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Kingston, ON Real Estate News

By Susan Emo, Kingston and the 1000 Islands Area
We're in the middle of a major kitchen reno at the moment so we'll not be hosting the Easter festivities this year - drats!However, that doesn't mean I'm going to do without my favourite eggs . . .Deviled Eggs with a Twist  (sounds like something our Roger D. Mucci would call them!) 6 large eggs 1 16 oz jar of pickled beets 1 cup apple cider vinegar 1/3 cup brown sugar 1 tablespoon pink peppercorns 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard 1 tablespoon mayonnaise 1/2 teaspoon curry powder1/2 teaspoon tumeric 1 tablespoon vinegar 2 tablespoons olive oil Salt and pepper to taste Fresh rosemary for garnishHard boil your eggs and remove the shells. Set the eggs aside.To prepare the brine, pour the pickled beets into a large mason jar or bowl. Add cider vinegar, sugar, peppercorns, and salt. ...
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By Susan Emo, Kingston and the 1000 Islands Area
I hope everyone had fun getting their Irish on today!   After a long day, I didn't have the time to cook a leg of lamb as planned so instead, we took our time machine back to the 70s and enjoyed an Old School meal:Irish Chedder Whiskey Fondue with fresh from the oven Soda Bread!  Give your regular fondue a twist by using Irish Cheddar and some good Irish Whiskey.Prep Time: 5-10 minutes    Cook Time: 5-10 minutesIngredients 1 garlic clove, halved 1 c. dry white wine 1½ lb. Irish Cheddar cheese, shredded or grated 1½ Tbs. cornstarch 2 Tbs. Irish Whiskey kosher or sea salt freshly ground black pepper Rub the cut side of the garlic all over the inside of a large, heavy pot (preferably cast-iron or enameled cast-iron). Set over medium-high heat; add wine, and bring to a simmer. In the meanti...
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By Susan Emo, Kingston and the 1000 Islands Area
Today's the day to Get Your Irish on . . .If you've been reading my previous posts in my St Paddy's Day series, you'll know how much I love the Antrim coast in Northern Ireland. Well here is another treasure for you to enjoy: Bushmills . . . both the town and the whiskey!I'm sure you've heard of (and hopefully enjoyed) the world famous Bushmills Irish Whisky? Well the Bushmills Distillery, located in the town of Bushmills in County Antrim, Northern Ireland, claims to be - and is almost unanimously considered to be - the oldest licenced distillery in the world. A licence to distill in the area was granted to Sir Thomas Phillipps in 1608 by King James I, and the 1608 date is printed on the labels of the Bushmills brand whiskey.In 1890, a steamship owned and operated by the distillery, the...
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By Susan Emo, Kingston and the 1000 Islands Area
Only 2 more days to GET YOUR IRISH ON . . .This is one of my favourite places to visit -The Giant's Causeway. It is to be found on the Antrim Coast about 3 miles from the famous town of Bushmills (more about it tomorrow!) It is made up of approx 40,000 interlocking columns, the result of an ancient volcanic eruption. (anyone who knows me, knows I love anything to do with volcanoes)The tops of the columns form stepping stones that lead from the cliff foot and disappear under the sea. (like an Olympic version of the game "Step on a Crack, break your Mother's back")Most of the columns are hexagons, although there are also some with four, five, seven and eight sides. The tallest are about 36 feet high, and the solidified lava in the cliffs is 84 feet thick in places.The Giant's Causeway is ...
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By Susan Emo, Kingston and the 1000 Islands Area
3 Days left to get your Irish on . . .No visit to Belfast, Northern Ireland would be complete without calling in to The Crown Bar for a pint or two or even a cup of tea, for in the Crown Liquor Saloon "there are no strangers, only friends who have yet to meet." As one of the oldest and most loved landmarks in Belfast, where else would you find "a lovely burnished primrose yellow, red and gold ceiling, a floor laid in a myriad of mosaic tiles, brocaded walls ubiquitous highly patterned tiles, vigorous wood carvings throughout, ornate mirrors, wooden columns with Corinthian capitals and feathered motifs in gold? Painted and etched glass is everywhere you look, vivid in amber and carmine painted shells, fairies, pineapples, fleurs-de-lis and clowns incidentally,the colourful decorative win...
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By Susan Emo, Kingston and the 1000 Islands Area
TICK TOCK . . .     ONLY 4 MORE DAYS TO GET YOUR IRISH ON!Do you ever hear Irish words or terms and not have a notion of what they mean? Well let me talk you thru a few of the more popular phrases and their meanings and a few more Irish Facts:  Blarney . . . 1796, from Blarney Stone* (which is said to make a persuasive flatterer of any who kiss it), in a castle near Cork, Ireland; reached wide currency through Lady Blarny, the smooth-talking flatterer in Goldsmith's "Vicar of Wakefield" (1766).   *The Blarney Stone in Ireland has been named as the most  'unhygienic' tourist  attraction in the world.  It is kissed by more than 400,000 people each year and is now said to give you more than 'the gift of the gab' now!Catherine Kelly, who died in 1785, was allegedly the smallest Irish woman ...
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By Susan Emo, Kingston and the 1000 Islands Area
5 DAYS TO GET YOUR IRISH ON . . . I've made these for the past 5 years now so I thought they were appropriate for our 5 day countdown to St Paddy's Day! (I make a Tirimasu version too which is pretty darn tasty but these little gems win the day on the 17th - YUM!)Cupcakes:1 cup Guinness1/3 cup butter¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder2 cups all-purpose flour2 cups sugar1½ tsp. baking sodapinch of salt2 large eggs2/3 cup sour cream Baileys ganache filling:8 oz. bittersweet chocolate, finely chopped2/3 cup heavy cream2 tbsp. butter, at room temperature2 tsp. Baileys Irish creamBaileys butter cream frosting:1/2 cup butter, at room temperature3 to 4 cups confectioners' sugar, sifted4-8 tbsp. Bailey's Irish creamDirections:To make the cupcakes, preheat the oven to 350° F. Line your cupcake pans w...
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By Susan Emo, Kingston and the 1000 Islands Area
Offers invited at $2,250,000 Canadian which today converts to only  $1,620,453 in US $ This magical masterpiece is a marvel to behold. Sitting on 80 acres just 40 min from either Kingston or Belleville is a custom 4500 sq ft home created by the architect owner which includes a breath-taking Great Room with stained glass Juliet Balcony, 2 Libraries, a sumptuous Solarium with antique stained glass cathedral windows from the 1800`s. Add to it the Gate Lodge which comprises of an 1100 sq ft 2 bedroom/2 bath apartment. A curvaceous 4000 sq ft Orangery, 4 ponds with sparkling waterfalls, an arched iron bridge, Croquet Pavilion, Roman Swimming Pool, 350 sq ft Gift Shop, a walled Kitchen Garden, a Cedar Maze plus acres of flowering shrubs make up this haven of beauty and tranquility. This prope...
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By Susan Emo, Kingston and the 1000 Islands Area
We're in the process of revamping our kitchen: new countertops, new tile flooring, resurfaced cabinets and a few new appliances. One of the things I'm insisting upon is an Apron Sink (Farmhouse Sink or Belfast Sinks as they're AKA)I originally wanted copper but have decided to go with white instead, which will suit this particular kitchen better.  (Also thinking of resale purposes)In my online search for this elusive large, single bowl sink that will fit our dimensions, I came across this one: Have you ever seen a Bamboo Sink before?Is it something that would suit you and your kitchen?Would you design around a Bamboo Sink?I have many gorgeous kitchens in the listings I hold.  So many styles to suit so many personalities and needs.Check out a few of these Kitchens (including the all impo...
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By Susan Emo, Kingston and the 1000 Islands Area
19 RIVERSIDE DRIVE, KINGSTON, ON Asking $895,000 Canadian (at today's currency exchange rate; only $641,581.)   Exemplary in every gesture, element and material employed, this home delivers beyond expectation . . .   Well appointed open concept living with southern exposure capturing seasonal views of the St. Lawrence River provides exquisite comfort for the discerning buyer.   This home captivates all of your senses from the moment you enter.  A fabulous floor plan with entertainment size living space including a superb Chef’s kitchen with premium appliances and large centre island.   Main floor Master retreat is a sumptuous get-a-away with a bank of windows to your private sanctum with running waterfall and nature on demand plus a spa style ensuite and dressing area. Two other bedroo...
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By Susan Emo, Kingston and the 1000 Islands Area
Each year, these Tundra Swans make their way back to the peaceful home on Tim's Lake off Holleford Road, outside of Kingston, ONThere are so many lovely creatures that call this place home, we had to make a video for you. If you're looking for all the modern efficiencies, yet old world peace and tranquility too, take a look at 2902 Holleford Road just North of Kingston, Ontario. This home is only 8 years old and sits on the most tranquil of 17.5 acres.  Is Mother Nature calling your name?  If so, give me a call and allow me to introduce you to this wonderful home on Tim's Lake.Asking price is $790,000 Canadian Dollars which converts today to only $571,118 in US Dollars!  ATTENTION NATURE LOVERS Overview Maps Photos Description INTERACTIVE FLOOR PLAN $790,000 Single Family Home Main Feat...
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By Susan Emo, Kingston and the 1000 Islands Area
SOLD !!6020 Highway 96 on Wolfe Island - the largest island in the 1000 IslandsAsking Price $1,100,000.00Who wants to be next??
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By Susan Emo, Kingston and the 1000 Islands Area
Today is a day that calls for some warm and cozy comfort food!   The weather is dark, damp and dreary and the mood is somber and sad . . .Let's get the house smelling good and have something cozy and comforting ready for dinner tonight!A nice and rich Boeuf Bourguignon . . .                      Cubes of nice marbled beef, browned in bacon fatA good bottle of Pinot NoirPearl Onions and button mushroomsBay Leaf Carrots Parsley Thyme Garlic   mmmmmmm  ...Brandy is always a nice additionCan you breathe in the tantalizing aroma?  A simple side of salad and fresh baguette ?Are you craving comfort food today? 
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By Susan Emo, Kingston and the 1000 Islands Area
Already this morning I've read two posts about "early" Christmas trees, lights and decor, both of which disappointed me.One in the US, stating the trees should not go up until after Thanksgiving. . . (which I personally found disgusting!)and the other from Canada, in an attempt to prevent businesses from selling the goods until after Remembrance Day on the 11th November.NO CHRISTMAS DECORATIONS UNTIL AFTER REMEMBRANCE DAYWhat I found quite interesting was the first 2 comments on the news article which, to me, says it all:1.  As a veteran I am not opposed to a store owner displaying his/her merchandise at any time, it is for that reason I put on the uniform and did my duty so that we as a free people can make decisions on our own without interference, the business person makes their plan...
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By Susan Emo, Kingston and the 1000 Islands Area
"Would you like to look at our latest wrinkle cremes?"  is NOT something a young 30 something  wants to hear!                                                                   Do you ever provide your Postal Code/Zip Code and/or email address at the cash when checking out?  You know those survey studies that shops are always working on.How they're used is just fascinating to me.  It seems there is a working algorithm that will categorize your supposed age and therefore, your interests based on your email address!When asked about wrinkle cremes, the 30 something shopper demanded to know why they would ask her such a thing?  Imagine her surprise when she was told it was because of her "Hotmail"  email address.  You are determined to be of "an interesting age"  with "Hotmail" or "Yahoo" ad...
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By Susan Emo, Kingston and the 1000 Islands Area
The aroma of baked apples and real maple syrup is what weekend breakfast (or dessert) is all about! Enjoy a warm cup of joe while these beauties bake in a crockpot for 2 hours. Ingredients: 5 whole, washed apples (you can use gala, honeycrisp and/or granny smith) 1 to 1 1/2 cups of Maple Me Happy Granolahhh made with Ontario maple syrup 1 tablespoon of lemon juice (to prevent browning) 3 tablespoons of butter melted 5 to 9 teaspoons of real maple syrup (not artificial) Method: Slice a little off the bottom of the apple so it sits evenly in the crockpot and afterwards on your plate Slice a bit off the top of the apple to expose the flesh. Core the apples with an apple corer, melon baller, small knife or spoon to remove the seeds. Brush top of the exposed apple flesh with a bit of lemon j...
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By Susan Emo, Kingston and the 1000 Islands Area
Who doesn't love a nice kitchen?   I have many homes listed for sale with kitchens to make your heart sing!  The views are plentiful and the layouts are luscious . . .  How to you think they place in price point??At 5 Mathew St in Delta, you'll find this professionals' kitchen overlooking the poolAt 45 Main St in Westport, this amazing kitchen complete with pizza oven, overlooks Upper Rideau Lake from the spacious deck.7 Dawson Drive in Gananoque has a lovely open concept - love the ceiling!At 19 Riverside Drive in Kingston, the garden feels a part of the space - great lighting!163 Main St in Odessa has a new kitchen in this Limestone home built in 1901 - completely restored with all the modern conveniences one would expectThis beauty at 246 Island View Drive, outside of Kingston, ON pr...
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By Susan Emo, Kingston and the 1000 Islands Area
 It seems Autumn has arrived because here at Emo's Eating Emporium, I started baking again!!   I shared a photo online of the end result of yesterday's attempt and it prompted a flurry of recipe requests!  (You can see a hole in the crust where SOMEBODY was sampling [and by "somebody" I don't mean me!]!)I call this Apple Crunch Pie and, because I sort of made it up as I went along, I've done my best in recreating the recipe! Preheat oven to 450 degreesI started with "Pat-A-Pie Crust" which is a crust that doesn't make a mess  ie. does not need rolled out!!!In a large bowl, sift or whisk together 2 cups of all purpose flour with 2 tsp of sugar and 1.5 tsps of salt.In a measuring cup, whisk together 2/3 cup of vegetable oil plus 3 TBSP of milk.Add to flour mixture and mix with a fork.PAT ...
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By Susan Emo, Kingston and the 1000 Islands Area
Many people often wonder what it is like to be a Realtor?  That we spend our days looking at pretty houses and it is all a walk in the park.That's what we do, right?Mornings in ski country . . .Afternoons in horse country.    And then we take a break in picnic country . . .Not too many of these days left in the year so we took well advantage of a break in the day and enjoyed a picnic lunch on the shore of Lake Ontario.  Seemed so strange to have the place all to ourselves with not a soul on water or land as far as the eye could see!Love doing what I do!  No matter where you live, I'm like the wind: I'm everywhere so give me a call if you're interested in listing your property for sale.  If I can't be there, I can get you the next best person who can be!
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By Susan Emo, Kingston and the 1000 Islands Area
I posted a question about whether or not you advise your Sellers to bake in the Autumn to get the aroma flavouring the home . . .I was asked to post my Cinnamon Apple Loaf recipe so here it is!  (I haven't any photos because it disappeared like magic!!)                                                                            Cinnamon Apple LoafPreheat oven to 350 degrees then either line a loaf pan with parchment paper (easiest) or grease and flour it.  (I ask my husband to do this if I have no parchment!)Mix together 1/2 cup of brown sugar and 2 tsp of cinnamon and then set it aside.In a large bowl, cream together 1/2 cup of room temperature butter with 2/3 cup of white sugar with electric mixer til mixed and creamy. Add in 2 eggs and continue mixing and then add 2 tsp vanilla.In ano...
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