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Baton Rouge & Denham Springs Relocation Lindsay Pendleton, e-PRO, REW, AHWD

Baton Rouge Relocation: It's kid friendly! Part 2: Entertainment

So, you're packing up the family and moving to Baton Rouge? Not a bad idea. Actually, I think it's an excellent idea and once you arrive you'll see why. In Part 1 of "Relocating to Baton Rouge? It's kid friendly", I touched base on just a few of the extra-curricular activities that Baton Rouge has to offer your child. Those were just a few that I had chosen...a little teaser, if you may. So, you are all set on the extra-curricular activies, now what? What about entertainment for the children? You know the fun thing about having children is that you get to have just as much fun as they do. There is no limit to the fun that you and your children can have in Baton Rouge. You might want to sit down for this one. It's a Saturday afternoon in Baton Rouge, the kids are restless and you are looking for something to occupy them for the day, well..look no further!

Lions, Tigers and Bears Oh My! You've guess it! It's the zoo! You know, I love the zoo. I probably love the zoo more than my son does but that's out little secret. Come discover the animal kingdom at the Baton Rouge Zoo. The zoo opened it's doors in 1970. In the past 35 years, our zoo has grown to become the #1 year around family attraction in Baton Rouge. The zoo is home to over 1,800 animals from all around the world. Grrr. The Baton Rouge Zoo is awesome about holding educational programs and active outreach. If you visit their website, you will notice that they are always holding events. The last time I visited the zoo was at Halloween. It was so much fun. It was called "Boo at the Zoo". I dressed my son up as a monkey, which I thought was totally appropriate. Strolling through the "Boo at the Zoo", they handed out candy at each station that was set up. It was fun to see the animals behind the cage and the animals running around getting candy. This is just a small taste of what the Baton Rouge Zoo has to offer. You should definitely make a special trip to the zoo, you are guaranteed to have a blast!

 Splish Splash! Living in the south, well- it gets pretty darn hot. You know those days where you just want to play on the slipping slide and have your kids run through the sprinkler? On those days, it's great to go to the Blue Bayou Water Park. They have all kind of slides and rides. The unique thing about it is that it is not only a water park but it's somewhat of a fair, also. They have fair rides which go great with the water slides. So, if you aren't in the mood to get wet they have other things to get on and ride. My favorite is the wave pool, I jump in and the water jumps out. :) This place never gets boring. It seems like everytime I turn around they are adding new rides and slides. They also have an outdoor venue for performances and concerts. I like to call it my "mini disney land". So, if you are ready for good food, great rides, wonderful slides and awesome entertainment, head on down to the Blue Bayou Waterpark/Dixie Land Amusement Park.

Let's go bowling! Don Carter's in Baton Rouge, La is a great place to take the family for a night of bowling. Guess what? You don't even have to know what you are doing. All it involves is a ball, a few pins and loads of laughter. Don Carter's is a 64 lane bowling center. They welcome leagues for tournaments, corporate events and they also offer great birthday parties. Tired of bowling? No problem, they also have a game room with several games and a few pool tables. My favorite part? They have the best chicken strips! If you gotta itch to bowl, pack up the family and put on your bowling shoes.

It's nature at it's best. It's Wanetiri Lakes. This is such a beautiful, serene place. They have horses, walking trails, picnic areas and more. There is so much to do at Wanetiri Lakes. You can hop on a horse and they will guide you on different trails. How fun is that? They also have children's pony rides, fishing, boating and boat rentals. It's a great way to get back to nature. They have beautiful shaded trails for bird watching, walking and hiking. This is a place you will definitely want to pack a lunch for. Thinking about staying the weekend? Perfect. Bring your family and the RV. They have a 10 acre campground which includes water and electrical hookups. Take your family into the wilderness and enjoy a day or a weekend at Wanetiri Lakes. You'll be glad you did.

Anyone up for a good show? I know I always am. The Baton Rouge River Center is an awesome venue. They have a grand ball room and a theater for the performing arts. There have been some really outrageous shows there. Ever heard of the Wiggles? Oh yes, the Wiggles were at the Baton Rouge River Center. Dora the Explorer, Disney on Ice, Sesame Street Live and so much more as visited the center. This isn't just for the kids, mom and dad. The Baton Rouge River Center can be a source of entertainment for you also. There is always something going on. Be sure to always check out their site to keep up to date on what the happenings are so you don't miss out!

Lions, Tigers and Alligators, wait what? That's right, you read it right....alligators! Ever wanted to see alligators up close and personal? Well, now is your chance. Come visit Louisiana's most ancient residents in crystal clear water in a climate controlled enviroment. It's an alligator farm. I bet you don't see those everyday! The Insta-Gator Ranch is home to more than 2,000 alligators. Holy smokes, that's a lot of gator. The ranch gives you a guided tour through out the ranch and gives you a first-hand account of the Lousiana Alligator Industry, from hatchling to handbag. The ranch is open year round, come rain or shine. They offer a number of different packages for birthday parties and school groups. Did you know that you can even adopt a gator? I'm serious. So, if you are feeling a like a litte bit of gator, make a trip out to the ranch.

This is just a little taste of the entertainment that Baton Rouge has to offer you and your children. I know it's exciting, right? There will always be somewhere to visit and something to do. Whether it's going to the zoo and playing with the monkeys, going down a water slide, striking out at a bowling game, seeing Disney On Ice, or just hanging out with the gators...you will be fully entertained in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.

Be sure to give me a call if you are relocating to Baton Rouge, Louisiana!

Are You Looking For A Fun, Professional Real Estate Agent?
Please Give Me A Call!
Lindsay Pendleton
Baton Rouge & Denham Springs Real Estate Agent
(225) 362-0437
www.ForSaleByLindsay.com
Lindsay@ForSaleByLindsay.com

Baton Rouge Relocation: It's kid friendly!! Part 1: Extra-Curricular Activities

So, you and your family are thinking about relocating to Baton Rouge, la. What a great idea! In my opinion, Baton Rouge is was of the best places to live. It's full of excitement and entertainment. Are you wondering if Baton Rouge is "Kid" friendly? Well, it's "kid' friendly and then some. Baton Rouge has so much to offer children and their families. Whether your looking for entertainment, something educational, planning a birthday party, a kid photographer, pediatricians or an after school program, Baton Rouge has it all.

It's easy to get lost in the wonderful city of Baton Rouge, especially when searching for something for your children. Well, I am here to help you on your journey, to make things easier and show you what all Baton Rouge has to offer to you and your children. If you have already planned on moving to the big BR, you have probably already searched for schools for your children to attend. Baton Rouge has great public and private schools. There are so many schools available to you that it's possible to find the right one that suits you and your family. But, what about after school? Are you looking for an extra-curricular activity for your child? Baton Rouge has a variety of activities to choose from.

Extra-Curricular Activities For Your Child In Baton Rouge, Louisiana

1. Martial Arts- Are you looking for a hobby for your child to pick up? Something that is going to stimulate their mind and keep them focus? Have you ever thought about Karate? Of course, it's not for everyone but many kids enjoy and excel in karate. At David Vincent's Martial Arts & Fitness, your child can learn all he/she needs to know about karate. The owner is David Vincent and his mission is to provide his students with martial arts based self-defense, fitness and character development. Vincent has been offering training for taekwondo since 1992. The Martial Arts & Fitness center offers a variety of programs. Not only do they teach children, you can take lessons also. They offer summer camps, leadership programs and more. Learn how to get started. *karate chop*

2. Soccer, anyone? It's imperative that you keep your children active and well, soccer is perfect for that. The Baton Rouge Soccer Associationoffers soccer to your little one and also offers coaching classes. You can even take referee classes. Sounds like a lot of fun, uh? Baton Rouge Soccer Association has several different soccer leagues. They also have general annual soccer meetings. Interested in youth continuing education? They've got it. So, if you are wanting your children to get active and have fun while doing, The Baton Rouge Soccer Association is the way to go.

 3. Girl Scouts- You know, my favorite part of Girl Scout is the cookies. I am sucker for the the thin mints. The Girl Scouts Audobon Council, Inc.builds girls of courage, confidence, and character. The Audobon Council actually serves ten parishes with the headquarters residing in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. The Audobon Council brings girl scouting to nearly 9,000 girls and 3,000 adults annually. The mission of girl scouting is to develop girls to their full potential. At the Audobon Council, you can plan to have your child; learn new skills, explore a variety of changes, accepting and appreciating differences, expressing feelings, and realizing one's uniqueness. So, if you are thinking about thin mint cookies and are wanting your children to venture out and girl scout, the Girl Scouts Audobon Council, Inc. division is perfect for your child. (the cookies are an added bonus)

4. Young Chefs- I think this is the cutest extra-curricular activity. Take your children to the Young Chefs Academy and they will learn how to cook a mean meal. There is always room for more cooks in the family, right? The Young Chefs Academy is better than a homemade meatball! Your child will learn how to make basic dishes while learning to get along with others. So, maybe mom and dad need a little cooking lessons themselves? Chefs Academy also offers cooking classes to adults. They also offer summer camps that takes your child on a journey through all the different countries cook book. Here they will learn about different cultures and different foods. The Academy also offers mini-camps. This begins in March and is a spin off of the show "Survivor". Have your child serving your favorite dishes at The Young Chefs Academy.

5. Art- Do you have an artist in the family? Is that artist your child? When children are gifted it's good to give them an outlet to express themselves. Kids Can Draw focuses on visual arts. Here they will learn how to use watercolor, charcoal, graphite and more. Kids Can Draw is a home based visual art studio. They offer classes to children from the age of five all the way to their teens. All students are welcome, though. Individual creativity is definitely encouraged. If you are looking for a place for your child to express their artistic ability be sure to visit Kids Can Draw.

6.Cheerleader- Go Team Go! Does your little girl show an interest in Cheer-leading? La Athleticsoffers a fun and active cheer-leading program. They have over 5000 square feet of practice floors and trampolines. It is said that their instructors and coaches are some of the best in the nation. Some of the classes that La Athleticsoffer are: tumbling, cheer-leading, All Star Cheer-leading squads, summer camps and much more. If you're child is a tumbler, let her tumble her way to La Athletics.

7. Basketball - If child is looking to shoot some hoops, look no further. Bob Morgan's Athletics is one of the finest kids' athletic program around. At Bob Morgan's, they take basketball above and beyond. They believe that having your child active and playing with others build confidence and self-esteem.They also think that instructions in learning how to play basketball helps develop certain skills that every child needs. The focus is not on winning but learning. Here everyone is taught, everyone plays and everyone learns. Bop on over to Bob Morgan's Athletics.

These are just a few extra-curricular activities that Baton Rouge, Louisiana has to offer. Try to involve your child in an extra-curricular activity. This allows them to learn how to work with others. It helps them develop learning new skills, working with others, setting goals and reaching them. Come on down to Baton Rouge, Louisiana and let's have some fun!!

Are You Looking For A Fun, Professional Real Estate Agent?
Please Give Me A Call!
Lindsay Pendleton
Baton Rouge & Denham Springs Real Estate Agent
(225) 362-0437
www.ForSaleByLindsay.com
Lindsay@ForSaleByLindsay.com

Denham Springs Crystal Lake Development Is On Fire!

You know, I just love going to work everyday. Why? Because I get to work out of one of the model homes at Crystal Lakes Development. We have people coming in non-stop wanting to know what it's all about. If you have been reading my previous blogs then you will already know a little big about Crystal Lakes Development.

So, today I got a little camera happy. Can you blame me? I want you to see a little bit of what is going on. If you haven't been informed here is a little recap just for you!

If you thought you had to wait til "someday" to find the perfect home, you'll be glad to know that "someday" has arrived. Crystal Lakes Community is here. It is everything you've been hoping for. At prices that are amazingly affordable. Beautifully situated around the Crystal Lakes, this exeptional community offers you not just amenities but a vibrant lifestyle. You'll enjoy a beach vollyball court, a swimming pool, a running track, and even a place to catch a trout. Next door you'll find a Day Care Center and East Side Elementary School, and across the street the largest recreational park in the area. And be assured, Crystal Lakes boasts one of the best school districts in all Louisiana.

This is one of our model homes. Isn't she purty? I call her Ole Betsy.

Here is the Mother of all houses. She is the Queen. This is the top of the line home at Crystal Lakes Development below. She has all the upgrades that we offer. I call her Queen Latiffah! Please excuse all the cars parked in front of "Queen Latiffah". This is our office as of now (which I love).

Isn't she beautiful? Here are some inside pics of the "Queen". Of course, this is a 2 story home. I only took pictures downstairs b/c upstairs is our office. It would be hard to see how beautiful it is with computers/desk/realtors in it. But upstairs is a loft w/ two bedrooms. It also has a Jack and Jill bathroom. I love those.

And this is a picture of our lonely water jug!!

Please come out and visit Crystal Lakes! We would love to see you. Be sure to ask for Lindsay!!

Are You Looking For A Fun, Professional Real Estate Agent?
Please Give Me A Call!
Lindsay Pendleton
Baton Rouge & Denham Springs Real Estate Agent
(225) 362-0437
www.ForSaleByLindsay.com
Lindsay@ForSaleByLindsay.com

Pinnacle in Baton Rouge, La! The Controversy-The Casino-The Vote

Kaching Kaching Kaching! What's that sound? Why, it's the sound of the slot machine cashing out baby! I must admit, I'm not really Queen Casino. I can probably count on my hand how many times I've actually been to a casino. But, I'm not the type of person to buy a lottery ticket either. I always just figure that the odds are against me so why bother, right? Of course, the flashing lights, the clink clink of the change, and the free booze are what draws most. If you were to ‘ever' find me in a casino, you would find me in the corner with a bucket of nickels. Hey, when I do it..I do it BIG. I spend most of my time just cashing out my change to get the euphoric feeling of having won something.

So, why all the talk about casinos? Do ya feel lucky? Well, do ya? Pinnacle feels lucky, but others not so much. There's a new casino on the way and there is much controversy. So, why all the fuss? Is there enough room to squeeze another casino in Baton rouge, la? For all of you that constantly feel "lucky", you know that we already have two casino's to choose from. These are the Belle of Baton Rouge and Casino Rouge. Pinnacle wants to be the third. Are they? Well, it's not that easy. There are seemingly pros and cons to Pinnacle and of course, "Pinnacle" is for the pros and those that are against it are pushing the cons. I must say if I hear one more Pinnacle commercial/advertisement, I am taking my cup of nickels and going to the candy store.

Why Pinnacle? I mean, why not? What would another casino hurt? I must be honest, if it's anything like Beau Rivage - bring it on! Oh, you thought I said I really wasn't a "casino" person? Well, Beau Rivage isn't just a casino. And what about Hard Rock Hotel in Biloxi? These are more like resorts to me. Yes, I've been- quite a few times, actually. I go for the environment not the kaching kaching. I go for the events, the atmosphere and hey, the vacation. There are so many people fighting from Pinnacle nesting in Baton Rouge, but they are attacking back.

Pinnacle says that the casino will help Baton Rouge. Well, do you have documentation on how the other casino's have helped Baton Rouge. Heck, they just took all of my nickels. Pinnacle seems to think that there is room for growth. They are wanting to build this "resort" downtown by river road. Hey, like I said, I'm a sucker for resorts. People against it don't want to see river road go. "They are going to pave paradise to put up a parking lot". That's their slogan. Isn't that a song from the Bare Naked Ladies? Things that make you go mmm.

People are afraid that Pinnacle is going to increase traffic and Baton Rouge can not handle anymore traffic. Pinnacle says that they are going to pay for road construction but the opposing side said that they aren't even given the "okay" for that. What are people really afraid of? Belle of Baton Rouge and Casino Rouge are afraid they will go out of business. From what I hear, business isn't that good either. Pinnacle is not hoping to pull players away from these casino's but more less suck them from Lake Charles. Um..*cough* are people really going to drive all the way from Lake Charles to hit the slots?

Could it bring more people into Baton Rouge? I mean, if it's anything like Beau Rivage it would be more of a vacation resort. What's so bad about that? Of course, I'm just a little ole real estate agent what do I know? Heck, I'm not even a big baller, but Pinnacle has nothing on my nickels.

I'm really neither for or against Pinnacle. I'm not a gambler, unless you count a few nickels here and there. However, I do love my Baton Rouge and want what is best for it. I do not want to give a big thumbs up for something that could hurt my darling city. The information is out there, the commericals are rolling, attacks are being taken and you have to decide for yourself where you stand. We all have a voice in this and will get the chance to vote. So, everyone.... dig for your spare change in the couch kaching kaching and be ready to vote!

Are You Looking For A Fun, Professional Real Estate Agent?
Please Give Me A Call!
Lindsay Pendleton
Baton Rouge & Denham Springs Real Estate Agent
(225) 362-0437
www.ForSaleByLindsay.com
Lindsay@ForSaleByLindsay.com

Looking for a good community? Move to Pelican Point Community in Gonzales, la!

So, I've been hearing so much about Pelican Point. Where is this Pelican Point and who decided this? lol I've heard some conversation from realtor to realtor about this place. I wanted to find out for myself what it was all about. All I have to say is, "Whoa Nelly". For some reason, I assumed that Pelican Point was in Baton Rouge, la. I mean, common sense told me it was in Louisiana because our state bird is the Pelican. (I'm so smart) I learned that it was actually in Gonzales, la. Boy, does Gonzales have a lot of things brewing.

So, want a little history on Pelican Point? How did Pelican Point begin? Joseph Blanpain, in 1729, actually purchased about a thousand acres at Houma's Point. This actually was the first plantation up river from New Orleans. Everything was fine and dandy, then in 1996 the talented developer Douglas Diez came and carved out 800 acres of the plantation land which slowly formed into the Pelican Point Community. What the heck did he do with all of that land? Well, it has been known to be used for crops such as: corn, rice, potatoes and yummy veggies. They also used the land for sugar canes, soybeans, timber and cattle (moooooo). What an awesome little story. It's always so neat to hear the history about a community. But wait, there is more. Try not to get too excited.

Let's talk a little more about the talented Douglas Diez. Did know you that his family settled in Ascension paris around 1775? Of course, it's obvious that Mr. Douglas himself probably wasn't around at that time, but I only assume it was his talented relatives that settled in. Douglas Diez, at the age of 21, started up his own construction company and land business. Through Diez's companies he has become known for being one of the largest employers in Ascension parish. Guess who was the first resident of Pelican Point community? You guess it, Douglas Diez.

I love communities with a story, and this one defintely has a story. This is a community I would definitely recommend moving to. The homes are absolutely beautiful and they have a very talented business man backing them up, Douglas Diez. Let's touch a little one what Pelican Point community has to offer, okay?

Did I mention that the homes are beautiful? Okay, I know I already did but I am just wanting you to get the point. Pelican Point has three different model homes that you can choose from. They have the Eagle, the Napolean, and the St. Charles. Of course, you aren't just limited to these homes. Pelican Point offers custom home plans and modifications. They actually have an on-site design team that can help you customize your home. Wow. The model homes are open seven days a week, so if you are ever bored on a Sunday afternoon-check this out! Pelican Point offers townhomes, single family homes, garden patio homes and the green 55+. Now, that's a variety to choose from.

Mmmm, the green 55+. That sounds different. What is that exactly? It is actually resort living at it's finest, a retirement community. As if the homes weren't enough, you will be thrilled to learn what all the Greens 55+ has to offer. Do you like the outdoors? Well, then you will fall in love with the green 55+ opportunity. They have beautiful scenic trails that you can jog, walk, run or bike through. It's eight miles of something wonderful. So, ever wanted to just say you're gone fishin? Well, now you can. You can drop your hook into one of Pelican Point's 36 lakes. Holy cow, that's a lot of fish. If that wasn't enough, when you're done fishin, make your way to the golf course and enjoy yourself.

You're probably thinking that I am about to wrap this up. Happy to say that I'm not. There's more. I must admit to the world that I love to shop. There, I said it-okay? What's a shopper to do at Pelican Point? Well, shop til you drop baby. In the very front of the community is my haven. They have shops, restuarants and Tanger Outlet is just right down the road. Ahh, I love some Tanger Outlet.

I can't stop. Somebody stop me. There's so much more that Pelican Point has to offer. Tennis? Sure. Take a dip in the pool? Well, why not. Hang out at the clubhouse? What a great idea, I think I will. They even have volleyball. Of course, I'm not good at volleyball but I love to watch. Pelican Point also has a private community center. This is where certain groups are formed for your own personal interested such as: cards, basket weaving, you know- hobbies. :)

So, you're probably thinking, "I'm not 55+". Does Pelican Point have anything to offer to those that aren't 55+? Heck, yes it does. It has just as much and more. Here are a few things just to blow your hair back!

  • Master Planned Community
  • Main St. Pelican Point - Now Open!
  • 36 Holes of Championship Golf
  • 2 Driving Ranges / 2 Putting Greens
  • 2 Clubhouses & Restaurant
  • 36 Stocked Lakes for Fishing
  • Golf & Tennis Lessons on Site
  • Jr. Olympic Pool & Kids Pool
  • Lighted Tennis Courts
  • Softball Field/Soccer Field
  • Volleyball Court
  • Playground for Children & Adults
  • Jogging/Rollerblade/Walking Trails
  • Five Acre Park
  • Fitness Center (planned)
  • Professionally Maintained Landscaping (Winner of Baton Rouge Green's Award)
  • Professionally Decorated Model Homes Open Daily
  • Guarded Community
  • Underground Utilities
  • Curb & Gutter Streets
  • R.V. & Boat Storage
  • Recreational Airport

Convinced, yet? Oh, you should be. Most people that are looking to buy a home first look at the location, then they look at the neighborhood and THEN they look for the house. Pelican Point has all THREE. But, what about the school system? So many parents usually buy homes considering what school district it is in. No worries on this one. Pelican Point is located in the Ascension Parish school district. A little birdy told me that this school was one of the best in the in the state. This school has been ranked in the top for educational scores and athletics for the past five years. So, parents be assured that your child will be getting a fine education.

I'm sorry, but I still can't stop. I have to continue raving about this place. Did I mention that they have a Dental care, Latte Dah, Edward D Jones, Pelican Cleaners, and Nails & Spa. They didn't have me at "hello", they had me at Nails & Spa. Pelican Point is not stopping here. They are still adding more. Can you believe it? I know, hard to believe. You know, they say when someone is too good to believe then it probably isn't. Well, here is your ONE and ONLY exception. It is too good to be true, but it IS true.

Okay, I'll get off of my soapbox now. Do I have you convinced? Please, if you are looking for a community that feels at home but feels like a vacation at the same time- Pelican Point. If you are looking for a home that is beautiful in the middle of paradise- Pelican Point. I think I've said enough. Oh and Pelican Point!

Are You Looking For A Fun, Professional Real Estate Agent?
Please Give Me A Call!
Lindsay Pendleton
Baton Rouge & Denham Springs Real Estate Agent
(225) 362-0437
www.ForSaleByLindsay.com
Lindsay@ForSaleByLindsay.com