Archive for January, 2009

Real Estate Mortgage Market Update: Jan 29,2009

Where are home interest rates headed at the Lake of the Ozarks?

In today’s broadcast, Andrew Conner of Mortgage Resources addresses the question of where interest rates are heading in the coming weeks and months. He also discusses the factors which determine mortgage interest rates.

This segment is an authorized re-broadcast of a local radio station feature aired at the Lake of the Ozarks on News Talk 1150 KRMS AM.

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Author: Melody Anderson | January 30th, 2009
Categories: Mortgage Market Updates
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Looking after our feathered friends

Finding food can be challenging during the cold winter months.

Birdwatching has become one of the fastest growing hobbies in the US in recent years.  And there are many of us who have discovered that a great way to watch birds easily in the winter is by setting up and maintaining bird feeders in our yards.

By feeding our feathered friends not only do we get the opportunity to observe them close up,  but we lessen the challenge they face finding food during the cold  winter months.

How it can brighten a cold dreary day to hear them chatter and sing outside my door!  Not to mention what a joy it is watch them gather at the feeder – even when the bluejays rush in to scare off the titmouse.  (I really want to scold them sometimes.)

And it’s even more a delight to watch one splash their beak into a heated bird bath taking a well appreciated drink of fresh water.

When setting up a winter bird feeder, I’ve found that it’s important to select one that has a wide cover to protect the seed and perch from getting buried in snow.    Placing it in a sheltered area protects it from the wind, and putting it no more than 5 feet from the house helps them to avoid crashing.   With lots of stray cats around, I make sure the feeder is out of their reach.

What should you serve your bird visitors for dinner?  Seeds with high fat content are best, I’m told.   I have friends who serve shelled peanuts.  Usually I buy the mixed seed in hopes of appealing to varied tastes and  needs.

Even though many of my neighbors disagree, I like to take care of my squirrel buddies, too.  With effort, it’s possible to set up feeders so that everyone has access when times are tough.

(Photos by Rick Hebenstreit,  and used with permission)

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Author: Melody Anderson | January 29th, 2009
Categories: Lifestyles & Activities, Photos by Area Photographers
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