From Paso Robles to: Arroyo Grande - 44 miles Atascadero - 12 miles Cambria - 29 miles Cayucos - 23 miles Hearst Castle - 37 miles Monterey - 116 miles Morro Bay - 41 miles Pismo Beach - 40 miles San Luis Obispo - 28 miles Santa Barbara - 122 miles Santa Cruz - 139 miles Santa Maria - 60 miles Ventura - 161 miles   And we are smack-dab right in the middle of San Francisco and Los Angeles... So, there is no reason for you not to visit Paso Robles on your next trip to California.  Come enjoy our history, our wineries, scrumptious restaurants and fabulous nearby beaches! If you would like to search the MLS for listings in and around Paso Robles, visit my website. If you have any real estate questions or general questions about Paso Robles or San Luis Obispo North County, please contact ... 11/08/2008

Here is a list of my favorite Restaurants in Paso Robles: Artisan, 1401 Park Street, Suite 105, Paso Robles, Ca 93446.  (805) 237-8084 Berry Hill Bistro, 1114 Pine Street, Paso Robles, Ca 93446.  (805) 238-3929 Buena Tavola, 943 Spring Street, Paso Robles, Ca 93446.  (805) 237-0600 The Crooked Kilt Pub & Grill, 1122 Pine Street, Paso Robles, Ca 93446.  (805) 238-7070 Ian McPhee's Grill, 416 Main Street, Templeton, Ca 93465.  (805) 434-3204 La Bellassera Hotel & Suites, 206 Alexa Court, Paso Robles, Ca 93446.  (805) 238-2834 Level 4, 1216 Park Street, Paso Robles, Ca 93446.  (805) 237-27111 Matthew's, 1215 Spring Street, Paso Robles, Ca 93446.  (805) 237-2007 F. McLintock's Saloon, 1234 Park Street, Paso Robles, Ca 93446.  (805) 238-2233 Panolivo, 1344 Park Street, Paso Robles, Ca 93446... 11/08/2008

  I know it has become increasingly difficult to qualify for a home mortgage these days, but be careful not to commit mortgage fraud knowingly or inadvertently. You never want to misrepresent the value of a home to your lender.  Most likely, this would be caught by an appraiser, but you don't want to go there.  That is considered fraud, and everyone involved is subject to prosecution. Also, do not intentionally misrepresent or omit material facts about the home to your lender.  This may deceive your lender into providing a loan they wouldn't have otherwise approved. Never submit false information about your financial situation, ability to pay, employment records or falsify income records. If a lender cannot approve a certain loan for you based on the truth of your circumstances, then i... 11/08/2008

This past week was a first for me.  I have helped several buyers purchase short sales and REO's (bank-owned) properties this year.  Up until this week, the most they ever paid over list price was about $2,000.  I have a fabulous client I have worked with in the last couple of months to purchase a home in Paso Robles.  The first home he bid on was a short sale.  He bid $21,000 (over the course of Counter Offers) above the list price and ended up with a back-up offer; not in first position.  Pretty disappointing... The next home he bid on was an REO.  He bid $10,100 over the list price on his first offer, and we just found out yesterday that his bid was not accepted...  I have to say I am shocked and disappointed for him...  I was so sure this offer was above and beyond what the lender ex... 11/07/2008

Our In-House lender is available to help you with all your finace questions. There is no obligation to use her when you use a Keller Williams agent. She is here to make life a little easier. In fact she will encoourage you to shop around and bring your questons and concers to her.  Recent changes in both conventional and FHA loans now mean that yourFICO score and report will influence what you will pay on a mortgageeven more than before. This makes understanding your credit reportvital.It isn't just having "no late payments".  Often there are things we cando which will change your credit report and improve your scoredramatically.If you have family or friend with credit or Real Estate questions please have them give me a call or email and I would be happy to help FREE of charge see what ... 11/06/2008

  There many different and distinct microclimates in Paso Robles due to the proximity of the Pacific Ocean and depending on whether you are located in one of the numerous canyons and valleys. Our area experiences the largest swing between daytime high temperatures and nighttime lows than any other region in California because of cool air that flows east through the Templeton Gap and along the Salinas River from Monterey Bay 2 hours away. In the summer, we experience warm (sometimes hot) clear days, and we don't generally have much in the way of clouds, fog or severe winds.  Summer highs are typically between 85 and 105 degrees, but the nighttime lows drop by 40 to 50 degrees as the marine layer starts to move over the region around 3:00 pm daily.  The key to not using your air conditio... 11/05/2008

  An ePRO is a REALTOR(R) who has successfully completed the ePRO Training Program, which is endorsed through the National Association of REALTORS.  This course teaches real estate professionals the nuts and bolts of working with real estate online:  Personal web sites, email, online tools, real estate blogs, advertising individual properties on various web sites, and most of all, what today's consumers really want. Should you use an ePRO when selling or purchasing a home?  Yes, definitely, and especially if you are an internet user yourself.  Experience in technology has become a necessity in this day and age.  An ePRO is someone who has recognized and responded to the needs of the new internet-saavy consumers. Courses completed include: Understanding the Internet Becoming an E-Mail P... 11/05/2008

  Filling: 2 eggs, slightly beaten 3/4 cup sugar 1 1/2 tsp cinnamon 1/2 tsp nutmet 1/2 tsp ginger 1/4 tsp allspice 1/4 tsp cloves 1/3 tsp salt 1 can (1 lb) pumpkin 3 tbs dark molasses 2 cans (6-oz size) evaporated milk, undiluted   9-in unbaked pie shell (Okay to use prepared pie shell from store) 1 egg white, unbeaten   Preheat oven to 400F Make Filling:  In large bowl, combine 2 eggs slightly beaten with sugar, spices, salt, pumpkin, molasses and evaporated milk.  Stir, with wooden spoon, until mixture is smooth. Lightly brush pie shell with egg white.  Fill with pumpkin mixture. Bake 55 to 60 minutes or until tip of sharp knife inserted in center comes out clean. Let cool on wire rack and serve with garnished whipping cream, if desired.   If you would like to search the MLS for list... 11/05/2008

First off, if you don't mind your turkey meat being a little salty, try marinating your fresh turkey in Williams-Sonoma Brining Blend.  It gives a very nice flavor to your turkey, and the meat practically falls off of the bone; even the white meat.  You can purchase this online at Williams-Sonoma for $16.50.  One caveat, though.  Do not use all of the drippings for your gravy as it will be too salty.  A little goes a long way...  Williams-Sonoma also has  fresh turkeys available, but they are quite pricey.  I'll leave that decision up to you... 12 - 24 lb turkey   Old-Fashioned Dressing for 24 lb turkey:                     1 tsp pepper 2 cups chopped onion 6 cups finely chopped celery 1 1/2 cups chopped parsley 2 tbs salt 2 tbs poultry seasoning 2 tsp paprika 1 tsp pepper 2 eggs sligh... 11/05/2008

Okay...  We all love our doggies, but they can completely destroy our landscaping and leave land mines making it almost impossible for family and company to enjoy the backyard. The backyard should be a playground for the whole family and a place for entertaining in the spring, summer and fall - at least in Paso Robles.  Fortunately, Paso Robles enjoys temperate weather that allows the lucky folks who live here to enjoy most all seasons.  We even have some days in the winter where it is sunny and in the 70's... Now, we must look at our backyards from the dog's perspective.  He/she sees beautiful new garden beds ripe for burying bones and hunting gophers and squirrels; newly-laid sod needs marking and excavating; expensive plants and bulbs may be very tasty. To keep your yard from going ... 11/04/2008

  What does it take to learn to lead?  First, it begins with a commitment to inspire others, but you also have to develop the skills to make that happen.  You must  have the desire to help others.  This will produce emotional and psychological benefits for you, but it will also encourage creativity and enhance your productivity. Emerson said, "It's one of the most beautiful compensations in life that no person can help another without helping themselves." Here are 5 characteristics of a servant leader: Be authentic, be vulnerable, be accepting, be present and be useful. If you would like to search the MLS for listings or you have any real estate questions or general questions about Paso Robles or San Luis Obispo North County, please contact me via email, call me at (805) 235-0234 or vi... 11/04/2008

If you are either moving to Paso Robles or moving within the Paso Robles area, here is a convenient list for you to print out for service providers: Cable Television                                                                                           Charter Communications                                                                                 805-544-1962 Direct TV                                                                                                       800-280-4388 Dish Network                                                                                                  888-262-8520 Electric Pacific Gas & Electric                                                                                        800-743-5000 *  Pay Station:  Anything Goes, 822 Spring S... 11/04/2008

  Congratulations to Wobbles and her "Mom" for the winning Paso Robles Halloween Pet Costume.  Wobbles is owned by Brygida Trzaska...  Wobbles and Brygida will receive a $50 gift certificate from PetsMart for their winning entry.   Scuba Echo entered by David Kittle of Niles, Illinois was our second place winner, and they will receive a $25 gift certificate to PetsMart.  Scuba diver, very original and cute idea:) Thanks to all for your great entries...  You helped make my Halloween a special one...  Hope you have a fun and safe Halloween with your children and pets! If you would like to search the MLS for listings or you have any real estate questions or general questions about Paso Robles or San Luis Obispo North County, please contact me via email, call me at (805) 235-0234 or visit ... 10/30/2008

Just a friendly reminder that Daylight Savings Time ends this Sunday, November 2nd at 2:00 am.  Be sure to turn your clocks back one hour before bedtime on Saturday night so you don't end up at church one hour early...  You'll enjoy that extra hour of sleep after the fun and excitement of Halloween on Friday. If you would like to search the MLS for listings, visit my website.  If you have any real estate questions or general questions about Paso Robles or San Luis Obispo North County, please contact me via email or call me at (805) 235-0234 for more information. It starts with a dream... 10/29/2008

Have a Happy & Safe Halloween by keeping in mind the following tips... Only visit homes that have a porch light on Never go into a stranger's house Look both ways before crossing the street and only cross at the corner Stay away from candles and open fires; costumes can be very flammable Someone in your group should carry a lit flashlight Look both ways before crossing the street Walk on the sidewalks only; not in the street Never eat candy if the wrapping has already been opened Don't cross the street between parked cars Wear light-colored clothing and put reflective tape somewhere on your body, bike or skateboard Keep dogs on a tight leash Muzzle your dog if they tend to be nippy or afraid of children Happy Trick-or-Treating on Halloween! If you would like to search the MLS for listi... 10/29/2008

Oh my, oh my!  Doesn't that plate look scrumptious? I am very happy to announce that we finally have a fresh seafood market and restaurant located in Templeton near Trader Joe's at the Vineyard turnoff called Pier 46 Seafood.  It has been a long time in coming, and I, for one, am so happy it is here.  So far, I have purchased their clam chowder (yummy) and fresh fish twice, and I plan to make a run there to pick up dinner tonight.  Hubby is stacking firewood and I don't feel like cooking dinner, so off I go to get healthy takeout... Pier 46 offers fresh fish; live crab, live prawns, live lobsters and live clams in water tanks; and cooked meals to eat on the patio or take home. Their menu offers fish & chips, shrimp & chips, calamari & chips, a grilled seafood sandwich, fish tacos, a go... 10/29/2008

Sorry I am a little late, Gina, but we all want to congratulate you for your well-deserved Olympic silver medal in equestrian eventing at the Beijing Olympics.  What a treat for us to have an Olympic medalist living in our small Creston community.  For those of you who don't know the area, Creston is a very small community on the outskirts of East Paso Robles where you will find many vineyards and equestrian ranches.  In fact, even though I technically live in Paso Robles, I pick up my mail at the Creston Post Office.  Creston is a very quaint little town consisting of a Post Office, small country store, elementary school, library and two bars/restaurants.  Blink once, and you'll miss it! Gina Miles is a graduate of Cal Poly in San Luis Obispo.  Gina came in second to German rider Hinr... 10/29/2008

  Are you a cowboy or cowgirl at heart?  If you are, you won't want to miss the 16th Annual Paso Gathering. This event will be happening this weekend, November 1 and 2, 2008, Saturday 10:00 to 5:00 pm and Sunday 10:00 to 4:00 pm in the Pioneer Museum at 2010 Riverside Avenue, Paso Robles, Ca. The Paso Gathering features artists, bit & spur makers, boot makers, hat makers, rawhide braiders, silversmiths, horsehair hitchers, western jewelry and saddle makers. Where else can you find everything a cowboy/cowgirl could need all under one roof? How about a pair of custom-fitted boots? When I say "custom-fitted," I mean the boot maker actually measures each of your feet and makes a custom pattern to use to make your boots! Dianne Partington of Silver Horse Designs will be featuring her origina... 10/29/2008

 (edit/delete) Let my client tell you why I'm right for the job: "I am so thankful that you were my agent in my recent real estate sale. I appreciate your dedication, knowledge and just your helpfulness. From your open house to the actual sale you have guided me through many perils, and to top it off you are a genuine nice lady" Sincerely, T.Webb, Paso Robles There is no better gift than a satisfied customer. I do my very best to see my clients are well taken care of. If your looking for an agent In the Paso Robles, Templeton, San Miguel or Atascadero area Give Me a Call. (805) 610-4314  www.centralcaliving.com Lisa Long Your Local Real Estate Expert 10/27/2008

www.centralCaliving.com What to do in the Paso Robles Area (edit/delete)  1. Green Acres Lavender Farm- 8865 San Gabriel Rd., Atascadero (805) 466-0837 2.Estrella Warbird Museum - 4251 Dry Creek Rd., Paso Robles (805) 227-0440 3. Pioneer Museum - 2010 Riverside., Paso Robles (805) 239-4556 4. Let's Go Ballooning - Hot air balloon rides! (805) 458-1530 www.sloballoon.com  5. Children's Museum - Bring the grandkids! 623 13th St., Paso Robles (805) 238-7432 6. Monarch Butterfly Grove - Off Hwy 101 in South Pismo Beach (late Oct-Feb.) (805) 773-4382 7. Charles Paddock Zoo - on Hwy 41 in Atascadero (805) 461-5080 8. Harvest Wine Weekend October 17-19 at area wineries 1-800-549-9463 www.pasowine.com 9. Down Town Farmers Market - Every Thursday in San Luis Obispo, 6pm-9pm 10. Golf in Paso Robl... 10/27/2008