's events and the issues and concerns consuming all of our lives that await our return. It was 3 days of unbridled fun that so reminded me of the times we had growing up at the lake. If money and time allow, this journey would occur on an annual basis. My fear is that the issues and concerns of our lives will prevent us from experiencing this on a regular basis. I guess only time will tell. Here is a shot of me and Dylan, with 4 of the fish that will travel home with us for one exceptional feast for family and friends. I only hope that while sharing with them, they will laugh at our stories, taste the waters of Vancouver Island and celebrate with us some time away from the normalcy of our routines.

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, heading home!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 204 Where's Dave

2011-10-18T13:55:00.000-07:00

Yes, Dave is gone for a couple more days, and yes, his team is covering for him. As of this morning, a small creature has taken over his chair. He doesn't make a sound, he keeps his eyes open and he is hungry!

This is Laurie, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 203 The Old Man and The River

2011-10-17T19:10:00.000-07:00

I felt Hemingway's pain today! Yes it might have been more moderate than 2 days on the ocean fighting a Marlin but over a half hour of landing this Chinook caused a few aches and pains to surface. Simultaneously we have two offers going on two properties back in California. It is great to have a team that is able to help while I'm out having a great time. Total tally at the cannery so far, meaning what we will be able to ship home: 3 Coho Salmon and 2 Steelhead. One more day on the river, it goes by so fast!

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 202 Kingfisher

2011-10-16T20:10:00.000-07:00

Day 2 of the Vancouver Island odyssey with my brothers and nephews. Fishing begins in earnest in the morning but on the way home from the Little Qualcom River, here is the little guy we found on the side of the road. A Belted Kingfisher who we have affectionately called Lawrence. He is in by the fireplace with us this evening as he recuperates from a brush with a car. After fishing in the morning we will take him to a wildlife rehab facility. If I were at home, he would be rehabbed in the kitchen or if I were staying for a month, he would be back diving on the trout in a week or two.. The challenge is that the Kingfisher eats fish and not fish prepared at Wood Ranch. The island is spectacular, full of monumental scenery and a plethora of wild things. I look forward to the Stamp River and Steelhead in the morning and I am confident my team will hold the fort down while I am away.

This is Dave, from The Mclaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 201 California Dreaming

2011-10-14T09:47:00.000-07:00

Can you believe this shot.. Sitting at the Bubba Gump Shrimp Factory on the pier in Santa Monica, we watched as the sun slipped back into the ocean. It was awesome! From our vantage point on the pier you really saw the best of everything CA has to offer. From there it was off to the Foo Fighters for a pretty amazing show at the Forum.

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 200 Not Always Wide Open

2011-10-13T09:00:00.000-07:00

200 days of this! The thing about a daily blog is not the effort required or the time, it's the content that is so challenging. If I could blog all the behind the scenes stuff that really goes on it would be way easier. There is a dark side of emotions behind the scenes, yet most of the time my focus is on happy new beginnings. I think most people would be blown away by the the heartache that accompanies this business. Not heartache as it pertains to our group, but the anguish that hits families behind the scenes. Unless you have been at the table and seen the tears, felt the pain, most would be oblivious to how emotional this business can be.

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 199 Follow up from Yesterday

2011-10-11T20:00:00.000-07:00

One more picture from Via El Cerro. Very easy to picture a relaxed evening sipping your favorite Cabernet. Take a look at the famous local mountain with the last rays of sunlight saying goodbye to another day.

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 198 Unleash Your Fantasies

2011-10-09T13:54:00.001-07:00

Coming Soon!!! Imagine living in the beautiful region of Tuscany, marveling at ancient architecture, drinking fine wines and exploring pedestrian paths through rolling hills, taking time to appreciate the big sky views, majestic mountains and powerful sunsets. Why not own this lifestyle on 5175 Via El Cerro? Tucked in the exclusive La Serena Estates of Dos Vientos, with a feeling of privacy as part of its charm, lies a spectacular Tuscan villa with a dazzlingly marriage between the historic and the high-tech, preserving its enormous charisma while adding all the features of a contemporary home. Check out the tour on our website, www.TheMcLaughlinGroup.com.

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 197 Thoreau Circle

2011-10-07T16:46:00.000-07:00

Here is our newest one, cul-de-sac location, 5 beds, 2 baths, nicely upgraded on a superb lot.

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 196 The Challenge

2011-10-05T18:47:00.000-07:00

26 days away from Halloween and just wanted to issue this challenge. I carved this one up a couple years ago and as I recall it took me about 25 minutes. So as you start to carve them up, send us a picture and we will post them for all to see. okay, now the truth...it took me about 90 minutes.

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 195 Threepeat

2011-10-03T21:22:00.000-07:00

No it's not the Lakers or the Yanks, this is the threepeat that keeps me going and going and going. Did I say and going? These three are stunning, happy, smart, athletic, beautiful and if I'm ever going to brag, it will be about these three.

This is Dave, dad of the Mclaughlin Girls, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 194 Self Talk

2011-10-02T15:39:00.000-07:00

So the company offered a brief seminar on positive thinking. Under this broad subject was a dialogue on "How is your self talk?" The question: Is your brain getting in your way? Change what you say to yourself
From "I'm feeling... - To "I'm feeling...
Angry - Disenchanted
So instead of I'm feeling Angry it would be I'm feeling disenchanted
Fear - Wonderment
Hurt - Dinged
Jealous - Overloving
Frustrated - Fascinated
Lazy - Storing Energy
Overwhelmed - In Demand
Embarrassed - Aware
AND FINALLY
Pissed off - Tinkled

I will use a few of these new words in a sentence now to see if I feel more positive and to see if this "self talk" stuff really works.

I was in demand (overwhelmed) today with the 6 appointments and 2 soccer games and 4 counters but was storing energy (lazy) getting a late start watching TV. I was aware (embarrassed) that my zipper was down and fascinated (frustrated) by the lack of team effort on the soccer field. After getting home, I was so disenchanted (angry) by the Nordstrom's bill and then to top it off, the lady was tinkled (pissed off) because I forgot to scoop the litter box.

I'm telling you all, this self talk stuff is GREAT!

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real (alive) in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 193 Hammer

2011-09-30T23:55:00.000-07:00

I heard a small meow from under a pallet at work and saw him hiding in the back corner. He was a fluffy, scared, gray little kitten that was near his end. His leg was bent out of shape and it was evident he had not eaten for days. A week later he was at home and Kelsey and Kinsey thought they had won the lottery when I brought him through the front door. Hammer passed yesterday and I found myself reflecting back on how a little animal lightened and lifted two little girls. I confess to being an animal lover and am a big believer in the benefit of children having pets as they grow up. Kinsey named him Hammer and for 13 years he strutted his stuff around our house. He was a proud cat, a cat's cat, and I will miss him!

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!