Chanda Barrick REALTOR (Indianapolis/Surrounding areas)

Well, here we are the cold is here again. But before it starts to get really cold, I was fortunate enough to catch a glimpse of one last butterfly. This Red Admiral was kind enough to stay perched on my dying marigolds while I ran inside to grab my camera.

I guess I can't complain too much about the weather. At least we actually had fall this year instead of going straight from warm summer temperatures to freezing cold snow as it seems we do so often. :)

Indianapolis Arthritis Foundation Jingle Bell Walk/Run December 10th, 2011

We are now officially 12 days away from the 23rd Annual Jingle Bell run here in Indy. The streets of downtown Indianapolis will be filled by the sounds of bells jingling on approximately 3,500 people registered to run/walk this years' event.

Many people believe arthritis only affects those who are aging....Not so. Take Sarah Hake, this year's Arthritis Honoree. Sarah is just 26 years old, but was diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis at the young age of two.

There's still time to register for the race and raise some money to help this foundation out. Fees are as follows:

Race Fees

Adults (13 years and older)
$22 per person on or before October 31
$25 per person November 1 - noon on December 7
$30 per person on packet pick-up and event day

Children (12 years and younger)
$12 per person on or before October 31
$15 per person November 1 - noon on December 7
$20 per person on packet pick-up and event day

I'll be there volunteering (my first year for this particular event) and cheering everyone on. If you'd like to register for this year's race, you can do so by clicking on this link.

Indy Jazz Fest 2011: Good Music, Good Food, Good Fun

Love Jazz Music? This year Indianapolis is holding the 12th annual Indy Jazz Fest presented by Marsh Supermarkets. The official dates of the Indy Jazz Fest are September 12-17th. The 12th through 16th are like tasty appetizers with artists playing at The Jazz Kitchen, The Columbia Club, University of Indianapolis, and Madame Walker Theater and an exquisite main course being the event held on Saturday at Broad Ripple's Opti Park.

Speaking of food, not only does Indy want to showcase some of it's best venues and jazz musicians...Some of the best restaurants, breweries, wineries, and artists will also take part in the event giving you a taste of what makes Indianapolis such a great city to live, work, and play. Tickets can be purchased for each of the events OR you can purchase a JazzPass for $99 which gets you into each of the events during the week and the day at Opti park.

George Benson, Yellowjackets, Rufus Reid's "Out Front" Quintet, Spyro Gyra, and Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue will be headlining the event on the 17th along with artists on the Legacy Jazz Stage who will blow your mind. This year the jazz fest will also feature up and coming jazz artists from some of Indiana's High Schools and colleges on the Emerging Jazz Artist Stage.

All concerts are held rain or shine so come on out for an excellent time! I'll be there in the Merchandise Tent, so say "Hi" if you drop by!

For more information about the Indy Jazz Fest please visit their website.