Midtown Direct Home Town Fun Awaits

February 8, 2013 by Leave a Comment

midtown direct home and spa celebrating 300x256 Midtown Direct Home Town Fun AwaitsValentines Day is nearly here and should you happen to find yourself as a single woman(like me), living in Millburn-Short Hills or any of our midtown direct towns for that matter, I suggest you treat yourself well on this holiday. I know I will! Have some fun taking some time out to experience something new, like reflexology or aromatherapy, or some other treatment you can enjoy close to your midtown direct home.

Choose one or choose them all, make your reservations, and have the time of your life embracing your status, living in a midtown direct home, and being your own Valentine!

If you have a home in Short Hills, a short trip to the Hilton Short Hills eforea spa will have you grinning from ear to ear as you explore a full range of services or a packaged “journey” of experiences. The “essentials” journey delivers instant, noticeable results, while the “escape” journey nourishes your body with organic plants and substances and healing practices. Men can take their own “men’s journey” with the end result of balance and restoration.

You might also want to call Massage Envy on  Morris Turnpike, as they offer a LONG massage (an hour and a half) and Sugar Foot Scrub Therapy to boot, which may very well be a better solution to a sweet treat this Valentines Day than chocolate.

If you live in a Chatham home, you may want to stop by Chatham Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spa. You’ll find a full range of pleasures, from stone massage and facials to waxing (Did I just call that a pleasure? ugh). And, if you happen to be part of a couple, they do offer special, private sanctuaries just for couples. I must mention that they are offering Valentines Specials, as well, which you can see by clicking here.

Another favorite that I had to list is a bit farther away, in Denville NJ, but the Urban Muse is truly an enchanting place. Called “The Best Day Spa in Morris County” you will find the expected list of traditional spa treatments, even including mudwraps, mixed with holistic offerings of Reiki, Angel Readings, Nutritional/Life Coaching and Intuitive Counseling which may come in handy this Valentines as you, like me, choose to love yourself.

Filed Under: Chatham NJ, Featured Blog Posts, Midtown Direct Events, Millburn/Short Hills, Places to go Tagged With: , , , , ,

To Stay or To Go – Sandy’s Effect on New Jersey Homes, People and Pets

November 5, 2012 by Leave a Comment

Pets displaced from New Jersey homes too To Stay or To Go Sandys Effect on New Jersey Homes, People and PetsHurricane Sandy has left many of us who live in Midtown Direct towns in New Jersey in a difficult situation. With cold weather and another nor’easter on the way, the ability to stay warm in our New Jersey homes is a critical issue. Blankets and jackets can only do so much. And while some New Jersey homes have power, many do not. For those without power, like me in my Chatham NJ home, the options are limited. We can burn wood or fuel, but those items exhaust themselves quickly. Possibly restaurants and movie theaters have heat, but those cost money and have limited hours, so are not a complete solution, either.
After a little over a week of coping without electricity and other amenities, I’ve decided to take a friend’s offer and get out of town for a little while. Others are doing the same on a day-trip basis and three charter buses are transporting residents tomorrow, leaving the Madison Municipal Lot #3 at 7 a.m., for a trip into NYC for a round-trip charge of $20. Find out more at the Chatham website here.
Pets are not allowed on the bus for obvious reasons, which brings up another point. Now, I realize my next topic may not be the most important issue when it comes to priorities but for pet people who have been made homeless, our pets have become a big issue! We’re between a rock and a hard place. We board them if we’re lucky enough to be able to afford the incredible prices of boarding at $100 dollars a day or we stay in our freezing homes and pray for power! The truth is, none of our friends (as much as they love us) are going to take us in with our beloved pets.
When leaving,  I had to find lodging for Bailey so I could spend a few days away because quite honestly I just am not sure I’m up for another storm quite yet. Luckily Morristown Inn in Morristown NJ had space available.  We are expecting this next storm on Wednesday and with the ground as wet as it is and the trees being as precarious as they are, it could be more troublesome than a typical nor’easter. People need to be prepared once again, physically and emotionally. We’ll all be praying for each other. If you have online access, click here for important numbers and information on how to get help.

Filed Under: Blog, Chatham NJ, Midtown Direct Events, Millburn/Short Hills, Summit Tagged With: , , , , , , ,

Find Gas Near Your Millburn/Short Hills home

November 3, 2012 by Leave a Comment

Gas Near your Millburn Short Hills home Find Gas Near Your Millburn/Short Hills homeI’ve learned a lot in the last week since Hurricane Sandy barreled through our New Jersey towns.  It used to be that my day to day activities were focused on the search for a Millburn/Short Hills home listing or meeting with clients and friends.  Now, however, my search is limited to finding a full gas station or a working ATM, as is the case for many residents living in Millburn/Short Hills.

My search at least came to an end, thankfully this morning.  Gas rationing has begun and I found a gas station in Summit, located on River Road, by The Broadway Diner, that had working pumps!  Yesterday I waited in line at another station only to be turned away, but this morning I realized that I only had 80 miles of gas left and knew something needed to be done immediately.  I was very blessed to have been chosen in gas rations to be one of the first in the mile long line to purchase gas.

So… I went to wait in line and I thought about how lucky we are to have just lost power in our towns. Yes, it’s difficult, but it’s nothing compared to the devastation in some areas affected by Hurricane Sandy.  While waiting, some amazingly nice people from Congregation Beth Hatikvah (I believe) brought donuts and coffee to those of us in line.  It was a literal God-send!  This is the type of thing that you’ll find in our New Jersey communities and I’m glad I was there to witness it.

Lines near your Millburn Short Hills home Find Gas Near Your Millburn/Short Hills homeI only had to wait a little over two hours (not bad compared to some people) and when I finally got to the pump I discovered that they weren’t taking credit cards!  I suppose I should have anticipated this with no electricity throughout  our towns, but it was still a shock.  I had waited so long!

In Summit, New Jersey and all of our towns, however, people really care about each other.  The workers at the gas station were SO nice about it and in broken English we agreed that I would come back with the $50.  I couldn’t believe it – I was so grateful!  To my surprise, two seconds later a woman behind me in a car offered me $50 in cash so I could pay for the gas and I wrote her a check. Wow, these small random acts of kindness are what keep me going and are examples of why I live in Chatham NJ.  I love our community, and the fact that even in times of extreme crisis, we, as neighbors watch out for one another.  Thank you, New Jersey!

Glennwood Crosswalk near your Millburn Short Hills home Find Gas Near Your Millburn/Short Hills homeBy the way, I saw that the gas station on Morris turnpike, across from Benihana’s in Millburn, NJ was pumping this morning, too.  I’m trying to post and share more updates like these to Facebook as I get more news that you may need, so you can follow my Facebook page here.

Filed Under: Blog, Chatham NJ, Midtown Direct Events, Millburn/Short Hills, Summit Tagged With: , , , ,

NJ Midtown Direct Rail Starting to Get Back on Track

November 2, 2012 by Leave a Comment

NJ Midtown Direct Rail info 300x271 NJ Midtown Direct Rail Starting to Get Back on TrackHurricane Sandy landed hard on our Midtown direct rail system and really all of the transportation lines on the eastern seaboard, but dedicated transit employees are hard at work to get things back on track. Announcements concerning our NJ Midtown direct towns and transit options appear to be in the works, allowing for some travel from your Summit NJ home or home in Millburn/Short Hills and surrounding areas.

Today NJ Transit resumed rail service between Trenton and New York Penn Station on the Northeast Corridor Line using this special schedule. Service for the other rail lines has not resumed because of damage from Hurricane Sandy and resulting outages in power. Most of the bus lines and the River Line light rail are providing transportation options too.

Summit, Chatham and Millburn/Shorthills home owners and residents should also be aware that rail passes will be cross honored on NJ Transit and buses and that passes expiring in October will be honored until November 7th to aid residents, according to the transit website. Please visit NJ Transit to get details and view actual schedules.

Filed Under: Blog, Midtown Direct Events, Millburn/Short Hills, Summit Tagged With: , , , , , ,

A Hard Day and A Good Day at My Chatham NJ Home

October 30, 2012 by Leave a Comment

Today was a good day.

A day to witness miracles and a testament to the strength of our communities.

Leaving my Chatham NJ home to visit and see family and friends alive and well and standing next to their Millburn/Short Hills homes (many of which were still standing) was amazing. Visiting the Millburn Deli brought a tear to my eye as I watched them remove the boards from windows, a sign that things were going to be okay. Many of you can remember when that wasn’t the case.

Preparing for disaster in Millburn A Hard Day and A Good Day at My Chatham NJ Home

Yes, there was devastation in our community yesterday.

Yes, it will take time (many months, likely) to recover and rebuild.

Yes, it was a hard day.

But, it was still good.

And I will sleep well tonight knowing that my friends, family, pets and loved ones and their homes in Summit, Millburn/Short Hills, and Chatham are still here. We will continue to draw strength from one another and make each day good until one day everything will be great in our small communities again.

Tree falls on Chatham home copy A Hard Day and A Good Day at My Chatham NJ Home

You see, we as a community are resilient. Our towns have weathered major storms, like Hurricane Irene and last years ice storm on Halloween and now Hurricane Sandy, and have bounced back. In fact, we are already bouncing – Halloween has been re-scheduled to Monday in many of our towns so that we can embrace our neighborly spirit despite the tragedy that has occurred. I am excited to have a chance to have trick or treaters visit my Chatham NJ home this week and recount the blessings of having children who are able to dress up and walk through our community.

Please join me in embracing the challenges that lie ahead – the challenges that will try our patience and resolve and may at times seem insurmountable.

Tree crushes NJ home A Hard Day and A Good Day at My Chatham NJ Home
Together as a community, whether you live in Summit NJ or have a home in Millburn/Short Hills, Chatham, or another of the affected areas, we need be strong, patient and move forward.  We have no choice.

Millburn, Summit & Chatham NJ Home Resources & Emergency Numbers

Listed below are some emergency resources that may be of help as you seek to rebuild and repair whatever challenges you may face individually and as a family. If I can be of service to you, please give me a call.

Filed Under: Blog, Chatham NJ, Midtown Direct Events, Millburn/Short Hills, Summit Tagged With: , , , , , ,

Active Living in Short Hills and Millburn

July 5, 2012 by 1 Comment

Active Living in Short Hills and MillburnThe Millburn-Short Hills community has a full schedule this month, filled with all kinds of activities ranging from blood donations to date-worthy concerts at your local bar and you can find the 411 here! Beyond Fourth of July events, living in Short Hills and Millburn will keep you on your toes with celebrating throughout the month! Come be a part of the fun by your Millburn-Short Hills home and enjoy your month of July jam-packed with fun, family, and friends.

If you’re getting that mid-year feeling most of us tend to get around Independence Day, that guilty, am I doing enough for my country feeling, here’s an idea to put an end to your guilt quickly and easily. Take some time away from your busy life to enjoy the things you usually take for granted and donate some blood! Just down the street from your Short Hills home, at the Millburn-Short Hills library, you can help at the Red Cross blood drive where you can help give the “gift of life” to someone in need. According to the Red Cross, all blood types are at critically low levels, but O positive, O negative, B negative, and A negative are especially in high demand right now. You can donate on July 7th and 14th. Call 1-800-733-2767 or 973-379-4198 to learn more!

As promised, that date-worthy concert is right around the corner is you are looking for a night on the town without traveling far from your home in Short Hills and Millburn! For jazz fans, The Mark Peterson Trio will perform at the Highlawn Pavilion in the Piano Room and Bar area and offer the option of a great-priced $29 prix-fixe, three-course menu, too. The Mark Peterson Trio will play every Wednesday, Thursday and Friday evenings throughout the summer. Make your reservations through 973-731-3463 or visit Highlawn’s website.

Filed Under: Blog, Featured Blog Posts, Midtown Direct Events, Millburn/Short Hills, Places to go Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , ,

In A Hurry To Sell Your Millburn-Short Hills Home?

May 31, 2012 by 1 Comment

If you are considering listing your Millburn-Short Hills home for sale, recent market studies have indicated that we are entering a seller’s market, so your timing could be perfect! A decrease in inventory in the housing market is good news if you need or want to sell your home quickly.sold home 300x199 In A Hurry To Sell Your Millburn Short Hills Home?

As a home seller, there are three areas where you can have major impact when selling your home.

Of course the appeal of your home is a prime consideration, but did you realize that the marketing efforts and pricing are key as well?

Price to Sell and Expect Results!

When time is of the essence, be careful not to set your price too high. Even if your home is “worth” more than your neighbor’s or “seems” like it should bring a high price, be realistic and aggressive in your pricing. Remember that home searches are typically focused on price, and plan accordingly. Would you rather only appeal to the $500,000 buyer when your home is worth $505,000, or open your options to the buyer who has a search parameter set at $499,000? The key here is exposure – when time is short, you want as many buyers as possible viewing your property! Price your home to sell and look forward to a quick sale and multiple offers.

Harness the Power of the Internet to Sell Your Home Fast!

Recent surveys report that 86% of home buyers begin their search on the web. Your home needs to be there, as well. In addition to having a listing page with property details, consider resources such as Craigslist, Realtor.com, and other sources throughout the internet. Ask about syndicating your home listing to make sure it gets as much exposure as possible.

In your listing marketing efforts, don’t forget pictures – lots of them! Buyers in the Millburn-Short Hills area want to “see” what is available before comparing homes in person. Make sure your photos are attractive and will sell your home. In doing so, you create a connection with your buyer before the home has even been visited.

Clutter-free and Clean Make For a Speedy Sale!

Look through your home with a critical eye. Minor repairs and touch-ups should be done to create a well-maintained look and your home needs to be very clean. Remove furniture and clutter as necessary. An orderly home is a home that sells fast!

Filed Under: Blog, Featured Blog Posts, Featured Properties, Home seller tips, Homebuyer tips, Market Statistics, Midtown Direct Events, Millburn/Short Hills, Real Estate Tips, Robin Benjamin, Single Family Home

Real Estate Charts of the Day: Short Hills NJ Listing and Sales Inventory

April 16, 2012 by 1 Comment

images 150x150 Real Estate Charts of the Day: Short Hills NJ Listing and Sales Inventory

Low interest rates along with a well educated pool of buyers have contributed to a very interesting and busy spring market. The Real Estate Charts show active inventory in Millburn-Short Hills  is about  the same as it was this time last year.  The pending sales in Millburn-Short Hills are up 19% while in Summit they are up 40% due to the new construction at Parmley Place. One and Two bedroom homes are available in this new complex located just blocks from downtown Summit.  My home sale statistics for March have just been posted with information you’ll want when purchasing a home. Search the MLS  for all the NEW listings and keep yourself up on what’s coming on the market and what’s selling.

If you would like to learn more about my local community or discover the meaning behind A New Suburbanism click here or contact me at 973.202.7270

Filed Under: Blog, Chatham NJ, Featured Blog Posts, Featured Properties, Home seller tips, Homebuyer tips, Market Statistics, Midtown Direct Events, Millburn/Short Hills, Real Estate Tips, Single Family Home, Summit, Town Home

Millburn-Short Hills Midtown Direct has Things to Do

March 2, 2012 by Leave a Comment

Midtown direct Millburn Short Hills Midtown Direct has Things to DoIf you suddenly find yourself with nothing to do this weekend around your Millburn-Short Hills homes, don’t look over the fact that you can jump on the Midown Direct and be in New York in just 32 minutes and have things to do! That’s less time than it would take to wash your car icon smile Millburn Short Hills Midtown Direct has Things to Do  That has to be one of the greatest things about living in Millburn-Short Hills!  We have the hometown feeling of living out in the country with lush trees and landscapes, but still have access to all the big city attractions that New York has to offer!

Whether you are footloose and fancy free or are entertaining your kids and families, there are SO many things to do in the city that never sleeps!  Where else can you go to a museum where they let your kids crawl through a giant digestive system or play in any of their other 70 interactive stations?  I am sure your kids have seen puppet shows before, but where will you find high-tech, glow-in-the-dark 3D puppets on invisible strings telling the story of The Tortoise and The Hare & The Ugly Duckling?  Only in NYC!  Click on the links below for LOADS of other fun family friendly things to do in the big apple!

 

The Children’s Museum of Manhattan  
212-721-1223

Peter Norton Symphony Space  212-864-5400

Central Park Zoo 212-439-6583

If you would like to learn more about my local community or discover the meaning behind A New Suburbanism click here or contact me at 973.202.7270

 

 

Filed Under: Blog, Featured Blog Posts, Midtown Direct Events, Millburn/Short Hills

Your Child Can Reach for the STARS Near Your Midtown Direct Train Line Town!

January 31, 2012 by Leave a Comment

dreamstime xs 22779566 300x250 Your Child Can Reach for the STARS Near Your Midtown Direct Train Line Town!It’s not too early to start thinking about those summer days ahead and what to do to keep the children busy near your NJ Midtown Direct Train Line Town!  Are your kids always singing and dancing around the house?  Do you often have to tell them to quiet down, or go in another room to exercise their vibrating vocal chords or incessantly tapping feet?  Well, this just might be the perfect spring/summer activity for them (and YOU!)

The Musical Theatre Conservatory located conveniently near your NJ Midtown Direct Train Line Town, has an entire line up of exciting classes including:  singing, dancing, acting, comedy, TV/commercials, make-up, stage combat, voice-overs, auditioning and more!  They have classes beginning in the spring or summer.  Children will have the opportunity to perform in New Jersey and in New York City!  Artistic directors Randy Elman and Mary Brienza both have extensive backgrounds in the performing arts and truly LOVE what they do!  The Musical Theatre Conservatory is a magical place where they teach children to reach for the STARS!

For detailed class descriptions, click here.

Contact 973-868-6259 or visit their website http://www.musicaltheatreconservatory.com/

If you would like to learn more about my local community or discover the meaning behind A New Suburbanism click here or call me at 973.202.7270

 

 

 

 

Filed Under: Blog, Featured Blog Posts, Midtown Direct Events
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