'Tis the season to know what’s going on in Auburn/Opelika for the Christmas Season!

If you are in the Deep South right now you have been greeted this first day of December with some winter weather! This time of year is suppose to have colder weather and to me makes the season even more enjoyable. There is something about having to bundle up to go outside or enjoy a hot cup of coffee in this type of weather that makes me ready for the holidays.

Ella is ready to open some Christmas presents!

This year has already been a little more special. Ella is now going on three and is really getting the ‘spirit’ of the season. For those of you that know Ella this comes as no surprise. We decided to put up our Christmas tree the Monday before Thanksgiving since we were leaving town later in the week. Ella jumped right in, unwrapped all the ornaments and commented on many of them. Anna and I really enjoyed getting our help from our little elf this year. This morning when Ella woke up she came running to me with a gift in her hand from under the tree. She said “Do we get to open these today?” It was precious but I had to explain she only had 25 more days to go. To a two year old that seems like an eternity!

The main reason for the blog is to let you know of the many wonderful events taking place in the Auburn/Opelika area this next month. This is by no means a comprehensive list but will give you a great flavor of events you can plan to attend in the area. I will sort by date and start with two ongoing events in the area. I will link as many of the names I can to outside websites for more information.


November 19-December 30 – Callaway Christmas in Lights
I have never attended this event. Luckily this year a good friend, Josh Pender, was able to get us discounted tickets through his work. Our plans are to go check it out this year and see what it is all about.

Picture courtesy of callawaygardens.com

December 2-5, 9-12, 16-31 – 19th Annual Christmas in Lights at Montgomery Zoo
If you enjoy seeing lights and also have a love for animals this is a great event. I have not attended this since I was in high school. Sad to say that has been over 10 years ago now. At that time you could take a train ride…be sure to bundle up!

 December 1 – Opelika Downtown Christmas Parade
The good news is you do not have to wait long to get in the spirit! Opelika will have a parade starting at 4 pm with over 70 floats, marching bands and of course Santa! Roads are blocked off starting at 3 pm so go early and find a spot to enjoy.


December 2-3 – Super 6 at Jordan Hare Stadium

You know I would have to include a few sporting events. For the first time the AHSAA Football Championship games will be played in Jordan Hare Stadium. Auburn and Tuscaloosa teamed up a few years ago to bring those games to the respective cities ever other year. It is an excellent event for the city, University and the many high school athletes that will be able to fight for a state championship for their schools. Check out the link for teams and times of the games.

Picture courtesy of super6au.com

December 4 – SEC CHAMPIONSHIP GAME – AUBURN vs. SOUTH CAROLINA
Congrats to our Tigers being Western SEC Division Champs and Iron Bowl Champs! Now all AU has to do is win Saturday and they will play for the BCS National Championship! Tune in to CBS at 3pm. WAR EAGLE!!

Anna and I enjoying our win at the 2010 Iron Bowl! War Eagle! 28-27!

December 8-12 – Victorian Porch Tour, Opelika
If you have never driven through, or walked for that matter, you need to go check it out this year. This has become one of our favorite parts of the season. You get to take a step back in time as the beautiful homes of Historic Opelika are decorated with Victorian themes. All nights except the 11 you can drive through the route. On Saturday the 11th, the roads will be blocked and allow only pedestrians to enjoy. From 2nd Avenue you can go down either 9th or 10th Streets to enjoy the tour.

December 10 – Christmas in a Railroad Town, Opelika

This event is downtown Opelika from 6-9pm. There will be music, food and even a wagon ride you can take through the Victorian Porch Tour. This is a fun event for everyone!

Ella and Brooks enjoyed Christmas in a Railroad Town-2009

December 11 – Auburn City Christmas Parade
This was originally planned for December 4. It was moved a week later because of Auburn playing in the above mentioned SEC Championship game. The parade starts at 10 am in downtown Auburn.

Picture courtesy of auburnchamber.com

December 16 – Collinwood Luminaries

I have never attended this but plan to try and check it out this year. This is an event by the neighbors in the Collinwood area of Opelika. They help put you in the spirit of Christmas with their on special tour with luminaries.


DOWNTOWN SHOPPING – Need to buy some gifts? Check out the shops in downtown Opelika and Auburn. From December 17-31 Auburn is not charging for parking downtown. Take advantage of our wonderful shops to complete your holiday shopping lists!

I hope this helps as you plan your events for December!  I wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!  Remember me for all your real estate needs in Auburn, Opelika and Lee County!

Ashley D. Miller - www.ashleydmiller.com - ashleymiller@remax.net - 334-332-8328



Rates are a little more steady this week! Let me know if I can help! 30 Year–4.375%, 15 Year–3.75%, 30 Year FHA – 4.25%, FHA 5/1 ARM – 3.25%

New Listing in Auburn! Excellent priced foreclosed condo...check it out! http://su.pr/24LLWP

Great News for Auburn's Economy! New business coming to town! Check out the link: http://su.pr/329YcI

Check out the latest sales stats for Auburn, Opelika and Lee County, AL Real Estate!
http://su.pr/1bejcq

Great new listing in Auburn...Close to downtown! Check out the link for more info and the visual tour, video to come!
http://su.pr/2hfcjL

Interesting article about Facebook usage! I wonder why it peaks at 2pm central weekdays with the highest on Wednesday?
http://su.pr/1751WG

Want to see the most 'Haunted' cities in America? It is interesting to see the ones I have actually visited!
http://su.pr/1s12no

Halloween 2010: What to do in Auburn and Opelika?

If you are looking for a fun week for Halloween there are many activities to enjoy in the Auburn/Opelika area. Here is a run down of what’s going on this week. I wish you and your family a Happy and Safe Halloween!

Monday, October 25: Howl’oween Costume Contest and Parade, Opelika
This event starts at 5:30 with costume contest for dogs. A parade is scheduled to begin at 6pm. It is free to attend for the public and $10 to enter your dog. Click here to learn more about the Opelika Howl’oween Event.

Picture coutesy of oanow.com

Tuesday, October 26: Opelika Parks and Rec. Fall Festival, Opelika Sportsplex
This event is from 6-8pm. It is for children 12 and under. The event includes hayrides, prizes, games, entertainment, inflatable games and food. The entertainment will be provided by Route 66. If you have not heard the band that alone would be worth attending the event. Children are encouraged to wear costumes and bring a treat bag. Click here for more info on the Fall Festival in Opelika.

 Thursday, October 28:


Opelika: The annual Trick or Treat Night from 5-8pm. This is for city wide trick or treating in neighborhoods.




Auburn: Auburn’s Parks and Rec. is hosting the 10th Annual Downtown Trick or Treating! This event is FREE to the public and all children are encouraged to wear their costumes and visit the downtown stores that have the Official Monster Merchants poster in their windows. Downtown streets will be closed off and there will be entertainment, prizes and food. Check out this link to learn more about the Annual Downtown Trick or Treating in Auburn.



This is what Ella will be wearing to the downtown event!

Saturday, October 30:  2010 Loachapoka Syrup Sopping 
5pm:  Auburn vs Ole Miss on ESPN2  WAR EAGLE HEY!!!

Sunday, October 31: HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!

Opelika: Orange Fest is featuring Trunk or Treat, live music and more. Visit this link for more info on the Orange Fest in Opelika.



Auburn: Auburn will host the neighborhood Trick or Treating from 6-8pm. Here is link to more information about Auburn’s Trick or Treating Event.

I hope this helps you plan for some fun for you and your family this Halloween season!

Also if you are looking for some local pumpkin patches visit this site below for more info:

LOCAL PUMPKIN PATCHES AND MORE

ASHLEY D. MILLER - http://www.ashleydmiller.com/ - 334-332-8328 - ashleymiller@remax.net

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Auburn VS LSU: Memories from a fan!

As an eight year old little boy my first memory of ESPN was watching the 1988 Auburn versus LSU game. It is now dubbed the “Earthquake” game and I remember feeling like I been in one after the game. Getting beat on the final drive after dominating the game resonates in my mind and my ‘friendly’ hatred, if there is such a thing, for LSU was born! Auburn went down 7-6 in a heartbreaker and probably cost them a chance at the National Title.

(May layout does not show the videos perfectly but it still give the effect!)





Move forward 6 years to 1994. I was now 13 and living the good life as an Auburn fan in junior high school because Auburn was on a huge winning streak. Going into the fourth quarter of the game I just knew we were beat. If LSU would have just taken a knee and punted on all their possessions in the 4th Quarter they would have won easily. For some reason Curly Hallman kept letting Jamie Howard throw the ball for count them 6 interceptions. The now known “Interception Game” was incredible to watch. I remember the jubilation as we watched from the stands as LSU continued to throw pick sixes! It is one for the ages and one of the most unlikely comebacks ever.






Those above mentioned games shaped me into the Auburn fan I am now. I grew up with the idea of making your faith your own. I didn’t get that choice when it came to choosing a football team. I will have to say that once I became a student and now and alumni, being an Auburn Fan/Man have a much deeper meaning than it did to the 13 year old boy in the stands in 1994. Since I came to Auburn as a student in 2000 the Auburn/LSU game has always been a favorite. I am going to take a quick trip down memory lane over the past decade of this rivalry. I have attended every game in the series since 2000 except the 2009 version. Man was I glad to be at home for that one…






Six times in the last decade the winner of this game has represented the SEC West in Atlanta. Here is a recap:

2000: A new pre-game tradition was started this year for Auburn, the Eagle flight before kickoff. Now this is one of the most beloved parts of pre-game to most Auburn fans. This was also the first season for Nick Saban in Baton Rouge. I was a student at Auburn and experiencing my first big time football game in the student section. It was a night game and was a back and forth battle until Tim Carter took a kickoff to the house and put a nail in the coffin. AU wins: 34-17






2001: My first experience at Tiger Stadium was awful at best. Auburn had beat LSU up and down the field in 1999 and Tommy Tuberville and players smoked cigars on the field and revenge was coming on this night. Since 9/11 this game was played after the Iron Bowl which made it odd. It basically was a playoff game with the winner going to the SEC Championship Game. From the time I parked until after the game I have never been harassed so much in my life. Luckily in three trips since it has not been near as bad. Auburn got off on the wrong foot by jumping on the logo at mid-field prior to the game. LSU successfully completed an onside kick and it was down hill from there. LSU wins: 27-14 and it was not even that close.


2002: After a heartbreaking loss at the Swamp, Auburn comes home to face LSU. This is one of the few games between these teams that resulted in a blow out. Auburn went against the norm and was ready for an early morning kickoff! In Gene Chizik’s first year as defensive coordinator he held the Bayou Bengals to one touchdown. Auburn wins in convincing fashion: 31-7.






2003: This was one of the most hyped Auburn teams that I can remember. It was just one year early. In the year that saw ‘Jetgate’ and “Nallsminger’ offense, Auburn was no match for LSU. For some reason I had planned to sell my LSU ticket and not go to Baton Rouge. At the last minute a couple of friends decided to hop in the car first thing Saturday and head to Baton Rouge. We stopped in Mobile and got a hotel room and decided to drive back that far after the game. As night games go many times at Tiger Stadium, AU was beat before the kickoff. Auburn was paid back with the same score as the year before just this time LSU wins: 31-7. Good news was we left in the 3rd Quarter, got some gumbo at a local restaurant and beat the crowd out of town for a long night back to Mobile. We clocked about a total of 9 hours in the car that day to see AU get stomped!



2004: All AU fans know this game! It was in my mind the turning point to the undefeated season. I stumped across 50 yard line seats in section 28 for this season so I had a prime spot for this game. Auburn’s offense could not get much going until the end of the game. The TD pass to Courtney Taylor was huge but bigger than that was the 4th down pass to CT to keep the drive alive. Jason Campbell stayed in the pocket and threw a strike to Taylor. One of the most bizarre things happened on the point after TD. John Vaughn had made 190 straight to only miss this most important one. Luckily for Auburn, LSU was called for jumping off another player and got to re-kick. Nick Saban was part of the committee that helped put rules together and was very much for this rule. It came back to bite him here as AU holds on to win: 10-9.






2005: This was the year Hurricane Katrina devastated Louisiana and Mississippi. Again we planned to go to the game but could not find a hotel room anywhere. So we had some friends in the Mobile area we planned to drive back to stay with after the game. As always it was a night kick in Baton Rouge. This game was so back and forth with Auburn marching up and down the field but stalling in field goal range too many times. Kenny Irons had an amazing night after predicting this on ESPN in Tiger Walk. John Vaughn missed 5 field goals including a potential game winner and game tying kick in overtime. Heart broken and distraught about being 0-3 in games at Baton Rouge that I attended, we started the long trek back to Mobile that night! LSU wins in OT: 20-17.

Intro says 2006 in video but it is from 2005.

2006: Auburn finally gets some breaks to fall its way, although they will pay for them the next year in Baton Rouge. If you like defense this game was for you. I was sitting in section 46 at Jordan Hare Stadium which is very close to the First Aid station…I am glad I didn’t need to visit them but it was a nail bitter. Auburn finally sustains a 12 play drive that ended on a Brandon Cox sneak from the one. This set up the 4th Quarter with some of the craziest calls. It was apparent that Zach Gilbert interfered on a pass but Eric Brock tipped it away. As the refs huddled JHS held its collective breath and finally it was ruled uncatchable. One goes Auburn’s way! Brock makes a games saving tackle near the goal line on the last play to preserve an Auburn win: 7-3!

2007: Now I am planning to make my fourth trip to Baton Rouge and Tiger Stadium. At least this time we had a hotel room in town and not driving back to Mobile this time. This also was the first time I set in the upper deck and man is it high up there! This was a battle back and forth. Auburn dominated the game in the first half, went to sleep in the third quarter and lost it on the last play in the 4th. Auburn was victim to one of Les Miles’ first but not last questionable calls at the end of the game. It is hard to believe he has come out on top more than not with his game management skills. With 40 seconds to play LSU can run the clock down and kick the field goal to win. Instead they wait and decide to take one last shot at the end zone. Auburn’s Jarrard Powers had great coverage on Demetrius Byrd but the ball was perfectly thrown and Auburn goes down 30-24. It was one of the most gut wrenching losses for me as a fan and I am now 0-4 at Tiger Stadium and vow to go to an Auburn Tiger win there one day!






2008: This was the beginning of the end for Tommy Tuberville. Both teams came in the game highly ranked and undefeated. ESPN’s College Gameday was in town for this showdown. Auburn actually played a pretty good game but the offense could never stay moving. A defensive touchdown got Auburn out to a 14-3 halftime lead. The offense could only get one second half touchdown and the defense gave up a touchdown with just over a minute to go to get beat, LSU wins 26-20. The season only got worse from here and one that many Auburn fans want to forget.



2009: I finally stay in Auburn for the road trip to Baton Rouge. This is first AU/LSU game I did not attend in the last 9. Not much to write about this game except Auburn looked awful; LSU looked the best they did all season especially on offense. My biggest memory from this game is Kodi Burns getting his teeth knocked out but continuing to play. That shows a great deal of heart even when things are bad. LSU spanks AU: 31-10.

2010: ??? A new decade arrives in the Auburn/LSU rivalry. Both come in undefeated in sometimes unconvincing fashion. Both have the will to win. I usually go with the team that plays the best defense and runs the ball the best. With that in mind you would think LSU might have the edge. Auburn is at home, has Cam Newton and continues to win the 4th Quarter. I think Auburn’s offense is good enough to score some points and the defense will continue to make enough plays to win with a later turnover.

I am picking Auburn to win 31-24.

2010 Pumpkin Carving set at Auburn University

If you have never been to the pumpkin carving event on campus you need to take time to check it out sometime.  It will be Friday, October 29.  Event opens to public at 3pm but events are going on all day! Bring a canned food product for the Auburn/Alabama Food Drive.

Click here for more info about the Auburn University Pumpkin Carving!

Cam Newton Pumpkin Carving!

Here are the Auburn, Opelika & Lee County housing stats for September 2010: http://ping.fm/FWRMi
-Last link broken!

Here are the Auburn, Opelika and Lee County housing stats for September 2010: http://su.pr/1bejcq

Housing Report out by RE/MAX! More local numbers to follow soon but this gives an idea of where we are right now...http://su.pr/2T8CJv

Yet another change to Gameday traffic! Heads up Camden Ridge folks in you head to town after the game. Hope this helps! http://su.pr/2QYv8Z

RATES ARE STILL AWESOME! More updates on local housing to come! Conv. 30 Year Fixed-3.875%, Conv. 15 Year Fixed-3.5%, FHA 30 Year Fixed-4%!

Football season is close when you FINALLY get a depth chart! Check out Auburn's DC here: http://su.pr/3pJ4FD

Check out this funny video! Now you have a question to ask your real estate agent...
http://su.pr/9COfSz

See the latest real estate stats for Auburn, Opelika and Lee County, AL!
http://su.pr/1bejcq

WAR EAGLE! Auburn listed as a top 50 public university! Check out the link: http://su.pr/1VCSDf

Search real estate on your smart phones! You can start by visiting: www.AshleyDMiller.com or learn more here: http://su.pr/2WY95P

Go MOBILE for all your Real Estate NEEDS!

RE/MAX Check out remax.com on your iPhones, Androids or Blackberry devices running OS 5.0 or newer! The new remax.com mobile website, makes it easier for you to search millions of properties by address, city and state or ZIP wherever you are, whenever you want. Try it today!

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO ON RE/MAX.COM MOBILE DEVICE

You can also go to AshleyDMiller.com and it will go directly to the mobile site.  You can log in with your name and email address to search and save properties!  Let me know if you need help buying or selling real estate in the Auburn/Opelika market!  Technology is so helpful in making your next transaction smooth!

Ashley D. Miller - 334-332-8328 - ashleymiller@remax.net

Want some FREE Auburn Football Tickets! Check out the link to find out how! http://su.pr/2MGW7V

Summer Swing Back to School Bash TONIGHT - August 10, 2010

Ella rocking out with Route 66 earlier this summer!

If you have not been able to check out Summer Swing this summer tonight is your last chance.  Route 66 will be providing entertainment from 7-8.  If you get there early the Rocky Brock Train will be giving free train rides.  I was able to talk with Dr. Smith recently, since he delivered Emma, and they are planning a fun finale for the show.  Come out to Monkey Park in Opelika and enjoy the last concert for Summer Swing this year. 

Dr. Smith in action with the band and below delivering Emma!

All you folks in Opelika don't forget to vote on the new smart grid TODAY! Check out the link for more info: http://su.pr/5YgRNG

Mortgage Interest Rate Update! STILL LOW!
Conv. 30 Year Fixed–4.125%, Conv. 15 Year Fixed–3.75%, FHA 30 Year Fixed–4.25%, FHA 5/1 ARM–3.25%

Here are some pics of Emma! Thanks to Josh P. for taking them for us at the hospital. All is going well!
http://su.pr/1FvhkP

Check out some pics of Emma Elizabeth! Thanks to Josh P for taking such great shots!
http://su.pr/1FvhkP

FREE Tea Day at McAlister's Deli...What a great day for a cold drink!
http://su.pr/1TGRNz

Eating some Diary Queen ice cream may be helpful to your community...check out the link!
http://su.pr/2vFA1J

Real estate market update for Auburn, Opelika and Lee County, AL! July 2010

Well…I have let my blog slip for a while. I want to get you caught up with what’s going on first in the real estate market. I will hopefully start back giving my weekly updates on different ‘happenings’ in the area.

The Lessley family made the move in July by selling their home and buying a larger one here in Auburn! Congrats to the new home owners!

I feel like a broken record when discussing the monthly market numbers. To see the latest stats for June 2010 click: Home for sale stats, Auburn, Opelika and Lee County, AL.
 At first glance you will notice one of the things I have pointed out many times, number of properties on the market. As of the end of June there are 1,064 properties on the market. Last year at the same time there were 930 properties. This is a 12.5% increase. The good news for buyers is that you have more properties to select from. The not so good news for the market and sellers is that there is no urgency to buy which brings prices down overall.

New home owners, Cole and Tiffany!  Welcome to Auburn!

For the Auburn market in June there was a substantial increase to the number of closed homes. This was mainly due to the home buyer’s credit that expired June 30. There was almost a 23% increase in number of homes closed for the month. The same holds try for the number of actual homes on the market for Auburn as above. Also, the average sales price dropped just over $30,000.


The sales numbers for Opelika stayed pretty much in line with last year. There again was an increase in overall number of properties on the market. The good news for the Opelika market was a slight increase in average sales price by almost $15,000.

Close to everything in Auburn! Visit: 1001SDeanRoad.info

The condo market remains flat! There are over 400 properties on the market with only 23 closing in the month of June. The days on the market have increased and the average price has dropped which was expected. The issue here is mainly with financing constraints for the condo buyer. If you are able to finance or pay cash it is a good time to possibly pick up a condo in the Auburn/Opelika market.

Congrats to the Wright's for their condo purchase in Auburn!

Rates are incredible and inventory is high so if you are looking to purchase, now is the time! Keep a watch out here for any changing news for the local real estate market.

Ashley D. Miller - http://www.ashleydmiller.com/ - ashleymiller@remax.net - 334-332-8328

Great home for sale in Auburn's Grove Hill:  1272TaylorCourt.info

Mortgage Rate Update! Still VERY LOW!
30 Year Conventional – 4.25%, 15 Year Conventional – 3.75%, 30 Year FHA – 4.25%!

See the latest home stats for Auburn, Opelika and Lee County, AL...more info to follow on blog.
http://su.pr/7pJi3h

Opelika/Auburn folks...your celebration of the 4th of July can start on Thursday...check it out:
http://su.pr/1FMXaA

Remax.com still top real estate company site per Hitwise: http://ping.fm/L1Twb

For all you Parrotheads out there: http://ping.fm/9TO25

Mortgage Rate Update...Looking great still!
Conv. 30 Year Fixed – 4.375%, Conv. 15 Year Fixed – 3.875%, FHA 30 Year Fixed – 4.375%

Summer Nights in Auburn TONIGHT! Should be fun for all! Ella is really excited about seeing Aubie at the parade!
http://su.pr/1NmV5a

Single game and mini season books for Auburn Football on sale today!!
http://su.pr/2jVjqE

Good but basic info on getting your home ready to sell! http://ping.fm/bZGrf

Housing Market Update for Auburn, Opelika and Lee County, AL

Housing Market Update for Auburn, Opelika and Lee County, AL

Monday - May 24, 2010

Within the next two months we should be able to tell what impact the tax credits had on our market. As many of you know the tax credit was applicable to those parties that had a contract on a property by April 30, 2010 and closed by June 30, 2010. So with this in mind, it seems to reason that the number of closed homes will increase over the next couple of months. Historically for our local market the months between May and August are the most active. With the tax credits no longer in place it is time to see if the housing market can sustain itself without the government’s assistance.

Craig and Paula--Happy New Auburn Home Owners.  Graduated college one week, bought the house the next and getting married in 2 more weeks...what a busy month!

As always I will post a link HERE for homes for sale stats for Auburn, Opelika and Lee County. You can check out that link to make your own assessments. I have mentioned many times on this blog that a great indicator of the stability of the market is number of months of inventory. I will not talk about that this week (as to not beat the dead horse) but will mention we have over a 17 month supply in our overall market. This usually dips through the summer months.

Congrats to Pamela another new Auburn Home Owner! 

I would like to update you on pending home numbers. This is a good indicator of closed properties coming up soon. There are currently 163 residential properties pending in Auburn. This is a great number for future closes transactions. Opelika has 70 pending homes and there are 18 pending homes in Lee County (outside of Auburn or Opelika’s city limits). Many of you know this number really does not count until they are closed but represents a good activity in the past few months.

Great home in Auburn! Visit: 1433AnnalueDrive.info for pics and info!

I want to spend the last portion of this blog to talk about short sales. I have briefly mentioned this in the past but want to spend a few more minutes talking about this ever increasing segment in the real estate market. A short sale is a ‘pre-foreclosure’ sale that is approved by the lender(s) where the sales price is less than payoff of the mortgage(s). This is becoming increasingly important where home owners refinanced their homes in the past 2-5 years and now owe more than current market value.

I have received the SFR designation from the National Association of Realtors.  This includes a 6 hour class and other webinar training on the process associated with short sales and foreclosures.

I want to inform all that there are options prior to foreclosure. The government has two programs for you to consider. One is called HAMP. This is a modification of a current mortgage to make payments and terms more affordable. The other is HAFA. This program works directly with borrowers and lenders to make short sales successful. It is important to contact an agent and seek legal advice in order to know what is best for your specific situation. In most all cases there are options besides foreclosure and most are better for the individual both psychologically and financially.

These two homes are pre-builds for 2 clients. The one on the left is in Lundy Chase and the one on the right is in Lundy Chase West. 

The last month has been a little slower with calls and interest. I believe with school being out now, buyers are sellers are going to be ready to make something happen before the fall. There is no better time to consider buying with rates still low! Let me know if I can help you or anyone you know in any way with your next real estate transaction.

Ashley D. Miller – 334-332-8328 – www.AshleyDMiller.com – ashleymiller@remax.net

Just when you thought Chickfila couldn't get any better they add a spicy chicken sandwich! Reserve your free one here! http://su.pr/3fkFXN

Excellent Rates Today! Conventional 30 Year – 4.625%, Conventional 15 Year – 4.125%, FHA 30 Year Fixed – 4.5% !!!!

RE/MAX site climbing up the hitwise chart! Great to be part of such a great company!
http://su.pr/8ITn9B

Restaurant review - Momma Goldberg’s Deli – An Auburn Tradition since 1976!

Restaurant review - Momma Goldberg’s Deli – An Auburn Tradition since 1976!

Monday, May 17, 2010

After moving to Auburn in 2000 for college the term ‘momma’s love’ took on a brand new meaning. Anyone who has been to Momma Goldberg’s and has eaten the famous Momma’s Love sandwich knows what I am talking about. Although Momma Goldberg’s offers an extensive menu, I have rarely ever ordered anything but the Momma’s Love.

I remember visiting Auburn and passing this small building at the corner of Donahue and Magnolia and wonder what all the fuss was about a deli shop?! Then, my first fall at Auburn I learned quickly why Momma G’s was a favorite spot for so many. That first fall I also had a surprise birthday party at Momma G’s so it became a special place for me.

Momma's G's is a landmark on the corner of Donahue and Magnolia in Auburn!  Luckily I park on Glenn for football games and pass right by here!

As I mentioned the Momma’s Love is an absolute must for anyone that has never been to Momma G’s. The sandwich includes roast beef, ham, turkey, Muenster cheese, spicy mustard, mayo, lettuce and tomato all on a hoagie bun. You may think that sounds ok but…the secret to it being so good is the steam! Once all the meat and cheese are placed on the bun they steam the sandwich, then top off with the mustard, mayo, lettuce, tomato and special momma’s sauce. Momma’s sauce is similar to Italian dressing but even better!

The 'magic' takes place in the steamer!

You may think it can’t get any better for a deli lunch than that sandwich, but it can! You must always order nachos!! At Momma’s G’s they take cheese Doritos, cover with pepper jack cheese and jalapeño peppers. Then they steam it all together. What comes out of the steamer is something that is unmatched anywhere. (Believe me, I have tried at home.) There is just something about the way the cheese melts together that makes these nachos the best around.

I recently had daddy/daughter night with Ella.  We went to the AU baseball game but on the way had to stop in for some nachos and some Momma's Love!  Ella had her first bite of the nachos and loved them! 

One of my favorite game day traditions is getting a Momma’s Love, nachos and a large sweet tea. There is no better way to head into Jordan Hare Stadium than to have just left Momma Goldberg’s. There are many new locations for Momma G’s. Each have something different to offer, check out the website by clicking here. So the next time you are in Auburn drop by and get you some real Momma’s Love and nachos and enjoy!

More room inside than you would think.  It is slam full on game day's in Auburn!

Ashley D. Miller – 334-332-8328 – www.AshleyDMiller.com – ashleymiller@remax.net

Great options of things to do in Auburn tonight! We hope to check out the AU Tigers for baseball or go to the the carnival at the tennis center!
http://su.pr/3YZTW5

Hope your plans for Saturday don't include going to Hickory Dickory Park...will be closed!
http://su.pr/2BReKT

RE/MAX CEO Margaret Kelly on the new HAFA Short Sale Plan. I received my SFR recently and learning about the short sale process!
http://bit.ly/rmxss

Watch out if you are heading towards Glenn Dean...sink hole there!

http://ping.fm/7GkNF

What’s Happening with the Miller’s and Upcoming Area Events! Monday, May 10, 2010

What’s Happening with the Miller’s and Upcoming Area Events!

May 10, 2010

With spring time in full swing, things are starting to get busy. There are many events and celebrations that fall this time of year. At the end of this blog I will list some of great events happening around Auburn and Opelika. There are too many to list but this will give you a ‘flavor’ of what is going on in the area.

Anna, Ella and me enjoying Mother's Day! Hope all the mothers had a great day!

To start with I want to update you on what’s going on with my family. We found out at the end of April that we are expecting our second little girl! Ella is very excited about having a baby sister. I am not sure she fully understands what is about to happen. Ella wants to name her baby sister “Ella” or “Thomas”. I am pretty sure neither of these names will pan out...we are still undecided on a name so we will just call her Baby Miller 2.

Above Baby 2 is looking at you and below is waving at you!

If you follow Auburn sports at all, you know Auburn baseball has been doing really well lately. Ella and I had the chance to go see Auburn play Mississippi State last Friday. As you can see from the pictures Ella enjoyed herself. This coming weekend is the last scheduled series at home versus Tennessee. On Friday night you can enjoy fireworks after the game and on Sunday kids are able to run the bases after the game. So there is fun for everyone at the ball park.  Click here for ticket info.

Ella is eating her favorite pre-game meal, fries.  There is 'big' hint here as to what next week's review will be about!

Ella cheering on the Auburn Tigers!  She says over and over again, "Auburn Tigers Everyday"! She doesn't have a chance! :)

Ella and her buddy Brooks at the game.  "osh" as Ella calls Josh is hold them!  The fireworks scared Ella but were much more enjoyable after an Auburn victory!

As I mentioned in my last update blog we were going to celebrate Anna’s birthday at A-Day. We had a good time and you can see a few of the pictures below of how Ella enjoyed Anna’s birthday just as much as Anna did!

Above Ella is helping Anna blow out her candles.  She loves singing 'Happy Birthday.'  Below she is swinging in Anna's new porch swing we got her for her birthday!

I also mentioned in my last blog about the sundown concert series at Kiesel Park. This year it has been moved to Town Creek Park off Gay Street in Auburn. Every Thursday night in May from 6-7:30 there will be a performance of live music. Everyone is encouraged to bring a picnic and enjoy the park and music. I have been once in the past, and it is a fun event. Check it out if you get the chance or click here for more info.


For the music lovers there are two events starting in Opelika too for you to enjoy. The first is NoonTunes on Wednesday’s. Starting last week and going through the month of May there will be a concert at noon at the Courthouse Square. The other event, Summer Swing, begins tomorrow. Summer Swing is every Tuesday evening from May 11-August 10. The event begins at 7pm in Opelika’s Municipal Park. The Rocky Brook Rocket, a vintage train will offer complimentary rides. For a schedule of acts performing check out the Opelika Park and Recreation site here.

Picture courtesy of Opelika.org

 The last event I want to tell you about is a new one to me. This weekend on Saturday and Sunday, May 15 &16, Lee County Master Gardeners is hosting a tour. There will be 7 private home gardens on tour as well as two public gardens. You can get tickets in advance for $15 at Blooming Colors, Auburn or Opelika Chamber of Commerce and Southern Crossing.

Ashley D. Miller - 334.332.8328 - www.AshleyDMiller.com - ashleymiller@remax.net