The temperatures were mild today.  Highs of upper 30’s.  Around 10am or so, it began to snow.  Little tiny flakes in a mist like snow, fell and continued to fall all day, throughout the evening too. 

I just opened the window for a peek, and did not detect any wind, breeze nor snow fall.  Its quiet, soft, and cold enough to remain as light puffy snow.

Tomorrow is another day.

Waking up to a blue sky with lots of sunshine was a plentiful gift from Mother Nature.  But will it last?  Probably not.  For now though, the outdoors looks inviting, and the snow plows can take a rest. 

This has been quite the dramatic winter.  I’ve lived in Grangeville since 1999 and I’ve not seen a winter like this one, so full of the elements that the word “WINTER” conjures. 

Living several miles to the east of town, we’re actually a couple of hundred feet lower in elevation than the town of Grangeville.  But I would venture to say we’re about even when it comes to the cumulative snowfall to date.  We’ve measured approximately 52 inches that has fallen since November. 

Our average snowfall is about 25 inches from Fall to Spring. 

Temperatures today should hover in the low 30’s.  I’m off to put some signs up and take care of errands in town. 

Have a great Saturday!

PS:  visit www.marymangold.com to see new video posted for the interior of a Custom Log Home listed in the Elk City area.  Or just click this link to go straight to the post:

http://marymangold.com/2008/01/24/red-river-vacation-cabin-near-elk-city-idaho/

There aren’t many real estate sales that closed in January.  7 or 8 pending transactions on the books.  The 3 sales from the past 5 days involved vacant land deals in the region.  72 Acres did sell on Red River Road, same location where my new listing for a custom log home resides.  The 72 Acres was listed for $699K and closed substantially lower to a non-resident of the area.

This winter has been especially healthy in the amount of cold and snowfall, replenishing are drought ridden acquifers and will help when fire season returns.   Once better weather begins to appear more readily, folks who want to escape the cities to a simpler existence, or to search for a vacation getaway, will return with funds to spend. 

As most seem to agree, we are somewhat insulated here in the region of Idaho County from the fraud and foreclosure pony show going on in other states, and even in densely populated cities of Idaho.   Nonetheless, there are those even in our midst who will suffer from the seeds sown in the markets of yesterday. 

I spent a few minutes this morning catching up on the last 60 minutes segment that spun the story of complete and utter mortgage fraud.

The whole story is downright disgusting, from the words of the consumers all the way to the impacts to our world economy.   The Global Economy needs an INTERVENTION.  Reality TV may be able to shake some sense into the world.  But of course, its someone elses fault.  Lets blame it on Sadam Hussein.  He’s dead, so he won’t care.

Years ago I kept a weather log at www.grangevilleidaho.com and I learned later that alot of people from outside the area were following that log.

Since I’m blogging several times a week, I will resume the weather notices. Visitors to this site can click on the “weather” category to pull up the most recent weather notices easily.  When possible, I will post photos to show the appearance of the weather from my vantage point 6 miles east of town.

Today of course, the weather conditions are poor.  I heard from a friend in town they are calling it BLIZZARD CONDITIONS in town and Hwy 95 has been closed all morning.  Blowing snow and drifts are the real hazards, including high wind.

Schools are closed today in the Mountain View School District 244.  Check their website for other notices pertaining to school closures. www.sd244.org

Best thing to do today is to stay put inside safe and warm.

Deep in the heart of North Central Idaho, Black Swan Development is creating unique destination properties that will fit the needs of outdoor enthusiasts who fish, hunt, hike, camp, snowmobile, and any number of other activities that folks just like you enjoy in the great Idaho outback.

Rivers’ Edge is one of those properties that you cannot miss.  Set against a backdrop of Elk City Idaho National Forest lands, these unique waterfront lots are EASY to access and provide a great landing for you and your friends.

All but one lot in Rivers’ Edge development are vacant lots with American River frontage.  Lot 5 however, has alot more to offer.   In addition to the American River frontage, a fine custom cedar sided cabin, approximately 1600 Sq. Ft. in size with covered deck and detached garage gives an opportunity for those who don’t have the time to plan and build.  This lovely cabin with rustic wood interior is decked out with vaulted ceilings, 2 bedrooms, 2 bath, laundry, full kitchen with breakfast bar, dining area and a large loft with an extra bedroom and hobby area.

When the weather provides for fairer temps, you’ll enjoy the Elk that meander down to the river to drink, and FISHERMEN will love the thought of spawning salmon and steelhead making their way to the river within a stones throw of your back porch.  From family gatherings to friends hunting and fishing, this cabin is one to be treasured.

Take Hwy 14 along the South Fork of the Clearwater River from Grangeville to Elk City, 55 miles on a road that is accessible year round, and plowed daily when snow falls.  The scenery is breathtaking, and the fishing spots numerous.  Hope you’ll make it to Elk City when the weather clears.  Call Mary Mangold at 208-983-7602 for details or stop at our Windermere real estate office at 320 East Main Street in Grangeville, Idaho.