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        <title>Santa Cruz Real Estate News &amp; Information</title>
        <link>https://www.mysantacruzrealestate.com/blog/2023-06/</link>
        <description>Lifestyle, community, day trips, restaurants, real estate, home improvements, and more. Discover what makes Santa Cruz County such a great place to live. Presented by My Santa Cruz Real Estate.</description>
<item>
    <guid>https://www.mysantacruzrealestate.com/blog/protecting-your-home-from-wildlife-this-summer.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.mysantacruzrealestate.com/blog/protecting-your-home-from-wildlife-this-summer.html</link>
        <author>lauren@laurenspencer.com (Lauren Spencer)</author>
        <title>Protecting Your Home From Wildlife This Summer</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 



From tiny rabbits to curious bobcats, Santa Cruz County is home to a number of amazing species. We often don't think too much about the animals in our neighborhood, even though we share the same spaces every day. In fact, many of them are closer to home than we might think



As much as we love Santa Cruz County for its abundant wildlife, we also prefer that these animals stay outside. Read on for more information about protecting your property from our most favorite critters—so that all of us can enjoy our homes.


Check Your Windows and Doors


If you have a screen in your windows, check for rips or tears where bugs might find their way in. Anyone who has a screen in their windows knows that bugs sometimes get inside your home regardless. You may have to set up additional traps (such sticky traps) during the summertime, especially if you have indoor plants. 



Although rare, raccoons and other animals do sometimes find their way into Santa Cruz area homes. Make sure that your windows and doors are completely closed if you’re leaving the home, as well as during the night. If you have a dog or cat door, critters can sometimes make their way through here, too (mistakenly thinking this is a door just for them), so be sure to keep an eye on this area. 



Animals (such as skunks, opossums, or raccoons) can sometimes get into the spaces underneath homes and decks, as well, so check regularly for any possible entry points. 


 





Take Note Of Your Yard


It’s important to also maintain your front and backyards in order to dissuade animals from setting up a permanent residence in your home. Rabbits, for example, are typically drawn to some of your most beautiful flowers and might be tempted to chow down on these blooms, so putting up a barrier (either around flower beds or around your fence) might be necessary.


If you have fruit-bearing trees in your front or backyard, these can also attract a variety of animals. It’s best to pick up the fallen fruit or nuts as soon as possible. In addition, placing lights around your yard will generally keep away most of the nocturnal animals that live in your neighborhood—and they make for great ambiance when hosting evening barbecues



As well, Santa Cruz County residents should avoid feeding any of the wildlife, intentionally or not. Occasionally, we might leave pet food or bowls outside, and this can attract hungry creatures to your backyard. If you set up a bird feeder, know that other animals will likely also try and get at the food, so strategically placing these is recommended. 


 





And Don’t Forget Your Roof


On the off chance that you don’t want birds, squirrels, or other animals setting up home within your roof, siding, and/or attic, it’s best to keep an eye out on this area of your property. In particular, squirrels can make nests in small gaps, and while very cute, this can cause damage to your home in the long run.



Take note of gaps, cracks, or loose shingles, and repair these as soon as possible—a tip that will likely also save you money if you catch these problems sooner rather than later



For animal-lovers who still want to provide shelter for the animals in your neighborhood, bird and squirrel houses (yes—they are a thing) can be purchased or DIY-ed by craftier individuals. These provide a shelter for critters without causing damage to your home. 



Love the Santa Cruz County area? Make the move with us today. Contact Lauren Spencer to get started buying or selling in Santa Cruz County. 

 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Fri, 30 Jun 2023 12:00:00 -0700</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.mysantacruzrealestate.com/blog/santa-cruz-day-trip-loch-lomond-recreation-area.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.mysantacruzrealestate.com/blog/santa-cruz-day-trip-loch-lomond-recreation-area.html</link>
        <author>lauren@laurenspencer.com (Lauren Spencer)</author>
        <title>Santa Cruz Day Trip: Loch Lomond Recreation Area</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 



Those familiar with Santa Cruz County know that the area is much-beloved for a number of reasons—one of them being its scenic beauty From surfing at the beautiful beaches to hiking in the old-growth forests, there’s so much to see and do outdoors.



Situated near of the communities of Lompico, Felton, and Ben Lomond, tucked into the Santa Cruz Mountains, is Loch Lomond Recreation Area. At 175 acres in size, this natural area encircles a large reservoir, and makes for the perfect day trip for hikers, boaters, and nature lovers alike. Read on to learn more about why Loch Lomond Reservoir is one of Santa Cruz County’s hidden gems


Dive Into Loch Lomond History


The region surrounding Loch Lomond Recreation Area has a rich history. The first inhabitants of the area were the Ohlone, a Native American group that consisted of several subsections, who had lived here for thousands of years. However, the 18th century saw European exploration, and the Spanish began colonizing the area as early as 1769.



In 1963, after the purchase of land by the City of Santa Cruz, Loch Lomond Recreation Area opened its doors to the public. It is known for its redwood forests, its abundance of wildlife, and its natural beauty. 



Loch Lomond Recreation Area is located at 100 Loch Lomond Way. It is a 15 to 20-minute drive from Felton, and a 30-minute drive from downtown Santa Cruz—traffic permitting.


Activities &amp; Facilities


Loch Lomond Recreation Area offers a number of facilities and activities for visitors. This includes the following:






Barbeque and picnic areas (with group reservations at Vista Point and Upper Loch)






Fishing 






Hiking 






Boat rentals 






Programs and events






A park store






Washrooms and parking







Vehicle parking is $8, but a Loch Lomond Recreation Area Season Pass can be purchased for $80. The park season begins at the start of March and ends in October, although after labor day, park hours are limited to weekends only. The park is also closed every Wednesday for scheduled maintenance.


 





Things To See &amp; Do


Loch Lomond Recreation Area is perhaps most well-known for its hiking trails. Offering a number of different routes, from short and sweet (MacBain Trail) to quite lengthy (Loch Trail/Highland Loop), these trails cater to both families and the more adventurous hikers.



Boating on the reservoir is another popular activity. Private boats must be stored with Loch Lomond Recreation Area—they cannot be brought onto the water otherwise. The park also has a rental program. While limited, they offer both motor boats and paddle/row boats, with different fees for each. The boat launch is located near the park store, the latter of which offers snacks and refreshments, fishing licenses, and bait and tackle.



Fishing is permitted in the park, however all rules and regulations must be followed.



Other popular park activities include picnicking (at the many designated areas) and wildlife watching on the park trails. Some of the wildlife that can be spotted in the park include deer, raccoons, foxes, lizards, frogs, ospreys, herons, and many other species.


Remember The Rules


In order to keep the park clean, beautiful, and safe, there are a few rules that must be followed when visiting the park.



Although the water looks like a great place to take a quick dip, no swimming is allowed in the reservoir. Likewise, floatation devices (such as water inflatables and float tubes) are also not permitted. Bicycles are allowed, but only on the designated paths, and pets must be leashed at all times. 



Wildlife enthusiasts and bird-watchers flock to the park every single year, but visitors must know that they are not permitted to feed any of the animals. Park visitors are also encouraged to use the trash cans around the area and pick up any of the litter that they leave behind—for the safety of all people and animals in the park. 



More information about park hours, additional rules, and park activities can be found on the City of Santa Cruz website here. 



Get up, get out, and enjoy nature If you’re interested in making the move to Santa Cruz, Felton, or the Santa Cruz County area, contact Lauren Spencer today. 

 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Fri, 23 Jun 2023 12:00:00 -0700</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.mysantacruzrealestate.com/blog/a-glimpse-into-bookshop-santa-cruz.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.mysantacruzrealestate.com/blog/a-glimpse-into-bookshop-santa-cruz.html</link>
        <author>lauren@laurenspencer.com (Lauren Spencer)</author>
        <title>A Glimpse Into Bookshop Santa Cruz</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 



Located in the heart of the city’s downtown is Bookshop Santa Cruz—a 20,000 square foot independent bookstore owned and operated by the Coonerty family, under the direction of Casey Coonerty Protti. It is a favorite of students, tourists, and Santa Cruz residents for its numerous events, great location, and, of course, excellent selection of books.


 


Bookshop Santa Cruz is one of two bookstores remaining in the city. They host a Short Story Contest once per year, as well as run a Consignment Program to support local writers. 


Bookshop Santa Cruz, A History


The store itself first opened in 1966 and, over the years, has become a significant cultural landmark for the city, especially after they officially partnered with The Humanities Institute at UC Santa Cruz back in 2015. They stock new and used books, gifts, Bookshop Santa Cruz merchandise, and more. 


 


While the store is a fantastic place to pick up a great read, they also host (virtual and in-person) programs and events. Many of these events feature bestselling authors who discuss their notable and/or upcoming works. Prices for these events can range from free to a small, agreeable fee, and event can be located can be in-store or at another venue (typically the Cowell Ranch Hay Barn on the UC Santa Cruz campus).


 


In February 2021, the workers at Bookshop Santa Cruz unionized.


Past Events at Bookshop Santa Cruz


One of the most highly-anticipated events for this month was the (sold-out) event featuring award-winning author and poet Ocean Vuong. His bestselling works include Night Sky With Exit Wounds, On Earth We’re Briefly Gorgeous, and his most recent poetry collection, Time Is A Mother—of which he discussed during the event. 


 


Bookshop Santa Cruz has hosted a number of author events this year,  such as the Pulitzer Prize winner Jennifer Egan, who spoke about her latest novel, The Candy House. Also invited this year was Deb Perelman, award-winning blogger and author, presenting her newest cookbook, Smitten Kitchen Keepers. 


Ongoing Bookshop Programs


Bookshop Santa Cruz has a number of community programs that they run. Their Summer Reading Program is popular amongst kids in the area, with different challenges for Kindergarten all the way through to Grade 12, in both English and Spanish. And there are prizes for the winners—which include gift cards, Santa Cruz Boardwalk passes, and free ice cream or pizza. 


 


Teen Book Crew is a program where teens publish reviews of their favorite (or not so favorite) books. They have a discord channel for members, host various events, and get access to Advanced Reader Copies of some of the most anticipated reads. 


Upcoming Store Events


There are so many upcoming events at Bookshop Santa Cruz. In fact, the store has gained quite an excellent reputation for the frequency and diverse array of authors invited to host events. 


 


Ottessa Moshfegh, whose second novel My Year of Rest and Relaxation was named a bestseller and is now rumored to be in the works as a film directed by Yorgos Lanthimos (The Lobster, The Favourite), will be speaking later this month about her new novel, Lapvona. 


 


At the end of June, Bookshop Santa Cruz will host Lisa See, who will discuss her latest novel, Lady Tan’s Circle of Women. Her other notable works include The Tea Girl of Hummingbird Lane and Snow Flower and the Secret Fan, the latter of which has been adapted into a film. 


 


You can visit the store at 1520 Pacific Avenue in downtown Santa Cruz, or online here. 


 


Thinking of moving to the Santa Cruz, CA area? Contact Lauren Spencer today to find your dream home.

 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Fri, 16 Jun 2023 12:00:00 -0700</pubDate>
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