Sally Bowman Real Estate's Blog

Flying Over Cheshire Connecticut

Mon, 26 Jul 2010 03:00:00 GMT

As much as we would all like to take a vacation in the summertime, sometimes time and money constraints hold us back. In Cheshire Connecticut, there are always ways you can take a "stay-cation" that costs little money, but takes you away from your day-to-day worries.

This Week's Featured Cheshire Stay-cation: Castle View Hot Air Balloon Rides

Located on the north side of Cheshire on Route 10, this attraction is truly a getaway from the every day. You have never quite seen Cheshire like this before. Fly over central Connecticut and gaze out at majestic views of Long Island and the rolling hills of Berkshires, set against a breathtaking sunrise or sunset backdrop.

To make this stay-cation official, it is completely necessary to pamper yourself with a champagne toast and possibly even a stay at the charming bed and breakfast.

If you're a little hesitant about the safety of a balloon ride, there is nothing to be worried about. According to the Castle View Website, modern balloon technology makes it one of the safest means of flight. On top of that, Castle View boasts safe, state-of-the-art balloons and the chase crew follows you on the ground, keeping in radio contact for the entire flight.

How does it all work?

Step one - cold inflation of the balloon. Step two, the burner is pointed into the balloon and heats enough air to lift the balloon. Step three, you board the basket and one final systems check is done. Step four, lift off!

I can't think of a better way to view the enchanting New England landscape of Cheshire Connecticut. While you're up there, you'll understand why I call this place home and love to help other people do the same. Contact me if you are interested in Cheshire Real Estate - or if you need an adventurous soul to join you on the balloon ride!

Sally Bowman
Sally Bowman Real Estate
Your Cheshire Real Estate Expert

An Active Lifestyle in Cheshire CT

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 03:00:00 GMT

An active lifestyle and community is important to a lot of people when they are considering where they want to live. Living in a community that encourages sports and fitness, like Cheshire CT, speaks volumes about that town's personality. Whether you are already active, or you strive to be, the active lifestyles of your Cheshire neighbors are sure to push you in the right direction. See below for a list of facilities and organizations that contribute to an active Cheshire lifestyle.

Crossfit Cheshire
www.crossfitcheshire.com
382 S. Main Street, Cheshire, CT
Over 4600 square feet of facilities, machines of all shapes and sizes, Olympic lifting platorms, sandbags, climbing ropes, gymnastic rings, a 20 yard indoor sprint track, and more. On top of all the equipment, they also have personal coaches, adult classes and youth classes.

Physique Plus
www.physiqueplus.com
1303 Highland Ave, Cheshire
This gym's mission is to ensure that each and every member feels welcome and comfortable in its friendly environment. For those of you who enjoy group exercise classes, this is the gym for you. Spinning, Body Pump, Body Attack, Zumba, Body Combat, Ultimate Abs, and more - they have it all. The juice bar, tanning salon, and customized nutritional system program are just added bonuses.

Cheshire Karate and Dance Studio
www.cheshiredance.com
For those of you with children, at Cheshire Dance Studio, you can kill two birds with one stone. Drop one kid off at karate and the other at dance in one trip! The dance studio has classes for students age 3 through 18. It offers an annual program that begins in September and concludes in May with an Annual Recital. Cheshire Karate teaches self discipline, self defense, sparring, strikes, and Korean terminology to students young and old. are sure to push you in the right direction. Check out what Cheshire has to offer.

Cheshire Pilates
www.cheshirepilates.com
345 Highland Ave. Suite 202 , Cheshire
With a studio that has a state-of-the-art cloud lighting system, small class sizes to encourage personal attention, and highly qualified Stott Pilates instructors, it's no wonder that Cheshire Pilates has been voted "Best of New Haven" for 2010.

Coplex Sports Ice Skating Rink
345 Highland Ave. Suite 202,  Cheshire
An indoor rink open all year round, this is a great place to come to stay active without feeling like you are exercising. Whether you are an adult who likes to skate for fun, you have children who are looking to learn, or you are a hockey buff who wants to pick up a casual game, Coplex Sports caters to everybody.

The list goes on and on for the number of facilities here in Cheshire that contribute to an active lifestyle. The great thing about the summer is that you can get active right in your Cheshire backyard - kicking around a soccer ball, shooting hoops in your driveway, or going for a run around the block. If you need more information or you want to take a look around as some Cheshire real estate to find some backyards of your own, give me a call.

Sally Bowman
Sally Bowman Real Estate
Your Cheshire Real Estate Expert

Cheshire CT Meets Up

Mon, 12 Jul 2010 03:00:00 GMT

Whether you are just moving to Cheshire, CT or have lived here all of your life, there are always ways that you can get involved in your Cheshire community. Although you may have thought the days of clubs and organizations were gone along with your high school year book, joining them are often the best ways to make friends and learn new things.

Here is a short list of some great Cheshire organizations.

Cheshire Kiwanis Club
http://newenglandkiwanis.homestead.com/index.html
Kiwanis is a global organization of volunteers dedicated to making the world better for the future of Cheshire - its children.

Cheshire Historical Society
http://www.cheshirehistory.org/membership2004.htm
For all of you history buffs, Cheshire Historical Society is just what you have been looking for. Their mission is to help preserve and teach Cheshire's past. The best part is that you can get involved as little or as much as you want.

Cheshire Jaycees
http://www.meetup.com/Cheshire-Jaycees/
Serving the local community since 1954, this organization is rock solid and responsible for some of Cheshire's most popular activities. It's a great way to develop leadership skills, network, and develop professionally and personally.

Cheshire Small Dog Play Group
http://www.meetup.com/small-breed-play/
If you are a small dog lover, then this one is for you! Bring your little dogs to make friends with others of their size and stature (under 30 lbs) while you become closer with your fellow Cheshire small dog owners.

There are plenty more Cheshire clubs out there than listed here. But if there is something you are looking for, that you can't find, then why not start your own Cheshire club? After all, a community like Cheshire, CT is the kind of town where neighbors don't just mean the person living next door to you. Becoming a Cheshire resident means joining together with your community to continue to make it a better place.

Sally Bowman
Sally Bowman Real Estate
Your Cheshire Real Estate Expert

July 2010 Market Watch

Fri, 02 Jul 2010 03:00:00 GMT

July 2010 Market Watch for Cheshire CT

Cheshire Active Listings: There are a total of 152 properties actively on the market with an average list price of $452,600.

Cheshire Sold/Sale Pending: There are currently 33 properties with sales pending and 116 properties that closed in the past 6 months. The average sold price for Cheshire is $351,015 and the average time on market is 105 days.

Absorption Rate/Supply: The current month supply of homes on the market is defined as the ratio of the current inventory of active listings compared to sales. In other words, given recent sales activity, one can estimate how long it would take for the entire inventory of active listings to sell, assuming no new listings were to appear on the market. At the present time it will take a little more than six months to sell all of the current active listings, without adding any new homes for sale.

Data and charts based on the last 6 months, data provided by the Multiple Listing Services.

Sally Bowman
Sally Bowman Real Estate
Your Cheshire Real Estate Expert

Cheshire CT - A Picture Perfect 4th of July

Mon, 28 Jun 2010 03:00:00 GMT

The 4th of July is upon us here in Cheshire CT. You can just picture all of Cheshire coming out to play on this long anticipated, picture perfect summer weekend.

Children run around with firecrackers, smells of delicious barbecue fill the air from backyard grills, and neighbors become a little bit closer after spending another blissful Independence Day together. The classic movie The Sandlot comes to mind when all of the kids are gathered on the field for their annual 4th of July night baseball game...

There was only one night game a year - On the 4th of July... the whole sky would brighten up with fireworks, giving us just enough light for a game. We played our best then because, I guess, we all felt like the big leaguers...under the lights of some great stadium.

It may be a movie, but growing up in Cheshire means having that same simple childhood experience portrayed in The Sandlot. It means being surrounded by neighbors who know each others' names. It means friendships begin with children's play dates and extend to parents and beyond. It means community gatherings for for big holidays like 4th of July, or for no reason at all.

For this 4th of July, come out and celebrate with Cheshire. It's a wonderful town to call home. If you are looking for Cheshire real estate, I would love to be the one to show you around.

Sally Bowman
Sally Bowman Real Estate
Your Cheshire Real Estate Expert

Cheshire Store Celebrates 100 Years!

Mon, 21 Jun 2010 03:00:00 GMT

The wonderful thing about a town like Cheshire, CT is that it truly is an old fashioned community with modern conveniences. Just this last week was the 100 year Birthday Celebration of R.W. Hine Hardware Store.

My family bought this store in 1979 when I was 11 years old. I worked at R.W. Hine all the way through high school to college, up until 2003 when I began working with Real Estate in Cheshire.

I went form selling people the nuts and bolts to fix their houses, to selling the whole house. I could not have asked for a better education in real estate. It was the perfect place to learn all about houses, along with a little about plumbing, electrical and construction.

Established in 1910, R.W. Hine Ace Hardware is a family owned and operated hardware store well known among the community for their amazing customer service.

A quick look at the R.W. Hine Facebook Wall and it is obvious how much this store means to the Cheshire community. One wall post says "When I used to come back home, I loved walking around Hines...Glad you still exist."

If you long to be a part of a community in which the local hardware store could exist for 100 years and still be going strong, then give me a call. Growing up here, I know Cheshire Connecticut like the back of my hand. There's nothing I love more than showing homebuyers beautiful Cheshire homes and the community that surrounds those homes. When it comes to community ties, Cheshire's bond is unbreakable, but we are always welcome to newcomers.

Sally Bowman
Sally Bowman Real Estate
Your Cheshire Real Estate Expert

Family Fun and Lots of Strawberries in Cheshire!

Mon, 07 Jun 2010 17:43:00 GMT

You Are Cordially Invited to the First Congregational Church Strawberry Festival!

When: Saturday, June 12
Where: First Congregational Church, 111 Church Drive, Cheshire, Connecticut 06410
Time: 11 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Parking: Free, located behind the church.
Website: www.cheshirecongregational.org

Join the entire town of Cheshire for a day of food, family and fun!

Start off with juicy hot dogs and hamburgers, then go watch the live entertainment while the kid play games, watch the magic show, bounce on the Moonbounce, take a pony ride or enjoy the petting zoo. Of course, don't forget to fill up on lots of strawberries - from strawberry pies, to chocolate dipped strawberries, to the best strawberry shortcake around!

73 years and still going strong, the Cheshire Strawberry Festival is an institution in this town and is not to be missed! As an added bonus, The Cheshire Historical Society’s antiques and collectibles show will be held at the same time on the grounds of the Cheshire Historical Society next to the church.

Sally Bowman
Sally Bowman Real Estate
Your Cheshire Real Estate Expert

June 2010 Market Watch

Wed, 02 Jun 2010 03:00:00 GMT

June 2010 Market Watch for Cheshire CT

Cheshire Active Listings: There are a total of 134 properties actively on the market with an average list price of $463,067.

Cheshire Sold/Sale Pending: There are currently 49 properties with sales pending and 99 properties that closed in the past 6 months. The average sold price for Cheshire is $347,916 and the average time on market is 118 days.

Absorption Rate/Supply: The current month supply of homes on the market is defined as the ratio of the current inventory of active listings compared to sales. In other words, given recent sales activity, one can estimate how long it would take for the entire inventory of active listings to sell, assuming no new listings were to appear on the market. At the present time it will take a little more than five months to sell all of the current active listings, without adding any new homes for sale.

Data and charts based on the last 6 months, data provided by the Multiple Listing Services.

Sally Bowman
Sally Bowman Real Estate
Your Cheshire Real Estate Expert

Cheshire Relay For Life - Some Things are Better than Winning

Mon, 24 May 2010 03:00:00 GMT

Cheshire's love for sports has always made us a little bit of a competitive community. We love to win and are not afraid to show our pride. The strength of the Cheshire community, however, does not stop at sporting events. One particular organized event that we have come to be known for is the American Cancer Society's Relay for Life.

Time and time again, Cheshire has broken records for funds raised and the number of participants involved. We have reached records as high as $579,873 in 2006 and have been in the top 25 nationwide since 1999. The funny thing is, as exciting as it is to "win" at something like this, the victory does not mean nearly as much as the cause.

Thousands upon thousands of people will gather this June 11th-12th once again at Cheshire High School to honor and remember their family and friends that have been struck with cancer. Teams of cancer survivors and their families, corporations, clubs, hospitals and churches lap the Cheshire High track lined with thousands of luminary bags that light up the night.

People make lifelong connections and emotions run high. Participants who may never have been touched by Cancer are happy to join and learn something new, while others who have find new friends who understand their plight. It's a long night, but it's worth every minute. The funds raised help support the American Cancer Society's programs of research, education and service to patients and their families.

Come prepared and get your luminarias at any of the following Cheshire businesses: Paul's Restaurant, Oliver's Supermarket, or Bagelicious.

Check out Cheshire's Relay for Life website for more information. The event will begin at 5 pm on June 11th and end at 2 pm on June 12th. I look forward to seeing you there!

Sally Bowman
Sally Bowman Real Estate
Your Cheshire Real Estate Expert

Cheshire Celebrates Memorial Day

Mon, 17 May 2010 03:00:00 GMT

You are cordially invited to attend Cheshire's Memorial Day Parade on Sunday May 30th 2010. Held by the Veterans Council of Cheshire, this year, the parade will commemorate the 60th anniversary of the start of the Korean War.

Starting at Highland Elementary School, the 2 mile long parade runs through Route 10 all the way to Cheshire High School.

We often celebrate holidays without knowing exactly what it is we are celebrating. Of course Memorial Day is known as the unofficial start to summer. A time for family gatherings, barbeques, picnics and sporting events, it really is a wonderful time to bring the Cheshire community together metaphorically shouting "Summer is here!" But it is always nice to have a reminder as to why we celebrate Memorial Day - to celecommemorate U.S. men and women who died while serving the military.

If you are interested in being a part of this year's parade, or would like to enter a float, please call 203.272.2743. Office hours are Monday through Friday 8:30am to 4:00pm. The deadline to register is May 21st.

For a little preview of the Cheshire High School marching band before the parade, click here.

Sally Bowman
Sally Bowman Real Estate
Your Cheshire Real Estate Expert

Cheshire's Lookin' Good in May

Mon, 10 May 2010 03:00:00 GMT

May is finally here and we are all slowly coming out of cold weather hiding and looking for ways to mingle with friends and family in the community. What do you feel like doing with your upcoming weekends in Cheshire now that the weather is getting nicer?

Looking for arts and culture? Or maybe you are looking to get active or contribute to a good cause. What about just a fantastic night full of good food and live entertainment? Cheshire has it all available this May. A variety of choices for all different ages, tastes, and occasions...

Raw Data: The Weather Project works by Suzan Scott
When: Re-occuring Monday through Friday until May 13th from 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Where: Kohn-Joseloff Gallery, Cheshire Academy, 10 Main Street
What: A one woman show highlighting the work of painter Suzan Scott presented in the Kohn-Joeseloff Gallery in Cheshire Academy. The exhibit will feature selected paintings, photographs and digital art based on Scott's exploaration of work based on the sky, named "The Weather Project." Suzan has exhibited widely in galleries in Connecticut and accross the country.

Cheshire YMCA Sea Dog 5K & Healthy Living Expo
When: Sunday, May 23 at 10:00 a.m.
Where: Bartlem Park, 525 South Main Street Route 10
What: This is the first annual Healthy Living Expo for Cheshire. Featuring a 5K Run/Walk and Kids Doggie Dash Fun Run, its goal is to raise Cheshire's awareness of health and wellness issues and educate the community about all of the health related services and products available to Cheshire's residents. Among other charities, the money raised through this event will go towards the Strong Kids Campaign, providing kids, teen, and families programs they would not normally have access to. If that is not enough incentive to get involved, they also offer prizes, T-shirts and a post race party to all registered runners!

Live Entertainment at a few of Cheshire's Favorite Eateries:
C.J. Sparrow's Pub & Eatery Entertainment Schedule
When & What: May 13th Ken Safety's Open Mic Show
When & What: May 14th Big Fat Combo CD Release
When & What: May 15th Tall Horses

The Funky Monkey Cafe & Gallery Entertainment Schedule
When & What: May 15th Ross Riskin
When & What: May 22nd Stand Up Comedy
When & What: May 28th Live Music with Johnny Neon of Neon Dust
When & What: May 29th Live Music with Parker's Tangent
Call 203-439-9161 to reserve a table.

If you're looking for somebody to show you some beautiful Cheshire Real Estate, show you around, or just show you a good time, don't hesitate to call me.

Sally Bowman
Sally Bowman Real Estate
Your Cheshire Real Estate Expert

May 2010 Market Watch

Mon, 03 May 2010 03:00:00 GMT

May 2010 Market Watch for Cheshire CT

Cheshire Active Listings: There are a total of 125 properties actively on the market with an average list price of $463,643.

Cheshire Sold/Sale Pending: There are currently 55 properties with sales pending and 101 properties that closed in the past 6 months. The average sold price for Cheshire is $358,432 and the average time on market is 120 days.

Absorption Rate/Supply: The current month supply of homes on the market is defined as the ratio of the current inventory of active listings compared to sales. In other words, given recent sales activity, one can estimate how long it would take for the entire inventory of active listings to sell, assuming no new listings were to appear on the market. At the present time it will take a little less than five months to sell all of the current active listings, without adding any new homes for sale.

Data and charts based on the last 6 months, data provided by the Multiple Listing Services.

A Beautiful Vermont Setting in Cheshire!

Mon, 26 Apr 2010 03:00:00 GMT

Featured Listing of the Week: 40 Loray Court

A beautiful Vermont setting in Cheshire! With a desirable open floor plan, this four bedroom and three bathroom contemporary home contains an intimate feel throughout. Walk into the living room and you will be amazed by the cathedral ceiling and large wooden staircase leading up to the bedrooms. A form al dining room, elegantly lit by chandelier overlooks a picturesque view – the perfect location for enjoying the company of those closest to you. The immaculate kitchen is sure to be appreciated by the food connoisseur in your brood and offers a breakfast bar for quick meals or an eat-in area for many home cooked ones!

Master bedroom suite has a double door closet, an ideal first floor location and convenient access to the hot tub on your private deck. With a balcony off of each second level bedroom, you can let in a cool breeze and enjoy the vast scenery during any time of year. Go into the screened porch and bask in each season with a cup of coffee and a book, or bring company to pass the time with. Added bonuses include a three car attached garage and a lower level with office and media room. Take a look - you won’t be disappointed!

Please give me a call if you are interested in checking this one out. All I can say is that the house has been very well taken care of, the formal dining room is fantastic, and one look at the gazebo and you will fall in love with this property. On top of it all, the caliber of this Cheshire home at this price is unheard of; you can be sure that this is one of those gems that you won't be able to get at this value for much longer.

Sally Bowman
Sally Bowman Real Estate
Your Cheshire Real Estate Expert

A Real Taste of Cheshire

Mon, 12 Apr 2010 03:00:00 GMT

"Food is our common ground, a universal experience."
-James Beard

Food has always been a way of bringing people together and a large part of defining a community. When you leave home, often, one of the things you miss the most is the food you could only get in your hometown.

What would you miss if you had to leave Cheshire? The delicious Blackie's hot dogs topped with their special relish? Or would it be the perfect pizzas with thick crust, quality cheese and amazing sauce that only Rossini's could serve?

Here is your perfect opportunity to sample and delight in all of Cheshire's best food and make a contribution to a Cheshire foundation in need. This Thursday, April 15th is the 7th Annual Taste of Cheshire. It will be held at the Aqua Turf Country Club in Plantsville, CT from 7 pm to 11 pm. More than 25 different Cheshire restaurants will be there to make your mouth water. Plus, there will be a silent auction and a performance by famed stand-up comedian Moody McCarthy, featured on "Last Comic Standing" and "Jimmy Kimmel Live."

The event will benefit the Cheshire Education Foundation's effort to build Science Centers in each of the town's elementary schools. The goal of the Cheshire Education Foundation is to make Cheshire's science program a model within the state of Connecticut. Tickets will be $35 per person or $350 for a table of 10. Go to www.cheshirenewcomers.com for more information.

Sally Bowman
Sally Bowman Real Estate
Your Cheshire Real Estate Expert

Celebrate the Earth in Cheshire

Mon, 05 Apr 2010 03:00:00 GMT

I'm sure by now you have caught a good case of cabin fever and are itching to get out and enjoy the weather. It really is an amazing feeling to finally get a good dose of fresh air and feel the warmth of the sun for the first time in months. Cheshire boasts a beautiful nature scene and offers some wonderful ways to celebrate Earth Day this year.

Black Bears in Connecticut
Date: April 7th
Time: 7:00 PM
You may not believe this, but in recent years, black bear sightings have become increasingly popular in the Cheshire area. If you were ever curious about these adorable, yet intimidating creatures, the Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection will present a learning lecture at the Cheshire Public Library.

Maintaining Healthy Perennials
Date: April 20th
Time: 7:00 PM
Whether you have a green thumb or completely clueless when it comes to gardening (but want to get better this spring), you will want to attend this Cheshire Public Library presentation. It explains how to fertilize, mulch, irrigate, divide and keep plants free from disease.

Earth Day Celebration - Open Space "Open House"
Date: April 22nd
Time: 6:00 PM
The wonderful thing about Earth Day is that it really makes you stop and appreciate the environment that you have around you. The Cheshire Environment Commission will clue you in on all of the hiking spots and outdoor opportunities in Cheshire that you may never have known existed. Stop by the Cheshire Public Library and pick up free property maps and information.

Earth Day Celebration - History of Connecticut Forests
Date April 22nd
Time: 7:00 PM
The Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station may open you mind to something that has been going on for the last 400 years. They will educate you on how Connecticut's forests have evolved over the last few centuries, covering the impact of time and human activity on our forests.

For more information on any of these events, visit the Cheshire Public Library. However, if you have any questions about the beauty of this community outside and in, don't hesitate to contact me.

Sally Bowman
Sally Bowman Real Estate
Your Cheshire Real Estate Expert

April 2010 Market Watch

Fri, 02 Apr 2010 03:00:00 GMT

April 2010 Market Watch for Cheshire CT

Cheshire Active Listings: There are a total of 121 properties actively on the market with an average list price of $499,993.

Cheshire Sold/Sale Pending: There are currently 55 properties with sales pending and 98 properties that closed in the past 6 months. The average sold price for Cheshire is $347,543 and the average time on market is 115 days.

Absorption Rate/Supply: The current month supply of homes on the market is defined as the ratio of the current inventory of active listings compared to sales. In other words, given recent sales activity, one can estimate how long it would take for the entire inventory of active listings to sell, assuming no new listings were to appear on the market. At the present time it will take a little less than five months to sell all of the current active listings, without adding any new homes for sale.

Data and charts based on the last 6 months, data provided by the Multiple Listing Services.

Sally Bowman
Sally Bowman Real Estate
Your Cheshire Real Estate Expert

Opening Day All Around Cheshire

Mon, 29 Mar 2010 03:00:00 GMT

"I love Opening Day. I think we all do, whether it's the players, coaches or front office. It's just a special day in our American culture. It's weaved into the fabric of what we are, and I think it's a great day."
- Padres manager Bud Black

There is something so wonderfully exciting about opening day. It is more than just the first day of the baseball season, it symbolizes a sort of re-birth.

It is a time to forget last year's baseball season to start a clean slate. It is a time for Cheshire to forget that the cold winter ever happened, strip off our winter coats and put on our baseball caps.

It is a time and a place to bring the Cheshire community together for cross town rivalries, hot dog eating and bleacher cheering.

Opening day is one of the most popular days to play hooky in America for good reason - it's a true sign that spring is here and it is time to play ball.

Here are the opening days most important to Cheshire, CT.

Cheshire Youth Baseball and Softball - May 1st

Cheshire High School Varsity Baseball - Wednesday, April 7th
   CHS vs. Daniel Hand
   3:45 pm

Cheshire High School JV Baseball - Saturday, April 4th
   CHS vs. East Haven
   10:30 am

Cheshire High School Freshman Baseball - Friday, April 9th
   CHS vs. East Haven
   3:45 pm

Cheshire High School Varsity Softball - Friday, April 9th
   CHS vs. North Haven
   3:45 pm

Cheshire High School JV Softball - Friday, April 9th
   CHS vs. North Haven
   3:45 pm

Connecticut Defenders Minor League Baseball - Thursday, April 15th

LA Dodgers, Team of Cheshire's Golden Boy Brad Ausmus - Tuesday, April 13th

Sally Bowman
Sally Bowman Real Estate
Your Cheshire Real Estate Expert

The Highest Form of Flattery for Cheshire Schools

Mon, 22 Mar 2010 03:00:00 GMT

I may have mentioned in the past the highly regarded status of the Cheshire school system, but as a lifetime Cheshire resident, it may be hard to take my word for it alone. However, if ever there was evidence of the amazing Cheshire education system, it would be the most recent visit from members of a group from the country of Azerbaijan.

Representatives from the former Soviet Union-bloc country came to Cheshire to research the model of education that they would like to bring to their own schools. What better form of flattery than a foreign country modeling off of Cheshire's school system?

They began their tour in Chapman Elementary School, then on to Cheshire High School, observing daily activities in the two different levels of education. Armed with cameras and video equipment, the group watched students share work with their classrooms, inquired about the importance of parental involvement in Cheshire schools, and admired how student's accomplishments are put on display throughout the halls and classrooms.

Sometimes we take our education system for granted. When faced with a country that is impressed and inspired by what we consider to be mandatory in our schools, we realize how lucky we are.

If school system is important to you in your move, then Cheshire Connecticut is definitely a community to consider. As a lifelong Cheshire resident and Cheshire grammar school alum, I can attest to its wonderful education system. I would be happy to answer any questions you may have about Cheshire schools.

On an important side note, if you have heard talk of Chapman Elementary School closing, have no fear. Chapman School parents, past and present will not allow this to happen.

Sally Bowman
Sally Bowman Real Estate
Your Cheshire Real Estate Expert

Spring Cleaning Before You List Your Cheshire Home

Mon, 15 Mar 2010 03:00:00 GMT

We are all slowly stripping off our winter layers, the air feels lighter and we all have an extra spring in our step. Spring is definitely on its way to Cheshire - a very popular time for many to put their homes back on the market.

One of your first steps as a seller is to make your home look as presentable as possible. You know what that means - Spring Cleaning! Now that it is lighter and we can see a little better, dust and cobwebs stands out even more. There is no better time then when the weather gets warmer to clean the home.

Before you get started, a little spring cleaning history...

The origins of spring cleaning date back to the Persian New Year. Iranians called it "khooneh tekouni" which translates to "shaking the house." On this first day of spring, they would clean their homes from top to bottom. Another possibility of its origin was the ancient Jewish practice of cleaning the home before Passover. In North America and Northern Europe, back before the invention of the vacuum cleaner, March was thought to the be best time for dusting because it was warm enough to open the windows and doors, but not warm enough to invite the insects in.

Okay. Now that we have sufficiently put it off, it's time to get cleaning. Cleaning an entire house is a very overwhelming process. These are just a few tips and tricks to get you started.

1) Pick a bright day you can open up the blinds and let the sun shine in.

2) If it's warm enough outside, open up the windows to let the house air out.

3) Always start at the top when cleaning any room - Ceiling to walls to floors.

4) Walls: Clean the walls first with a cloth or microfiber mop. Then, if its safe for the walls, take a damp cloth to remove any sort of residue. (Tip: A mild vinegar is great for removing stains)

5) Window Coverings: Wash any fabric drapes and air dry them out outside.

6) Windows: Once again, using that spray bottle of vinegar along with a newspaper is a great way to really make the windows shine.

7) Carpet: Sprinkle a liberal amount of baking soda over the carpeting, let it sit for a few hours, and then vacuum up.

As you go along, pay close attention to places and things that may need repairing. Spring cleaning is the perfect time for this because you are going to be getting up close and personal with areas of your home you may not normally notice.

If you are looking to put your Cheshire home on the market this spring, don't hesitate to contact me. I can be a great resource for Cheshire vendors that may be able to help you with the cleaning jobs that are too overwhelming to do on your own. Until then, keep that spring in your step!

Sally Bowman
Sally Bowman Real Estate
Your Cheshire Real Estate Expert

St. Patrick's Day Beginnings to Cheshire Celebrations

Tue, 09 Mar 2010 04:00:00 GMT

It's March. The smell of spring is in the air, and people are itching to get outside and celebrate. That can only mean one thing - It's St. Patrick's Day in Cheshire! So you may know that three-leaved shamrocks are lucky and that catching a Leprechaun will lead you to the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow, but you may not know the real history of St. Patrick's Day.

St. Patrick is the most commonly recognized Saint of the Patron Saints of Ireland. St. Patrick's Day used to be celebrated as a religious holiday, but became public in 1903. In fact, there was even a law introduced that required all pubs to be closed on St. Patrick's Day. It wasn't until the mid-1990's, however, that the Irish government decided to capitalize on the day and use it to showcase Ireland and its culture. Today, St. Patrick's day is celebrated in Ireland, America, and beyond by Irish and non Irish alike.

How does Cheshire celebrate St. Patrick's Day? For starters, Sally Bowman Real Estate is hosting the business after hours for the Cheshire Chamber of Commerce this Thursday from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. There will be Irish food, green beer, door prizes, and the perfect opportunity to meet people in the community. Call the Chamber at 203-272-2345 if you would like to join us.

It's always a good time to go to a few of Cheshire's local pubs, but on St. Patrick's Day, it's even more enjoyable than usual. I highly recommend the Victorian House or the Waverly Tavern, a long time Cheshire business celebrating its 18th anniversary this March.

If you're looking for a place to take the kids, then a big parade is just the ticket. The Greater New Haven St. Patrick's Day Parade is sure to be a day full of excitement for any kid, young or old. It is actually Connecticut's largest single-day spectator event.

If you're looking into Cheshire real estate, St. Patrick's Day is the perfect time to come see a close-knit community have a good time and welcome in Spring with open arms.

Sally Bowman
Sally Bowman Real Estate
Your Cheshire Real Estate Expert