#let the triangle commence amen

[vanesawye]

on break from college nancy, single, comes home & once again finds herself on a monster hunting quest, but with her two exes & an instigating dustin

[maharajaexpress]

Booking Your Dream Luxury Train Adventure with The Maharajas Express

Are you ready to embark on the journey of a lifetime through the heart of India in unparalleled luxury and style? Look no further than The Maharajas Express, the epitome of opulence and hospitality on rails. With its world-class amenities, impeccable service, and meticulously curated itineraries, The Maharajas Express offers a travel experience like no other.

Booking your dream luxury train adventure with The Maharajas Express is a seamless and straightforward process, designed to ensure that every aspect of your journey is tailored to perfection.

An Overview of the Maharaja Express Luxury Train

The Maharaja Express offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the rich and varied landscape and cultural heritage of India. This prestigious luxury train presents four distinct rail tours, each lasting between 3 and 8 days, immersing you in the vibrant cities and picturesque countryside of Rajasthan, Agra, and Delhi.

The Heritage of India

This itinerary is perfect for those who want to delve into the rich cultural heritage of northern India. Over the course of 7 days, you will have the opportunity to visit magnificent landmarks such as the Taj Mahal, Amber Fort, and Hawa Mahal. Additionally, you will get to embark on a thrilling camel safari in Bikaner. The train itself boasts 14 exquisite salons and suites, each showcasing the unique aesthetics of a distinguished royal clan. During your journey, you will be treated to delectable Indian and continental cuisine, accompanied by an open bar in the elegant lounge cars.

Treasures of India

Explore the grand forts and palaces of Rajasthan, such as Mehrangarh Fort and Udaipur's City Palace, during an exciting 8-day adventure. Experience the traditional lifestyle of Bishnoi villagers and admire the wildlife at Keoladeo National Park. This trip showcases the area's fascinating history, lively culture, and stunning landscapes. Enjoy the impeccable service of onboard staff as you unwind and take in the ever-changing Indian scenery outside your window.

A journey through the heart of India aboard the Maharaja Express is the epitome of luxury travel. You'll be mesmerized by the stunning destinations, all while enjoying world-class amenities and hospitality. Choose from four unforgettable itineraries and embark on your dream rail adventure through this enchanting country. Let the Maharaja Express whisk you away on a magical voyage of discovery.

The Four Exciting Tour Circuits Offered

With four unique tour circuits covering distinct regions of India, The Maharaja Express has something for every luxury traveller.

The Heritage of India Circuit

This week-long itinerary offers a glimpse into the cultural essence of India, featuring stops at the Taj Mahal and the majestic Palaces of Rajasthan. Beginning in Mumbai, you will journey north through Rajasthan to explore impressive forts, lavish palaces, and the iconic Taj Mahal. This expedition showcases the opulent history and regal splendour of India's Golden Triangle.

Gems of India Circuit

This tour spans over three nights and covers numerous key attractions in northern India, such as the Taj Mahal and Palaces of Rajasthan. Commencing in Delhi, travellers will journey to Agra to behold the stunning Taj Mahal during sunrise. Moving on to Jaipur, visitors will have the opportunity to discover the Amber Fort and City Palace. This fast-paced itinerary provides a glimpse into India's rich culture and regal legacy.

Indian Panorama Circuit

This itinerary spans over a week and highlights the rich variety of India, encompassing both the southern temples and the iconic Taj Mahal in the north. Commencing in Delhi, your journey will take you southwards to marvel at the awe-inspiring temples and palaces, such as the Meenakshi Temple in Madurai and the Palace of Mysore. As you head north, you will witness the majestic Taj Mahal at sunrise before venturing to Jaipur to discover the grandeur of its forts and palaces. This well-rounded circuit offers a comprehensive glimpse into India's architectural marvels and cultural treasures.

Treasures of India Circuit

This tour spans three nights and highlights Delhi and Agra, with a special visit to the iconic Taj Mahal. Starting in Delhi, you will have the opportunity to explore impressive landmarks such as Humayun's Tomb and Qutub Minar. Upon reaching Agra, you will be able to witness the breathtaking Taj Mahal at sunrise. This brief yet unforgettable itinerary provides a peek into the rich cultural heritage of northern India.

Embark on a luxurious rail journey with The Maharaja Express, offering a range of durations and destinations to suit your preferences. Select your desired adventure and begin organizing your regal retreat to the core of this enchanting nation.

What Makes the Maharaja Express stand Out

Unparalleled Luxury and Comfort

The Maharaja Express is famous for offering a remarkable and opulent journey. With opulent cabins equipped with contemporary facilities, exquisite dining options, and luxurious lounge cars, no cost has been overlooked. Every carriage has been intricately crafted to capture the sophisticated lifestyle of the former Maharaja.

Hassle-Free Journey

Opting for the Maharaja Express offers a significant benefit in terms of the ease and smoothness of the travel experience. There is no need to be concerned about managing luggage, checking into hotels, or the hassle of packing and unpacking. Your belongings are taken straight to your cabin, allowing you to immediately begin relishing your vacation. Additionally, the train is equipped with a doctor and a team of staff members to attend to any medical requirements.

Experiencing the Cultural Tapestry of India

The Maharaja Express luxury train journey offers a unique opportunity to witness the vibrant culture and breathtaking scenery of India. Whether you are interested in experiencing the regal lifestyle of Indian royalty or immersing yourself in the cultural kaleidoscope of India, this journey has it all. From the opulent cabins to the delectable cuisine and personalized service, this moving five-star hotel sets a new standard for luxury travel. Explore the royal Rajasthan or the Golden Triangle in utmost comfort and opulence, while discovering the essence of India's diversity, history, arts, and natural beauty. The Maharaja Express is an exclusive adventure that will leave you with unforgettable memories.

[pamphletstoinspire]

Our Universal Mother - Part 40

Mother of Hope - (Our Lady of Pontmain) - France

O Lady of Mental Peace, Mother of Tranquility and Mother of Hope, look upon me in this time of my weakness and unrest. Teach my searching heart to know that God’s Love for me is unchanging and unchangeable; and, that true human love can only begin and grow by touching His love. Let your gentle Peace, which this world cannot give be always with me. And help me to bring this same Peace into the lives of others. Our Lady of Mental Peace and of Hope, pray for us. Amen.

In the village of Pontmain, about 30 kilometres to the north of Laval, in France, a farmer was working in his barn with his little boys Eugene and Joseph Barbadette, aged 12 and 10. On the evening of 17 January 1871, the two boys were helping their father in the barn when the eldest, Eùgene, walked over towards the door to look out. As he gazed at the star studded sky he noticed one area practically free of stars above a neighboring house. Suddenly he saw an apparition of a beautiful Lady smiling at him. Their father sees nothing, except three large bright stars forming a triangle in the sky. But Joseph also sees the Lady. She is wearing a long blue cloak strewn with golden stars; a black veil and a golden crown about 20cm wide with a red stripe in the middle. The lady is also wearing blue shoes and her hands reach out slightly to the side as on the Miraculous Medal. Undaunted, they call their mother, who also fails to see anything even after going back to the house for her eyeglasses.

There is nothing to it, declare the parents, and the boys are to get on with work and then come in for super. After a quick meal, the boys still see the beautiful Lady, so the Sisters of their school are called. Again, they see nothing. The Blessed Virgin Mary smiled constantly and remained motionless in the same position until 9 p.m. The children, parish priest and a lot of parishioners have gathered together, Father Guerin commences to pray with the parishioners. Of course the first prayer is the Rosary. At this moment the Lady becomes larger and the stars on Her cloak multiple and a lighted banner is unfurled under her feet. Two girls from a local school, Francoise Richer age 11 and Jeanne Marie LeBosse age 9, arrived and they also could see the Lady. A growing crowd of sixty adults, had begun to pray the Rosary at the suggestion of the local priest.

The parish priest of Pontmain starts to pray the Magnificat and golden letters appear on the banner, one by one, as if they were being written by an invisible hand. The village children say the letters one by one and when complete they read:

"but please pray my children"

The parish priest says: "we must pray to the Lady, making Her will known". The people now pray The Litany of The Blessed Virgin Mother. More words appear as they did earlier:

"God will soon hear your prayers"

The fourth prayer is the "Invoilota" When they get to the words "O Mater Alma, Christi Carissima". The following words appear:

"My Son"

All present are now very sure that it is The Virgin Mary and

they pray the fifth prayer: "Salve Regina". Whilst singing this the

sentence is finished:

"MY SON IS WAITNG FOR YOU"

These words are underlined. The sixth prayer is then sung. It is a traditional favorite of Pontmain: "Mother of Hope" and the people love to sing it loud and clear. This well loved title is part of the prayer: "Mother of Hope protect our France; Pray, Pray for us!" Then Mary's smile just glows with love and She lifts Her hands to Her shoulders whilst pointing to the little Red Cross which She wears by Her heart.

The seventh prayer is "My Sweet Jesus" at this point forgiveness of all sins will be granted to those who with contrite hearts have first prayed the "Pace Domine". An expression of suffering and pain appears on The Blessed Virgins Face and a crucifix is formed which She holds with both of Her hands. Both the cross and Jesus are red. Above the crucifix is a small beam on which appears: "JESUS CHRIST" in letters of blood, whilst Our Lady's deep sorrow radiates out over the crowd.

A star breaks loose from the sky and extinguishes the four candles which surround The Lady. She never takes Her eyes off the Crucifix when the parish priest of Pontmain commences the "Ave Maria Stella" the crucifix vanishes and Our Lady returns to Her original pose.

Two small white crosses now appear on her shoulders where they seem to be implanted. Slowly a large white veil floats upwards, to finally cover the apparition completely.

The Lady then disappears totally.

The Germans start to retreat and on the 20th of January General Van Schmidt finally surrenders and on the 28th of January, just eleven days after the apparition, the peace agreement is signed. The message of Pontmain very clearly shows us the effect of the prayers of even a small Parish community. One should turn to prayer, especially in times of trials.

We remember Our Lady’s message in Pontmain very clearly. So now we can look at Her as She appears in the words of the hymns. 'Mother of Hope, protect...pray for us: Mary raises Her arms whilst She looks at the small Red Cross on her Heart: this shows Our Lady to be very closely one with Her Son on The Cross, thus She is Our Mother of Redemption. And will offer our prayers for us.

During the "Pace Domine" Mary pleads with us to offer Jesus Christ Our Redeemer to God The Father. By offering Holy Mass as thanks to God Our Father for His Son Jesus Christ Our Lord. The red cross with the red Corpus, the bloody letters and the lighted candles on either side point once more to The Holy Mass. Finally during the "Ave Maris Stella" we see Her as She appears on the Miraculous Medal, giving very generously and the two small white crosses implanted in Her shouldes, speak to us of 'Triumph' through Gods Intervention. At Pontmain, Our Lady shows us that She can hold back Her Sons Arm, if we listen to and obey Her Messages.

Joseph Baradette became a priest, a member of the Congregation of the Oblates of Mary Immaculate, while his brother Eùgene became a secular priest. He was assisted by one of the girls who had seen Mary as his housekeeper, with the other, Jeanne-Marie Lebossé, becoming a nun. A large Basilica was built at Pontmain and consecrated in 1900.

This apparition in Pontmain was fully approved by the Holy See: February 1875

[seanskeithley]

Baby’s 1st Birthday Party Ideas and Planning Guide

Your Baby’s first birthday is the most important one ever—not just for your special little girl or boy, but also for you! You are the proud parent of your bundle of joy, but planning your child’s 1st birthday party can be incredibly stressful. YTE Events in Tampa has helped dozens of Moms and Dads make baby’s first birthday party memorable, fun, and completely stress-free! As the best entertainment solution in the Tampa Bay area, YTE has everything YOU need to plan the best one-year-old party!

Where do I have my child’s first birthday party?

The best place to host your baby’s birthday is at your home. Your home offers all the amenities that you, your baby, and your guests need:

Convenient location

Baby-proof surroundings

Changing table and diapers

Crib for emergency nap-time

High chair and baby furniture

Favorite baby toys

Comfortable & familiar environment

Is your house too small for your baby’s special day? Try asking your friends and family if you can host the party at their house—bonus points if their home is already baby-proof! Just be sure to put the correct address of the birthday party location when sending out your Baby’s 1st Birthday Party invitations!

When is a good time to host my baby’s 1st birthday?

As a parent, you KNOW that your baby is the boss when it comes to scheduling. When choosing a timeframe for baby’s party, take into account:

Nap time

Play time

Meal time

The best times to host your child’s first birthday are in the late morning (after breakfast but before lunch), or early afternoon so long as lunch is provided for your hungry friends and their ravenous kids.

 Theme and Decoration for baby’s first birthday

Get ready to unleash your creative instincts! Your one year old won’t recall the decorations, but all your friends and all the photos certainly will! Some of the most popular themes for baby’s 1st birthday include:

Sock Money theme

Thomas the Tank Engine theme

Wild Animal theme

Rubber Ducky theme

Pink Elephant theme

Elmo or Cookie Monster theme

Little Man & Mustache theme

My Little Princess theme

ABC Alphabet theme

Where the Wild Things Are theme

Circus theme

Garden or Ocean theme

Rainbow party theme

Owl theme (Look Whoo’s One!)

Lady Bug or Bumblebee theme

Very Hungry Little Caterpillar theme

Of course, choosing a party theme based off your baby’s nursery works wonders too! You can also encourage your guests to dress accordingly to your party’s theme for beautiful, memorable photos and lifelong memories.

Best Entertainment for babies, toddlers, and parents

It doesn’t take much to entertain your 1 year old and their teething toddler friends—but it’s important to make sure that whatever “toys” you have lying around are baby-proof, stain-proof, and indestructible! Besides your typical Fisher Price toys, the best entertainment to have at your baby’s 1st birthday party are:

Pots, pans, and wooden spoons for musical melodies (or torture)

Foam Pool Noodles cut in half for harmless swordfights

Soft Plastic Balls inside an inflatable Swimming Pool or large Playpen (children absolutely LOVE this—and so do the adults!)

It is also a good idea to coordinate professional entertainment for your guests older than 3 years old. YTE Events has the best party entertainers in Tampa, and our skilled artists have been specially trained to handle all partygoers at baby’s 1st birthday:

Balloon Artist

Face Painter

Princesses and Super Heroes Characters

Letterbrush Artist (perfect for Garden or Ocean themed parties!)

Caricature Artist

Bubble Show performer

Don’t forget the photographer! You will want lots of photos from you and your baby’s super special day, so if you are not camera-savvy, YTE has professional photographers that will make baby’s 1st birthday unforgettable. Click here to submit a free, no obligation event request with Tampa’s top entertainers!

Food Options for one year old birthday party

You think your baby is a picky eater? Just imagine the picky palates of all the kids (and their adults companions) attending your baby’s first birthday. But do not fret—with all the baby parties that YTE Events has served, we know the best baby-approved food choices to serve at your party:

Pizza Cupcakes

In a greased cupcake pan, place refrigerated biscuit dough, pizza sauce, and cheese, and/or any other toppings such as pepperoni, spinach, or sausage. Bake at 350 degrees for 10-12 minutes, or until fluffy and gooey. Kids and adults will love ‘em!

Mini Corn Dogs

In a greased mini muffin pan, pour Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix along with a slice of a hotdog pressed in. Bake in a 400 degree oven for 10-15 minutes, or until golden brown. Try not to eat them all before the party guests arrive!

Rainbow Spaghetti

Taste the rainbow—literally! Using different Food Coloring colors, place 20 drops of one color + 2 tbsps of water in a large Ziplock bags (so 1 bag for Blue, 1 bag for Red, etc). After cooking the pasta of your choice and straining it, transfer equal amounts of pasta into each bag of food coloring; let sit for at least 2 minutes. Strain out the pasta again, and enjoy!

Peanut Butter and Jelly “Sushi” Rolls

Use rolling pin to complete flatten piece of bread. Spread 1 tbsp Peanut Butter and 1 tbsp of Jelly or Jam. Roll slice into a tight spiral, then cut into 4 pieces.

Banana Dogs

The healthy alternative to hot dogs! Line hotdog bun with peanut butter, place a small to medium sized banana inside, drizzle strawberry jelly on top, and watch the smiles commence! Cut into half or thirds for minimum waste and maximum YUM.

Deli Sandwiches & Wraps

Make them at home, or make things easy by picking up sandwich trays from your local supermarket Deli.

Pizza Delivery

With so many other things going on, sometimes it’s better to leave the fan-favorite food to the professionals. Order a bunch of cheese and pepperoni pizzas from your favorite pizza joint and appease the pickiest of eaters.

Snacks and Finger Foods are an absolute must at any party, especially your child’s first birthday. Popular snacks for baby parties include:

Animal Crackers

Especially awesome at Circus, Sock Monkey, and Wild Animal themed parties

Goldfish and Cheez-Its

Cheerios, Alpha-bits, or other cereal

Carrot, Celery, and Apple slices

Grapes

Skewer them to create caterpillars

Freeze grapes for fun chilly treats

Fun Fruit shapes

Use cookie cutters to cut out fun shapes in watermelon, cantaloupe, honeydew, and pineapple

Ants on a log

Celery, peanut butter, raisins, YUM

Pretzels and Chips, with Hummus and/or Vegetable Dip

And don’t forget the drinks! Be sure to supply enough water bottles, fruit juices, and adult beverages (along with plenty of ice!!) to keep you and your guests happy.

The perfect birthday cake for baby!

Picking the perfect cake for your baby’s first birthday is NOT a piece of cake! Your one year old’s birthday cake will undoubtedly be the most memorable one for years to come, so it will be difficult deciding which decorative dessert is right for you and your baby and your guests.

Main Birthday Cake:

Fancy 3 tiered cake that matches the theme of the party

2 tiered cake is less expensive but still fancy

Make-at-home cake (circular or rectangular) with colored frosting and/or fondant shapes

Baby cakes are small “wooden block” inspired cake squares, individually covered in fondant and individually decorated. 1 baby cake square yields 2 perfect triangle cake slices when cut diagonally.

Cupcakes and Cake Pops

Cupcakes are easy to make, easier to buy, easy to eat, and easy to clean up

Cake Pops are a perfect choice at baby’s first birthday party, providing the most MMMM and the least amount of waste and cleanup.

Cake SMASH!

Your baby is a master at destroying confectionery creations. Have a smaller, simpler cake ready for your one year old to smash and devour while capturing picture-perfect photos

You can make this doomed cake at home, or purchase a cheap round sacrifice at your local supermarket Bakery.

If you are a culinary wizard, or have a gifted friend or family member, you can create any of these tasty treats at home. For the challenged baker, your local supermarket has plenty of decadent options to choose from. And if money is not a problem, find a specialty bakery to transform the cake of your dreams into a reality!

If you are planning your Baby’s first birthday party, or know anyone looking for baby-approved entertainment for their party, send us an event request form and allow YTE to make baby’s 1st birthday the best one YET!

[jeaniegenlow]

Baby’s 1st Birthday Party Ideas and Planning Guide

Your Baby’s first birthday is the most important one ever—not just for your special little girl or boy, but also for you! You are the proud parent of your bundle of joy, but planning your child’s 1st birthday party can be incredibly stressful. YTE Events in Tampa has helped dozens of Moms and Dads make baby’s first birthday party memorable, fun, and completely stress-free! As the best entertainment solution in the Tampa Bay area, YTE has everything YOU need to plan the best one-year-old party!

Where do I have my child’s first birthday party?

The best place to host your baby’s birthday is at your home. Your home offers all the amenities that you, your baby, and your guests need:

Convenient location

Baby-proof surroundings

Changing table and diapers

Crib for emergency nap-time

High chair and baby furniture

Favorite baby toys

Comfortable & familiar environment

Is your house too small for your baby’s special day? Try asking your friends and family if you can host the party at their house—bonus points if their home is already baby-proof! Just be sure to put the correct address of the birthday party location when sending out your Baby’s 1st Birthday Party invitations!

When is a good time to host my baby’s 1st birthday?

As a parent, you KNOW that your baby is the boss when it comes to scheduling. When choosing a timeframe for baby’s party, take into account:

Nap time

Play time

Meal time

The best times to host your child’s first birthday are in the late morning (after breakfast but before lunch), or early afternoon so long as lunch is provided for your hungry friends and their ravenous kids.

Theme and Decoration for baby’s first birthday

Get ready to unleash your creative instincts! Your one year old won’t recall the decorations, but all your friends and all the photos certainly will! Some of the most popular themes for baby’s 1st birthday include:

Sock Money theme

Thomas the Tank Engine theme

Wild Animal theme

Rubber Ducky theme

Pink Elephant theme

Elmo or Cookie Monster theme

Little Man & Mustache theme

My Little Princess theme

ABC Alphabet theme

Where the Wild Things Are theme

Circus theme

Garden or Ocean theme

Rainbow party theme

Owl theme (Look Whoo’s One!)

Lady Bug or Bumblebee theme

Very Hungry Little Caterpillar theme

Of course, choosing a party theme based off your baby’s nursery works wonders too! You can also encourage your guests to dress accordingly to your party’s theme for beautiful, memorable photos and lifelong memories.

Best Entertainment for babies, toddlers, and parents

It doesn’t take much to entertain your 1 year old and their teething toddler friends—but it’s important to make sure that whatever “toys” you have lying around are baby-proof, stain-proof, and indestructible! Besides your typical Fisher Price toys, the best entertainment to have at your baby’s 1st birthday party are:

Pots, pans, and wooden spoons for musical melodies (or torture)

Foam Pool Noodles cut in half for harmless swordfights

Soft Plastic Balls inside an inflatable Swimming Pool or large Playpen (children absolutely LOVE this—and so do the adults!)

It is also a good idea to coordinate professional entertainment for your guests older than 3 years old. YTE Events has the best party entertainers in Tampa, and our skilled artists have been specially trained to handle all partygoers at baby’s 1st birthday:

Balloon Artist

Face Painter

Princesses and Super Heroes Characters

Letterbrush Artist (perfect for Garden or Ocean themed parties!)

Caricature Artist

Bubble Show performer

Don’t forget the photographer! You will want lots of photos from you and your baby’s super special day, so if you are not camera-savvy, YTE has professional photographers that will make baby’s 1st birthday unforgettable. Click here to submit a free, no obligation event request with Tampa’s top entertainers!

Food Options for one year old birthday party

You think your baby is a picky eater? Just imagine the picky palates of all the kids (and their adults companions) attending your baby’s first birthday. But do not fret—with all the baby parties that YTE Events has served, we know the best baby-approved food choices to serve at your party:

Pizza Cupcakes

In a greased cupcake pan, place refrigerated biscuit dough, pizza sauce, and cheese, and/or any other toppings such as pepperoni, spinach, or sausage. Bake at 350 degrees for 10-12 minutes, or until fluffy and gooey. Kids and adults will love ‘em!

Mini Corn Dogs

In a greased mini muffin pan, pour Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix along with a slice of a hotdog pressed in. Bake in a 400 degree oven for 10-15 minutes, or until golden brown. Try not to eat them all before the party guests arrive!

Rainbow Spaghetti

Taste the rainbow—literally! Using different Food Coloring colors, place 20 drops of one color + 2 tbsps of water in a large Ziplock bags (so 1 bag for Blue, 1 bag for Red, etc). After cooking the pasta of your choice and straining it, transfer equal amounts of pasta into each bag of food coloring; let sit for at least 2 minutes. Strain out the pasta again, and enjoy!

Peanut Butter and Jelly “Sushi” Rolls

Use rolling pin to complete flatten piece of bread. Spread 1 tbsp Peanut Butter and 1 tbsp of Jelly or Jam. Roll slice into a tight spiral, then cut into 4 pieces.

Banana Dogs

The healthy alternative to hot dogs! Line hotdog bun with peanut butter, place a small to medium sized banana inside, drizzle strawberry jelly on top, and watch the smiles commence! Cut into half or thirds for minimum waste and maximum YUM.

Deli Sandwiches & Wraps

Make them at home, or make things easy by picking up sandwich trays from your local supermarket Deli.

Pizza Delivery

With so many other things going on, sometimes it’s better to leave the fan-favorite food to the professionals. Order a bunch of cheese and pepperoni pizzas from your favorite pizza joint and appease the pickiest of eaters.

Snacks and Finger Foods are an absolute must at any party, especially your child’s first birthday. Popular snacks for baby parties include:

Animal Crackers

Especially awesome at Circus, Sock Monkey, and Wild Animal themed parties

Goldfish and Cheez-Its

Cheerios, Alpha-bits, or other cereal

Carrot, Celery, and Apple slices

Grapes

Skewer them to create caterpillars

Freeze grapes for fun chilly treats

Fun Fruit shapes

Use cookie cutters to cut out fun shapes in watermelon, cantaloupe, honeydew, and pineapple

Ants on a log

Celery, peanut butter, raisins, YUM

Pretzels and Chips, with Hummus and/or Vegetable Dip

And don’t forget the drinks! Be sure to supply enough water bottles, fruit juices, and adult beverages (along with plenty of ice!!) to keep you and your guests happy.

The perfect birthday cake for baby!

Picking the perfect cake for your baby’s first birthday is NOT a piece of cake! Your one year old’s birthday cake will undoubtedly be the most memorable one for years to come, so it will be difficult deciding which decorative dessert is right for you and your baby and your guests.

Main Birthday Cake:

Fancy 3 tiered cake that matches the theme of the party

2 tiered cake is less expensive but still fancy

Make-at-home cake (circular or rectangular) with colored frosting and/or fondant shapes

Baby cakes are small “wooden block” inspired cake squares, individually covered in fondant and individually decorated. 1 baby cake square yields 2 perfect triangle cake slices when cut diagonally.

Cupcakes and Cake Pops

Cupcakes are easy to make, easier to buy, easy to eat, and easy to clean up

Cake Pops are a perfect choice at baby’s first birthday party, providing the most MMMM and the least amount of waste and cleanup.

Cake SMASH!

Your baby is a master at destroying confectionery creations. Have a smaller, simpler cake ready for your one year old to smash and devour while capturing picture-perfect photos

You can make this doomed cake at home, or purchase a cheap round sacrifice at your local supermarket Bakery.

If you are a culinary wizard, or have a gifted friend or family member, you can create any of these tasty treats at home. For the challenged baker, your local supermarket has plenty of decadent options to choose from. And if money is not a problem, find a specialty bakery to transform the cake of your dreams into a reality!

If you are planning your Baby’s first birthday party, or know anyone looking for baby-approved entertainment for their party, send us an event request form and allow YTE to make baby’s 1st birthday the best one YET!

[darrencpritt]

Baby’s 1st Birthday Party Ideas and Planning Guide

Your Baby’s first birthday is the most important one ever—not just for your special little girl or boy, but also for you! You are the proud parent of your bundle of joy, but planning your child’s 1st birthday party can be incredibly stressful. YTE Events in Tampa has helped dozens of Moms and Dads make baby’s first birthday party memorable, fun, and completely stress-free! As the best entertainment solution in the Tampa Bay area, YTE has everything YOU need to plan the best one-year-old party!

Where do I have my child’s first birthday party?

The best place to host your baby’s birthday is at your home. Your home offers all the amenities that you, your baby, and your guests need:

Convenient location

Baby-proof surroundings

Changing table and diapers

Crib for emergency nap-time

High chair and baby furniture

Favorite baby toys

Comfortable & familiar environment

Is your house too small for your baby’s special day? Try asking your friends and family if you can host the party at their house—bonus points if their home is already baby-proof! Just be sure to put the correct address of the birthday party location when sending out your Baby’s 1st Birthday Party invitations!

When is a good time to host my baby’s 1st birthday?

As a parent, you KNOW that your baby is the boss when it comes to scheduling. When choosing a timeframe for baby’s party, take into account:

Nap time

Play time

Meal time

The best times to host your child’s first birthday are in the late morning (after breakfast but before lunch), or early afternoon so long as lunch is provided for your hungry friends and their ravenous kids.

  Theme and Decoration for baby’s first birthday

Get ready to unleash your creative instincts! Your one year old won’t recall the decorations, but all your friends and all the photos certainly will! Some of the most popular themes for baby’s 1st birthday include:

Sock Money theme

Thomas the Tank Engine theme

Wild Animal theme

Rubber Ducky theme

Pink Elephant theme

Elmo or Cookie Monster theme

Little Man & Mustache theme

My Little Princess theme

ABC Alphabet theme

Where the Wild Things Are theme

Circus theme

Garden or Ocean theme

Rainbow party theme

Owl theme (Look Whoo’s One!)

Lady Bug or Bumblebee theme

Very Hungry Little Caterpillar theme

Of course, choosing a party theme based off your baby’s nursery works wonders too! You can also encourage your guests to dress accordingly to your party’s theme for beautiful, memorable photos and lifelong memories.

Best Entertainment for babies, toddlers, and parents

It doesn’t take much to entertain your 1 year old and their teething toddler friends—but it’s important to make sure that whatever “toys” you have lying around are baby-proof, stain-proof, and indestructible! Besides your typical Fisher Price toys, the best entertainment to have at your baby’s 1st birthday party are:

Pots, pans, and wooden spoons for musical melodies (or torture)

Foam Pool Noodles cut in half for harmless swordfights

Soft Plastic Balls inside an inflatable Swimming Pool or large Playpen (children absolutely LOVE this—and so do the adults!)

It is also a good idea to coordinate professional entertainment for your guests older than 3 years old. YTE Events has the best party entertainers in Tampa, and our skilled artists have been specially trained to handle all partygoers at baby’s 1st birthday:

Balloon Artist

Face Painter

Princesses and Super Heroes Characters

Letterbrush Artist (perfect for Garden or Ocean themed parties!)

Caricature Artist

Bubble Show performer

Don’t forget the photographer! You will want lots of photos from you and your baby’s super special day, so if you are not camera-savvy, YTE has professional photographers that will make baby’s 1st birthday unforgettable. Click here to submit a free, no obligation event request with Tampa’s top entertainers!

Food Options for one year old birthday party

You think your baby is a picky eater? Just imagine the picky palates of all the kids (and their adults companions) attending your baby’s first birthday. But do not fret—with all the baby parties that YTE Events has served, we know the best baby-approved food choices to serve at your party:

Pizza Cupcakes

In a greased cupcake pan, place refrigerated biscuit dough, pizza sauce, and cheese, and/or any other toppings such as pepperoni, spinach, or sausage. Bake at 350 degrees for 10-12 minutes, or until fluffy and gooey. Kids and adults will love ‘em!

Mini Corn Dogs

In a greased mini muffin pan, pour Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix along with a slice of a hotdog pressed in. Bake in a 400 degree oven for 10-15 minutes, or until golden brown. Try not to eat them all before the party guests arrive!

Rainbow Spaghetti

Taste the rainbow—literally! Using different Food Coloring colors, place 20 drops of one color + 2 tbsps of water in a large Ziplock bags (so 1 bag for Blue, 1 bag for Red, etc). After cooking the pasta of your choice and straining it, transfer equal amounts of pasta into each bag of food coloring; let sit for at least 2 minutes. Strain out the pasta again, and enjoy!

Peanut Butter and Jelly “Sushi” Rolls

Use rolling pin to complete flatten piece of bread. Spread 1 tbsp Peanut Butter and 1 tbsp of Jelly or Jam. Roll slice into a tight spiral, then cut into 4 pieces.

Banana Dogs

The healthy alternative to hot dogs! Line hotdog bun with peanut butter, place a small to medium sized banana inside, drizzle strawberry jelly on top, and watch the smiles commence! Cut into half or thirds for minimum waste and maximum YUM.

Deli Sandwiches & Wraps

Make them at home, or make things easy by picking up sandwich trays from your local supermarket Deli.

Pizza Delivery

With so many other things going on, sometimes it’s better to leave the fan-favorite food to the professionals. Order a bunch of cheese and pepperoni pizzas from your favorite pizza joint and appease the pickiest of eaters.

Snacks and Finger Foods are an absolute must at any party, especially your child’s first birthday. Popular snacks for baby parties include:

Animal Crackers

Especially awesome at Circus, Sock Monkey, and Wild Animal themed parties

Goldfish and Cheez-Its

Cheerios, Alpha-bits, or other cereal

Carrot, Celery, and Apple slices

Grapes

Skewer them to create caterpillars

Freeze grapes for fun chilly treats

Fun Fruit shapes

Use cookie cutters to cut out fun shapes in watermelon, cantaloupe, honeydew, and pineapple

Ants on a log

Celery, peanut butter, raisins, YUM

Pretzels and Chips, with Hummus and/or Vegetable Dip

And don’t forget the drinks! Be sure to supply enough water bottles, fruit juices, and adult beverages (along with plenty of ice!!) to keep you and your guests happy.

The perfect birthday cake for baby!

Picking the perfect cake for your baby’s first birthday is NOT a piece of cake! Your one year old’s birthday cake will undoubtedly be the most memorable one for years to come, so it will be difficult deciding which decorative dessert is right for you and your baby and your guests.

Main Birthday Cake:

Fancy 3 tiered cake that matches the theme of the party

2 tiered cake is less expensive but still fancy

Make-at-home cake (circular or rectangular) with colored frosting and/or fondant shapes

Baby cakes are small “wooden block” inspired cake squares, individually covered in fondant and individually decorated. 1 baby cake square yields 2 perfect triangle cake slices when cut diagonally.

Cupcakes and Cake Pops

Cupcakes are easy to make, easier to buy, easy to eat, and easy to clean up

Cake Pops are a perfect choice at baby’s first birthday party, providing the most MMMM and the least amount of waste and cleanup.

Cake SMASH!

Your baby is a master at destroying confectionery creations. Have a smaller, simpler cake ready for your one year old to smash and devour while capturing picture-perfect photos

You can make this doomed cake at home, or purchase a cheap round sacrifice at your local supermarket Bakery.

If you are a culinary wizard, or have a gifted friend or family member, you can create any of these tasty treats at home. For the challenged baker, your local supermarket has plenty of decadent options to choose from. And if money is not a problem, find a specialty bakery to transform the cake of your dreams into a reality!

If you are planning your Baby’s first birthday party, or know anyone looking for baby-approved entertainment for their party, send us an event request form and allow YTE to make baby’s 1st birthday the best one YET!

[yteeventsblog]

Baby’s 1st Birthday Party Ideas and Planning Guide

Your Baby’s first birthday is the most important one ever—not just for your special little girl or boy, but also for you! You are the proud parent of your bundle of joy, but planning your child’s 1st birthday party can be incredibly stressful. YTE Events in Tampa has helped dozens of Moms and Dads make baby’s first birthday party memorable, fun, and completely stress-free! As the best entertainment solution in the Tampa Bay area, YTE has everything YOU need to plan the best one-year-old party!

Where do I have my child’s first birthday party?

The best place to host your baby’s birthday is at your home. Your home offers all the amenities that you, your baby, and your guests need:

Convenient location

Baby-proof surroundings

Changing table and diapers

Crib for emergency nap-time

High chair and baby furniture

Favorite baby toys

Comfortable & familiar environment

Is your house too small for your baby’s special day? Try asking your friends and family if you can host the party at their house—bonus points if their home is already baby-proof! Just be sure to put the correct address of the birthday party location when sending out your Baby’s 1st Birthday Party invitations!

When is a good time to host my baby’s 1st birthday?

As a parent, you KNOW that your baby is the boss when it comes to scheduling. When choosing a timeframe for baby’s party, take into account:

Nap time

Play time

Meal time

The best times to host your child’s first birthday are in the late morning (after breakfast but before lunch), or early afternoon so long as lunch is provided for your hungry friends and their ravenous kids.

  Theme and Decoration for baby’s first birthday

Get ready to unleash your creative instincts! Your one year old won’t recall the decorations, but all your friends and all the photos certainly will! Some of the most popular themes for baby’s 1st birthday include:

Sock Money theme

Thomas the Tank Engine theme

Wild Animal theme

Rubber Ducky theme

Pink Elephant theme

Elmo or Cookie Monster theme

Little Man & Mustache theme

My Little Princess theme

ABC Alphabet theme

Where the Wild Things Are theme

Circus theme

Garden or Ocean theme

Rainbow party theme

Owl theme (Look Whoo’s One!)

Lady Bug or Bumblebee theme

Very Hungry Little Caterpillar theme

Of course, choosing a party theme based off your baby’s nursery works wonders too! You can also encourage your guests to dress accordingly to your party’s theme for beautiful, memorable photos and lifelong memories.

Best Entertainment for babies, toddlers, and parents

It doesn’t take much to entertain your 1 year old and their teething toddler friends—but it’s important to make sure that whatever “toys” you have lying around are baby-proof, stain-proof, and indestructible! Besides your typical Fisher Price toys, the best entertainment to have at your baby’s 1st birthday party are:

Pots, pans, and wooden spoons for musical melodies (or torture)

Foam Pool Noodles cut in half for harmless swordfights

Soft Plastic Balls inside an inflatable Swimming Pool or large Playpen (children absolutely LOVE this—and so do the adults!)

It is also a good idea to coordinate professional entertainment for your guests older than 3 years old. YTE Events has the best party entertainers in Tampa, and our skilled artists have been specially trained to handle all partygoers at baby’s 1st birthday:

Balloon Artist

Face Painter

Princesses and Super Heroes Characters

Letterbrush Artist (perfect for Garden or Ocean themed parties!)

Caricature Artist

Bubble Show performer

Don’t forget the photographer! You will want lots of photos from you and your baby’s super special day, so if you are not camera-savvy, YTE has professional photographers that will make baby’s 1st birthday unforgettable. Click here to submit a free, no obligation event request with Tampa’s top entertainers!

Food Options for one year old birthday party

You think your baby is a picky eater? Just imagine the picky palates of all the kids (and their adults companions) attending your baby’s first birthday. But do not fret—with all the baby parties that YTE Events has served, we know the best baby-approved food choices to serve at your party:

Pizza Cupcakes

In a greased cupcake pan, place refrigerated biscuit dough, pizza sauce, and cheese, and/or any other toppings such as pepperoni, spinach, or sausage. Bake at 350 degrees for 10-12 minutes, or until fluffy and gooey. Kids and adults will love ‘em!

Mini Corn Dogs

In a greased mini muffin pan, pour Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix along with a slice of a hotdog pressed in. Bake in a 400 degree oven for 10-15 minutes, or until golden brown. Try not to eat them all before the party guests arrive!

Rainbow Spaghetti

Taste the rainbow—literally! Using different Food Coloring colors, place 20 drops of one color + 2 tbsps of water in a large Ziplock bags (so 1 bag for Blue, 1 bag for Red, etc). After cooking the pasta of your choice and straining it, transfer equal amounts of pasta into each bag of food coloring; let sit for at least 2 minutes. Strain out the pasta again, and enjoy!

Peanut Butter and Jelly “Sushi” Rolls

Use rolling pin to complete flatten piece of bread. Spread 1 tbsp Peanut Butter and 1 tbsp of Jelly or Jam. Roll slice into a tight spiral, then cut into 4 pieces.

Banana Dogs

The healthy alternative to hot dogs! Line hotdog bun with peanut butter, place a small to medium sized banana inside, drizzle strawberry jelly on top, and watch the smiles commence! Cut into half or thirds for minimum waste and maximum YUM.

Deli Sandwiches & Wraps

Make them at home, or make things easy by picking up sandwich trays from your local supermarket Deli.

Pizza Delivery

With so many other things going on, sometimes it’s better to leave the fan-favorite food to the professionals. Order a bunch of cheese and pepperoni pizzas from your favorite pizza joint and appease the pickiest of eaters.

Snacks and Finger Foods are an absolute must at any party, especially your child’s first birthday. Popular snacks for baby parties include:

Animal Crackers

Especially awesome at Circus, Sock Monkey, and Wild Animal themed parties

Goldfish and Cheez-Its

Cheerios, Alpha-bits, or other cereal

Carrot, Celery, and Apple slices

Grapes

Skewer them to create caterpillars

Freeze grapes for fun chilly treats

Fun Fruit shapes

Use cookie cutters to cut out fun shapes in watermelon, cantaloupe, honeydew, and pineapple

Ants on a log

Celery, peanut butter, raisins, YUM

Pretzels and Chips, with Hummus and/or Vegetable Dip

And don’t forget the drinks! Be sure to supply enough water bottles, fruit juices, and adult beverages (along with plenty of ice!!) to keep you and your guests happy.

The perfect birthday cake for baby!

Picking the perfect cake for your baby’s first birthday is NOT a piece of cake! Your one year old’s birthday cake will undoubtedly be the most memorable one for years to come, so it will be difficult deciding which decorative dessert is right for you and your baby and your guests.

Main Birthday Cake:

Fancy 3 tiered cake that matches the theme of the party

2 tiered cake is less expensive but still fancy

Make-at-home cake (circular or rectangular) with colored frosting and/or fondant shapes

Baby cakes are small “wooden block” inspired cake squares, individually covered in fondant and individually decorated. 1 baby cake square yields 2 perfect triangle cake slices when cut diagonally.

Cupcakes and Cake Pops

Cupcakes are easy to make, easier to buy, easy to eat, and easy to clean up

Cake Pops are a perfect choice at baby’s first birthday party, providing the most MMMM and the least amount of waste and cleanup.

Cake SMASH!

Your baby is a master at destroying confectionery creations. Have a smaller, simpler cake ready for your one year old to smash and devour while capturing picture-perfect photos

You can make this doomed cake at home, or purchase a cheap round sacrifice at your local supermarket Bakery.

If you are a culinary wizard, or have a gifted friend or family member, you can create any of these tasty treats at home. For the challenged baker, your local supermarket has plenty of decadent options to choose from. And if money is not a problem, find a specialty bakery to transform the cake of your dreams into a reality!

If you are planning your Baby’s first birthday party, or know anyone looking for baby-approved entertainment for their party, send us an event request form and allow YTE to make baby’s 1st birthday the best one YET!

[jerrymcguireau]

Is Canberra the Nation's Best-Kept Investment Secret? The Urban Developer

That it’s cheaper to rent a home in Melbourne than in Canberra speaks volumes about the need for new thinking on housing in the national capital.

High-rise, high-density living spaces that build communities, offer affordable housing options to both renters and buyers and support the infrastructure and amenity you expect to see in any world city is imperative if the ACT is to continue to prosper.

Current tight housing vacancy rates coupled with the highest annual increase in house rents in the nation has made Canberra a virtual no-go zone for those seeking affordable, well-located rental digs. And with the ACT population having grown 11.4 per cent since 2011 – with every sign of continued strong increases – it’s only going to get worse.

Who wants to pay a median weekly rent for a house of $505 a week (up 6.3 per cent year on year), particularly when a lack of city and town-centre accommodation means you’ll likely be banished to the outer suburbs to find it?

From an environmental perspective alone, a geographic spread of low-rise, low-density housing represents poor long-term planning. A family needs at least two cars to be able to access work, entertainment and shopping options, placing pressures on infrastructure and the environment.

Long-term proliferation of the urban sprawl means opportunities to create vibrant community hubs near transport options, workplaces and public amenities, catering to the wants and needs of a modern, changing society, will be lost.

The latest Domain State of the Market report revealed some interesting statistics about the housing market in Canberra – supporting the view we’ve long held at Geocon that high-rise, precinct-style apartment living is the way forward.

With Canberra showing the highest annual rental yield in the nation at six per cent (an increase of 3.7 per cent year on year), and rental vacancy levels under one per cent – half the national average – centrally located, high-rise apartment precincts near amenities and transport options makes perfect sense in terms of a good buy-to-let investment for those wanting to build wealth.

And given it can be cheaper to service a mortgage than to pay rent in Canberra, apartment living provides a lifeline for first-home buyers and other owner-occupiers, too. Record-low mortgage rates mean it’s easier to pay off a mortgage than it has been in decades, and a new Bureau of Statistics report shows that of all Australian cities, Canberra is the easiest in which to do so, with 15 per cent of monthly household income devoted to repayments, as opposed to a national average of 16 per cent.

Nearly half of our purchasers are first home-buyers, and 87 per cent of our buyers are aged 50 and under. With an entry level apartment price of $282,900, we’re providing viable options for a segment of society that is increasingly being priced out of the market. Eighteen to 35-year-olds – those most demanding of vibrant, dynamic communities with ease of access to work and lifestyle opportunities – account for 60 per cent of all our purchasers, most of whom are from the ACT. Seventy per cent of our buyers are owner-occupiers.

Scare-mongering about an oversupply of apartments belies what we are seeing at the coalface. The reality is that 70 per cent of apartments must be sold before commencement, as per APRA regulation of lenders. Media often delivers the news that with, say, five new buildings under construction, each comprising about 300 units, there must be an oversupply. But DA approval and supply of these apartments to the market could be up to four years away. There is a gross under-supply of “turnkey” apartments in a city that people are moving to in droves because we have the lowest unemployment rate in the country.

There is a very real demand for affordable, mixed-use precincts in vibrant town centres, as our buyer demographics demonstrate.

Geocon is delivering a 35 per cent share of the apartment market in Canberra – with an expected sale of 1000 apartments this year alone – and we are seeing consistent 3-5 per cent growth, with our units selling out quickly.

Canberra, Australia’s only “emerging” city, is changing. We have a world-class new airport, with international flights opening up great opportunities for investment and tourism; the ACT Government is committed to investing in important infrastructure such as the new light rail system, we have the lowest unemployment rates in the nation and the highest wages. Population, meanwhile, is booming. Over the past five years, the city has grown 11 per cent, and that doesn’t count transient populations such as students attending the universities here.

As a business born and bred in Canberra, we are able to make accurate market predictions, and have an expanding portfolio of land holdings so we can quickly adapt to demand. In recent weeks we have purchased sites in the Woden Town Centre, the Parliamentary Triangle and two in the city centre because we have the utmost confidence in Canberra, and the continued demand for affordable yet high-quality accommodation in central locations.

We will transform the new Woden site into a $380 million mixed-use development that will be the catalyst for the revitalisation of the run-down Woden Town Centre, creating new jobs and public amenities. The ACT Government’s announcement that Stage 2 of the Light Rail service would extend from the city to Woden made the purchase a no-brainer for us, with our strategic aim of creating vibrant precincts with easy access to public transport.

Equally, our ambitious Kingston Arts Precinct will breathe new life into this inner suburb through a combination of sleek, contemporary apartments and a thriving cultural centre comprising commercial spaces and an Arts Hub.

Canberra has long flown under the radar against Sydney and Melbourne but all signs point to the fact that increasing numbers are realising the national capital is Australia’s best-kept secret when it comes to opportunity, growth, superior quality of life and long-term capital gains.

Currently, there is an undersupply of turnkey apartments available to move into immediately, to service an ever-increasing demand. Arguments against progress and development — in particular the concept of high-rise living — are myopic. If we fail to do as other world cities have done – grown and adapted, had the foresight and courage to introduce new ways of living – we risk being lumbered with the unpopular mantle of bush capital indefinitely. And that would be a tragedy for a city on the cusp of taking its place on the world stage. Geocon Acquires Canberra Retail Centre For $13.35 Million

[Related reading: Geocon Acquires Canberra Retail Centre For $13.35 Million; Geocon To Develop 500 Apartments At Newly-Acquired Site In Canberra; Geocon’s $250 Million Canberra Development Given Green Light]

Geocon Group

Geocon is a highly successful integrated property development, construction and hotel management group operating in Canberra. The group has completed more than 1500 residential dwellings since it was created 10 years ago, and expects to deliver 1000 apartments to the market this calendar year. Operating an owner-builder-developer model, there is no like-for-like competitor in Canberra.

Projects:

Republic: Conceived by Fender Katsalidis Architects, the award-winning team behind Hobart’s Mona and Canberra’s NewActon precinct, Republic will be Canberra’s hottest new lifestyle destination with apartments, commercial and retail spaces and expansive public amenities. Staged development, five-year delivery timeframe from 2017.

Kingston Arts Precinct: Residential apartments, commercial spaces, an Arts Hub and hotel will make this the heart and soul of the Kingston Foreshore redevelopment. Estimated completion date 2021.

Southport: A 12-storey residential apartment building with ground-floor commercial and retail tenancies in the new Southquay Precinct of Tuggeranong. Completed September 2017.

Infinity: Twenty and 22-storey residential buildings in Gungahlin Town Centre, comprising apartments, luxury penthouses and terraces, plus commercial spaces occupying the ground floors. Estimated completion date February 2018.

Midnight: 236 residential apartments plus a 185-room hotel and commercial space with Braddon’s vibrant lifestyle precinct and light rail links on the doorstep. Estimated completion date 2019.

Wayfarer: 27-storey residential development in Belconnen Town Centre, with commercial space at ground level. Completed December, 2016.

Wova: A new residential and commercial precinct that is set to revitalise the run-down Woden Town Centre. Stage 1 estimated completion 2020.

Metropol: Opposite the bustling Canberra Centre shopping district and the tranquillity of Glebe Park, this residential and commercial development will raise the bar for inner-city living in Canberra. Estimated completion date 2020.

Hotels

Geocon owns and manages four Abode apartment hotels, in Woden, Tuggeranong, Narrabundah and Gungahlin. New Abode hotels are being built in Braddon, Kingston and Murrumbateman, NSW. A new five-star hotel brand is currently in development, with the first two properties planned for the Parliamentary Triangle and Canberra City Centre.

For more visit the Geocon or Abode Hotels websites.

Contributed by Nick Georgalis, Managing Director of Geocon.

The Urban Developer is proud to partner with Geocon to deliver this article to you. In doing so, we can continue to publish our free daily news, information, insights and opinion to you, our valued readers.

from https://highpowerclean.com.au/is-canberra-the-nations-best-kept-investment-secret-the-urban-developer/

from High Power Cleaning Melbourne - Blog http://highpowercleanau.weebly.com/blog/is-canberra-the-nations-best-kept-investment-secret-the-urban-developer

[nancydpolardau]

Is Canberra the Nation's Best-Kept Investment Secret? – The Urban Developer

That it’s cheaper to rent a home in Melbourne than in Canberra speaks volumes about the need for new thinking on housing in the national capital.

High-rise, high-density living spaces that build communities, offer affordable housing options to both renters and buyers and support the infrastructure and amenity you expect to see in any world city is imperative if the ACT is to continue to prosper.

Current tight housing vacancy rates coupled with the highest annual increase in house rents in the nation has made Canberra a virtual no-go zone for those seeking affordable, well-located rental digs. And with the ACT population having grown 11.4 per cent since 2011 – with every sign of continued strong increases – it’s only going to get worse.

Who wants to pay a median weekly rent for a house of $505 a week (up 6.3 per cent year on year), particularly when a lack of city and town-centre accommodation means you’ll likely be banished to the outer suburbs to find it?

From an environmental perspective alone, a geographic spread of low-rise, low-density housing represents poor long-term planning. A family needs at least two cars to be able to access work, entertainment and shopping options, placing pressures on infrastructure and the environment.

Long-term proliferation of the urban sprawl means opportunities to create vibrant community hubs near transport options, workplaces and public amenities, catering to the wants and needs of a modern, changing society, will be lost.

The latest Domain State of the Market report revealed some interesting statistics about the housing market in Canberra – supporting the view we’ve long held at Geocon that high-rise, precinct-style apartment living is the way forward.

With Canberra showing the highest annual rental yield in the nation at six per cent (an increase of 3.7 per cent year on year), and rental vacancy levels under one per cent – half the national average – centrally located, high-rise apartment precincts near amenities and transport options makes perfect sense in terms of a good buy-to-let investment for those wanting to build wealth.

And given it can be cheaper to service a mortgage than to pay rent in Canberra, apartment living provides a lifeline for first-home buyers and other owner-occupiers, too. Record-low mortgage rates mean it’s easier to pay off a mortgage than it has been in decades, and a new Bureau of Statistics report shows that of all Australian cities, Canberra is the easiest in which to do so, with 15 per cent of monthly household income devoted to repayments, as opposed to a national average of 16 per cent.

Nearly half of our purchasers are first home-buyers, and 87 per cent of our buyers are aged 50 and under. With an entry level apartment price of $282,900, we’re providing viable options for a segment of society that is increasingly being priced out of the market. Eighteen to 35-year-olds – those most demanding of vibrant, dynamic communities with ease of access to work and lifestyle opportunities – account for 60 per cent of all our purchasers, most of whom are from the ACT. Seventy per cent of our buyers are owner-occupiers.

Scare-mongering about an oversupply of apartments belies what we are seeing at the coalface. The reality is that 70 per cent of apartments must be sold before commencement, as per APRA regulation of lenders. Media often delivers the news that with, say, five new buildings under construction, each comprising about 300 units, there must be an oversupply. But DA approval and supply of these apartments to the market could be up to four years away. There is a gross under-supply of “turnkey” apartments in a city that people are moving to in droves because we have the lowest unemployment rate in the country.

There is a very real demand for affordable, mixed-use precincts in vibrant town centres, as our buyer demographics demonstrate.

Geocon is delivering a 35 per cent share of the apartment market in Canberra – with an expected sale of 1000 apartments this year alone – and we are seeing consistent 3-5 per cent growth, with our units selling out quickly.

Canberra, Australia’s only “emerging” city, is changing. We have a world-class new airport, with international flights opening up great opportunities for investment and tourism; the ACT Government is committed to investing in important infrastructure such as the new light rail system, we have the lowest unemployment rates in the nation and the highest wages. Population, meanwhile, is booming. Over the past five years, the city has grown 11 per cent, and that doesn’t count transient populations such as students attending the universities here.

As a business born and bred in Canberra, we are able to make accurate market predictions, and have an expanding portfolio of land holdings so we can quickly adapt to demand. In recent weeks we have purchased sites in the Woden Town Centre, the Parliamentary Triangle and two in the city centre because we have the utmost confidence in Canberra, and the continued demand for affordable yet high-quality accommodation in central locations.

We will transform the new Woden site into a $380 million mixed-use development that will be the catalyst for the revitalisation of the run-down Woden Town Centre, creating new jobs and public amenities. The ACT Government’s announcement that Stage 2 of the Light Rail service would extend from the city to Woden made the purchase a no-brainer for us, with our strategic aim of creating vibrant precincts with easy access to public transport.

Equally, our ambitious Kingston Arts Precinct will breathe new life into this inner suburb through a combination of sleek, contemporary apartments and a thriving cultural centre comprising commercial spaces and an Arts Hub.

Canberra has long flown under the radar against Sydney and Melbourne but all signs point to the fact that increasing numbers are realising the national capital is Australia’s best-kept secret when it comes to opportunity, growth, superior quality of life and long-term capital gains.

Currently, there is an undersupply of turnkey apartments available to move into immediately, to service an ever-increasing demand. Arguments against progress and development — in particular the concept of high-rise living — are myopic. If we fail to do as other world cities have done – grown and adapted, had the foresight and courage to introduce new ways of living – we risk being lumbered with the unpopular mantle of bush capital indefinitely. And that would be a tragedy for a city on the cusp of taking its place on the world stage. Geocon Acquires Canberra Retail Centre For $13.35 Million

[Related reading: Geocon Acquires Canberra Retail Centre For $13.35 Million; Geocon To Develop 500 Apartments At Newly-Acquired Site In Canberra; Geocon’s $250 Million Canberra Development Given Green Light]

Geocon Group

Geocon is a highly successful integrated property development, construction and hotel management group operating in Canberra. The group has completed more than 1500 residential dwellings since it was created 10 years ago, and expects to deliver 1000 apartments to the market this calendar year. Operating an owner-builder-developer model, there is no like-for-like competitor in Canberra.

Projects:

Republic: Conceived by Fender Katsalidis Architects, the award-winning team behind Hobart’s Mona and Canberra’s NewActon precinct, Republic will be Canberra’s hottest new lifestyle destination with apartments, commercial and retail spaces and expansive public amenities. Staged development, five-year delivery timeframe from 2017.

Kingston Arts Precinct: Residential apartments, commercial spaces, an Arts Hub and hotel will make this the heart and soul of the Kingston Foreshore redevelopment. Estimated completion date 2021.

Southport: A 12-storey residential apartment building with ground-floor commercial and retail tenancies in the new Southquay Precinct of Tuggeranong. Completed September 2017.

Infinity: Twenty and 22-storey residential buildings in Gungahlin Town Centre, comprising apartments, luxury penthouses and terraces, plus commercial spaces occupying the ground floors. Estimated completion date February 2018.

Midnight: 236 residential apartments plus a 185-room hotel and commercial space with Braddon’s vibrant lifestyle precinct and light rail links on the doorstep. Estimated completion date 2019.

Wayfarer: 27-storey residential development in Belconnen Town Centre, with commercial space at ground level. Completed December, 2016.

Wova: A new residential and commercial precinct that is set to revitalise the run-down Woden Town Centre. Stage 1 estimated completion 2020.

Metropol: Opposite the bustling Canberra Centre shopping district and the tranquillity of Glebe Park, this residential and commercial development will raise the bar for inner-city living in Canberra. Estimated completion date 2020.

Hotels

Geocon owns and manages four Abode apartment hotels, in Woden, Tuggeranong, Narrabundah and Gungahlin. New Abode hotels are being built in Braddon, Kingston and Murrumbateman, NSW. A new five-star hotel brand is currently in development, with the first two properties planned for the Parliamentary Triangle and Canberra City Centre.

For more visit the Geocon or Abode Hotels websites.

Contributed by Nick Georgalis, Managing Director of Geocon.

The Urban Developer is proud to partner with Geocon to deliver this article to you. In doing so, we can continue to publish our free daily news, information, insights and opinion to you, our valued readers.

from End of Lease Cleaning Melbourne|Bond back cleaning|Bond Cleaning |Vacate cleaning Melbourne https://highpowerclean.com.au/is-canberra-the-nations-best-kept-investment-secret-the-urban-developer/ from High Power Cleaning Melbourne https://highpowercleanau.tumblr.com/post/166497431111

[highpowercleanau]

Is Canberra the Nation's Best-Kept Investment Secret? – The Urban Developer

That it’s cheaper to rent a home in Melbourne than in Canberra speaks volumes about the need for new thinking on housing in the national capital.

High-rise, high-density living spaces that build communities, offer affordable housing options to both renters and buyers and support the infrastructure and amenity you expect to see in any world city is imperative if the ACT is to continue to prosper.

Current tight housing vacancy rates coupled with the highest annual increase in house rents in the nation has made Canberra a virtual no-go zone for those seeking affordable, well-located rental digs. And with the ACT population having grown 11.4 per cent since 2011 – with every sign of continued strong increases – it’s only going to get worse.

Who wants to pay a median weekly rent for a house of $505 a week (up 6.3 per cent year on year), particularly when a lack of city and town-centre accommodation means you’ll likely be banished to the outer suburbs to find it?

From an environmental perspective alone, a geographic spread of low-rise, low-density housing represents poor long-term planning. A family needs at least two cars to be able to access work, entertainment and shopping options, placing pressures on infrastructure and the environment.

Long-term proliferation of the urban sprawl means opportunities to create vibrant community hubs near transport options, workplaces and public amenities, catering to the wants and needs of a modern, changing society, will be lost.

The latest Domain State of the Market report revealed some interesting statistics about the housing market in Canberra – supporting the view we’ve long held at Geocon that high-rise, precinct-style apartment living is the way forward.

With Canberra showing the highest annual rental yield in the nation at six per cent (an increase of 3.7 per cent year on year), and rental vacancy levels under one per cent – half the national average – centrally located, high-rise apartment precincts near amenities and transport options makes perfect sense in terms of a good buy-to-let investment for those wanting to build wealth.

And given it can be cheaper to service a mortgage than to pay rent in Canberra, apartment living provides a lifeline for first-home buyers and other owner-occupiers, too. Record-low mortgage rates mean it’s easier to pay off a mortgage than it has been in decades, and a new Bureau of Statistics report shows that of all Australian cities, Canberra is the easiest in which to do so, with 15 per cent of monthly household income devoted to repayments, as opposed to a national average of 16 per cent.

Nearly half of our purchasers are first home-buyers, and 87 per cent of our buyers are aged 50 and under. With an entry level apartment price of $282,900, we’re providing viable options for a segment of society that is increasingly being priced out of the market. Eighteen to 35-year-olds – those most demanding of vibrant, dynamic communities with ease of access to work and lifestyle opportunities – account for 60 per cent of all our purchasers, most of whom are from the ACT. Seventy per cent of our buyers are owner-occupiers.

Scare-mongering about an oversupply of apartments belies what we are seeing at the coalface. The reality is that 70 per cent of apartments must be sold before commencement, as per APRA regulation of lenders. Media often delivers the news that with, say, five new buildings under construction, each comprising about 300 units, there must be an oversupply. But DA approval and supply of these apartments to the market could be up to four years away. There is a gross under-supply of “turnkey” apartments in a city that people are moving to in droves because we have the lowest unemployment rate in the country.

There is a very real demand for affordable, mixed-use precincts in vibrant town centres, as our buyer demographics demonstrate.

Geocon is delivering a 35 per cent share of the apartment market in Canberra – with an expected sale of 1000 apartments this year alone – and we are seeing consistent 3-5 per cent growth, with our units selling out quickly.

Canberra, Australia’s only “emerging” city, is changing. We have a world-class new airport, with international flights opening up great opportunities for investment and tourism; the ACT Government is committed to investing in important infrastructure such as the new light rail system, we have the lowest unemployment rates in the nation and the highest wages. Population, meanwhile, is booming. Over the past five years, the city has grown 11 per cent, and that doesn’t count transient populations such as students attending the universities here.

As a business born and bred in Canberra, we are able to make accurate market predictions, and have an expanding portfolio of land holdings so we can quickly adapt to demand. In recent weeks we have purchased sites in the Woden Town Centre, the Parliamentary Triangle and two in the city centre because we have the utmost confidence in Canberra, and the continued demand for affordable yet high-quality accommodation in central locations.

We will transform the new Woden site into a $380 million mixed-use development that will be the catalyst for the revitalisation of the run-down Woden Town Centre, creating new jobs and public amenities. The ACT Government’s announcement that Stage 2 of the Light Rail service would extend from the city to Woden made the purchase a no-brainer for us, with our strategic aim of creating vibrant precincts with easy access to public transport.

Equally, our ambitious Kingston Arts Precinct will breathe new life into this inner suburb through a combination of sleek, contemporary apartments and a thriving cultural centre comprising commercial spaces and an Arts Hub.

Canberra has long flown under the radar against Sydney and Melbourne but all signs point to the fact that increasing numbers are realising the national capital is Australia’s best-kept secret when it comes to opportunity, growth, superior quality of life and long-term capital gains.

Currently, there is an undersupply of turnkey apartments available to move into immediately, to service an ever-increasing demand. Arguments against progress and development — in particular the concept of high-rise living — are myopic. If we fail to do as other world cities have done – grown and adapted, had the foresight and courage to introduce new ways of living – we risk being lumbered with the unpopular mantle of bush capital indefinitely. And that would be a tragedy for a city on the cusp of taking its place on the world stage. Geocon Acquires Canberra Retail Centre For $13.35 Million

[Related reading: Geocon Acquires Canberra Retail Centre For $13.35 Million; Geocon To Develop 500 Apartments At Newly-Acquired Site In Canberra; Geocon’s $250 Million Canberra Development Given Green Light]

Geocon Group

Geocon is a highly successful integrated property development, construction and hotel management group operating in Canberra. The group has completed more than 1500 residential dwellings since it was created 10 years ago, and expects to deliver 1000 apartments to the market this calendar year. Operating an owner-builder-developer model, there is no like-for-like competitor in Canberra.

Projects:

Republic: Conceived by Fender Katsalidis Architects, the award-winning team behind Hobart’s Mona and Canberra’s NewActon precinct, Republic will be Canberra’s hottest new lifestyle destination with apartments, commercial and retail spaces and expansive public amenities. Staged development, five-year delivery timeframe from 2017.

Kingston Arts Precinct: Residential apartments, commercial spaces, an Arts Hub and hotel will make this the heart and soul of the Kingston Foreshore redevelopment. Estimated completion date 2021.

Southport: A 12-storey residential apartment building with ground-floor commercial and retail tenancies in the new Southquay Precinct of Tuggeranong. Completed September 2017.

Infinity: Twenty and 22-storey residential buildings in Gungahlin Town Centre, comprising apartments, luxury penthouses and terraces, plus commercial spaces occupying the ground floors. Estimated completion date February 2018.

Midnight: 236 residential apartments plus a 185-room hotel and commercial space with Braddon’s vibrant lifestyle precinct and light rail links on the doorstep. Estimated completion date 2019.

Wayfarer: 27-storey residential development in Belconnen Town Centre, with commercial space at ground level. Completed December, 2016.

Wova: A new residential and commercial precinct that is set to revitalise the run-down Woden Town Centre. Stage 1 estimated completion 2020.

Metropol: Opposite the bustling Canberra Centre shopping district and the tranquillity of Glebe Park, this residential and commercial development will raise the bar for inner-city living in Canberra. Estimated completion date 2020.

Hotels

Geocon owns and manages four Abode apartment hotels, in Woden, Tuggeranong, Narrabundah and Gungahlin. New Abode hotels are being built in Braddon, Kingston and Murrumbateman, NSW. A new five-star hotel brand is currently in development, with the first two properties planned for the Parliamentary Triangle and Canberra City Centre.

For more visit the Geocon or Abode Hotels websites.

Contributed by Nick Georgalis, Managing Director of Geocon.

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