On February 2, eleven year old Jackie Evanco performed at the National Prayer Breakfast, at which President Obama was the keynote speaker.   With a voice as extraordinary as hers, it is easy to believe that all things are possible...including the day when hunger and war will no longer exist. 

In Tubac you can feel the excitement building in the air as vendors complete their last minute preparations for the February 8th opening of the 52nd Annual Tubac Center of the Arts.  Dating back to 1959 this festival, which is sponsored by the Tubac Chamber of Commerce every February, has the distinction of being the longest running event of its kind in the Southwest.

From February 8th through the 12th, the town with the motto of "Where Art and History Meet", will showcase the work of hundreds of visiting artists and musicians from around the country and Canada.  While the show is juried for quality, it is far from pretentious.  A day at this festival means you'll be treated to serious paintings that share the street with whimsical sculptures, creative crafts and New Age music.  Not to mention a food court packed with delicious treats that are sure to appeal to every taste and budget.

Click here for frequently asked questions about the festival.   Don't miss an area favorite, make plans now to attend one or all of the days:  February 8-12 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.    Admission is free and parking is $6 per car with proceeds benefitting local non-profits.  The Tubac Chamber of Commerce can be reached at 520-398-2704. 

A Villages end unit townhome gem that is priced to sell. Full of light that comes with being an end unit the laminate floors in the living/dining room give it a spacious feeling. The updates don't stop there as the electric range and microwave were replaced in 2006; dishwasher and refrigerator in 2009 and the roof was recoated in 2010. So much for so little. Enjoy mountain and common areas views from the large bricked backyard and the many amenities of this charming community center, pool, suffleboard and exercise facility.

A rare find...a place that makes you feel at home with its comfy vibe and spacious rooms. Situated on a prime 1.22 acre lot that offers stunning mountain views and hard to find privacy.

One of the areas you will love hanging out in is the rounded bricked patio on the NE side of the home which has a birds-eye view of the ever-changing Santa Rita mountains. This special place exudes charm from its beamed ceilings to the double shoji screen style doors between the large living room and huge dining/sunrooms to mention but a few of the many touches that add to the overall character of the home. The centerpiece of the family room is large brick fireplace for taking the chill off a cold winter's evening. Kitchen is open to the family are making entertaining a pure joy. There is plenty of cabinet and pantry space, an island and beautifully unique tiled counters in the kitchen. Generously sized master suite has room for a sitting area and the guest suite provides the privacy your overnight visitors deserve. Perhaps the most unique feature of this home is the 45' indoor swimming pool surrounded by windows that bring the outside in. Pool has pebble tech finish that was done in 2010. Other notable features are new central vac in 2011, RV parking space, and roof was sealed in 2012. If you are someone that craves outdoor living space at its finest, this is the home for you. There is a screened Arizona Room, as well as 2 huge patios on the SE and NE sides to enjoy the privacy of this serene outdoor space which has great mountain views and a chorus of birds that make their homes in many, many trees on the property.

Make This Slice of Southwest Splendor YOUR New Home--2255BuriedRock.com

Search Green Valley AZ Homes For Sale --Something For Every Taste & Budget!

The Year ended with mixed results for the Real Estate market.  On a positive note, sales were up as compared to 2010 with 824 in 2011 vs. 771 in 2010.  Days on market climbed slightly from 169 in 2010 to 176 in 2011.   Proving that the market has not yet stabilized, the average selling price dropped to $156,767 in 2011, down from $168,477 in 2010. 

December definitely showed that the high season may be a great one with 64 sales for the month as compared to 48 sold in November.   I can tell you that my 2012 has gotten off to a great start as several of my Sellers can attest to since they are now sporting "Under Contract" signs in front of their house. 

If you are thinking of selling your Green Valley AZ home give me a call, I'd love to hang an Under Contract if front of YOUR house.

AVERAGE SELLING PRICE YTD FOR 2011:

AVERAGE SELLING PRICE YTD FOR 2010:

The breakdown for the active residential listings as of December 31, 2011 were as follows:

64 homes were sold in December 2011 as compared to 48 in November 2011.  The breakdown, by area, for those sales were as follows:

Following is the 2010 to 2011 year-to-date comparison for the time period of January 1 through December 31, 2011:

                  JUDI MONDAY, CRS         

520-241-7780

An $80,000 transformation has this desert jewel looking far less than half its age. There is nothing left for you to do but move in and begin enjoying the serenity of being surrounded on 3 sides by beautiful desert common areas including a large & lush arroyo behind the house. And yes, there is even a mountain view that can be enjoyed from the large patio in back but even more so when you step outside the gate behind the house.

If you are someone who loves outdoor living, you will most certainly appreciate the large courtyard in front and the huge patio in back, both of which offer privacy, views and a place to enjoy the chorus of birds and wildlife who make their home in the common areas. The best part about this home is that the inside is every bit as delightful as the outside space. Step inside and you will be WOWED by the views that can be enjoyed from all the main living areas but more importantly by the fact that nearly every square inch has been updated with new carpet, tile, paint, as well as removal of the popcorn ceilings and so much more. The gorgeous kitchen will please cooks and non cooks alike with its new cabinets, counters, custom back-splash, gently used appliances and lovely kitchen nook. Both bathrooms are completely updated as well with custom tile counters, tiled showers with glass tile inset, new cabinets and light fixtures. This wonder can only be fully appreciated in person, so call today to make an appointment because tomorrow it may be gone!

How do I know?  Because of a tiny 2+ pound Golden Retriever that I rescued when he was just a few weeks old.  Not expected to survive he miraculously beat the odds, and during our six years together has taken up permanent residence in my heart.   He is MY furry angel, Cooper Monday.

Take a moment from your holiday preparations to watch this amazing video called Christmas Story--A Journey of the Angels.  It is a beautiful testament to those furry angels who give us so much and ask for so little in return.  Deeply touching, it reminds us all that Christmas is love in action.  

Wishing you and your "angels" a blessed holiday season. 

                JUDI MONDAY, CRS         

520-241-7780

 Holiday Celebrations In Arizona

A special Tucson tradition is El Nacimiento which is on display in La Casa Cordova at the Tucson Museum of Art.  El Nacimiento means The Birth and is a traditional Mexican nativity scene.  For centuries, joyful and colorful Christmas celebrations of Mexican families have centered around Nacimiento displays in their homes.

This annual exhibition is an elaborate and very special version of cultural inheritance.  An intricate arrangement of hundreds of miniature figures combines the symbolism of the Spanish Colonial Catholic Church with the simplicity and faith of everyday existence in rural Mexico. Some of the scenes are from the Christmas story in the Bible; others show traditional Mexican village life with an accuracy that extends to the tiny replicas of kitchen utensils in country dwellings. The glow of a myriad of tiny lights binds the multifaceted collection of scenes into a magical fantasy world.

Truly a labor of love, the installation of this beautiful Christmas vision is done by a devoted daughter in memory of her mother.   Maria Luisa Tena spends months each year preparing and arranging the Nacimiento.  Her dedication to her mother's memory is the reason this age-old Mexican family custom is preserved and shared.  It has been delighting visitors since 1978. 

               JUDI MONDAY, CRS         

520-241-7780

         Search Green Valley AZ Homes For Sale --Something For Every Taste & Budget!

November's cold snap in Green Valley AZ, cooled down real estate sales as well.  They dropped slightly from from 53 in October to 48 in November.   A bright spot in the market is the fact that sales in 2011 continue to outdistance 2010 with 759 sales to date as compared to 714 during the same time period in 2010.  However, the average selling price lags behind at $157,021 year to date in 2011 versus $169,387 for the same time period in 2010. 

AVERAGE SELLING PRICE YTD FOR 2011:

AVERAGE SELLING PRICE YTD FOR 2010:

The breakdown for the active residential listings as of November 30, 2011 were as follows:

48 homes were sold in November 2011 as compared to 53 in October 2011.  The breakdown, by area, for those sales were as follows:

Following is the 2010 to 2011 year-to-date comparison for the time period of January 1 through November 30, 2011:

                JUDI MONDAY, CRS         

520-241-7780

Holiday Celebrations In Arizona

Each year during the holiday season the Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix, AZ shines brightly with  thousands of luminarias lining the paths of this extraordinary desert garden to celebrate Las Noches de las Luminarias (Night Of The Luminaries).   Dispelling the myth that deserts are barren and inhospitable places, the Desert Botantical Garden offers 50 acres of the desert's greatest specimens including unexpected blooms in every color of the rainbow.  And while many of the desert plants go dormant in the winter, this desert mecca glows brightly this time of the year.

One of the Valley’s best holiday events comes to life at the Garden with more than 8,000 hand-lit luminarias that you can enjoy during one of the 22 nights in December that they'll be available for your viewing pleasure, including dates between Christmas and New Year's Eve.  Nightly entertainment includes jazz bands, mariachi bands, violin, handbell choirs, percussion, flamenco guitar, and more.  Carolers add to the festive spirit with songs of the season.

Be sure to explore the Garden's newest exhibition. David Rogers' Big Bugs sculptures which will be on display throughout the Garden nightly.  These 11 whimsical and enormous bugs are sure to create quite a buzz this holiday season.  Buy your tickets online for this seasonal favorite.

                JUDI MONDAY, CRS         

520-241-7780

For More Information Go To:  3396PlacitaDeLaFabula.com

Gorgeous updated Granada is located in a sought after area on a beautiful and private .55 acre lot not typically seen in the heart of Green Valley. Situated at the end of Placita Fabula this special home has breathtaking South and East views of 3 mountain ranges, including the Santa Ritas from its perch above the Canoa Hills Golf Course.

Long driveway and common areas on each side of the home give it a very serene and secluded feel. Step through the front door and you'll be "wowed" by the many updates including new ceramic tile in all the right places, paint colors of the great southwest throughout, and the beam in the vaulted ceiling of the Great Room. Enjoy desertscape and mountain vistas from all the main living areas. Kitchen has been updated with granite counters, new range top & stainless steel refrigerator--please note Seller will be replacing both the microwave & oven as well. Guest bath has been beautifully updated as well. If you are someone who likes outdoor living it simply doesn't get any better than this lovely landscaped backyard with raised garden beds, huge covered veranda and of course the main attraction--view, views, views!

A home of distinction with views that will take your breath away. This Tom Ward built home will delight even the most discriminating Buyer with its attention to every detail. Situated on 4.27 acres of pristine desert with a front row seat to the ever changing Santa Rita mountain range, the home is a Santa Fe masterpiece with deep set adobe style windows giving the exterior its classic appearance. Enter the home through a lovely courtyard with unique wooden double doors that have saguaro rib insets. Step inside and you'll come face to face with an unobstructed view of Elephant head and acres of serene desertscape. The open floor has a large great room with a gas log fireplace adorned by slate tile and a mesquite mantle. The entire East wall is windows providing stunning views from all the main living areas. Chefs take note: the kitchen has a Viking 6 burner gas range top, Wolf oven & microwave, Bosch dishwasher, Jenaire Refrigerator, high grade granite counters with natural edge, knotty alder cabinets, and a walk-in pantry big enough to stock a year's worth of food. Tiled Den has a close so can be a third bedroom, guest bedroom is spacious and both have private entries with tiled patios. The 15' x 18' Master Suite is fit for royalty with enough room for a sitting area and custom security door on the French door leading to the tiled covered patio area. Master bath rivals most high end spas with granite counters, jetted tub, huge tiled walk-in shower and split executive height vanities. If you are someone who craves quality outdoor living space, look no further There is a 528 square foot "L" terrace with the long side spanning 35 feet. Beautifully landscaped enclosed area has a waterfall feature and 360 degree views including a dead on unobstructed view of Elephant Head.

Holiday Celebrations In Arizona

Arizona Celebration of Lights  in Phoenix, AZ is the area's largest Christmas light show.   It is a "drive through" experience that features more than seven million lights and hundreds of individual light displays. 

A mere one mile stretch that will shine brightly in your mind long after you've driven away.   There are animated and still displays along with tunnels and arches. 

After finishing the memorable drive through the brightly shining lights, visit the festive Santa's Village for a body warming cup of hot chocolate, photos with Santa, a computerized light show and much more.  Order your tickets now online.

              JUDI MONDAY, CRS         

520-241-7780

 Holiday Celebrations In Arizona

Savor the holiday magic of Tohono Chul Park on December 2 and 3 when 750,000 lights transform it into a winter wonderland that includes a special desert snowman.  This family event is a treasured Tucson tradition that shouldn't be missed.

Stroll the Park's paths with a glass of wine or hot cider while reveling in the lights, music and holiday cheer.  It's a perfect spot to do some holiday shopping and participate in the Park's Ornament Show. 

The annual ornament show represents a circle of giving that begins with regional artists who donate exquisitely unique hand-crafted ornaments and holiday decorations that are put on display and offered for sale to benefit the Park.  The funds raised through Holiday for the Park help to fulfill their mission to provide a unique place where people can enjoy the beauty of the Sonoran Desert and learn about its natural, artistic and cultural heritage.

Featured performers for this 2 night event include Way Out West, Gabriel Ayala and the Southern Arizona Women's Choir. 

As one of the world’s 10 best botanical gardens (as rated by Travel + Leisure magazine) Tohono Chul Park enables visitors to immerse themselves in nature, art and culture through desert trails, themed gardens, vibrant art and cultural exhibits, eclectic shops and inspiring classes. Originally a family residence, for the past 25 years the Park has enriched the lives of Tucsonans and visitors by providing them the opportunity to find peace, inspiration and knowledge in this desert corner oasis.

             JUDI MONDAY, CRS         

520-241-7780

 Holiday Celebrations In Arizona

Take a walk on the wild side through the Phoenix Zoo that has been transformed into Wildlife In Wild Lights.   This magical event features 3.5 million twinkling, dancing lights making it one of the largest holiday lights shows in the country. 

ZooLights has are more than 600 glimmering light sculptures.  Although animal viewing is limited as most of the animals are sleeping, you will see zebra, otter, flamingos, watusi cattle and others in the animal kingdom that have more nocturnal habits.   As for the rest, you'll definitely see many of their likenesses lit up for your viewing enjoyment. 

ZooLights has gone green using LED (light-emitting diode) lights that consume far less energy than standard light bulbs.  They also require less energy to manufacture, thereby reducing their environmental impact even further.  The millions of lights are powered by SRP EarthWise Energy, a more environmentally friendly way to produce electricity. EarthWise Energy helps keep our Valley clean by producing energy from sun, wind, the earth’s heat and flowing water in our canals.

Among the many features of this spectacular light show are: 

• Gigantic new 3D praying mantis
• Life-size unicorn under a rainbow near Orang-Hutan
• Giant light display shining on the butte behind the African Savanna
• 24 foot diameter lighted sphere floating on the lake
• Life size, 3D lion (great photo opportunity!)
• Stunning Music in Motion dancing tree show
• Live animal presentation
• Carousel and camel rides* (*Fees apply)

Jengo the giraffe is one of the animals that likes staying up late and can't wait to see his many friends enjoying Wildlife in Wild Lights.  Each ticket purchase for ZooLights helps the Phoenix Zoo fund their educational programs, conservation projects and feed the animals.

You can purchase your tickets online for this memorable holiday event.

                JUDI MONDAY, CRS         

520-241-7780

 Holiday Celebrations In Arizona

Fiesta Feliz is an educational dance and music spectacular!  Journey with  Tio Vicente, from Puppet Mukik , through holiday traditions of the United States and Mexico.   Loved by young and old alike you don't want to miss the 11th Annual production that celebrates, through music and dance, cherished holiday customs. 

Be sure to make plans to attend this special event on December 2, 2011 at the Fox Theatre in downtown Tucson, Arizona.  Buy your tickets online.

               JUDI MONDAY, CRS         

520-241-7780