Rose Cottage Ltd

Happy May!

++ These cities are rising real estate stars

++ The Plug-and-Play Luxury Home

++ Grow Plants Indoors!

++ The Housing Rebound Stalls

Note: Thank you! I am so tired of reading about but not seeing our “thriving” US economy – which means those doing well now were always doing well. Some markets have seen SIGNS of movement toward recovery and the luxury market will always have interest but many areas of the US remain flatlined.

++ Debunking 4 Mortgage Loan Myths

++ Free Shipping on Select Bird Feeders

++ The True Cost of Bad Credit

++ The 10 Best Cities to Flip a Home

++ America’s Highest (and Lowest) Property Taxes?

++ $237 million apartment sale sets record

++ Garden.com Clearance – up to 80% off!

I do love horses and I love a good race so tomorrow will be a “happening” day for me. Although I am unfortunately not going to make it to Kentucky for the Derby in person, I will be ready at the TV at post time – 6:24 pm ET, Saturday May 3, 2014.

++ NBCSports.com will be offering a Live Stream of the race.

For a list of contenders and the current odds, etc., look here. One of my sisters and I get together each year to pick our favorites for each of the Triple Crown races. So far, no money has been involved, but it’s still fun to take some part in this prestigious event!

California Chrome – A lean, mean running machine! And he looks like he LOVES to run – always a good sign.

I haven’t made my final pick for the derby yet, but I am hearing a LOT of positive news about California Chrome. Foaled February 18, 2011, California Chrome is an American Thoroughbred racehorse bred in California, and is the winner of the 2014 Santa Anita Derby and the 2014 San Felipe Stakes. He’s a favorite for the Derby according to those in the know, but I just like the jaunty way he runs!

Feel like kicking back to watch the race with a traditional Mint Julep? Here’s the original “race” recipe.

Some nasty weather over the last few days in central North Carolina but nothing compared to what some are facing in Oklahoma and Arkansas and out nearer the coast of NC. Tornadoes cause death and destruction of property and flooding can do the same. Never take storm warnings for granted – they could save your life.

I’ve moved most of the plants inside that might have been damaged by hail and/or wind, but the Gardenia has been safe and sound inside since Fall 2014. It continues to bloom – with a new flower or two each day – and with around 20 buds that have yet to open, I call this plant a major success and a good start to the growing season!

I’m even having more success than usual with my Christmas Poinsettia – which you can see right behind the Gardenia. I’m amazed that on 1 May, it still has as many red leaves as it does – this is a new record for me!