Recreational Property
I'm interested in property off the grid, energy-independent. Here's an interesting cabin on 38 acres near Gunnison Colorado. It offers solar electricity with a back up generator, propane, wood heat, and a spring-fed water system. Price is just $190,000.

Positive financial news has prompted a little stock market rally. Real estate prices are at rock bottom right now and so we expect sales will soon pick up. Prices will rise as that happens. Now's the time to find a bargain - prices may never again be this low.

Hiking
This is a good time to fish in Utah, but maybe even a better time to hike the sunny trails in the southern Utah desert. Here are some hikes on my spring list. I doubt I'll find time to do all four, but hopefully I'll get a couple of them.
- Coyote Gulch to the Escalante River
- Dark Canyon to the Colorado River
- Kolob Arch in Zion Park
- The Maze to the Harvest Scene

Events
Moab Skinny Tire Festival, March 14-16. The festival's three rides highlight Moab's different road riding opportunities. The first day follows the mighty Colorado River corridor downstream passing by ancient puebloans petroglyphs. The next two days leave the valley and climb the beautiful canyon roads into red rock country to Dead Horse Point State Park and through Arches National Park. This event raises funds for cancer survivorship programs. For more information contact 435-259-2698.

Canyonlands Half Marathon and Five Mile Run, Mar 21. This extremely popular and scenic race is USATF certified and sanctioned. The course starts approximately 11 miles up scenic Hwy 128 and parallels the Colorado River into Moab. The course continues on Hwy 191 and through the streets of Moab to City Park and the finish line. The Five Mile Run starts approximately 3 miles up Hwy 128 and follows the same course as the half marathon.

Pond Skimming Contest at The Canyons, March 28. See if you can ski or board across 100 feet of open water while wearing an outrageous consume. Prizes, music, food.

Easter Jeep Safari, April 4-12, Moab. Easter Jeep Safari consists of trail rides, mostly day-long trips, departing from Moab throughout this week long event. The official event is hosted by the Red Rock 4-Wheelers Inc, the local four wheel drive club of Moab. Participants provide their own four-wheel drive vehicle, take care of their own food and non-alcoholic beverages for the trip. The club officially runs approximately 9 different trails every day, with "Big Saturday" culminating in the largest ever single trail ride departure happening - around 30 groups line up in downtown Moab to head off in every direction for 30 different trails! Pre-registration for this event is recommended, although limited registration at the event may be possible. Visit the club's website for registration information or mail a request to Red Rock 4-Wheelers, Inc., PO Box 1471, Moab, UT 84532-1471. www.rr4w.comNote: This massive week-long event is one of the largest events of the year for Moab. Please make your camping/lodging reservations as early as possible!

Great Salt Lake Bird Festival, May 14-18. Includes workshops, field trips, presentations, food, games, fun for the entire family. Events are held at various locations around the lake and Antelope Island. This year's keynote Speaker is Scott Weidensaul.

Lake Powell South Shad Rally, May 15-16. Join other Lake Powell enthusiasts rallying to save shad by catching stripers. All are welcome. Fishermen, boaters, those that like to eat fresh fish. There is something for everyone. Contact: Pete Klocki, 928-710-0599. Friday May 15, 8 am-6pm, Saturday May 16, 4-8 pm. Admission: free. Fish fry, potluck dinner, door prizes. Held at Lone Rock Beach, on Lake Powell near Page. Watch wayneswords.com for updates.