Mini Cooper Rally – Niagara 2008

    

 

Last weekend my husband and I took part in our first Mini Rally. Having only purchased our Mini just over 2 weeks ago, we thought that we would be the newest addition to the rally crowd, but there was a young woman present who was even greener than us with just a couple of days under her seat belt as a Mini owner.

With just under 50 Minis present, we were quite the site as we rolled through the picturesque wine region of Niaraga, Ontario, collecting playing cards at each stop, hoping to end up with a half decent poker hand at the end. That didn’t happen, but it really didn’t matter. It was a fun-filled day that everyone enjoyed. At one point, a 1978 mini joined our pack and it was nice to see the older vehicle zipping along side the many newer models. 

  

One of our stops took us through Niagara Falls to a helicopter tour site. We were lined up and aerial shots were taken of us all in the parking lot, as well as when we trekking along a scenic stretch of road that meandered back towards our starting point. Back at the dealership, Mini St. Catharines, we were treated to some great grilled food and salads, and the prizes for the best poker hands were collected (we didn’t even come close – this time).

My husband jokes and says that “I have embraced the mini-lifestyle” – well, I guess I have and I highly recommend it. Not only is this little car great on gas, it’s a treat to own and drive.

      

 

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Copyright 2008 Sandy King

 

 

MINI Cooper

 

A few weeks ago, my husband and I bought a new car, a 2008 MINI Cooper. You have to understand that I am not a car-crazed female, and this will not be a post that will appeal to true automobile buffs, but a MINI is a car that I have been wanting for years. 

We wrongly assumed that we could not afford it and that it would be too small. Well, this was more my husband that me. Being a professional photographer, I tend to lug around a lot of equipment on a regular basis, and I am happy to say that I can get everything (4 tripods, 3 large lights, a portable backdrop with 2 additional tripods, large camera bag, extra electrical cords, plus a briefcase, laptop, and purse) into our new MINI. 

I knew all of this would fit because when I took one out for a test drive a few years ago, I brought everything with me. I’m sure the sales man thought me a bit odd, but he seemed happy enough to help me pack up the little car. Of course, there isn’t much room left for a passenger, but its the same story when I use our 4-door sedan.

If you also have space concerns, I suggest you do the same when you test drive a MINI, but be reasonable, it’s called a MINI for a reason. It is smaller than most cars, which makes it ideal for us. While it will seat four, the leg room in the back is not the best, but the Clubman model is much roomier.

The MINI is also quite affordable. Prices will range, depending on the model you choose, and whether it’s new or used, but more importantly, the MINI is also great on gas! I’ve been driving this little car around for 2 weeks now, and I haven’t had to fill up yet! I expect to get around 700 km (420 miles) per tank. 

The other thing about the MINI is that it is a treat to drive. Made by BMW, the engineering can’t be beat and it’s evident from the moment you start driving that this is one spunky little car. You can get an automatic transmission, but we opted to go with the standard. It’s been a long time since I’ve driven a standard, but after a few embarrassing stalls, I got the hang of it again very quickly. 

I suggest, that if you are buying new, you go with all of  protective features that are offered. After all, you will want to keep your MINI looking great for many years to come.

 

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Copyright 2008 Sandy King

Colour Choices for Your Bathroom

 

With so many colours to choose from, you may find it hard to pick a colour, or a scheme for your bathroom. If you have an innate desire to express yourself with bold and dramatic colours, try to avoid doing so in the bathroom. Neutral shades are the way to go here for a number of reasons.  Neutral shades, such as beige, taupe, and grey, will not go out of style quickly (remember the avocado coloured appliances?) I have seen too many pink, blue, green, and even lilac coloured fittings, and believe me, they limit what you can do. This can be a real problem for you later, not just because you will have tired of your colourful choices, but also for resale purposes. 

• Fittings – when it comes time to sell your home, you will have a harder time of it if your fittings are not white. By fittings I am referring to the sink, tub, and toilet. You can get away with more interesting sinks, such as a vessel style, for the time being, and they are also much easier to change than a bathtub.
• Tiles should be neutral as well, and here you must be more careful in your choice. This is a messy and expensive thing to replace, so take your time and get some advice from a designer if you are not sure what you should do. Generally you want to keep it light, but you can go darker – if you do it right.
• Accessories – towels, mats, shower curtains, blinds, soaps, etc. are the things to use to add colour. They are small and inexpensive so you can change them often.  
• Paint – this is where you can be a bit more daring. Darker hues are often used in powder rooms for a bit more drama, but you can do the same in you master bath. Keep in mind that if it is an ensuite, the colours should be similar to what you have in the master bedroom.

Happy Decorating!

Sandy King

www.sandyking.ca 

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Copyright 2008 Sandy King

Pre-Purchase Home Inspections – Why You Need One

Wise home buyers will know the benefits of making their purchase offer conditional upon a home inspection. Being able to make an informed decision is invaluable. You will know what your priorities are, which will help you devise a maintenance plan for your newly purchased home.

All homes require upkeep, and by knowing in advance what you can expect in terms of maintenance and repairs, you will avoid unpleasant surprises, plan ahead, and maybe even decide to defer a cosmetic repair until a more essential one has been completed.

By using a registered home inspector (not all of them are – in Ontario, less than half are RHIs), buyers, as well as sellers, can both benefit. There is a new trend emerging of sellers footing the bill for a pre-purchase home inspection. An owner who can offer a current pre-purchase inspection report to potential buyers as evidence of their home’s condition can eliminate this conditional clause on a purchase offer. The current owner can also choose to complete any repairs, or lower their price accordingly.

All homes have a series of interrelated systems, and that over time, most problems develop where two or more systems intersect (e.g., poor ventilation may lead to deterioration of the insulation and/or structure). This approach guides the inspector to where they should look, what to look for, and how to interpret what they see.

Often, a problem may not be as bad as you might think, and a qualified home inspector can help you advise you properly. One of the most common causes of concern is a crack in the foundation. There are different types of cracks, some of which are typical, others are not as common, but are still acceptable. Lastly, a fundamental structural crack is something to beware of. Water damage can also raise unnecessary red flags that can cause a potential buyer to shy away from an otherwise good home. The problem may just be cosmetic, so long as the source has been addressed and repaired – something that can be investigated during a home inspection.

A good home inspector will examine the following:

• Roof & Structure
• Exterior drainage
• Heating/ Cooling
• Plumbing & Electrical
• Ventilation
• Insulation

Deterioration can occur over time due to:

• Quality of materials & installation.
• Use (and abuse) by occupants.
• “Repairs” & Renovations that are often done by not-so-handy home handymen.
• Natural aging.

Some common defects found in resale homes:

• Leaks – roof, foundation, plumbing
• Condensation (due to improper ventilation)
• Electrical Safety
• Heating/Cooling Deficiencies
• Structural Flaws

Clues that indicate problem areas:

• Disclosure: information provided by the vendor – not always complete.
• Age, exposure and quality of workmanship.
• Stains, patches, efflorescence and odours.
• Dampness and structural displacement.

 Some problems can also be intermittent, like a foundation leak that only occurs only while it is raining, or even hidden, such as a structural flaw that has been hidden behind interior finishes. The tools and expertise of a registered home inspector are an essential part of buying your home.

 Good Luck and Happy House Hunting!

Sandy King

www.sandyking.ca 

 

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Copyright 2008 Sandy King

 

A Romantic Dining Experience – How to Create It

 The day-to-day routines that we have created for ourselves are important. They provide us with a structure that helps us navigate through the day, making us more efficient and less stressed. However, as we all know, it is possible to have too much of a good thing, and routines can easily turn into ruts, robbing couples, young and old, of the romance in their lives. There is a very simple way to mend this situation – take your loved one out for a romantic meal for two.

 

Call and reserve a candlelit table for two and request more intimate seating. If you want to take it a step further, you can even order your meal in advance so that all you have to do is show up, be pampered, and enjoy your evening together. Many fine restaurants will also allow you to customize your menu for the evening so that is suits your palate to a  T. 

 

Of course, spontaneity is a large part of romance as well, and you many feel like doing something on the spur of the moment. A good restaurant will readily be able to accommodate you, but you may have to adhere to their menu. Order foods that contain aphrodisiacs and an array of items that you both can share. Presentation and good service, that is attentive without being overbearing, are equally important as is the general ambiance of the restaurant. 

What makes a meal romantic will vary, but the basics need to be in place. It really is the thought that counts and showing that you’ve been thinking about your loved one speaks volumes in terms of love. Whether it’s an out-of-the-way place to dine that’s special to you, some place new, or even if you decide to eat at home, what’s important is that your loved one feels pampered and special. A loaf of bread, a jug of wine, and thou – is all that’s required, but by making that extra effort, your romantic evening will be so much more memorable.

Tips for Romantic Dining at Home - Setting the Scene:

• Choose a different location to dine. 
  • Outside: Set an intimate table in an out-of-the-way corner of the garden, on the balcony, or even a rooftop. 
  • Inside: Dine in front of the fire place, or rearrange another room to accommodate a table set for two.
• Pay attention to the details:
  • It’s those little things that count – consider what your partner likes and choose accordingly
  • selecting the right music for the occasion and flowers for the occasion as well as use attractive linens, plates and cutlery are all important
  • Dim the lights – use candles instead, but remember – don’t leave them unattended

• Food Choices - Make it Memorable:
  • Buy only the best and freshest ingredients
  • Try something new – but don’t get too daring – this is not the time to try octopus for the first time
  • Use some aphrodisiac foods 
    • asparagus
    • avocado
    • chocolate
    • figs
    • honey
    • oysters
    • raspberries
    • strawberries
    • truffles (if you can afford it!)
    • vanilla
    • and wine are just some on the list
  • Share your food – provide an assortment of finger foods 
  • Keep the meal light and easy to digest – you don’t to be feeling uncomfortable 
  • Splurge on one of the items – whether it’s the wine, or a special dessert, your loved one will appreciate it
• Don’t stress yourself:
  • if you’re running short of time, or this sort of thing isn’t your forte, order take out/delivery from your favourite restaurant. 
  • If you prefer to cook – turn a simple favourite into something special by giving it a special twist like an exotic garnish, an extravagant side dish, etc.

Bon Appetit!

Sandy King

www.sandyking.ca 

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Copyright 2008 Sandy King

Home Staging – Why it Works

 

One of the best ways to get your home ready for sale and make sure it looks its best is to enlist the services of a Home Stager. Your home is your biggest asset and staging will help you get the best price possible – quickly.

“Why does this work?” you may well ask.

• The majority of home buyers cannot look beyond the way the house, or a room, is presented.
• People will make up their minds very quickly (10 seconds, or less!) if they don’t like something – so first impressions count. Home staging is all about creating the right impression.
• Home stagers are trained to see your home through the eyes of potential buyers.
• They can help you create a space that not only looks its best, but is one that appeals to the largest market possible.
• You will get an objective assessment of your home and be advised on how to best edit your possessions.
• A professionally staged home looks balanced, harmonious and is in “move-in condition”.
• The way we live in our homes is very different from the way we present them for selling.
• A properly staged home will be less “personal”, allowing potential buyers to picture themselves in your home.

Here’s a list of very imporant things you can do to get your home ready for sale:

Clean:

• Everything – inside and out. It will smell better, look bigger and more inviting.
• If you have pets or smoke, get your carpets, draperies and upholstry steam cleaned and then make sure to refrain from smoking indoors.
• It’s a good idea to remove your pet from the house, either to a kennel or a friend’s (not everyone is a “pet person”) -  it will be less stressful for you and your furry friends.

De-Clutter:

• Too many unneccessary items crowd a space, so it’s essential to edit your home.
• No collections please! Keep out only one or two items from a collection, then pack it and other knick knacks, papers, etc. up and get them right out of the way – afterall, you’ll be moving soon!

Repairs:

• Items that need repair must be addressed well before you put your home on the market to ensure you get the best price possible.
• Unfinished projects look like work to potential buyers
• Items that need repair put up red flags and make people wonder “what else is wrong with this house?”

Colour:

• Look at the colours in and outside your home. They should be warm neutrals that would appeal to the broadest part of the market. T
• Think about how many other colours would blend comfortably with your walls and flooring i.e. pink carpeting has a limited appeal. Remember your buyer’s furniture and taste may be very different from your own.
• Does your front door pop and say Here I Am and Welcome?

Creativity:

• It’s all about ways to show off the positives of your home while helping buyers imagine themselves living there. The majority of buyers know what they see not the way it could be.
  

Here are some inviting ideas to help you ”set the stage”:

• Set the table as if you’re expecting guests.
• Run the hot tub with fluffy towels next to it.
• Create a cool scene next to the pool or on your deck that has inviting chairs for lounging, an umbrella and even a magazine or two.
• Fill a blank space with a fresh bouquet of flowers.
• In the cooler months, create a cozy reading corner with a cuddly blanket draped over a comfortable chair and leave an attractive book beside it.

Good Luck!

Sandy King

www.sandyking.ca

 

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Copyright 2008 Sandy King

Gardening – Choosing the Right Plants

 

Our homes’ exteriors are just as important as our living spaces within. As time goes by, we may want to revamp not only our backyards, but also the fronts of our homes as well. Not only will the new aesthetics of your home please you and your neighbours, the added curb appeal will increase the value of your home, making your landscaping efforts an excellent investment in your property.

Selecting the right mix of plants is key to any successful outdoor transformation. Look to your local garden centres for professional advice when it comes to choosing the right plants for your situation. It’s important to have a plan and a design in mind, but you must go a step further before you start to dig. Do some research and understand the lay of your land to ensure that all of your plantings are a success.

Planting Conditions

• Ascertain the type of soil, drainage, sun and exposure of your planting area and choose your plants accordingly. Make it easy on yourself – sketch out a map of the area, indicating the various conditions, before you start shopping for new plants.
• Enlist the help of local gardening professionals – what works in your neighbour’s yard across the street, may struggle on your property. Different wind patterns, amount of shade, etc. will all come into play, especially with more delicate and temperamental trees, plants and shrubs.

Trees and Shrubs

• These are the backbone of any landscaping plan. Ideally, they should be your starting point, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t add something new or even remove an existing shrub or tree. Use a combination of deciduous and evergreen plantings for year-round structure and interest. There’s a huge range in colour, shape, size and growing style in the many varieties of evergreens available.
• Blossoms and Blooms aren’t exclusive to flowers. Magnolias, lilacs, and the many fruit bearing trees grow well in our area (southwest Ontario) providing an abundance of choice for any part of your yard.

Perennials and Annuals

• Use a mix of both for blooming interest, making sure that you pair plants with similar growing requirements.

Have Fun!

Sandy King

www.sandyking.ca

 

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Copyright 2008 Sandy King

Grilled Breaded Lamb

 

Lamb is one of the nicest meats to eat, providing that it’s been properly prepared! Considering how simple most lamb recipes are, it makes me wonder why the lamb I ate as a child was so tough and tasteless.

Rack of lamb – sectioned

Seasoned croutons, crushed

fresh rosemary, chopped

bacon bits

1 egg, lightly beaten

splash of milk

1. Combine egg and milk and set aside
2. In a separate bowl, combine the remaining ingredients, except for the lamb, and mix well
3. Place each piece of lamb into the egg wash, coating both sides
4. Dredge lamb in the breading mixture, ensuring that both sides are well-covered
5. Grill for approximately 5 minutes per side depending on thickness and your preference

Serve this simple, yet elegant and tasty meal with scalloped potatoes and grilled veggies.

Enjoy!

Sandy King

www.sandyking.ca

 

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Copyright 2008 Sandy King

Garam Masala

Garam Masala  in not a single spice, but a classic mixture of spices of northern India. By griding your own, you will be assured freshness every time. Unless you are going to need at lot of garam masala all at once, it is best to keep to the smaller quantities listed here, preparing it only when you need it.

1/3 whole nutmeg

1 and a half teaspoons cardamom seeds

1 and a half teaspoons black peppercorns

1 and a half teaspoons black cumin seeds

2-inch stick of cinnamon

Half teaspoon whole cloves

One curl of mace

1. Break nutmeg into pieces
2. Put all ingredients into a medium-sized skillet and toast the spices stirring occasionally, over a medium-high heat until they become fragrant – approximately 3-5 minutes
3. Let the spices cool slightly before grinding them to a powder in a spice, or coffee grinder.
4. Transfer what you don’t use to an airtight container.

Enjoy!

Sandy King

www.sandyking.ca

 

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Copyright 2008 Sandy King

Raita

 Raita is a very refreshing accompaniment to the spicier Indian cuisine. Following is a recipe from our favourite Indian restaurant, Modern India Buffet, in Hamilton Ontario. Adjust the seasonings accordingly to your liking, keeping in mind that you can always add more!

1 to 1 an a half Cups Plain Yogurt

1 Cucumber – peeled and diced

Garam Masala

Salt

Dried Gelatin, crushed, small amount

Grated Fresh Ginger

1-2 Cloves Garlic, crushed

Fresh Mint Leaves, finely chopped

1. Combine all ingredients into a food processor or a blender until smooth and creamy.
2. Taste and adjust your seasonings if necessary.
3. Refrigerate until ready to use.

This goes very well with Tandoori Chicken. Must be consumed within a few days.

Enjoy!

Sandy King

www.sandyking.ca

 

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Copyright 2008 Sandy King