Spring Updates for Your Coastal Carolina Home

Update your Coastal Carolina Home with these ideas that will transform any space that may need a touch up.  It’s almost spring time in beautiful Carolina and what better way to add to your spring cleaning by sprucing up some rooms.  You can spend a little or a lot with these ideas.  Even the smallest addition can make a room a brighter place. 

Redo the Curtains!

A great way to update your space is to change the curtains or add them!  Spruce them up with some colorful ones or add a fun print.  Chevron is a very popular print this year.  To make the area look larger bring in long curtains and hang them close to the ceiling to give the illusion of tall windows.

Give the Furniture a Paint Job!

A creative solution to add color or interest to the room is to grab a paint brush and paint furniture you already have! Some colors that are trending this year are emerald, navy, grey's and yellow's.

Use a Room Divider!

Not only can a room divider make a larger space feel warmer and more put together but it can also hide those area’s that may seem too much of an eye sore.  Have an old radiator that isn’t covered up?  Place a room divider in-front of it and use it as a decoration piece.

Add shelves or bookcases!

Take advantage of your blank walls by hanging shelves or adding bookcases to an empty space.  You can rotate the décor you put on the shelves to adapt to any room or use it as you would a cabinet and store things on them.  

Incorporate some Rugs!

Often there aren’t much texture items to a room or color.  Adding an area rug or a runner to a space can help bring in textures, color and warmth to a space.

Go to some Garage Sales!

Since, it’s getting warmer Carolina what better way to get some updates to your home then heading to your local estate, garage or yard sales. You never know what you will find!  I found some great antique furniture that I added some paint to and looks great in my kitchen as a storage space. 

Carolina Home Owners let me know how you added some color, provided extra storage or moved around some items for extra space.  I’d love to see it!  Let me know if you have some ideas you would like to add; comment below! 

Gena Gilbert

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Valentine's Day & Weekend on The Crystal Coast of Carolina

We are going to hit 60 degrees this Valentine's Weekend here in The Crystal Coast. What do we have in store for you to celebrate?  Not only will a great walk on the beach be romantic and refreshing there are many things you can do to enjoy the outdoors with the one's you love. 

23rd Annual "Art from the Heart"

The Arts Council’s 23rd Annual Art From The Heart will be held February 15 to March 2, 2013 at the Morehead City Plaza, units 6 & 7. The show will open with a public reception on Friday, February 15, with the show gallery open free to the public seven days a week through Saturday, March 2. The Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours will be held on Thursday, February 21. Art From The Heart is one of the region’s largest exhibitions of fine art by artists from Carteret, Craven, Pamlico, and Onslow Counties.  Arts Council’s website  

Delbert McClinton in Concert

The Morehead Center for Performing Arts & Events, 1311 Arendell St., Morehead City, presents “Delbert McClinton in Concert” at 8 p.m. on Saturday, February 16. Tickets are $45 & $35. Call 726-1501 or go to their website.

Mardi Gras on Middle Lane

Grab your beads, put on your best mask or festive costume, and head to downtown Beaufort on Saturday, February 16th!  Sister cities, in conjunction with Middle Lane businesses, invites you to Mardi Gras on Middle Lane on February 16th from 2:00PM to 6PM.  Enjoy New Orleans sounds and succulent Creole cuisine at this afternoon street carnival.

Low country and fiddle music by Gumbo Lily will welcome party-goers beginning at 2PM on the outdoor stage.  Gather your friends in a costumed “krewe” and parade Middle Lane in competition for prizes at 3PM.  Bring the kids along for the face painting and mask making experience under the tents.  Stop in to visit Madame Wendy at her fortune-telling booth.  Challenge your “krewe” to a round of boules or cornhole in the gaming area.  As the festivities continue, All Night Long will be playing a signature blend of jazz, blues, and dance music throughout the afternoon.  Quench your thirst from all the dancing and gaming with a frosty New Orleans-inspired beverage like Bourbon Street Punch made by Cru Wine Bar.  Come hungry and enjoy roast oysters at the Backstreet Pub, gumbo and king cakes from Beaufort Grocery, muffuletta and shrimp po’boys from Spoons Catering Company, and barbecued seafood from Aqua.  

2013 Escoffier Chef's Dinner Series

Carteret Community College presents the 2013 Escoffier Chefs Dinner Series. Advance tickets only. The cost for the full series of three dinners and one luncheon is $150 per person. Three dinners are $125 per person. Luncheon only is $30 per person. Dinner dates are January 22, February 18 and March 19. The luncheon is April 17.

If you want to do something romantic or enjoy a day with the kids there are many ways to spend time together in the lovely Crystal Coast. 

I would love to know what you did this wonderful holiday weekend!  Feel free to comment below!

Happy Valentine's Everyone!

Gena Gilbert

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Too Cold for the Beach? See what Coastal Carolina has in store for you!

North Carolina's Southern Coast invites you to sneak away for budget-friendly events this winter. Enjoy all that the Southern Outer Banks has to offer with the winter blues saving, representing more than 40% off peak season rates. Get out of the house and go enjoy some of the beach without getting your feet wet or sinking a hole in your bank account.

Enjoying the coast during the winter months is one of the Southeast's best values! There are tons of wallet-friendly adventures for the entire family. Visit these local attractions for under $10!

Fort Macon State Park - FREE

Beaufort Maritime Museum - FREE

Cape Lookout Ferry - Round trip $10

Shackleford Banks Ferry - Round trip $10

Beaufort Double Decker Tour Bus - Adults $8/Children $4

North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores - Adults $6-8/Children $7-8

Core Sound Waterfowl Museum - All $5

Beaufort Historic Site Homes Tours - Adults $8/Children $4

Old Burying Grounds - Adults $8/Children $4

Grab your jackets and head on out for an eventful weekend!  The North Carolina Coast can't wait to see you!

WATERFRONT AND WATER VIEW PROPERTIES GREAT DEALS -GOING-GOING-GONE!

Short Sales & Foreclosures Inventory is Becoming Llimited on the NC Crystal Coast areas including #Pine Knoll Shores, #Emerald Isle, #Atlantic Beach, #Salter Path and #Indian Beach! Search 1000’s of Homes Instantly at www.GenaGilbertRealEstate.com

SOLD!SOLDand SOLD

The buyers who have purchased properties during the past 3 years and have invested wisely are seeing the results of their investments growing now. Real Estate prices have risen; optimism is growing; consumer confidence is apparent. *Economic indicators: New orders for durable good...UP 4.6% in December. Construction increased 0.9% in December Home building residential UP 24% year over year Commercial construction...UP 8% year over year Sales/%...Orlando, FL +19.9 Media Price/% +12.2 Sales/%...Phoenix, AZ +9.8 Media Price/% +31.9 Sales/%...Miami,FL +4.9% Media Price/% +15.4 Sales/%...LasVegas -7.7 Media Price/% +24.3 SIMPLE RULES OF SUPPLY & DEMAND: Since 2004 historically built homes ~ 1.6 million new homes per year Shortage will creat demand! RATES HAVE REMAINED AT HISTORIC LOWS! FACT: Real Estate sales are improving and when it does the general economy improves! FOR ALL YOUR REAL ESTATE NEEDS CONTACT EITHER GENA OR HAROLD at 252-240-0259 or www.GenaGilbertRealEstate.com

SEARCHING FOR BANK OWNED OR SHORT SALES?

Are you searching for Bank Owned properties or Short Sale Properties?
Contact us today!  We are experienced and ready to assist you in your search and puchases now.

www.GenaGilbertRealEstate.com   With one click you can search 1000's of listings and reach experienced REALTORS!  Not sure which REALTOR(R) to contact in a particular area?  We can help you with that too!  Practicing as a Certified Residential Specialist (CRS) since 1998 Gena has been trained by the BEST and continues to be proactive with training in the field of real estate.  There are over 1,000,000 REALTORS in the USA.  Only 4% have earned the CRS designation showing their desire to learn and continue to keep learning about this ever changing profession to service your real estate needs in the most professional manner possible.  Ask to be referred to the BEST REALTOR in your area by Gena. 

Do  you want Exclusive Buyer Representation?  With one click on www.GenaGilbertRealEstate.com you can be in contact with an Accredited Buyer Representative (ABR) whose fidicuary duty is to YOU, the BUYER!  Ask for Gena or Harold and know the feeling and experience of your own Exclusive Buyer Representative.  Look for the ABR logo!

Care proven experience and testimonials of past clients who have worked with Gena & Harold Gilbert, 'Your Coastal Sales Team'.  Click on www.GenaGilbertRealEstate.com and check almost 20 years' worth of proof from satisfied customers and clients under http://www.genagilbertrealestate.com/custom10.shtml.  We encourage you to read the following quote of one of our most recent testimonials:

"I sold my house and moved into my new home in November 2011 and the only thing I can say is was because of the great Realtors I had. 

Gena and Harold Gilbert are awesome. When we met, they had already done a comparable of my house that I was selling and the others in the neighborhood.  The first week, they showed my house twice and the house showed at least twice a week for the duration. After each showing, Gena and Harold sent me a report and comments from the people who looked at my house.
Since I was moving, Gena and Harold set up a custom home’s search for me where only those homes with my specification were sent to me.  That was a fabulous service and saved me a lot of time.
The service and personal attention I received from Gena and Harold was exceptional. They did a lot of advertising on my home and kept me up-to-date. They always took my calls and were available when I needed them. They are professional and very knowledgeable about the local market. Because I listened to their advice – my house sold!!  
I feel that I got the best offer for my previous home and Gena and Harold fought to make sure that I didn’t pay more than I needed too for my new house.

Whether you are selling or buying, I highly recommend Gena and Harold Gilbert. I couldn’t ask for a better team to work with. 
Cindi B. Hamilton
Morehead City, NC"

Dealing in Real Estate market today is definitely not dealing in the real estate market of yesterday.   

Staying on the cutting edge of technology by maintaining membership with "TOP Agents Changing Real Estate with Technology" http://cyberstars.net/; continually networking with groups both private and public who have years of OJT (On the Job Training),learnng new up-to-date ideas, making new connections,being actively involved in continuing education and in the local communities are just a few of the reasons Harold & Gena Gilbert stand out above others in the real estate profession.

We appreciate your business and are here to assist you in your real estate needs with only a click of the button at www.GenaGilbertRealEstate.com

WATER FRONT LOT OFFERED FOR SHORT SALE $40,000 (with lender's approval)

DO NOT TRICK YOURSELF INTO BELIEVING THIS ONE WILL STAY ON THE MARKET VERY LONG!

DIRECT WATER FRONT LOT 1.18 ACRE

SITUATED ON THE NEUSE RIVER

LEADING DIRECTLY INTO THE INTRACOASTAL WATERWAY IN 500+/- FEET!

Owner has slashed the price to get a SHORT SALE offer. Offer subject to lender approval. Steal this Direct Water Front Lot in Merrimon Bay SD with Sandy Beach. It is being offered $136,000 below  purchase price. Owner wants it sold NOW!

305 GARBACON DR, BEAUFORT, NC 28516
*Link will only be available through 1-3-2012

FOR ADDITIONAL DETAILS CONTACT:
Harold Gilbert at:
NC COASTAL PROPERTIES Gena Gilbert Real Estate

Christmas on the Crystal Coast and Southern Outer Banks of NC

What a wonderous time of year! Christmas has always been and will always be for me the most recognized holiday throughout the entire year.  It is the time of year we all 'get down to the basics of life itself'.  It is the time when our  thoughts and hearts are focused on family and the basic needs others around us.  Life consists of 365 days a year.  What we do, how we give, how we open our hearts during the Christmas holiday ALWAYS makes us feel good!

What does Christmas mean to you?  Here is my short list of what it means to me:
Celebrating the birth of Christ my Saviour.
Spending quality time with my family.
Watching and listening to my husband, children, grandchildren and close friends smile and laugh.
Christmas trees all lit up brightly and Christmas decorations I only see and enjoy once a year.
Enjoying the warm, satisfying feeling I get each time I give of myself to others.

Stopping and taking notice of all the beautiful things that surround me and bring me joy.  Little things such as witnessing a simple kind gesture from one person to another.  Being given the opportunity to snap and capture a special moment on film of my family or a moment in time that will never be repeated of the waters splashing on shore or a bird flying through the air.

Natural Beauty of Carteret County Unique Photography


Searching for that 'Proven' Coconut IceBox Cake Recipe?  Here it is.  I prepare this delicious coconut delight once a year, twice if my family has been really good!

NANA’S COCONUT ICEBOX CAKE 2011

INGREDIENTS FOR CAKE:

Solid vegetable shortening for greasing the pans

• Flour for dusting the pans
• 1 package (18.25 ounces) plain white cake mix
• 1 1/3 cups water
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, such as canola, corn, safflower, soybean, or sunflower
• 3 large eggs

INGREDIENTS FOR FROSTING:

·         2 cups of sugar

·        2 cups (16oz) sour cream
·         1 package (12 ounces, 3 1/2 cups) frozen unsweetened grated coconut, thawed
·         (Fresh coconut can also be used.  If so, use the milk from the coconut as part of the water required for the cake above.)

1.       Place a rack in the center of the oven and preheat the oven to 350°F. Generously grease two 9“ round cake pans with solid vegetable shortening such as Crisco, then dust with flour. Shake out the excess flour. Set the pans aside.  This is essential to keep cakes from sticking to pan.

2.       Place the cake mix, water, oil, and eggs in a large mixing bowl. Blend with an electric mixer on low speed for 1 minute. Stop the machine and scrape down the sides of the bowl with a rubber spatula. Increase the mixer speed to medium and beat 2 minutes more, scraping the sides down again if needed. The batter should look well blended. Divide the batter between the prepared pans, smoothing it out with the rubber spatula. Place the pans in the oven side by side.

3.       Bake the cakes until they are golden brown and spring back when lightly pressed with your finger, 25 to 30 minutes (depending on your oven).

4.       In the meantime, prepare the frosting. Combine the sugar, sour cream, and thawed coconut in a medium bowl. Let the mixture rest, covered in the refrigerator until the sugar dissolves completely for approximately 1 hour; stirring occasionally.

5.       Remove the pans from the oven and place them on wire racks to cool for 10 minutes. Run a knife around the edge of each layer and place each layer onto a rack, be sure the cakes are right side up before frosting. Allow them to cool completely, 30 minutes more.

6.       When the sugar has dissolved in the frosting, begin assembling the cake. Carefully slice each of the cake layers in half horizontally, using a large, sharp serrated bread knife or a long piece of unflavored dental floss. You will now have four layers. Place the bottom half of a cake layer on a serving platter, cut side up. Spread with some of the coconut frosting. Top the bottom half with the matching top of the layer, cut side down. Spread with frosting. Next, add the bottom half of the second layer, cut side up, and spread with frosting. Top the bottom half with the matching top of the layer, cut side down. Spread the top and sides of the entire cake with all of the remaining coconut frosting, using clean, smooth strokes. The frosting should be nice and thick and not run off the sides.

7.       Chill the cake, uncovered, until the frosting is firm, 1 hour.

 KEEP CAKE IN REFRIGERATOR AFTER CUTTING!  CAKE WILL KEEP UP TO ONE WEEK IF PROPERTLY STORED IN SEALED CONTAINER

START YOUR CHRISTMAS OR THANKSGIVING TRADITION TODAY AND ENJOY FOR YEARS TO COME

GENA A.K.A. ‘NANA’

Halloween on the Crystal Coast

HALLOWEEN ON THE CRYSTAL COAST OF NC is a wonderful time of the year. The weather is still warm during the day and cooling down a little at night. The sunrises and sunsets are gorgeous. Trick or Treat is still scheduled during longer daylight hours so lots of cute little goblins are out with their parents and knocking on doors to receive delicious treats from neighbors and friends. The beaches are still nice and there is a lot to discover on the barrier islands of our National Seashore at Shackelford Island, Core Banks (home of Cape Lookout Lighthouse), Harker's Island, Carrot Island and many other islands within a short boat ride from the main land.

Every holiday and every day on the Crystal Coast of NC is a wonderful day! Join us today and enjoy all the nature, wildlife, events and highlights of Carteret County, NC!

BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS OF THE CRYSTAL COAST "EVENING WRAPPED IN CHOCOLATE"

THE CHOCOLATE FESTIVAL IS COMING TO MOREHEAD CITY FEBRUARY 3rd-5th, 2012!

PAST EVENTS OF "AN EVENING WRAPPED IN CHOCOLATE"

"An Evening Wrapped in Chocolate" kicks off the three day annual Chocolate Festival that takes place in Morehead City February 3-5, 2012.  This year will be the 8th year the Boys & Girls Clubs of Coastal Carolina will host and receive benefits from the event.  Chef Charles Parks of Shepard's Point Restaurant will prepare a 5 course meal with specially chosen wines with each course and an abolutely decadent chocolate dessert to finish off this wonderful meal.  "An Evening Wrapped in Chocolate" will take place at Shepard's Point Restaurant in Morehead City beginning promptly at 6:30 p.m. and continue Until.

This year we again offer a sponsorship for all those individuals and companies interested in helping the Boys & Girls Clubs and gaining visibility for companies.  The following are the tiered sponsorships that are available.  For full details of the benefits of each sponsorship please contact me at Gena@GenaGilbertRealEstate.com

$750 - TRUFFLE SPONSORSHIP
$500 - GANACHE SPONSORSHIP
$250 - FUDGE SPONSORSHIP
Sponsorships need to be confirmed before December 15, 2011

SUCCESS IS SUCH A SWEET THING! Especially when it involves Chocolate and Especially when it comes to generously donating funds for our future leaders and securing the personal, controlled involvement and training for them to BE GREAT! It takes a strong community to nurture and help create strong future leaders! Carteret and Craven Counties, NC certainly proudly recognize their fair share! 

"An Evening Wrapped in Chocolate" is always a great success and an event to remember. Much appreciation goes to all the Sponsors listed on the Board above! Chocolate desserts created and donated for raffle items by Chef Wendy delight and reward the palates of all the winners and those chosen by them to enjoy such sweet chocolate delicacies. I can attest personally to the Raspberry, White Chocolate Cheesecake! It was an awesome birthday cake for me one year! Thank you Chef Charles! The personal, monogrammed Morehead City Marlins Jersey along with the season tickets provided the winner of that year's live auction item a chance to enjoy and watch that good old American favorite to past time to 'Play Ball'!

The winners of the live auction of A Rhapsody in Food and Wine donated by NC COASTAL PROPERTIES Gena Gilbert Real Estate, Inc. have experienced the ultimate culinary personal experience for the past two years.  The guests of the lucky winners will enjoy another one in 2012. The diners will be served by a sophisticated and charming ensemble in full regalia, i.e., depending on next year's theme, with the Chef, complete with the classic chef's jack and toque, your personal wine sommelier and waiters/waitresses in full dress. All will be served in their own personal venue and will experience an evening that is traditionally reserved for those blessed with an extraordinary palate and resources to match.

A Black Tie Affair with a Twist Perhaps?

These are only a portion of the delicious, always exciting and delightful items won either by live or silent auction at the"An Evening Wrapped in Chocolate"  event benefiting the Boys and Girls Clubs of Coastal Carolina.   This just goes to prove how supportive our community members are in taking care of the future leaders in Carteret and Craven Counties. The highlight of one past evening (and definitely the most heart warming) of "An Evening Wrapped in Chocolate" was indeed the opportunity to hear a special group of kids from the Boys and Girls Club of Coastal Carolina - Sunshine Lady Club singing to the guests with the accompaniment of Jay Conner, Pianist.

One never knows what surprises lie in store.  Make your plans now to attend "An Evening Wrapped in Chocolate" and proudly and generously support the Boys & Girls Clubs of Coastal Carolina with your Sponsorship!!  Please, on behalf of our kids!

ALMOST A WHITE CHRISTMAS IN CARTERET COUNTY!

WE MISSED A WHITE CHRISTMAS 'DAY' BY LESS THAN 24 HOURS! North Carolina's Coast is beautiful regardless of the time of year but a white Christmas is very rare. So rare that we who live here believe it makes us appreciate it when we do get it EVEN MORE! This blog is dedicated to the wonders of Nature and the gifts it give us on rare occasions! Enjoy the pictures! The 2011 Chocolate Festival is scheduled to begin February 4, 2011 and end at 5 p.m. on February 6, 2011. Go to: http://www.visitnc.com/events/view/33497 for details. 'An Evening Wrapped in Chocolate' kicks off the festival with a delicious dinner at Shepard's Point benefiting the Boys and Girls Clubs of Carteret County 90-100 people, 6:30 PM Friday February 4 $32 Per Person, with a letter of gift in kind for labor and pastry donations. Seating is limited so purchase your tickets EARLY! CONTACT: Cynthia Barber 808-2286 or myself, Gena Gilbert 659-2367 Bring your Valentine to a delicious Festival Gala Dinner, live auction and silent auction for a wonderful evening of food, wine and chocolate! ARE YOU A CHOCOLATE LOVER? HERE IS A SIMPLE OLD FASHIONED CAKE & COOKED, HERSHEY CHOCOLATE ICING RECIPE! FROSTING: Cook On Double Boiler 2 Cups of Sugar 1 Small can of Pet milk ¼ Cup Hershey Cocoa 1 Stick of Butter **Pecans (chopped or whole optional-see cake recipe below) CAKE: TWO - Duncan Hines Butter Cake mixes Follow directions on cake box for each cake Grease and Flour each cake pan DO NOT add vegetable oil as directed on cake box!!! INSTEAD - Add: 1 stick melted butter per cake mix 2 Tablespoons of real vanilla per cake mix **Add chopped pecans in the cake mix OR place whole pecans on top of cake after frosting When cakes are done, place on cooling trays; cut each layer into two layers You should have 8 thin layers Drizzle the hot cooked icing on each layer, one at a time Drizzle left over icing over the top of the cake and let it run down the sides DELISH!!!! WE WISH A HAPPY, SAFE & PROSPEROUS NEW YEAR TO EVERYONE! Gena & Harold Gilbert "Your Coastal Sales Team" since 1994

CHRISTMAS ON THE CRYSTAL COAST

OUR YOUNGEST GRANDSON JUST CAN'T BELIEVE ALL THESE HUGE CANDY CANES ARE FOR HIM! How will he ever eat them all by Christmas? Guess he will just have to share them with his brother and sister and all of his cousins! What a wonderful season Christmas can be. It is so full of wonder and love for one another and people sharing from their hearts to help others. Why can't the spirit of Christmas be experienced each and every day?! CLAWSON'S PUB & RESTAURANT IN BEAUFORT, NC hosted its 12th Annual Sing Along! Free fun, great music for the holidays! What a great way to celebrate the season! CHRISTMAS LIGHTS ARE SHINING REFLECTIONS OF LOVE AND FELLOWSHIP! The pictures above are very rare for our area of the Crystal Coast of NC and very, very unlikely to happen at Christmas. This snow storm came the day 'after' Christmas 2010. They make wonderful photos to 'edit' for the holidays and to share all family and friends. A large Sago Palm covered with snow is definitely a unique sight in Carteret County, NC. With the unusually frigid temperatures we are recently experiencing, it is also a sight locals do not like to see often. Our lowest temperatures normally do not reach below the 40's day or night more than a few days a year. It is not uncommon to be out on the many waterways during every month of the year, especially for our local fishermen both commercial and personal. The shrimp boats are still going out to sea, the game fishermen are still catching various types of fish and our local seafood markets still have fresh fish, shrimp, oysters and delicious crab cakes! And speaking of crab cakes, here is a great recipe for them! "DELICIOUS FRIED CRAB CAKES" 2 lbs. lump crab meat (adding more crab meat does make it better!) 2 egg yolk 2 tsp. salt Large dash of coarsely ground black pepper 2 tsp. dry mustard 2 tsp. Worcestershire sauce 2 tbsp. mayonnaise 1 tbsp. chopped parsley 1/2 tsp. paprika 1.5 tbsp. melted butter Bread crumbs for coating cakes (Old Bay or Italian are best) Vegetable oil for frying Toss crab meat lightly and all other ingredients (except bread crumbs) in order listed. When well-blended, shape into cakes. Roll each cake in bread crumbs until coated on all sides. Heat oil in skillet to high. Fry crab cakes quickly in hot oil. Fry until golden brown. Be very careful to watch over while frying not to over cook crab cakes. Yield 6-10 servings depending on size of cakes.

INTEREST RATES FOR HOME MORTGAGES are rising! Rate sheets came in today (Dec. 28, 2010) at 4.75% from one lender. The older generation remembers interest rates as high as 12-18%. What are we thinking today? How high do the rates have to go before action is taken? Think about that! There are many true 'deals' on the real estate market today and those who are taking action are enjoying the benefits. For example: In Beaufort, NC; 1311 Live Oak St, 4 bedrooms, 3 full baths, over 2500 heated square feet of living space, approximately .45 acre in the city limits of Beaufort, NC is now being offered as a 'Short Sale' property at an asking price of $219,900 with lender's approval. There are also several bank owned properties in our area which could possibly sell for 60-65% of their actual real market value. Remember what our parents taught us when they said 'Don't ask and you will most likely not get an answer'? An experienced Accredited Buyer's Representative (ABR) is more valuable to buyers today than ever! Let Gena or Harold at NC COASTAL PROPERTIES Gena Gilbert Real Estate assist with your purchase or refer you to an experienced ABR in your area. Don't regret having to say 'I wish I had purchased my home or water front property while the market was SO good back in 2010-2011!' Do you need assistance selling the house you currently own? We can also refer you to an experienced Sellers Representative Specialist (SRS) in your area. Our sincere wish for the New Year is for all to learn the tough lessons of life we have had to learn for the past two or three years. Make 2011 the BEST year of your life! HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL!

HAPPY HOLIDAYS

HARD TO BELIEVE THIS IS WHAT HAPPENED AT THE CRYSTAL COAST OF NC LAST YEAR - BUT IT DID! What is it about snow and Christmas? It looks so cold yet it is so beautiful! Well, unless the weather changes very dramatically within the next twenty days around here The Crystal Coast will not see anything like this this year. Instead, we see bright sun shiny days and above average warm temperatures thus far. SHOWING YOUR HOUSE DURING THE HOLIDAYS If your home is on the market during the holidays be sure to keep the clutter in tow and the decorations light and simple. Make your home a warm, inviting place to be that everyone will enjoy. If you are doing some holiday baking let the aroma fill the house, especially if it is going to be shown to a prospective buyer. Leave some of those home baked cookies out with a little holiday note that says 'Please have a cookie on us'. The buyer will definitely stick around a little longer and may see just the right thing about your house that seals the deal. Here is a HOLIDAY RECIPE to share that is always a winner! “MELT IN YOUR MOUTH” COCONUT ICEBOX CAKE Icing: Blend and refrigerate overnight 18 oz frozen or fresh coconut 2 cups sour cream Cake: Mix Duncan Hines Butter Cake Mix with a whole stick of real butter Cut into four (4) layers Spread Icing between each layer and all over the outside Cover and refrigerate four (4) days before eating KEEP REFRIGERATED! AND ENJOY! HERE IS A BONUS RECIPE AS OUR CHRISTMAS PRESENT TO YOU! Aunt Mildred’s Praline Cookies 1 c butter (2 sticks) 1 c chopped pecans 1 c brown sugar 1 tsp vanilla 1-1 ½ sleeves graham crackers Preheat oven to 350. Combine butter, pecans, brown sugar and vanilla in saucepan and bring to a boil. Boil for 3 minutes. Place broken (at seams) graham crackers in a well-greased (or sprayed) 11 x 15 inch pan with edges (jelly roll type). Pour boiled mixture over top of crackers—don’t worry if it doesn’t spread over all completely. Place pan in oven and bake for 8 minutes. Remove from pan onto wax paper before they cool. Merry Christmas! I AM IN THE MOOD TO BAKE TODAY. HERE IS ONE MORE GREAT RECIPE! RECIPES: BUTTERMILK PIE! AWESOME!!! DON'T KNOCK IT TIL YOU TRY IT! 2 cups sugar 1 TB flour 3 eggs 1.5 Tsp real vanilla 1 stick of melted butter 3/4 cup buttermilk Dash of salt 2 'Deep dish' graham cracker pie shells Cream sugar and flour together; then add the rest of the ingredients Pour into pie shells Bake at 275 degrees 10 minutes; 300 degrees for 50 minutes REAL ESTATE TIPS: Today's real estate market offers the BEST deals, the BEST savings and GREAT interest rates! 1239 Nine Foot Road, Newport, NC 28570 MLS #10-4919 Asking Price: $135,000 Well maintained home with hardwood and ceramic tile in main areas. Priced below market for quick sale. Located approximately 10 miles from MCAS Cherry Point. This is a must see at this price will not last long. Being marketed as a Short Sale requiring lender approval. 103 Coachman Lane, Newport, NC 28570 MLS #10-4095 Asking Price: $174,994 This beautiful 2 story home is located in the heart of Newport on a Corner lot, just minutes away from the beach and Cherry Point. It has 3 Bedrooms, 2 1/2 Baths, and a bonus room which could be used as a 4th bedroom. There is a formal dining room, big living area, and large kitchen with breakfast area. Out Back is a nice 10X20 Deck and 9X17 Pool, all enclosed with wood privacy fencing. 191 Cedar Swamp Rd, Newport, NC 28570 MLS #10-3967 Asking Price: $184,900 Croatan School District) Want Elbow Room? This 4.7 acre property offers you privacy and space for Gardens, Horses,or farm animals. Major updating-Ceramic Master Bath, Covered Front Porch & Rear Deck. New Sunroom. approx 1/2 acreage cleared-Landscaped around home. Lrg Living Room w/Beautiful Wood Mantle Fireplace(Gas). Detached Garage & Carport & Storage. Must see to appreciate the Owner's Updating! CALL OR EMAIL GENA OR HAROLD TODAY AND ALLOW US THE CHANCE TO SHOW YOU TRUE PROFESSIONALISM AND EXPERIENCE IN THE FIELD OF REAL ESTATE!

PROPERTIES AND INFO FROM THE CRYSTAL COAST BEACHES IN NC: FALL AT THE BEACHES

PROPERTIES AND INFO FROM THE CRYSTAL COAST BEACHES IN NC: FALL AT THE BEACHES

FALL AT THE BEACHES

FALL AT THE CRYSTAL COAST BEACHES IS AN AMAZING TIME! SOMETIMES WITH STRANGE ILLUSIONS! All sorts of things change such as the water and the foliage. The water does get colder, however, it also becomes a lot calmer. We went out on a trip by water headed from Beaufort, NC to Ocracoke Island on the Northern Outer Banks this past weekend. The water was so smooth. There was barely a ripple to be seen from time to time and it made the water like a mirror. Strange illusions came into view. As we passed by Atlantic, NC we lost our GPS signal. It felt like we had entered the 'SOBX Triangle' (Southern Outer Banks). We spotted what we all thought was a plane of some kind going in for a landing on the water. Look closely at the picture above and tell us what you think it is. The sky was another outstanding part of this trip because it was made in the Fall. The sky around the Crystal Coast of NC takes on all sorts changes. Color is a major change in the fall. The mountains have beautiful colors in their trees and foliage. The Crystal Coast of NC also has changes in the surrounding foliage and some are beautiful but the sky is gorgeous. Perhaps it is because of all the water and water ways surronding us including the Atlantic Ocean. Whatever it is, it makes the sky burst with shades of color very often in the late afternoon. Clouds and cloud formations add to the complexity and beauty of the sky. This was another day in 'Photography Heaven'. To add to our excitement the dolphins were in abundance playing all around us. They circled our boat, jumped out of the water and gave us a premier example of how to catch fish! We set out our rods and reels and caught enough fish to have a delicious fish fry when we arrived back in Beaufort, NC. We caught one grey trout (limit 1 per person and must be at least 14" long); blue fish and hog fish. Don't laugh. If you are from our area in the Southern Outer Banks you 'know' how good a hog fish caught and fried fresh can be! It is a great, inexpensive way to fill your tummy and have a terrific time with your friends! We had plenty of company along our trip along with the dolphins. Seagulls, pelicans and other seabirds. RECIPE: Here is a great recipe for hushpuppies to go along with those fresh fish! 1 cup of House Autry seafood breader 1 cup of white cornmeal 2 eggs 2+/- fresh diced Jalapeños (to taste) 2 cups of warm water (add water until right consistency is achieved) ENJOY!

RAIN ON THE CRYSTAL COAST - FINALLY!!!

IT'S BEEN A LONG, HOT, BEAUTIFUL, WONDERFUL SUMMER BUT THE THE RAIN FROM MOTHER NATURE IS LONG OVER DUE! Morehead City will be all refreshed from the cleansing rain and is projected to have warm, beautiful, fantastic and sunny weather for the North Carolina Seafood Festival starting on Friday, October 1st this coming weekend! Make your reservations today if you plan to stay over if you aren't already booked! Rain also brings out the best in fresh fall vegetable on the Crystal Coast. Hot peppers LOVE the Crystal Coast of NC! All kinds of hot peppers! Cayenne, Habaneras, Jalapenos and Hot Pimento Peppers go wild this time of the year. They are very easy to grow with a little care, water and a bit of fertilizer.

RECIPE FOR HOT PEPPER LOVERS!

SHRIMP & MACARONI WITH A BITE! INGREDIENTS: ½ LB ‘SALAD’ type macaroni Boiling Water 6 Tbsp Butter 2 c sliced or diced Portabella Mushrooms 1 Tsp garlic power or fresh diced garlic to taste ½ Bell Pepper – diced 1 Jalapeño pepper (or to taste) ½ Red Bell Pepper – diced 2 Tbsp white wine 1 Pint sour cream (or ½ pt sour cream and ½ pint mayo) 1 and ½ cups white grated Cheddar Cheese 1 LB de-veined shrimp ½ c Spring Onions 1 Tsp Paprika Texas Pete or Tabasco Sauce to taste Cook macaroni in boiling salted water until tender, about 10-12 minutes; drain Melt butter in large skillet, sauté mushrooms until browned well; remove from skillet and set aside; In buttered skilled stir in scallop; then shrimp; Then stir in garlic; bell pepper, red pepper; Jalapeno pepper. Remove from heat and stir in wine. Blend in sour cream and 1 cup of grated cheese. Stir in shrimp, scallops, and all remaining ingredients in large bowl with well drained macaroni. Heap mixture lightly into a 1-2 quart casserole dish. Sprinkle with remaining shredded cheese. Bake at 375 degrees for approximately 25-30 minutes. (More shrimp and scallops make it better. Chunks of chicken or beef can also be substituted for seafood.) Invite lots of company. This dish will serve the multitude if you so desire by just adding more macaroni and a bit more shrimp! HAVE YOU EVER EXPERIENCED THE JOY OF DEVOURING 'FUNNEL CAKE'? There are many various recipes for them but all are 'sweet and delicious'! Even more so when you are tasting them right out of the pan at the North Carolina Seafood Festival coming up this weekend in Morehead City, NC. 2 1/2 c. self-rising flour 1/4 c. sugar 1 1/3 c. milk 2 eggs, slightly beaten Vegetable oil Sifted powdered sugar (optional) 1 tbsp. baking powder 1/2 tsp. salt Combine flour, sugar, milk and eggs in a bowl, beating until smooth. Heat 1/4 inch oil to 375 degrees in a skillet. Cover bottom opening of a funnel with finger. (Funnel with a 3/8 inch opening works best.) Pour 1/4 cup batter into funnel. Hold funnel over skillet. Remove finger form funnel end to release batter into hot oil; move funnel in a slow, circular motion to form a spiral. Fry each funnel cake 1 minute or until edges are golden brown, turn and fry until golden. Drain on paper towels. Repeat with remaining batter. Sprinkle with powdered sugar, if desired. Serve warm. Yield: about a dozen 5 inch cakes. THE RAIN IS GOING AWAY AND THE WEATHER FORECASTS PROMISES TO BRING SUNSHINE ON FRIDAY! If you are in the market for good deals on real estate on the Crystal Coast, GIVE US A CALL at 877-240-0259 Toll-free to schedule a meeting with you at our office or send us an email at Gena@GenaGilbertRealEstate.com and we will gladly provide information about our beautiful Crystal Coast area! HAVE A GREAT WEEKEND!

THE NORTH CAROLINA SEAFOOD FESTIVAL IN MOREHEAD CITY, NC

TIME TO MAKE YOUR PLANS TO ATTEND THE NORTH CAROLINA SEAFOOD FESTIVAL IN MOREHEAD CITY, NC Save the Date! October 1-3, 2010 for the 24th Anniversary of the North Carolina Seafood Festival. It just gets better and better every year! Enjoy the rides, the beach music, dancing on the street, barefooting, restaurants, Blessing of the Fleets, local street vendors, tennis tournament, races, sailing regatta and family fishing contests. This year's winner 2010 Commemorative Painting Exhibit "Today's Catch" Artist: Sharon Kearns The talents of local artists are displayed from one end of Downtown Morehead to the other offering unique, sometimes one of a kind items. FREE parking is offered at the NC State Port with a free shuttle Saturday & Sunday only to and from the Festival grounds. The shuttles leaves from the state port and carries festival-goers to 3rd Street. The shuttle runs from 9:30am - 8pm on Saturday and 11am - 5pm on Sunday. One of the many favorite local seafood recipes is 'Smoked Jumping Mullet'. The Bogue Banks Mullet Blow is a North Carolina Tradition. If you have not tried the smoked mullet here is your chance to do so at the North Carolina Seafood Festival in Morehead City, NC! COME & ENJOY THE FUN AND ACTIVITIES! SEE YOU THERE!

The North Carolina Seafood Festival

SAVE THE DATE! OCTOBER 1-3,2010 An easy date to remember, The North Carolina Seafood Festival is always slated to be held the first weekend in October of every year. It is a combined joint effort of the individual citizens and businesses of Carteret County to ensure this event is fun, enjoyable, exciting and memorable to all to promote the importance of seafood industry in our county. Because of their efforts the North Carolina Seafood Festival grows exponentially every year. There are so many things to see and do. MAKE YOUR PLANS NOW TO VISIT THE NORTH CAROLINA SEAFOOD FESTIVAL IN MOREHEAD CITY, NC! SUNDAY, OCTOBER 3, 2010 AT 11:00 A.M. BLESSING OF THE FLEET Carteret County is proud of its commercial fishing vessels. Without them fresh seafood would not be available to our State and could also make a huge impact on our Nation's supply of fresh seafood. The vessels lining the Morehead City waterfront also add a lot of color as seen in the photo above! The Crystal Coast Beaches are still warm and beautiful. Don't miss your opportunity to enjoy them in your bathing suits and shorts before the cooler weather sets in! REAL ESTATE SHORT SALE IN BEAUFORT, NC 1311 Live Oak St, Beaufort, NC 28516 LIST PRICE 9-22-2010 $230,000 HAVE YOU DREAMED OF LIVING IN HISTORIC BEAUFORT? This beautiful LARGE 3 Bedroom, 4 Bath Updated Beaufort Home comes with many extras. It has great Curb Appeal and is situated on a 0.45 acre lot within walking or biking distance of the Beaufort Waterfront. This gorgeous Southern Traditional style home has High Ceilings, Exquisite and Rare Solid Knotty Pine Panelling Walls and Ceilings in its spacious living room and solid Hardwood Floors throughout many rooms of this home. A large Double Carport makes easy access to sheltered parking. The separate Detached Garage/Workshop with a Finished Room Over the Garage including a Full Bath makes wonderful accommodations to those unexpected guests and family. The wrap around Front Porch offers the chance to sit and relax and watch the world go by on those lazy mornings and afternoons in Beaufort. This beautiful,historic home would make a great Bed & Breakfast affording lots of space for privacy and comfort. You need to see this home to truly experience all it has to offer. See additional detail and special features on this property go on our website and click under 'Our Listings' at www.GenaGilbertRealEstate.com. NOTE: Square footage and flood zone not warrantied by seller or broker and should be verified by buyer. SHORT SALE SUBJECT TO LENDER APPROVAL!

GREY TROUT ARE BITING!

GREY TROUT ARE BITING IN THE TURN BASIN IN MOREHEAD CITY, NC Took our boat out today and caught our limit of grey trout which is one each. Brought them home, cleaned them, fried them for lunch and thanked our Good Lord for living in such a wonderful area. We fished in the Turn Basin east of the Port Authority in Morehead City when the tide turned and was running out to sea. It took us all of 30 minutes to catch the two trout. In today's economy it is a priviledge to have the ability to go such a short distance away and throw your lines in the water and reap such delicious rewards from the salt water so close to our reach. In Carteret County there are numerous public fishing areas and public marinas to launch your boats and take advantage of and enjoy a relaxing few hours of fishing. Sometimes the fish are biting and plentiful. Somes days, of course, they are not. That's why it is called 'fishing' and not 'catching'. But the reward of a little time on the water is well worth it. Come and see for yourself! Be sure to check out the "Hotlinks" menu on our website at www.GenaGilbertRealEstate.com for additional information or send us an email at Gena@GenaGilbertRealEstate.com. Women's Counsel of REALTORS(R) LUAU - HUGE SUCCESS! The First and hopefully, annual 'WCR Luau' of the WCR Crystal Coast Chapter was fun, entertaining and fruitful primarily due to strong support and efforts of the GENEROUS local sponsors, AMAZING community donations and the hard, dedicated work of the WCR Crystal Coast Chapter Luau Committee Members. Considerable portions of the proceeds from the event went to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Coastal Carolina and Carteret County Domestic Violence. MARK THE DATE! FEBRUARY 4, 2011, for the EVENING WRAPPED IN CHOCOLATE to be held at Shepard's Point in Morehead City. This historically fantastic evening scheduled for the Friday night the weekend of the Chocolate Festival in Morehead City is dedicated to help raise funds for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Crystal Carolina. Last year's top live auction item was 'A Rapsody in Food & Wine' which included a private dinner served at the private residence of the winner! It was thoroughly enjoyed by all who attended and promises to be a popular live auction item again in 2011. Stay tuned for details about this annual event or contact us on our website. GENA'S RECIPE FOR A GOOD OLD FASHION SOUTHERN STYLE FISH STEW CONCH FRITTERS WITH GENA’S TOUCH (Clams can be used as alternative to Conch) Fresh conch, diced, chopped or minced ( I chop mine) Green Pepper chopped Red Pepper chopped Hot peppers chopped finely to taste Celery Onion 1 egg, slightly beaten 1 cup of House Autry Hush Puppy Mix 1 cup of self rising flour Tabasco sauce to taste Old Bay Seasoning Greek Seasoning Salt & Pepper to taste Oil for deep-frying To make the fritters hotter, add more of the hot peppers such as Habanera, Hot Pimento, Hot Banana and Hot Jalapeño DIPPING SAUCE ½ Ketchup ¼ Mustard Dash of Worcestershire Sauce Horse Radish to taste ENJOY!

VISITING THE CRYSTAL COAST IN CARTERET COUNTY, NC

10 PLACES I PERSONALLY RECOMMEND YOU SEE OR DO WHILE YOU VISIT IN CARTERET COUNTY ON THE CRYSTAL COAST OF NORTH CAROLINA! 1. FORT MACON STATE PARK - An attraction for young and old! Beach access, bath houses, picnic areas, civil war fort and more! 2. PINE KNOLL SHORES AQUARIUM - Live sand tiger sharks, otters, hundreds of exhibits of marine life and wild life inside and out! Hunt for shark's teeth! 3. BOARDWALK AT THE CIRCLE on ATLANTIC BEACH - Take a walk back in history on the same strand of beach your parents and grandparents on which your parents or grandparents may have walked! 4. THE CRYSTAL COAST JAMBOREE - Live entertainment located in Morehead City! 5. CORE SOUND WATERFOWL MUSEUM - Beautiful exhibits of waterfowl and more on Harker's Island in 'DownEast' Carteret County! 6. Cape Lookout National Seashore! If I didn't know better I would think I was in the Bahamas! Be sure to visit the lighthouse also! 7. The History Place in Morehead City - Learn about the history of Carteret County and lots more! 8. Ruddy Duck's on the Morehead City waterfront. You have got to try their Greek Salad and Calamari! 9. Clawson's Restaurant in Beaufort on Front Street. Wonderful food and a great place to leave from and walk around Beaufort. 10. ? BE SURE TO FOLLOW THE NEXT BLOG AND SEE WHAT NUMBER 10 WILL BE!

LIVING ON THE CRYSTAL COAST OF NORTH CAROLINA