There will be a book discussion of “When Things Fall Apart- Heart Advice for Difficult Times” by Pema Chodron on January 9th from 6-7:45pm in the Cedar Room at the Main Library.

Through reflections on the teachings of mindfulness, Pema Chodron orients readers and gives them language with which to shape their thinking about the ordinary and extraordinary traumas of modern life. Connect with others who are seeking to become more aware of themselves and the world around them. Read Chapters 7-8 in advance and come ready to discuss them. For more information call (650) 522-7847 or email dscheifler@cityofsanmateo.org.

Meet like minded people in San Mateo and enjoy checking a goal off of your 2012 New Years Resolution list!

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Living in San Mateo County

Thanksgiving: Tips for Hosts and Guests
Hosting the big Thanksgiving dinner is a huge responsibility. It’s normal to feel overwhelmed with cooking, cleaning, decorating, and maintaining the guest list. (And let’s not even begin to think about the clean-up afterwards!) Here are some tips on how to make Thanksgiving in your San Mateo home a wonderful event for the whole family:

1.  Remember, people will take your food- So, plan for leftovers ahead of time. Have some extra Styrofoam containers, paper plates, aluminum foil, and plastic grocery bags available for guests so they can take a little morsel or two home at the end of the evening. This will prevent the loss of your favorite Tupperware, plates, or bowls from your own cabinets
2.  Prepare for clean-up- Be sure to keep some extra cleaning supplies nearby just in case an accident happens, and it is also a good idea to always keep some soapy dishwater in the sink for used cutlery and plates as guests finish eating.
3.  Don’t be afraid to ask for help-As the host or hostess, it’s easy to assume that it’ your responsibility to do everything. This isn’t true! Asking for help with cooking, decorating, or cleaning will be a fun, easy way to get things done efficiently.
4.  Don’t leave out the specialty foods-Make sure that there is a variety of things for all of your guests to eat. It’s usually good to have a few dishes that are vegetarian, vegan, low-fat, and/or low-carb.

As a guest, it is important to remember that you have many responsibilities as well when it comes to showing good manners.

1.  Be thankful for the invitation – after all, it is Thanksgiving! A thank-you note or small gift (such as candles or box of chocolates) is a great way to show appreciation to your host or hostess. Also, it is a good idea to offer to bring a dish, even if it is not a potluck dinner.
2.  Keep your host/hostess informed- If you have special food needs (such as vegetarian, low sodium, sugar free), you need to make sure your host or hostess is aware of the situation and can make necessary accommodations for you.
3.  Timing really is everything- Simple concept: if dinner starts at 7p.m., be there at 7p.m.! It is always a good idea to arrive on time or no later than half an hour after the scheduled time.
4.  Be available to help- Remember, your host/hostess has gone through a lot of work to accommodate you. It is of utmost importance that you do as much as you can to lend a helping hand when you have the opportunity.

The quickly approaching holiday is sure to bring your friends and family plenty of good times.  If you have any questions about living on the California Coastside area, or if you’d like to see some California homes in Pacifica, Half Moon Bay, El Granada, Moss Beach, and Montara, contact us today. We’d love to hear from you! Have a Happy Thanksgiving!

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San Mateo County residents

Acceptable E-Scrap: camcorders, cell and desk phones, computers, computer monitors, connectors/cables, DVD players, fax machines, keyboards, lab equipment, laptops, main frames, mice, optical drives, PC boards, PDAs, printed circuit boards, printers, radios, scanners, servers, stereos, storage discs, tape and ZIP drives, televisions, UPS power supply units, video game consoles, and VCRs. Maximum of 3 standard size banker boxes (10″x12″x15″) per household for document shredding; proof of San Mateo residency required. 

This event is sponsored by “Rethink Waste” and this would be a great opportunity for parents and teachers to teach the younger generation about the importance of E-Scap. Local events in San Mateo like these will help keep our community green and beautiful! For more information call:  650-802-3500.

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Held in the Pumpkin Capital of the World, the festival includes pumpkin carving and pie-eating contests, a Halloween costume contest, haunted house, Great Pumpkin Parade, giant weigh-off champion pumpkins, homestyle foods, harvest-inspired arts and crafts, and three stages of blockbuster entertainment.  The festival is presented by the non-profit Half Moon Bay Beautification Committee.

If you are a fan of arts and crafts you will love this event! Here you can purchase one of a kind unique works of art directly from its creator. Over 250 artists and craftspeople from throughout the West will display their creations in the beautiful autumnal atmosphere of the San Mateo coast.  This world-famous festival showcasing works in media ranging from wood, stone and metal to clay, leather and textiles features everything from masks and moccasins to mobiles and musical instruments

This great family friendly event in our community is on October 15th and 16th from 9am-5pm! Admission is free.  Hope to see you there!

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It all starts at 7:30 pm and ends at 10:30 pm. Come early and enjoy a bite to eat from their delicious menu!

If you enjoy this, you can check them out every Friday and Saturday night at the Cetrella in Half Moon Bay!

But what about your San Mateo Coastal home?  Whether you live in Moss Beach, Half Moon Bay, El Granada, Montara or Pacifica; having a healthy home is just as important as having a healthy body.  As San Mateo Coast Real Estate agents; we have a passion for the homes along the coast and a desire to see them in the healthiest state possible!

We’ve gathered ten potential problem areas that you may not even be aware of as harmful, and a healthy solution for each one.  Take a look!

1. Granite Countertops- The United States is seeing a small increase in radioactive or hot granite countertops. Exotic varieties from South America and Africa have been found to contain harmful levels of radon and other radioactive elements. If you suspect that you may have a hot countertop, call a radon technician.

2. Combustion Byproducts- From hot water heaters to fireplaces, there are many different systems that operate using a combustion process. Combustion byproducts include carbon monoxide and other harmful, odorless gasses. Installing a ventilation system or replacing combustion systems with non-combustion or direct vented models in your San Mateo home will help reduce the risks associated with these byproducts.

3. Carpeting vs. Hard Surface Flooring- There are varying opinions about whether carpet is better or worse for air quality than hard surface flooring. Carpeting traps dust, debris, allergens, and mold. Hard surface flooring is much easier to clean and disinfect. And that new-carpet smell? That odor comes from the volatile organic chemicals (VOCs) emitted by standard carpeting. Purchasing carpeting and carpet cleaning products that have been certified by the Carpet and Rug Institute (CRI) will help reduce the potential health risks associated with carpet.

4. Paints, Stains, Glues and Sealers- Lead paint is still a hazard in pre-1975 paint coatings, but even newer dry paint coatings and stains off-gas VOCs. When the time comes to refinish a surface, strip off the old coating completely and finish with a low or zero VOC product, which are commonly available from most major paint manufacturers. Caulking, sealers, and glues also off-gas VOCs and are now available with low or no VOC versions.

5. Dirty Ductwork- This would seem like common sense, but most builders install HVAC ductwork and do not cover it, allowing the duct systems to trap dust and debris for the duration of the construction process. In these cases, every time the HVAC system is used, the homeowner inhales construction debris. There are many duct cleaning services available that can rid the system of construction dust.

6. Air Filters- Every air-based heating and cooling system has an air filter, which is given a MERV rating. A MERV filter of 9 or higher is ideal. Replace old air filters and make sure you clean the filter regularly.

7. Ventilation Systems- Ventilation systems replace stale, indoor air with fresh outdoor air. Which is what you want to breathe in on the San Mateo Coast!  Many older homes do not have these systems. While purchasing a ventilation system or having one installed can be expensive, it is one of the best ways to improve the air quality of your home. A properly ventilated home can also reduce heating and cooling costs.

8. Cleaning and Freshening- Traditional cleaning products and air fresheners can do more harm than good. If using traditional cleaning products, make sure the space is well ventilated and the product has time to dry before children are allowed to enter. There are a variety of green, natural, and alternative cleaning and freshening methods available today. Also, leave your shoes at the door.

9. Plastics- Plastics are one of the most toxic household materials. From food storage to children’s toys, plastics are being linked to a number of health problems. When purchasing plastic products, look on the bottom for numbers 1, 2, 4, or 5. These are the safe plastics. Avoid numbers 3, 6, and 7, unless marked as BPA-free. Immediately discard all of the plastics in your household that are marked with these numbers.

10. Formaldehyde- Many building products, including certain particleboards and composite materials, contain and will off-gas formaldehyde, a highly toxic chemical than can cause reactions ranging from headache to nausea. Although the use of formaldehyde has decreased in recent years, when replacing old flooring and cabinetry, look for formaldehyde-free new products.

We hope these tips are helpful as you consider the health of your San Mateo Coastal home!  Whether you are considering selling your San Mateo home, or plan on living there for years to come; these updates are crucial to your homes’ health and play a part in your health as well!

If you have any questions about your home, selling your home or about the San Mateo Coastal Real Estate market; please let us know!  We’re here to help you in any way we can and look forward to hearing from you!

Kathy & Michael Rain
Your San Mateo Coastal Real Estate Experts

San Mateo Coastal Real Estate
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For those of you who currently live in Half Moon Bay, you may have already taken advantage of these ongoing events which happen on a weekly or monthly basis.  If you’re planning on visiting the Half Moon Bay area this weekend; you’ll find these enjoyable as well!  The lively and community related town of Half Moon Bay is a favorite place to call “home” or to escape to for the weekend!  Whatever reason you’re enjoying Half Moon Bay; we wanted to provide you with some options for things to do!

Live Music at Coastside ArtGallery
330 Main St, Half Moon Bay
www.coastsideart.com
Weekly on Thursdays from 6:00pm–9:00pm
- Live bands and music groups perform in the brilliantly designed Coastside Art Gallery and Wine Bar. Sharon, a local favorite, returns to play host to Thursday Music and Wine. Each thursday, this free event features a different musical group will take the stage which allows you to get a taste of the local Half Moon Bay talent!  different style to suit most musical tastes.

Live Jazz at Cetrella
845 Main St, Half Moon Bay
www.cetrella.com/music
February 19 from 7:30pm–10:30pm
- Come hear top selling artists such as Kenny Washington, Kim Nalley and Tony Lindsay every Friday and Saturday night in the bar. This musical experience is open to everyone and is a fun place to get together with friends, family and others in the community!

Half Moon Bay Coastal Flower Market
604 Main St, Half Moon Bay (La Piazza)
www.halfmoonbay.patch.com/half-moon-bay-coastal-flower-market
February 19 from 9:00am–3:00pm
- Enjoy local and exotic blooms at Half Moon Bay Coastal Flower Market.  The Flower Market is held the third Saturday of every month (except October).You’ll love taking in the visual beauty and fragrant offerings of each unique flower!

We hope you can take part in one of all of these events this weekend to experience more of the art, music and culture of Half Moon Bay.  If you have questions about living in Half Moon Bay or about the Half Moon Bay Real Estate market; please let us know!  We have lived and worked in the San Mateo Coast for years and can give you great insight into the homes available as well as helping you find a community that best fits your needs and lifestyle!  Feel free to contact us anytime!

Kathy & Michael Rain
Your San Mateo Coastal Real Estate Experts

San Mateo Coastal Real Estate
View San Mateo Coastal Listings
Visit Our Website
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Whether you currently live in one of these great communities or are looking for ways to help the environment along the San Mateo Coast; there’s a fun way to get involved in this weekend in Half Moon Bay!  Half Moon Bay is home to beautiful beaches and coastal views; it would be devastating to see this taken away from us.  That’s why volunteers commit to keeping our shores clean and healthy, and why you’re invited to get involved!

Join many at the Half Moon Bay State Beach this Saturday, February 5 from 10am-1pm for a Habitat Restoration event!  The Half Moon Bay State Beach is four miles of stunning sandy beaches which are great for fishing, sunbathing and picnics!  There is also an area for camping for those who enjoy spending the night underneath the stars.  The Visitors Center for the beach is open on Saturdays and Sundays and is free to take part in.  You’ll learn about the environment that makes up the Half Moon Bay State Beach as well as its history on the San Mateo Coast!

The Half Moon Bay State Beach Habitat Restoration is designed to keep people enjoying the beach for years to come!  Volunteers will help by working in the field to plant native trees, remove non-native trees, gather native seed, as well as helping to maintain trail fencing and the habitats of threatened species.   Be sure to dress in clothes that can get dirty and be prepared for any type of weather!  The event will go on rain or shine!

This is an ideal opportunity for students, corporate volunteers, families, youth groups and anyone interested in volunteering!  You’ll not only be helping the San Mateo Coast, but will also get to know which plants are native to our coastline and will learn how to cultivate these plants!  Gather your friends and get involved!  View more information on the Habitat Restoration.

If living in the San Mateo Coast sounds like the lifestyle for which you’ve been searching; let us know!  We’d enjoy the opportunity to show you around the San Mateo Coast and answer any questions you may have about the San Mateo Coastal Real Estate market!  We look forward to hearing from you and hope you get to take advantage of helping to clean up our coast this weekend!

Kathy & Michael Rain
Your San Mateo Coastal Real Estate Experts

San Mateo Coastal Real Estate
View San Mateo Coastal Listings
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If eating healthy is on the top of your list for this year; you’ll appreciate this week’s upcoming event in the nearby Coastal town of San Mateo!  Join Chef Amy Fothergill at the Whole Foods in San Mateo this Thursday, January 27, from 6:30-8:30pm for a Healthy Date Night Cooking Class.  She’ll be walking guests through the steps in preparing elegant, healthy dishes such as a pear and bleu cheese bistro salad and maple-soy salmon- to name a few!  You’ll be sure to appreciate this learning experience as you take in the tastes and methods to cooking heart-healthy meals!  View more information on this date night dinner event!

We love the San Mateo Coast because of its’ fresh ingredients that can be found year round!  Finding local farmers and buying their products is not only a great way to ensure you’re getting the freshest ingredients for your meals, but it also is a fantastic way to support our communities!  There are multiple farms along the San Mateo Coast and they all offer unique produce and a hands on approach to buying food!  While the well known Coastside Farmer’s Market will not be reopening until May; there are still a few options for shopping local fare and produce.

View the Coastal communities other local Farmer’s Markets that operate all year round:

Marsh and Sons
www.halfmoonbay.patch.com/listings/marsh-and-sons
12950 San Mateo Rd, Half Moon Bay, CA 94019
650-726-5792
Products: Fruits and vegetables, local honey, pumpkins, goats/goat meat

Tunitas Creek Family Farm
www.tunitasfarm.com/
333 Tunitas Creek Rd, Half Moon Bay, CA 94019
650-726-9710
- Products: Pumpkins (of all types), gourds, squash, Indian corn, fava beans, cranberry beans, shelling peas

Tom & Pete’s Produce
www.halfmoonbay.patch.com/listings/tom-petes-produce
99 San Mateo Rd, Half Moon Bay, CA 94019
650-726-2561
- Products: Fruits and vegetables
- Food & dining options: Organic, Vegetarian, Natural, Vegan

G. Berta Fruit and Vegetable Stand
www.halfmoonbay.patch.com/listings/g-berta-fruit-and-vegetable-stand
12599 San Mateo Rd, Half Moon Bay, CA 94019
650-712-0661
- Products: The stand sells:pumpkin seeds, apple juice, carrots, beets, honey, cherries, beans, peaches, eggplants, tomatoes, onions, grapes, strawberries, and much more.
- Food & dining options: Natural

Andreotti’s Family Farm
www.halfmoonbay.patch.com/listings/andreottis-family-farm
329 Kelly Ave, Half Moon Bay, CA 94019
650-726-9151
- Products: Vegetables, honey, eggs

We hope you take advantage of all that our Coastal neighbors have to offer!  You’ll enjoy the option for healthy cooking all year long with the freshest ingredients that our local farmers provide.  If you have been interested in moving to the San Mateo Coast, but would like more information on the communities of Half Moon Bay, Moss Beach, Montara, El Granada or Pacifica; please let us know!  We feel privileged to live and work as Coastal Real Estate agents in this area and can answer any questions you may have about the cities or the San Mateo Coastal Real Estate market.

We hope to hear from you soon!

Kathy & Michael Rain
Your San Mateo Coastal Real Estate Experts

San Mateo Coastal Real Estate
View San Mateo Coastal Listings
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If you want to join Half Moon Bay residents in keeping the area healthy, there’s an opportunity to volunteer this Saturday, January 22nd!  The non-profit organization from Santa Cruz, Save Our Shores, will be hosting a beach and river clean up on Miramontes Point Beach and along Arroyo Canada Creek.  This FREE event will take place from 10am-12pm and SOS will be providing all cleanup supplies.  View more information for this volunteer opportunity, or view the Save Our Shores website for more information on future events!

While this coming Saturday will be a great time to volunteer, you may be wondering what you can do on a daily basis in your Half Moon Bay home!  We’re glad you asked!  There are many ways to be eco-friendly in your home and we’ve listed a few key ideas below.  Even though seemingly small; these daily choices can add up to a big difference in saving energy and helping our environement!

1. Bundle Up- Feeling chilled?  Instead of turning up the thermostat, throw on a pair of socks or an extra layer.  These small choices to not turn up the heat can really add up in energy savings!

2. Set the Timer- Set your thermostat to lower temperatures while you’re away from your Half Moon Bay home or while you’re sleeping.  This will automatically help reduce energy used as well as costs just by programming your thermostat.

3. Unplug- Not using an appliance?  Unplug it!  The Department of Energy notes that, even if appliances are not being used, they are still using energy.  40% of electricity used for your home electronics is used when they’re turned off, but still plugged in.  Getting in the habit of unplugging will be prove to be a smart habit in the long run!

4. Let the Sunshine In- During the day, be sure to leave blinds and curtains open to let in the sunlight and natural heat.  At night, shut them to help “trap” the warmth.

5. Switch our Your Lights- All of your lights can be changed out for energy efficient LED lights!  With the sun setting earlier, you’ll be using your indoor lights more often and your energy usage will increase.  Switching out your light bulbs can make an incredible difference.

6. Light a Fire- It’s amazing how a fire in your fireplace can heat up a room instantly!  Consider lowering your thermostat on cooler evenings and lighting a fire instead.

7. Stop Leaks- Check all doors and windows for drafts.  You can easily seal windows and doors to prevent the warm air from your Half Moon Bay home from escaping while making sure the cool air doesn’t leak in!

We hope you have the opportunity to get involved with the cleanup this weekend in Half Moon Bay, or that you can begin making these small changes in your home.  Either one will make a difference in our environment; remember every little bit helps!

If you have questions about going green in your home, or have been considering buying a home in Half Moon Bay in order to be a part of its’ vibrant community;  please let us know!  We’d be happy to answer any questions you may have or show you around the area.

We look forward to hearing from you!

Kathy & Michael Rain
Your San Mateo Coastal Real Estate Experts

San Mateo Coastal Real Estate
View San Mateo Coastal Listings
Visit Our Website
Email Us