[dshobbies]

Not that we live near any beach, doggy or otherwise, Lucy can't walk much anymore. Our shepherd Krystal used to love to walk on the beach but Lucy is getting old and we had to stop taking her on her nightly walks, something she enjoyed very much. We even had to put throw rugs down our tiled hall because she trips and falls everyday on the tile. Aging is a bitch.

Judy - we live in the northwest corner of the San Fernando Valley, which is also the northwest corner of Los Angeles City. Though the county extends for several cities north, it's all expensive. So CA in general is one of the most expensive areas in the US.

However, and I'm truly sorry for all those affected, you might consider buying something out of a foreclosure. Interest rates are very low and a townhouse should have enough room for your family without the upkeep of a house. As the economy rebounds (if) you'll have something that appreciates in value instead of the other way around. Home ownership has the advantages of mortgage and tax deductions which also lower the price of ownership. Just thinking out loud - You can visit websites, like californiamoves.com to see what's available if you think you can swing it. Good luck,

Dale