Lori Blake : Latest Blog Posts

My Father of the Bride Speech

Wed, 17 Aug 2011 17:17:00 GMT

Ladies and gentlemen, as Father of the Bride, it’s my duty and honour to make the first speech. I’d like to start by confessing that it’s been quite a road to get here. I’m reminded of a family favourite movie, “Father of the Bride” with Steve Martin starring as George Banks and the emotions a father goes through during this very special time in his daughter’s life.

The whirlwind of planning, activities, opinions on everything... from everybody. The endless decisions, choices, and compromises, madly spinning around him, making him dizzy, as though he’s a stranger - on the outside - looking in.

In my case we add in the animated passion of an Italian mother, aunts, cousins, and of course the unwavering, completely focused, bride herself. Thank God for Nona - always in the background, keeping the peace. Viva Italia!

I discovered that women speak a secret female language - “Weddingeeze” if you will, which apparently, all girls learn, at a very young age - Who knew? They are very fluent and escape into it, at any time, during any conversation, and leave me, the father of the bride, standing there puzzled, as to what just happened.

Not that I wasn’t asked for my opinion, Oh no, mine was the first to eliminated or laughingly ignored, and I slowly learned my place. I finally realized that the women didn’t really want my opinion, they just wanted it to appear that way. They are after all, as they say, the neck, and I’m just the head. The head of what, I never did figure out.

But onto today’s celebration. Family and friends are not measured in distance, but rather in love, support, and kinship, which you have all granted us, by joining us here on this very special day.
We sincerely thank-you all for coming and hope you have a great time.

Unfortunately, we are missing a very important person of love and support in Melissa’s life, her Papa, Joseph Melideo. I would ask that you help me with a most fitting tribute. Please, all turn to your neighbour, put on your biggest smile, and raise your glass in his honour - to Papa ...Thank you all.

I would like to pause for a moment to acknowledge two very special women, without whom, we would not have Melissa nor Michael. The first being Melissa’s Mom, Toni, and the second of course is Teresa, Michael’s mom.

So I think we should take a moment, to think how important these two women, have been in the lives of these two young people here, and thank them both, for giving them to us.

You see, I’ll bet you didn’t know that I’m actually quite a sensitive guy, and that Melissa in particular, gets a little twisted pleasure in searching for and giving me cards that she is betting will make me cry. I have even heard a -Yes! after she sits, watches and waits for my response, looking for that tear in my eye after reading them. Melissa had even bet her Mom that it would be me in tears, walking her down the aisle.

I want to tell you what a wonderful daughter Melissa is, but Melissa - I’m sorry, I can’t read your notes, so I guess I’ll have to go it on my own. But before I do .... Melissa, your mother and I, would like to say that you have never looked more beautiful, than you do today.

Toni and I have been blessed with two strong, independent children, Jason and Melissa. Jason is six years Melissa’s senior, and throughout their lives they’ve had some pretty spirited rivalries and exchanges. In fact, you will hear from Jason later, expressing his point of view on the subject.

When Melissa was young, Jason was her big brother, she admired and loved him dearly, and wanted to do everything he did. She was a quick learner and Jason, although straddled with a little sister, did what every brother does, he ignored her ... but she just wouldn’t go away.

Jason was a skilled gymnast and would do flips off the high diving board. Melissa was not yet five years old, nor a strong swimmer, so I would be in the water when she would jump off the lower diving board. She pushed me to let her jump off the high diving board and swim to the side on her own.

I struck her a deal, that if she could swim unassisted, across the deep end that I would let her make that leap. She immediately jumped in, sank to the bottom, and came a little bit later up - swimming. Well not really swimming, she literally, fought her way across the pool, and earned the right to jump off the high dive. It was a sign of things to come, and I knew it.

Melissa, you will always be our Melissa, from the moment that you were born, from the time you took your first steps, you stumbling to my outstretched arms.

From the sports we played together when you were young. You were raised to play sports as a guy, not a girl, and you were right there, enjoying it all, always pushing, wanting to excel. I taught you about competition - to never be afraid it - to welcome it, and that good sportsmanship allows us to enjoy any outcome.

Later in your life it was not fashionable to hang-out with Dad anymore. Although it hurt, I understood that it was part of your development, and that my role was changing. That was the day when you traded in your baseball uniform and cleats, for high heels and dresses. So began the transition to Melissa the Fashionista, with Toni in all her glory, gleefully steering that ship.

It is a very difficult thing for a father to do, to give his daughter to another man, to have and to hold, to love, from this day forth. But as I stand here day, I have moved beyond all that.

Your mother and I have watched you grow into the strong young woman you are today, with the ambition, intelligence, and determination to allow you to become whatever and whomever you decide. You also have a very special quality, found in very few people, empathy ... empathy for the people around you, and the honest desire to help them.

Your road to today’s celebration has been one which has required incredible personal commitment, sacrifice, and accomplishments. Along the way you were also especially lucky, you somehow found the love of your life, in Michael, whom I know, had a large part in your successes, taking on whatever load he could, and keeping you on track to accomplish your goals.

So know I turn to you, Michael. Michael, I want to thank-you for being yourself. Michael has been part of our family for years, I have personally watched him grow into the fine young man, you see here today. In fact, I have the grocery bills to prove it.

All kidding aside, Michael has been working hard during the same time, forging his own career in the world of finance, and now holds the position of Senior Banking Officer, with his goals set towards management. So you see, we haven’t lost a daughter, we’ve gained a 24 hour Personal Banker. And after all, Melissa loves him, and Nona calls him “A verrry nice boy, he very good for Melissa”. What other endorsement does he really need?

In today’s world of constant streams of information, every now and then, you see ... or hear, sometime that strikes a chord with you. This was one for me:

When you’re happy... you smile, but when you’re really happy ... your eyes smile.

Well, I’ve see the way that Melissa’s eyes smile at Michael ... and I’ve also seen the way that Michael’s eyes smile at Melissa.

As a parent you really can’t ask for more, except perhaps, to offer some bit of advice to keep that smile alive, so I put forward this brief compilation from others written on the subject.

Today you take the first step in your marriage, by promising to love, honour, and cherish each other, for the rest of your lives.

Marriage is the joining of two people - the union of two hearts. It lives on the love you give each other and never grows old, but thrives on the joy of each new day ...

Realize how lucky you are to be in love with someone who is in love with you.

Listen objectively to each other, as you would a friend. Agree that it’s okay to disagree (a favourite of mine).

Work together in achieving your goals. Do things just to make each other feel loved, especially when one of you may be down.

Forgive. No one is perfect, and we all do things we regret. Have a forgiving heart towards yourself, to others, and especially to your spouse.

As long as your love is nurtured and never taken for granted, it will continue to grow into something wonderful, for marriage is a journey that leads to a great love.

Would everyone please raise their glasses with me in a toast
....To Mr & Mrs Michael Lapczynski!

Stage 10 of Building a House

Thu, 30 Jun 2011 14:39:19 GMT

Stage 10 - An Orientation is Conducted
Ownership is Transferred

The Contractor/Builder conducts a final walk-though orientation with the Buyer, demonstrating the operation of all the mechanical systems in the home. The Contractor/Builder and the Buyer will make note of any significant outstanding items which need addressed before the Completion and together determine if any additional holdback (in addition to legislated holdbacks) should be secured.

The New Home Warranty is confirmed and the warranty process is reviewed. Lastly, comes the pre-arranged Completion date when your Lawyer/Notary transfers the property into your name. CONGRATULATIONS your new home is yours - Enjoy!

New property listed in Cottonwood MR, Maple Ridge

Tue, 28 Jun 2011 18:57:39 GMT

I have listed a new property at 11596 239A ST in Maple Ridge.

See details here

2200sq/ft basement entry corner lot home. Upstairs boasts a big Livingroom with vaulted ceilings and large windows, a bright Country kitchen, eating area, and Family-room with access to the rear yard from the sun-deck.Three bedrooms up with basement mortgage helper offering One bedroom & den w/spacious living space and separate entry. Hard to find Lane access with plenty of parking including room for the Boat/RV. Great neighborhood close to both Elementary and High schools & shopping. Short walk or 3 minute car ride to Alexander Robinson Elementary with easy access to the Golden Ears and Pitt River Bridges.

Stages 8 & 9 Building a House

Tue, 28 Jun 2011 18:52:54 GMT

This is a Continuation of the 10 Stages of Building a House

Stage 8- Final Grade and Landscaping are Set
Simultaneously with Stage 7, final grade is attained, allowing for proper water drainage away from the home. Septic or sewer lines are installed and inspected. The driveway, walkways and concrete patio are poured, then the landscape features are planted – sod, seed & straw, shrubs, plants, trees and sometimes irrigation systems.

Stage 9 - The Details are Completed and the Final Occupancy Permit is Obtained
Now is the time for a detailed final inspection. Door knobs, window screens, gutters, splash blocks and cabinet hardware are brought in. All final adjustments are made and a final clean takes place. Final inspection from the local Building Inspection Department is requested, conducted and if there are no deficiencies a “Final Occupancy Permit” will be issued. Please note, without a Final Occupancy Permit, the Lender will not release funds and your Lawyer/Notary is not able to transfer the property into your name.

Stages 6 & 7 Building a House

Tue, 28 Jun 2011 18:21:23 GMT

This is a Continuation of the 10 Stages of Building a House

Stage 6 - Interior Walls are Insulated and Sealed
Rolls of insulation are inserted between the studs in all exterior wall cavities. Any gaps between framing members and around windows are tightly sealed to eliminate potential air leaks.

Stage 7 - Interior Finishes are Applied
Drywall is installed and finished. Cabinets, interior doors and trim are installed and paint is applied. Countertops and flooring are brought in next. Then the electrical work is completed, including the switch plates, outlets and lighting fixtures. The power company hooks up the permanent power to the home at this time, allowing the plumbing and heating & air systems to be completed – toilets, sinks, faucets, appliances, compressors, thermostats, and registers are all set into place.

Building a House - Stages 3,4 & 5

Fri, 24 Jun 2011 15:32:19 GMT

This is a Continuation of the 10 Stages of Building a House

Stage 3 – Walls are Framed and Raised
The exterior and interior walls are framed then the roof trusses are raised and secured. All stairs are built. The wall sheathing is attached to enclose the home and roof sheathing over the trusses.

Stage 4 - Exterior Finishes are Applied
Roofing materials and attic vents are installed. Windows and exterior doors are set into place and façade materials, such as brick and siding, are applied. Finally, exterior trim and accents are added.

Stage 5 - Mechanical Systems are Installed
The plumbing, heating & air, and electrical systems are “roughed-in” at this stage. Bathtubs and shower units are installed. Ends of pipes, wiring, and ductwork are left exposed for completion later. At the end of this stage, each home is inspected closely by the Contractor/Builder and the local Building Inspectors are called to review and approve.

New property listed in Port Moody Centre, Port Moody

Wed, 22 Jun 2011 19:15:08 GMT

I have listed a new property at 302 701 KLAHANIE DR in Port Moody.

See details here

The "Lodge at Nahanni", Port Moody's best address. This fabulous 2 bdrm/2 bath spacious open floor plan offers oversized windows, granite countertops, breakfast bar, & stainless steel appliances including gas range. Owners have exclusiveaccess to the 15,000 sq ft Members-only Canoe Club featuring Outdoor Swimming pool, Hot tub, Fitness Centre with Steam, Games, Yoga & Media Rooms, Indoor Sport Court, Billiards & Party Room, Tennis Courts & more. Don't miss out on this incredible lifestyle opportunity & a sense of community rarely found anywhere. Rocky Point Park, Port Moody Inlet, Newport Village & Suter Brook Village at your doorstep. Walk to West Coast Express (25 minutes to Downtown).

Open House. Open House on Saturday, June 25, 2011 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm See you there- Please Buzz 8016

Wed, 22 Jun 2011 19:15:08 GMT

Please visit our Open House at 302 701 KLAHANIE DR in Port Moody.

See details here

Open House on Saturday, June 25, 2011 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm See you there- Please Buzz 8016

Real Estate, Building a New House

Wed, 22 Jun 2011 19:06:37 GMT

Ever since I was a kid, I loved going into framed houses envisioning how it will look when complete, to see and learn how they were built. Identifying the different stages of construction until the real personality of the home came through, and then redesigning it in my head to make the home flow and look better.

Over my next three blogs I am going to break down the 10 Stages of Building a Single Family Home.

Building a house is part science, part art, and part plain hard work. As one of the last hand made products available in our society, each one is unique and some variations should always be expected.

Stage 1 - Preliminary Work is Begun

Plans are chosen, Contractor/Builder is chosen, materials are ordered, all necessary permits are secured required to begin the building process. A schedule that will be adjusted and revised many times is begun. At each stage local Building Inspectors are called to review and approve before the next stage can proceed.

Stage 2 - Foundations are Poured
The home site is graded and staked. Form boards are meticulously measured and placed, the plumbing lines are run, and local Building Inspectors are called to review and approve. Once approved, the concrete foundation is poured.

Real Estate, It’s What I Love, It’s What I Do

Tue, 21 Jun 2011 16:18:35 GMT

They all looked so impressive and I realized early that this was a very big step in a person’s life to finally have a home they could call their own.

It was a step, one that I eagerly wanted to take, but also saw that there were many things to consider, so I started to learn everything I could, and did.

I came to Real Estate with real life experience as an Independent Business Owner, along with work history in Sales & Marketing, Management, and even returned to school at the ripe old age of thirty to earn my Diploma of Technology in Administrative Management from the British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT). There I saw technology taking hold and added computer skills to my toolbox. Recognizing it as a tool that would be ever changing, I remain a bit of a tech enthusiast.

Next came the Art of Negotiation, the ability to draw out what was important to both parties and create the bridge to bring them together. It was here I learned the simple fundamental truth that without a willing Seller, and a willing Buyer, there would be no happy ending for either party.

Along the way, with twenty plus years of enthusiastic and energetic Real Estate experience I learned to develop winning strategies for all types of market conditions.

This all has provided a career that not only allows me work in area I love, but also grants me the privilege of being an Advocate to the people I work with.

I honestly believe that People Need and Deserve a Professional, a Real Estate Activist if you will, with one of the largest investments of their life. To provide the experience and guidance to assist them build a solid financial base for their Life Plan through Real Estate. I truly believe that Real Estate is a means for long term financial success and security.

I empower my clients through my knowledge and experience to provide an education process so that they are truly informed and feel comfortable when making their important decision. If that means not that if buying or not selling because the circumstance or timing is not in their best interest, I provide them a solution to assist them now and provide a real working plan that will allow them to when the time is right.

I believe that my clients best interests are first and foremost, and I fiercely protect those interests. I am first to slow things down, and point out what I see be it good or bad, based on my knowledge and experience. I believe that my client’s are in charge of this journey and my job is to be their Valued and Trusted Guide.

I believe that people should enjoy the process, as I do. I believe that ongoing communication is one of the most important components to achieve that end. For over twenty years, Real Estate, it’s what I love, it’s what I do.

New property listed in Coquitlam East, Coquitlam

Fri, 28 Jan 2011 15:43:06 GMT

I have listed a new property at 2560 BURIAN DR in Coquitlam.

See details here

One of the Best Single Family Values in Coquitlam, with all of the updates done for you. Terrific 3 bedroom & den plan with that open feel. Updates include new vinyl windows, hardi-plank exterior, newer roof, updated lighting & new carpets.Freshly painted in designer earth tones. The kitchen has loads of cupboards, newer appliances & family size eating area. Extra large dining room, nice size living room with patio doors opening to a patio and fenced backyard. Upstairs has 3 bedrooms, two with walk-in closets. Breathe comfortably, there is an Advanced Energy Clean Airspace system in crawl space. Great family neighbourhood, walk to Schools, Mundy park, Thrifty Foods & Transit. Just minutes to Lougheed Mall and Skytrain Station.

New property listed in Riverwood, Port Coquitlam

Fri, 28 Jan 2011 15:43:05 GMT

I have listed a new property at 28 1255 RIVERSIDE DR in Port Coquitlam.

See details here

Corner unit. Impressive, spacious and bright, two level, 3 bedroom plus den townhouse in sought after Riverwood Green with view of the mountains. Well maintained with everything you expect from a home of this caliber. The main floor boasts a large kitchen with separate eating area and living room with gas fireplace. The spacious master bedroom with walk-in closet has a 4 piece large ensuite with separate shower & luscious soaker tub. Double garage and huge 3' crawl space for storage. The large patio & fenced, private yard will be appreciated for those family gatherings. Well run complex located in great neighborhood behind Costco. Close to schools, shops, golf course and recreation. Quick access to Highway 7.

New property listed in Collingwood VE, Vancouver East

Fri, 28 Jan 2011 15:43:05 GMT

I have listed a new property at 705 3663 CROWLEY DR in Vancouver.

See details here

"Latitude" by BOSA! Quality built concrete construction in Collingwood Village. This bright well laid out South facing one bedroom condominium has wall to wall windows with spectacular view of the Park & City. Very functional layout, open kitchen with Eating Bar. Quiet side of building with balcony and insuite laundry, 1 underground parking and locker. Building offers Fitness centre, Meeting & Party Rooms and is pet and rental friendly. Steps to Joyce Skytrain Station - 15 minutes to downtown. Central Park, Metrotown, Tennis Courts, Restaurants and Community Centre all nearby. Lower Maintenance fees, great for first time Buyer or Investor!

Open House. Open House on Sunday, January 30, 2011 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm Excellent find in Great Family Complex. See you there!

Fri, 28 Jan 2011 15:43:05 GMT

Please visit our Open House at 28 1255 RIVERSIDE DR in Port Coquitlam.

See details here

Open House on Sunday, January 30, 2011 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm Excellent find in Great Family Complex. See you there!

New property listed in Fraserview NW, New Westminster

Fri, 28 Jan 2011 15:43:04 GMT

I have listed a new property at 608 280 ROSS DR in New Westminster.

See details here

BEST VALUE AT THE CARLYLE AT VICTORIA HILL, brand new CORNER UNIT & NO HST! One of the largest 2 bedroom, 2 bath homes. This comfortable bright open plan boasts over height ceilings with floor-to-ceiling windows to brighten your days.Stylish and durable tile and dark laminate flooring dress the main areas. The gourmet kitchen features granite counters, stainless steel appliances, including gas range and built in microwave. EXCLUSIVE TO THE 6th FLOOR is the 2 level 530 sq/ft balcony. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the mountains and Queen's Park. There is plenty of space to entertain and extend your year-round living area with the covered 200 sq/ft portion. Steps to shopping, transportation & new overpass to Queens Park.

New property listed in North Coquitlam, Coquitlam

Fri, 28 Jan 2011 15:43:04 GMT

I have listed a new property at 202 1189 WESTWOOD ST in Coquitlam.

See details here

Townhome feel in a condo! Individual exterior entry front door. Tastefully remodelled, 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom unit in Lakeside Terrace with huge, covered patio overlooking the peaceful, decorative pools and courtyard. Spacious floor plan with bedrooms on opposite sides-master suite with large ensuite and walk-in closet. Bright kitchen with tons of windows for natural lighting. Recently installed beautiful hardwood floors and freshly painted in designer earth tones. Your morning walk can include Lafarge Lake-right across the street! Coquitlam Centre, restaurants, library, Cultural Centre, buses & West Coast Express steps away. Maintenance fee includes cable, gas, hot water & amazing recreation facilities.

Open House. Open House on Sunday, January 30, 2011 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm Fabulous New Listing at Lakeside Terrace. See you there!

Fri, 28 Jan 2011 15:43:04 GMT

Please visit our Open House at 202 1189 WESTWOOD ST in Coquitlam.

See details here

Open House on Sunday, January 30, 2011 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm Fabulous New Listing at Lakeside Terrace. See you there!

New property listed in Riverwood, Port Coquitlam

Fri, 28 Jan 2011 15:42:59 GMT

I have listed a new property at 28 1255 RIVERSIDE DR in Port Coquitlam.

See details here

New property listed in Collingwood VE, Vancouver East

Fri, 28 Jan 2011 15:42:59 GMT

I have listed a new property at 705 3663 CROWLEY DR in Vancouver.

See details here

Open House. Open House on Sunday, January 30, 2011 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm Excellent find in Great Family Complex. See you there!

Fri, 28 Jan 2011 15:42:59 GMT

Please visit our Open House at 28 1255 RIVERSIDE DR in Port Coquitlam.

See details here

Open House on Sunday, January 30, 2011 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm Excellent find in Great Family Complex. See you there!