Keep Flies Away With One Simple Trick…It Really Works!

Keep flies away the natural way…

  

I recently saw a post on facebook about this trick…and I never thought about blogging about it until now, since so many people had never heard of this, I thought it would be worth sharing.

My wife’s family has been doing this for many years to control flies the natural way. I was skeptical until we tried it ourselves. It really does work. We would just put in 1 penny and sometimes a crumbled up piece of aluminum foil in a bag, filled it with water and then hung it by a tree, under a patio umbrella or wherever pesky flies would be. It definitely works!

Below are comments on this fly control idea.

Zip-lock water bags: #1 Says: I tried the zip lock bag and pennies this weekend. I have a horse trailer. The flies were bad while I was camping. I put the baggies with pennies above the door of the LQ. NOT ONE FLY came in the trailer.The horse trailer part had many. Not sure why it works but it does!

#2 Says:Fill a zip lock bag with water and 5 or 6 pennies and hang it in the problem area. In my case it was a particular window in my home. It had a slight passage way for insects. Every since I have done that, it has kept flies and wasps away. Some say that wasps and flies mistake the bag for some other insect nest and are threatened.

#3 Says:I swear by the plastic bag of water trick. I have them on porch and basement. We saw these in Northeast Mo. at an Amish grocery store& have used them since. They say it works because a fly sees a reflection& won’t come around.

#4 Says:Regarding the science behind zip log bags of water? My research found that the millions of molecules of water presents its own prism effect and given that flies have a lot of eyes, to them it’s like a zillion disco balls reflecting light, colors and movement in a dizzying manner. When you figure that flies are prey for many other bugs, animals, birds, etc., they simply won’t take the risk of being around that much perceived action. We went from hundreds of flies to seeing the occasional one, but he didn’t hang around long.

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Michael Caruso, Broker Associate ABR ABRM CLHMS CRB CRS GREEN GRI

Surterre Properties

Past President, Orange County Association of Realtors (949) 495-8600

Keep your Pets Safe and Cool in the Summertime

Five Ways to Keep Pets Cool
Water play, shade and tasty treats…

In the heat of the summer, you may be cranking up the air-conditioning to stay comfortable, but don’t forget about your four-legged pals — especially if they’re spending a lot of time outdoors. Consider these five fun and easy ways to keep them cool and happy.

H2O and treats

It may sound obvious, but your dog and other pets need access to plenty of fresh, cold water. On a really hot day, you might toss a few ice cubes in the bowl to keep the water even colder. There are also ice cream treats designed specifically for dogs, or you can find recipes online to make your own. Here’s one clever idea — fill an ice cube tray with chicken broth or beef broth and then toss your dog a “pop” once the individual squares are frozen.

Water play

Many dogs love to get wet, whether they are splashing in a stream, swimming in a lake or jumping into a kiddie pool in your backyard. You can also set up a sprinkler for them to run through.

Check out new products

There are always new products on the market to keep pets cool in the heat, such as cooling bandanas and collars, pet beds that can be filled with cool water, and a collapsible water dish that you can carry anywhere — from a hike to a car ride. Keep in mind that if you’re driving with your dog, do not leave him waiting in the car for you, even if you crack the windows. His body temperature can rise quickly in a hot car and prove fatal.

Limit activity in the middle of the day

If you’re heading out for a walk or involving your pet in other outdoor activities, make sure to plan your excursion during cooler parts of the day (morning and early evening). The middle of the day is usually the hottest, and too much activity during this time can lead to an overheated pet. Pay attention to your pet’s cues and seek the advice of a vet if she is exhibiting any health problems.

Provide shade

If your pet stays outdoors, make sure he has a shady place to retreat when the heat becomes too intense. If you don’t have any natural shade in your yard, consider getting a beach umbrella or invest in a doghouse.

With a little bit of thought and preparation, you can prevent your pets from suffering in the summer sun. And they’ll love you all the more for it.

This article is presented by M.Benz of Laguna Niguel, California

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Michael Caruso, Broker Associate ABR ABRM CLHMS CRB CRS GREEN GRI

Surterre Properties

Past President, Orange County Association of Realtors (949) 495-8600

A Patriotic Light Display Honors Our Soldiers ~ A Memorial Day Tribute!

A beautiful tribute in honor of our troops, veterans and fallen soldiers.

A family honors our 1.3 million fallen soldiers with this amazing patriotic light display – it’s a must see!

God Bless our soldiers and our country!

http://www.godvine.com/Patriotic-Light-Display-fb-gh-3370.html

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Michael Caruso, Broker Associate ABR ABRM CLHMS CRB CRS GREEN GRI

Surterre Properties

Past President, Orange County Association of Realtors (949) 495-8600

Caruso’s Saturday Shot ~ When Life Gives You Lemons…

When life gives you lemons, make lemonade!

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Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CLHMS CRB CRS GREEN GRI

Past President, Orange County Association of Realtors (949) 495-8600

How A Homeowner Can Sabotage Their Own Appraisal…

 

For decades there has always been a difference of opinion with  homeowners and an appraiser when they need that critical number to match the refinance package that is underway with their lender.

The appraiser value opinion is only 1 opinion…but guess what, it’s the opinion that counts with your lender.

Here are some ways you can sabotage yourself:

1) Leaving the home untidy. Having an un-kept exterior or interior can cause an appraiser to decrease the value somewhat. Reminder owners – curb appeal is also important for an appraisal. Overgrown bushes or an un-kept home exterior could prompt an appraiser to take as much as 3 percent off the value, according to a CNN Money article.

2) Having incomplete remodeling projects. Don’t keep a remodeling project unfinished prior to an appraisal. If it’s a must, make sure you include details of the complete project and when it is to be finished to the appraiser.

3) Failing to list improvements or upgrades made to the home. Compile a list of upgrades and home improvements made to the home and provide it to the appraiser. While some items, like a new roof, may not help raise the appraised value, other items might.  Source: Realty Times

So needless to say, all the complaining in the world to your lender won’t overcome the self sabotage…take care of projects, clean up and focus on the homes overall presentation before starting your refinance package. Treat the home like you were getting it ready to go up for sale. Lots of preparation, repairs and primping is worth all the effort. Because, when the time comes for that appraisal value analysis…you’ll be glad you did! 

 

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Past President, Orange County Association of Realtors (949) 495-8600

     

 

 

 

Caruso’s *EASTER* OC Happenings ~ North County

 

 

NORTH COUNTY

ANAHEIM

Nothing to report

BREA

Nothing to report

BUENA PARK

TOMORROW Saturday, April 7, 2012 starting at 8:00am is the annual Spring Eggstravaganza! Breakfast starts at 8:00am & the Program begins at 9:00am. Come be a part of the “Egg-citement” this spring at Buena Park’s very special Spring Eggstravaganza! Activities include stage entertainment, children’s crafts, field games, a petting zoo, moon bounces, visits with the Spring Bunny, and of course, the candy scramble for children 12 years of age and younger. Come early for a special Pancake Breakfast starting at 8:00 am sponsored by the Buena Park Noon Lions.

CYPRESS

TOMORROW Saturday, April 7, 2012 starting at 10:30am is the annual Spring Egg Hunt & Flash Light Egg Hunt! The egg hunt is for ages 11 and under ONLY, and that begins at 10:30am. There will be crafts, activities, food, egg hunt with toy and candy filled eggs, visits with the Easter Bunny (Please, don’t forget your camera!). Don’t be late, this event starts at 10:30 SHARP! The event takes place at Oak Knoll Park (5700 Orange Avenue). AND starting at 8:00pm is the Teen Egg Hunt for ages 13-18. Be sure to bring a flashlight and basket for an egg hunt in the dark! This event is held at Arnold/Cypress Park (8611 Watson Street (meet at Cypress Park bldg)). For more information you can call the City of Cypress – (714) 229-6780.

FULLERTON

Nothing to report

GARDEN GROVE

Nothing to report
LA HABRA

TOMORROW beginning at 6:30am is the annual Spring Family Eggstravaganza! This event includes a pancake Breakfast, games, bounce houses, crafts. Here is the schedule of events 6:30 a.m. Pancake Breakfast 8:00 a.m. Game booths, inflatable jumpers, arts and crafts, a mini health fair, and visits with the Easter Bunny will begin. 10:00 a.m. Egg Hunt begins. The event takes place at El Centro-Lions Park. For more information you can call (562) 905-9700.

LA PALMA

Nothing to report

PLACENTIA

Nothing to report

STANTON

Nothing to report

WESTMINSTER

Nothing to report

YORBA LINDA

Nothing to report

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

*As seen in orangecountyregister.com & orangecounty.net

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Call Today for More Info and our “Spring Thing….”

And thank you for making me Your Orange County Real Estate Connection.     

www.MichaelCarusoRealEstate.com

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Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CLHMS CRB CRS GREEN GRI

Past President, Orange County Association of Realtors (949) 753-7900

Caruso’s *VALENTINES* OC Happenings ~ Central County

CENTRAL COUNTY

 

COSTA MESA

NOW through February 11, 2012 is the Pacific Symphony Presents: “Valentine’s Day with Roberta Flack”. Just in time for Valentine’s Day, Grammy Award winner Roberta Flack visits Pacific Symphony with her intoxicating romantic ballads including “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face,” “Killing Me Softly With His Song,” “Feel Like Making Love” and “Tonight I Celebrate My Love.” Flack remains one of only two artists (the other is U2) to win back-to-back Grammy Awards for Record of the Year. For more information you can call 714-755-5799. Also  on February 11^th  from 8pm-Midnight at The Hotel Hanford come dance, mingle, participate in giveaways and most important, have a good time. Men are asked to wear black suits and women should dress in shades of red, pink or purple. There will be Valentine’s cards and candy hearts to giveaway to someone you have your eye on. 8 p.m.-12 midnight. For information you can call 312-488-9883. 

FOUNTAIN VALLEY

Nothing to report

HUNTINGTON BEACH

Starting tomorrow, February 11-12, come and experience the charm of Old World Village Just in time for Valentine’s Day! The Old World Village Chocolate & Wine Festival is sure to be an unforgettable and fun event, with something for everyone! Guests can expect to see chocolatiers, bakers, candy makers, wine vendors, and other chocolate and wine related vendors, arts and crafts and gift vendors too! Admission is FREE.

IRVINE

Valentine’s Day starting at 8pm is John Heffron Valentine’s Day Special Event! Laugh with someone special and Valentine’s Day with John Heffron. Two packages will be available; general admission and dinner. General admission includes a glass of champagne and a rose for the ladies. Dinner includes: admission, a dinner salad, your choices of entree, dessert, a glass of champagne and a rose for the ladies. Admission: $35 per person; dinner package: $70 per person.  For more information you can call (949) 854-5455.<!–googleoff: all–>  Also TONIGHT from 6-10:30 p.m at the Equinox Sports Club is the 3rd Annual Valentine’s Event<!–googleoff: all–>! Dress to impress in your favorite red apparel and give your love to children in need. The evening will begin with a wine tasting and serving of hors d’oeuvres. There will be a silent auction, wine tasting and free massages. All of the proceeds will benefit the children supported by Corazon de Vida Foundation, Steps of Hope Outreach and Foster Care Auxiliary of Orange County. For more information you can call 949-476-1144, Ext. 7.<!–googleoff: all–> Lastly, Valentine’s Day starting at 8pm is the 18th Annual Valentine’s Celebration: Men in Blaque & UCI A Capella<!–googleoff: all–>. Bring your sweetheart, friends or family and enjoy some wonderful music, conducted by Joseph Huszti. Attend a post-concert reception. For more information you can call (949) 824-2787.

LOS ALAMITOS

Coming up February 25, 2012 is the Los Alamitos ‘Race on the Base’.
The yearly event has continued to provide not only a forum for local avid runners and walkers, but has also instilled a sense of pride and teamwork between the Los Alamitos City Council, the citizens of Los Alamitos, the Rossmoor Community Services District, and the local business community. The race is held on the run ways at the Joint Forces Training Base in Los Alamitos and features helicopters, planes and military vehicles with music throughout the course. Events and activities for the whole family! For more information you can call 562-430-1073.

NEWPORT BEACH

Saturday, January 28, 2012 from 12 – 3 pm bring your family to experience some of the same hands-on environmental education activities that you have enjoyed with the Inside the Outdoors Field Trips! Hike trails with an experienced Naturalist, participate in bird watching and join in educational activities about the estuary. Cost: Free (This program is generously sponsored by a grant.) For more information you can call (714) 708-3885.

ORANGE

Need a plan for Valentine’s Day?  Celebrate with a Valentine’s Day Dinner and Dance at Orange County Mining Co. Enjoy a table for two with a breathtaking view! This view restaurant in Orange County is truly a destination with a dining room that has “floor to ceiling picture windows” offering fabulous views of Orange County and a saloon that will take you back to the mining era. Call For Reservations! 714.997.7411.

SANTA ANA

This Sunday, February 12come and join the Bowers Museum for Sunday Afternoon Family Celebrations: Valentine’s Day. Hearts, romantic verses, tea, goodies, stories and art make this day special to spend with your loved ones. The event starts at 1:30 p.m. Free with museum admission. For more information you can call (714) 567-3600.<!–googleoff: all–> Also on February 14^th at 1:30pm at the Bowers Museum is the Great Screen Icon Series: Great Romantic Movie Moments<!–googleoff: all–>.From Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton to Humphrey Bogart and Lauren Bacall. Watch your favorite movie duos and romantic film scenes in this upbeat ode to on-screen love. Dr. Michael Berlin, film expert, screenwriter and producer, will enchant you with the behind-the-scenes stories from some of our most beloved films.

 SEAL BEACH

Nothing to report

TUSTIN

Nothing to report

VILLA PARK

Nothing to report

*As seen in the ocregister.com & orangecounty.net

And thank you for making me Your Orange County Real Estate Connection.     

www.MichaelCarusoRealEstate.com

Best regards,

Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CLHMS CRB CRS GREEN GRI

Past President, Orange County Association of Realtors (949) 753-7900

Think Big, Shop Small ~ Spread the Word…

 

 Let’s start a movement…

SHOP SMALL STORES

As a local independent broker, I know how hard it is to compete with larger companies, but you can make it with good customer skills, marketing and word of mouth. Repeat customers and referrals is what keeps me in business. So let’s raise awareness of the importance of patronizing small businesses. 

Shop Small Stores is a buy-local campaign which promotes strengthening local economies through the support of local independent retailers. Buy gifts in small stores, eat meals at small restaurants.

As we do the rest of our holiday shopping and entertaining, let’s think first of small independent companies. Shop at your local toy or book store (if one still exists). Stop at your local home grown coffee shop or café and pick up a gift certificate. This will bring back business to the small business at a later time.

Small Business Saturday was a success to many towns and retailers that participated. However, we need to keep the movement going. Let’s all continue the movement by shopping in our local independent stores every weekend.  Let’s get the local economy rolling… 

Think Big, Shop Small.  Spread the word…

 Don’t forget to reduce, reuse and recycle!

And thank you for making me Your Orange County Real Estate Connection.     

www.MichaelCarusoRealEstate.com

Best regards,

Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CLHMS CRB CRS GREEN GRI

Past President, Orange County Association of Realtors (949) 753-7900

Motivational Monday Quote ~ Attitude of Gratitude

 A reminder to all…

As Meister Eckhart said, “If the only prayer you ever say in your life is thank you, it will be enough.” 

 

Of all the attitudes we can acquire, surely the attitude of gratitude is the most important and by far the most life-changing.”
~ Zig Ziglar 

And thank you for making me Your Orange County Real Estate Connection.     

www.MichaelCarusoRealEstate.com

Best regards,

Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CLHMS CRB CRS GREEN GRI

Past President, Orange County Association of Realtors (949) 753-7900

     

      

 

Timely Tuesday Photo ~ Mellow Yellow

Time to reflect…

An artist painting on the beach with an unexpected color combination stirs up mixed feelings. To me it brings back warm thoughts of people and places I miss…

Art washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life.
Pablo Picasso 

And thank you for making me Your Orange County Real Estate Connection.     

www.MichaelCarusoRealEstate.com

Best regards,

Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CLHMS CRB CRS GREEN GRI

Past President, Orange County Association of Realtors (949) 753-7900