Did You Know?


Many Christmas traditions are older


than some celebrants might think. The tradition of lighting up a Christmas tree, for example, dates back to the days be- fore Christmas lights. Before electric- powered twinkle lights were invented and even before electricity was discov- ered, people used actual candles to adorn the Christmas tree. As one can imagine, having an open flame next to a dried-out tree made for some fast fires. That’s why it was customary to keep a bucket of water next to the tree as well. As if fire wasn’t enough, the tinsel used to deco- rate trees was made from strips of silver and even lead -- something that is now known to be a health hazard to adults and children alike. Although we’ve come a long way from candles and lead, trees that are overly dry paired with lights that have frayed wires can just as easily lead to fires. Plus, plastic tinsel can be a chok- ing hazard for children and pets. One Christmas staple that has lost its status as a safety hazard is the poinsettia plant. Poinsettias are a tropical plant that have become a fixture during the Christmas season. It has long been thought that poinsettias are poisonous to people and animals. While there is some toxicity to the plant, it would require the ingestion of hundreds of leaves to get a toxic dose of a plant’s poison. Ingestion may sim- ply cause a case of vomiting or diarrhea instead. But poinsettia leaves are said to have an unpleasant taste, so one bite and most children and animals will probably turn away. Perhaps one of the biggest hazards come Christmas -- both then and now -- is not having enough turkey or eggnog to go around for holiday guests!


(Remax, Continued from prev. page) understand expectations on both par- ties’ sides. Take a look at the standard California rental agreement and use that as your contract, or as the basis for your “tailored” contract. Our suggestion is to add to the contract, but certainly don’t de- viate too far from what has been already successfully created by some great legal real estate minds. Read, read and re-read the contract so that YOU understand the contract. Make sure you and your ten- ants’ legal rights are protected. If your home was built before 1978, there are additional documents you should be aware of regarding lead-based paint. Be sure you have a good security deposit to


cover certain situations. Understanding how this deposit is applicable is very im- portant; and when it needs to be returned after the tenancy finishes. Stay current with the City of Coronado’s laws and ordinances regarding rentals – both long term and vacation rentals.


We want you to be successful in


your rental. For extra insurance, feel free to call us for any questions or con- cerns – we’re always ready to help out – that’s what we do! Francine Howard & Nancy Parrett Hometown Realtors 619-435-8700 ext. 116


Christmas traditions around the globe


Families across the globe cherish their Christmas traditions. Customs may be unique to every family, but many countries boast their own unique tradi- tions as well. * Australia: Many Australians cel- ebrate Christmas by coming together at night to sing carols outside. That’s not as chilly as it might sound, as Christmas in Australia actually falls during summer vacation. In fact, many of the country’s most popular Christmas traditions occur outside. * England: Contrary to Australia,


England’s weather around Christmas- time is much colder. Many of England’s traditions resemble those popular in


North America, including wrapping gifts, hanging stockings over the fireplace and (Traditions, Continued on page 25)


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