Dear friends,
December: a month of conflicting emotions and often conflicting events! I know that for many people this is a stressful, as well as an exciting time. I always look forward to the celebrations of solstice, and holiday traditions from many different cultures. Last week David and I returned from a visit to the Garden Island of Kauai, and the dramatic clouds and lush views of mountains near the seaside (with dramatic waves and high-tide advisories this year, so sadly, no snorkeling for us!) We particularly enjoyed the small-town feel of a Lighted Parade in Lihue, which included more than 60 vehicles covered in lights, with lots of community groups singing, dancing and sharing treats to those sitting along the route. The rain goddess Lono-Makua looked kindly on us, and a downpour ended just 20 minutes before the parade started. David came home with a surprising souvenir: a flyswatter from Aloha Pest Company. It made us smile! We also enjoyed three farmers’ markets where we acquired amazing small bananas and fabulous papayas. And I particularly enjoyed a community crafts fair that featured local dancers, taking me back to the days when I lived on Oahu as a keiki, and was part of a hula halau.
We don’t often travel in December because it inevitably means missing out on holiday events. But it’s actually a reasonable time to be away from my business, since inventory is so low, a normal condition for the period between Thanksgiving and at least the second week of January. But as soon as the new year begins it will be time to get working on listings for the spring, getting bids for upgrades and preparation work, and carefully watching to see how the 2025 market will unfold.
I’ve already had several people ask me to predict how the spring market will behave under the return of the administration we hoped was over. I do know of multiple families who are leaving the country as a result, and others who are moving to California from less progressive states. It’s too early to know which financial policies will actually be implemented, and how they will impact buyer behavior. My best guess is that long-standing conditions will continue to apply: there will always be fewer homes available in the most desired locations and in updated and well-maintained condition to keep up with demand. Our area will always combine natural beauty and architectural significance with a vibrant intellectual and cultural environment. And then there’s the food!
I recently saw a quotation that seemed apt:
So quiet and subtle is
The beauty of December
That escapes the notice of many people
Their whole lives through.
– Flora Thompson (author of Lark Rise to Candleford)
Without the snow of a white Christmas as in many parts of the country, or the warm breezes we experienced in Kauai, the beauty here this month is a bit subtle. But I send my warmest wishes that you and your family will indeed notice and savor it. In the following article there is a compilation of just a few special places to see lights in the East Bay, which is one of the special types of beauty I enjoy this season. I also enjoy making gift choices from local vendors. If you are still looking for some last-minute gifts, you might consider The Ecology Center Store, which has a great area of practical and sustainable items that people will really appreciate. David and I were proud to sponsor a matching gift to help raise funds for the excellent work they do, including keeping our recycling system strong, fighting against plastic foodware, and helping to maintain the local tax on sugar-loaded beverages. Our local farmer’s markets are including crafts items for the next week, so those are another pleasurable shopping option. To the extent that you can, consider buying local!
Wishing you all a meaningful celebration of Solstice, Hanukkah, Christmas or other rituals that speak to you. With deep thanks for being part of my community! May we each shine our own light into the world in this darkest season! And Mele Kalikimaka!
Arlene
