Allison James

Now that the holiday season is behind us, it is time to settle in for the long winter – Calgary style – and that means heading outdoors for winter fun.  While the winter wonderlands in Banff and Canmore are just over an hour away, there are plenty of outdoor winter activities to enjoy right here in Calgary.

Calgary’s Walking Trails and Pathways

Calgary is home to the largest network of pathways and walking trails in North America.  Nearly 350 km of the 800 km system of trails and pathways are cleared of snow by the City every year, making it easy to enjoy the natural landscape from easily accessible walking paths. The Bow River pathway system includes several Priority 1 pathways that are cleared of snow within 24 hours.  If the cold is too much for you, take advantage of the City’s renowned +15 System, the elaborate network of 63 enclosed sky bridges connecting over 100 buildings in downtown Calgary. Named for the fact that the bridges were constructed 15 feet off the ground at second story building height, a stroll through a portion of the 20 km system permits you to enjoy the sunshine with protection from harsh weather elements.

Canada Olympic Park

Calgary’s Canada Olympic Park (COP), located off the TransCanada Parkway, is the convenient solution to the quandary of how to squeeze fun and exercise into a busy schedule.  Open seven days a week, COP offers hills and half pipes for beginners to experts in skiing, snowboarding and snow skating, which is roughly akin to skateboarding or snowboarding without bindings.  Come on out and enjoy a few downhill runs or a bobsled run at this world-class facility.

Fish Creek Provincial Park

Fish Creek Park, one of the largest urban parks in the world, is a great spot for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.  The scenery is magnificent and use of the ungroomed natural trails is free of charge.  Snowshoeing is a suitable activity for the entire family and a great way to commune with nature, clear your head and educate children on the wonders of wildlife and the natural world.

Whether you are into action-oriented sports like snowboarding and downhill skiing or the slower pace of a stroll through a grove of fir trees in the park, there is fun to be had all winter long in Calgary.  Grab your skis, snowshoes, skates, sled or hiking boots and head outdoors.  Warm clothes, a cup of hot chocolate or sunshine and a warm chinook wind will help you weather the cold. Welcome to winter in Calgary!

Do you need to move to celebrate the changes that are happening in your life? Let me serve you in helping you make the move to the place or home that reflects where you are in life’s journey! I will listen to your needs and use my knowledge and expertise to make this a smooth transition to the right place for you to call home in Calgary. Contact me at 403-708-5873, ajames16@gmail.com, or www.allisonjames.com and let’s get on with your journey!

About Allison James

Allison James has been a realtor® since 1999 with Century 21 Bamber Realty Ltd. in the changing Calgary real estate market. A Century 21 Centurion Award 2007 recipient and a member of CREA and AREA, she specializes in residential real estate and has her designations as a Seniors Real Estate Specialist and a Certified Condominium Specialist. These designations testify that she has the expertise and resources to help her clients make a smooth transition to the next step in their life journey. She enjoys helping her clients as they move through many of the same stages of life that she, too, has experienced. The fact that the majority of her business comes from past clients and/or referrals from satisfied clients speaks volumes about her dedication to the high quality of service that she offers her clients to meet their Calgary and surrounding area real estate needs. She is a mother of four who are all on their own now, and a grandmother of eight. Besides helping people buy or sell real estate, she loves spending time with her family, being active outdoors, traveling and meeting new people, photography, playing the drums, reading, scuba diving, listening to music, learning new things, and nurturing her spiritual growth.

We all love Thanksgiving, spending time with family and loved ones, eating till our bellies are full and simply creating great new memories. But as much as we love the holiday, it can be stressful especially if it’s your turn to host. From making a list to preparing for picky-eaters to making sure you leave enough time to defrost the turkey…here are some stress-free holiday tips that will allow you to sit back, relax and enjoy the day.

Plan Ahead

A few days before the big day, make sure you have everything you need from ingredients to utensils and all the other often missed necessities like paper goods, beverages and ice so you don’t have to make a mad dash to the grocery store.

Start Defrosting That Bird- NOW!

Don’t stress about that turkey. If it’s frozen, you may need to let it defrost for a couple of days so it’s ready to go. The earlier you leave that bird out the better, so even consider leaving it in the fridge to slowly defrost the week prior.

Have Guests Help Themselves

Serving buffet style is a great way to not have to deal with picky eaters or those with allergies. Setting up a buffet and drink station will free you up to mingle with guests and allow you to enjoy yourself too, at least until it’s time to clear.

Deal With Picky Eaters

These days, everyone seems to have some sort of dietary restriction, but don’t stress out about leaving anyone out. Ask your invited guests well in advance if they have any requests so you can make sure there is something for everyone on the menu.

Prepare For Little Ones

It’s great to have the whole family together, but having little ones at the “adult” table can sometimes be stressful. Be prepared with kid-friendly activities like a paper placemat and crayons to keep them entertained and have toys and games available throughout the evening to entertain them.

Overall, Thanksgiving Day is a time to enjoy and spend with family. So don’t stress if the turkey is a bit dry or your pumpkin pie too moist. Live in the moment and enjoy it.

Do you need to move to celebrate the changes that are happening in your life? Let me serve you in helping you make the move to the place or home that reflects where you are in life’s journey! I will listen to your needs and use my knowledge and expertise to make this a smooth transition to the right place for you to call home in Calgary. Contact me at 403-708-5873, ajames16@gmail.com, or www.allisonjames.com and let’s get on with your journey!

About Allison James

Allison James has been a realtor® since 1999 with Century 21 Bamber Realty Ltd. in the changing Calgary real estate market. A Century 21 Centurion Award 2007 recipient and a member of CREA and AREA, she specializes in residential real estate and has her designations as a Seniors Real Estate Specialist and a Certified Condominium Specialist. These designations testify that she has the expertise and resources to help her clients make a smooth transition to the next step in their life journey. She enjoys helping her clients as they move through many of the same stages of life that she, too, has experienced. The fact that the majority of her business comes from past clients and/or referrals from satisfied clients speaks volumes about her dedication to the high quality of service that she offers her clients to meet their Calgary and surrounding area real estate needs. She is a mother of four who are all on their own now, and a grandmother of eight. Besides helping people buy or sell real estate, she loves spending time with her family, being active outdoors, traveling and meeting new people, photography, playing the drums, reading, scuba diving, listening to music, learning new things, and nurturing her spiritual growth.

Do you struggle to think of a good gift for your dad or other dads in your life on Father’s Day?  If you answered “yes”, you are not alone.  The challenge in finding the perfect gift probably stems from the fact that so many of us feel that no gift can every really convey the depth of the love and gratitude we feel for our dads. When we think back on our lives, it’s not the expensive gifts that we remember, but precious time spent with loved ones. So, here’s a tip for Father’s Day this year – stop trying so hard and instead, consider these ideas for meaningful gifts for Dad.

Tickets to a Sporting Event or Concert

Think about buying your dad tickets to a sporting event or concert with a favorite musician.  This does not have to be done on a large scale.  In fact, small is probably better.  Think minor league baseball game instead of the World Series.  The goal is to spend quality time with your dad while also enjoying something he loves.

Plan a Nature Hike

The sights and sounds of nature tend to bring out the best in all of us.  While taking in a healthy dose of fresh air, seize the opportunity to reminisce with your dad and share a few laughs.  It’s also a good way to catch up on current happenings in your busy lives.

Take a Road Trip

Everybody has someplace they’ve always wanted to visit but haven’t managed to find the time.  Make the time this year and plan a road trip to that place on your dad’s bucket list.  If you can’t come up with a suitable destination, just meander and go where the road takes you.  Enjoy the time with your dad along with whatever sights and sounds come your way. The trip might only take a weekend, but the memories will last forever.

Pay it Forward

What better way to honor Dad for all he has done and continues to do than by paying it forward and helping someone else?  Let’s face it – many dads pretty much have everything they need.  If they don’t have it and decide they want it, they go and buy it owing to their status as grown men.  So instead of stressing over some gift your dad doesn’t even want, remind him just how much you appreciate his love, hard work and sacrifice by making a donation in his name to one of his favorite organizations or charities.  It’s a gift that it is guaranteed to make him proud.

So before investing in another loud tie for Dad or the latest gadget that will gather dust in the back of a closet, think about gifting Dad with the one thing he probably wants the most – a little time with you!

Do you need to move to celebrate the changes that are happening in your life? Let me serve you in helping you make the move to the place or home that reflects where you are in life’s journey! I will listen to your needs and use my knowledge and expertise to make this a smooth transition to the right place for you to call home in Calgary. Contact me at 403-708-5873, ajames16@gmail.com, or www.allisonjames.com and let’s get on with your journey!

About Allison James

Allison James has been a realtor® since 1999 with Century 21 Bamber Realty Ltd. in the changing Calgary real estate market. A Century 21 Centurion Award 2007 recipient and a member of CREA and AREA, she specializes in residential real estate and has her designations as a Seniors Real Estate Specialist and a Certified Condominium Specialist. These designations testify that she has the expertise and resources to help her clients make a smooth transition to the next step in their life journey. She enjoys helping her clients as they move through many of the same stages of life that she, too, has experienced. The fact that the majority of her business comes from past clients and/or referrals from satisfied clients speaks volumes about her dedication to the high quality of service that she offers her clients to meet their Calgary and surrounding area real estate needs. She is a mother of four who are all on their own now, and a grandmother of eight. Besides helping people buy or sell real estate, she loves spending time with her family, being active outdoors, traveling and meeting new people, photography, playing the drums, reading, scuba diving, listening to music, learning new things, and nurturing her spiritual growth.

Photo Credit: KSI Photography

Isn’t it great to have a holiday at this time of the year? Even though Family Day has been around for a few years now, it still sneaks up on us as a pleasant surprise halfway through February. Looking for something fun to motivate you to get out of the house? Here are some of Calgary’s best events:

Eau Claire Market Free Family Fun Day – This winter carnival is perfect to keep your kids entertained. Organizers are anticipating a huge turnout this year. You can expect to find an ice carving demonstration, live music and games for kids of all ages. The festivities will take place on February 16th from 11am until 3pm.

Dinosaurs in Motion – This larger-than-life exhibit makes its Canadian debut at Telus Spark from now until summertime. The display includes 14 life-size sculptures created from recycled materials. Youngsters are encouraged to be creative by drawing the dinosaurs. Also, they are urged to learn more about these great creatures from the past through the interactive demonstrations.

Penguin Walks at Calgary Zoo – The penguins are on the loose! Every day at 10am, seven of the King Penguins are let out of their enclosure and escorted by their keepers for a little stroll around the zoo. This adorable routine has become one of the zoo’s best winter attractions. King Penguins, by nature, tend to be more sedentary, but this activity has proven to improve their health and given them something special to look forward to outside the confines of their home.

Free Family Day Swimming – Why not go for a dip? Six of Calgary’s public aquatic centres are open on Family Day from 1 – 2:30 and 3 – 4:30 in the afternoon. Participating locations include Bob Bahan Aquatic & Fitness Centre, Canyon Meadows Aquatic Centre, Glenmore Aquatic Centre, Renfrew Aquatic & Recreation Centre, Shouldice Aquatic Centre, and Thornhill Aquatic & Rec Centre.

Do you need to move to celebrate the changes that are happening in your life? Let me serve you in helping you make the move to the place or home that reflects where you are in life’s journey! I will listen to your needs and use my knowledge and expertise to make this a smooth transition to the right place for you to call home in Calgary. Contact me at 403-708-5873, ajames16@gmail.com, or www.allisonjames.com and let’s get on with your journey!

About Allison James

Allison James has been a realtor® since 1999 with Century 21 Bamber Realty Ltd. in the changing Calgary real estate market. A Century 21 Centurion Award 2007 recipient and a member of CREA and AREA, she specializes in residential real estate and has her designations as a Seniors Real Estate Specialist and a Certified Condominium Specialist. These designations testify that she has the expertise and resources to help her clients make a smooth transition to the next step in their life journey. She enjoys helping her clients as they move through many of the same stages of life that she, too, has experienced. The fact that the majority of her business comes from past clients and/or referrals from satisfied clients speaks volumes about her dedication to the high quality of service that she offers her clients to meet their Calgary and surrounding area real estate needs. She is a mother of four who are all on their own now, and a grandmother of eight. Besides helping people buy or sell real estate, she loves spending time with her family, being active outdoors, traveling and meeting new people, photography, playing the drums, reading, scuba diving, listening to music, learning new things, and nurturing her spiritual growth.

Happy New Year! I hope you enjoyed the holidays and found plenty of time for rest and relaxation. 2014 was busy and eventful, and it always feels refreshing to turn the page on a brand new year. It’s time for a fresh start and the anticipation to accomplish goals for another twelve months. I like to reflect on what I have achieved last year and what I’d like to improve on this year.  It is another opportunity to push ourselves to a new level of success.

Surround yourself with people who inspire you. As the saying goes, “It’s hard to soar with the eagles if you’re surrounded with turkeys.” Whether your goals are personal or professional, positive people can inspire you to aim high and challenge you to grow. Look for qualities that you admire in your peers and find ways to incorporate those good habits into your routine. Better yet, find a mentor to keep you on track and hold you accountable to stick to your plan.

Attitude is everything. You’ve heard it a thousand times, but being reminded to keep your attitude in check is invaluable advice. Being positive will help you appreciate your successes, combat your personal challenges, and see the potential in the opportunities before you. Take some time every day to give yourself credit for your hard work and be thankful for all the blessings that surround you. Keeping a Gratitude journal can be a great help and inspiration.

Never stop learning. Continuous improvement is the cornerstone of personal growth. Many people leave school and education behind once they begin their careers, but don’t make that mistake. Be sure to allot time in your schedule to keep learning. There are so many ways to expand your mind and enrich your life.  Read a great book, sign up for a cooking class, or plan a vacation to a country you’ve always wanted to explore.  I love to read and travel – both have been great learning experiences for me.

Welcome to 2015! I look forward to connecting with you this year.

Do you need to move to celebrate the changes that are happening in your life? Let me serve you in helping you make the move to the place or home that reflects where you are in life’s journey! I will listen to your needs and use my knowledge and expertise to make this a smooth transition to the right place for you to call home in Calgary. Contact me at 403-708-5873, ajames16@gmail.com, or www.allisonjames.com and let’s get on with your journey!

About Allison James

Allison James has been a realtor® since 1999 with Century 21 Bamber Realty Ltd. in the changing Calgary real estate market. A Century 21 Centurion Award 2007 recipient and a member of CREA and AREA, she specializes in residential real estate and has her designations as a Seniors Real Estate Specialist and a Certified Condominium Specialist. These designations testify that she has the expertise and resources to help her clients make a smooth transition to the next step in their life journey. She enjoys helping her clients as they move through many of the same stages of life that she, too, has experienced. The fact that the majority of her business comes from past clients and/or referrals from satisfied clients speaks volumes about her dedication to the high quality of service that she offers her clients to meet their Calgary and surrounding area real estate needs. She is a mother of four who are all on their own now, and a grandmother of eight. Besides helping people buy or sell real estate, she loves spending time with her family, being active outdoors, traveling and meeting new people, photography, playing the drums, reading, scuba diving, listening to music, learning new things, and nurturing her spiritual growth.

This is the time of year when many people start to think about moving. It’s a time for new beginnings, fresh starts, and setting out to accomplish your next big goal. Do you picture yourself in a new home in 2015? Here are three great reasons why next year might be the right time for you to make a move.

Is your current home meeting your needs?

Sometimes a place is perfect for a little while, but than your needs and lifestyle change. Maybe you’ve transferred to a new job a little farther away. Perhaps the kids are moving on to a new school and you aren’t sure about the one in your area. Maybe it’s something as simple as wanting a larger kitchen or more room to entertain. There are certain things you just can’t change about a home, which means it’s a good time to look for a new one.

Will making a move offer additional benefits?

Sometimes selling your home and choosing a new place to live allows you to accomplish other goals or enhances your life in different ways. Is it time to downsize and capitalize on the equity you have built over the years? What about purchasing a property that has room for an income suite so you can become mortgage-free faster? If you feel like your current home is holding you back in one way or another, it’s a great idea to explore your options.

Is it time for that next step?
Buying a new home is usually just one part of a larger plan. If you ask most people what they envision for themselves in the next five years, many of them will describe their perfect home among their other personal, financial and professional goals. Accomplishing your goals starts with a plan, and there is no better time than the present to set that plan in motion.

Here’s to all the best for you and your family in 2015 – wherever you may find yourself this year!

Do you need to move to celebrate the changes that are happening in your life? Let me serve you in helping you make the move to the place or home that reflects where you are in life’s journey! I will listen to your needs and use my knowledge and expertise to make this a smooth transition to the right place for you to call home in Calgary. Contact me at 403-708-5873, ajames16@gmail.com, or www.allisonjames.com and let’s get on with your journey!

About Allison James

Allison James has been a realtor® since 1999 with Century 21 Bamber Realty Ltd. in the changing Calgary real estate market. A Century 21 Centurion Award 2007 recipient and a member of CREA and AREA, she specializes in residential real estate and has her designations as a Seniors Real Estate Specialist and a Certified Condominium Specialist. These designations testify that she has the expertise and resources to help her clients make a smooth transition to the next step in their life journey. She enjoys helping her clients as they move through many of the same stages of life that she, too, has experienced. The fact that the majority of her business comes from past clients and/or referrals from satisfied clients speaks volumes about her dedication to the high quality of service that she offers her clients to meet their Calgary and surrounding area real estate needs. She is a mother of four who are all on their own now, and a grandmother of eight. Besides helping people buy or sell real estate, she loves spending time with her family, being active outdoors, traveling and meeting new people, photography, playing the drums, reading, scuba diving, listening to music, learning new things, and nurturing her spiritual growth.

Although we already had a quick preview of winter in Calgary, there is still plenty of time to enjoy the beautiful fall weather. Thanksgiving is a wonderful time in the city. It’s the perfect opportunity to relax over the long weekend, enjoy a home-cooked dinner with your family, and enjoy the outdoors before winter gets the best of us. Need some fun family activities to keep the kids busy? There are several great events happening in and around Calgary during the Thanksgiving weekend.

The Delta Lodge at Kananaskis, located about an hour west of the city, is offering a special Thanksgiving package. This resort is the perfect weekend escape for a break from the city. During Thanksgiving weekend, they offer a range of family-friendly events including a dance, pumpkin carving and story time for the kids. The resort is surrounded by beautiful hiking trails that offer a mountain view that is second to none.

What could be more appropriate to celebrate the season than a visit to the Calgary Corn Maze & Fun Farm? This family-operated farm features a petting zoo, miniature golf, and a pumpkin patch. It has won the distinction of the 2014 Parents Choice Award for Best Family Attraction by the Calgary’s Child Magazine. The farm is home to the largest corn maze in Southern Alberta and each year they change the design. The farm closes for the year on October 19th, so make sure to stop by before the season ends.

Take a step back in time this Thanksgiving at Calgary’s Heritage Park. For the long weekend only, the Wainwright Hotel Dining Room will be offering a delicious three-course Thanksgiving meal with all the trimmings. Take a ride on the antique midway, and explore the Park on the nostalgic steam train. This park also closes for the season following the long weekend.

Whatever your plans, there is no shortage of fun ways to celebrate the season and enjoy the outdoors this Thanksgiving.

Do you need to move to celebrate the changes that are happening in your life? Let me serve you in helping you make the move to the place or home that reflects where you are in life’s journey! I will listen to your needs and use my knowledge and expertise to make this a smooth transition to the right place for you to call home in Calgary. Contact me at 403-708-5873, ajames16@gmail.com, or www.allisonjames.com and let’s get on with your journey!

About Allison James

Allison James has been a realtor® since 1999 with Century 21 Bamber Realty Ltd. in the changing Calgary real estate market. A Century 21 Centurion Award 2007 recipient and a member of CREA and AREA, she specializes in residential real estate and has her designations as a Seniors Real Estate Specialist and a Certified Condominium Specialist. These designations testify that she has the expertise and resources to help her clients make a smooth transition to the next step in their life journey. She enjoys helping her clients as they move through many of the same stages of life that she, too, has experienced. The fact that the majority of her business comes from past clients and/or referrals from satisfied clients speaks volumes about her dedication to the high quality of service that she offers her clients to meet their Calgary and surrounding area real estate needs. She is a mother of four who are all on their own now, and a grandmother of eight. Besides helping people buy or sell real estate, she loves spending time with her family, being active outdoors, traveling and meeting new people, photography, playing the drums, reading, scuba diving, listening to music, learning new things, and nurturing her spiritual growth.

As residents of Calgary, we are blessed with an abundance of natural beauty in every direction. One of my favorite activities has always been hiking. It’s a great way to exercise, clear my head and commune with nature and good friends. Here are a few of my favorite hiking spots in and around our beautiful city.

Weaselhead Flats:

Weaselhead Flats is situated at the mouth of the Elbow River along the west end of the Glenmore Reservoir in the city’s southwest quadrant. This park is unique in that it is home to a large coniferous forest and a marshy delta. Even on a short hike, you are bound to spot loons, swans, hummingbirds and even the occasional black bear in this urban oasis.

Elbow Falls:

This picture perfect set of small waterfalls is located about a half hour from south Calgary off Rt. 66 just west of the lovely hamlet of Braggs Creek. Unfortunately, the area suffered some damage in the floods of 2013. A large section of the picnic area was washed away, but the falls and viewing deck remain intact and the scenery is as breathtaking as ever. I’ve always found that a short hike in this serene area with my morning coffee is a great way to start the day. The crystal-clear water is infused with the most beautiful hint of turquoise and the ice formations found here in frigid weather make for popular calendar images for the winter months.

Grassi Lakes:

The Grassi Lakes trail is a little over an hour’s drive from Calgary but well worth the trip. After hiking an easy trail through a forest, you will be rewarded with two of the most beautiful lakes imaginable. The water is an amazing combination of emerald and turquoise hues. The more adventurous climbers can take a slightly more difficult path to the lakes with several semi-steep inclines and a waterfall. Further up the mountain beyond the lakes are 1000 year old pictographs on the rock walls.

It doesn’t matter whether I’m in the mood for an evening stroll or a full day’s adventure in the mountains. In Calgary, the trailhead is never far from home.

Do you need to move to celebrate the changes that are happening in your life? Let me serve you in helping you make the move to the place or home that reflects where you are in life’s journey! I will listen to your needs and use my knowledge and expertise to make this a smooth transition to the right place for you to call home in Calgary. Contact me at 403-708-5873, ajames16@gmail.com, or www.allisonjames.com and let’s get on with your journey!

About Allison James

Allison James has been a realtor® since 1999 with Century 21 Bamber Realty Ltd. in the changing Calgary real estate market. A Century 21 Centurion Award 2007 recipient and a member of CREA and AREA, she specializes in residential real estate and has her designations as a Seniors Real Estate Specialist and a Certified Condominium Specialist. These designations testify that she has the expertise and resources to help her clients make a smooth transition to the next step in their life journey. She enjoys helping her clients as they move through many of the same stages of life that she, too, has experienced. The fact that the majority of her business comes from past clients and/or referrals from satisfied clients speaks volumes about her dedication to the high quality of service that she offers her clients to meet their Calgary and surrounding area real estate needs. She is a mother of four who are all on their own now, and a grandmother of eight. Besides helping people buy or sell real estate, she loves spending time with her family, being active outdoors, traveling and meeting new people, photography, playing the drums, reading, scuba diving, listening to music, learning new things, and nurturing her spiritual growth.