Note 7 - Investments in Marketable Securities - Available for Sale Marketable Equity Securities (Details) - NHI Common Stock [Member] - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
NHI Common Stock, Shares (in shares)	1,630,642	1,630,642
NHI Common Stock, Cost	$ 24,734	$ 24,734
NHI Common Stock, Fair Value	$ 120,945	$ 99,257