All-Employee Meeting with Team!

2024 has already brought some significant changes to the real estate industry, particularly with new shifts in how we do business due to a recent lawsuit and settlement. It's been a whirlwind of adjustments, but I'm so grateful to have my amazing team by my side.

Having my two superstars, Tonya and Trina, with me through these changes has been a huge blessing. We’ve tackled every challenge together with determination and optimism, and I know we will continue to overcome whatever comes our way. It’s all about staying adaptable, continuous learning, working as a team, and supporting each other through the ups and downs.

Here’s to a successful year ahead and the strength of our incredible team. We’re ready to take on whatever 2024 brings! 💪🏡✨

Real Estate Fun…

My First Year as a Full-Time Realtor

Well, here I am—off and running in my first year as a full-time Realtor! And let me tell you, it’s been nothing short of an adventure.

If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that Real Estate is all about learning. I mean, I knew there would be a lot to take in, but wow—there’s so much to know, and even more to figure out how to do! From contracts and negotiations to market trends and property valuations, my first year has been a whirlwind of new information, experiences, and challenges. And I’ve loved every minute of it.

—-The Power of Learning

It’s hard to overstate just how much there is to absorb in this field. Every day brings something new—whether it’s learning about a new piece of technology, discovering a new strategy to help my clients, or diving deeper into local market data. It feels like there’s always more to know, but that’s what makes it exciting! I love being in a profession that challenges me to grow and evolve constantly.

But it’s not just about the technical stuff—learning how to *do* everything is just as important as knowing *what* to do. Building relationships, navigating client expectations, and negotiating deals are all skills I’ve had to hone. Each transaction and each client presents a new learning opportunity. And as much as I’ve read and studied, there’s no substitute for real-life experience.

—- The Fun Adventure

Despite all the learning, it’s been a fun adventure. Every day is different—one day I’m showing homes, the next I’m helping clients navigate through paperwork or brainstorming creative ways to market a property. There’s a thrill that comes with helping someone find their perfect home or guiding them through the selling process. Every deal is a new puzzle to solve, and it’s incredibly rewarding to see it all come together.

And, let’s be honest, the relationships I’ve built along the way have been one of the best parts of this journey. Whether it’s helping first-time homebuyers understand the process or negotiating the best deal for sellers, getting to know my clients and being a part of such a significant moment in their lives has been so fulfilling.

—- So Glad I Chose This Path

Looking back on my first year, I can honestly say I’m so happy I chose the route of becoming a Realtor. Yes, there’s been a lot of learning (and more learning, and more learning!), but the rewards have been completely worth it. I’ve discovered that this career is so much more than just buying and selling homes. It’s about helping people navigate one of the most important decisions of their lives and being a trusted guide along the way.

I’m excited for what the future holds in this journey. I know there will continue to be challenges and opportunities to learn, but that’s what makes it so worthwhile. Real Estate is a constantly evolving field, and I can’t wait to see where this adventure takes me next.

Thanks for following along with my journey, and if you’re ever ready to make your next big move—whether it’s buying or selling a home—I’d love to help you make it happen!

Here’s to more learning, more fun, and many more successful transactions ahead! 🏡✨

Broken-Not Broken

The Art of Jewelry Repair and Transformation

There’s something deeply satisfying about taking a broken piece of jewelry and bringing it back to life. Whether it’s a bracelet, necklace, or any other type of adornment, the process of repair is both a challenge and a creative opportunity. Sometimes, I get the pleasure of fixing a simple break or replacing a clasp, but other times, I have the chance to completely transform a piece—from something non-functional to something new and wearable.

And let me tell you, there’s nothing I love more than being asked to solve a jewelry conundrum!

Jewelry holds so much meaning. It can be a family heirloom passed down through generations, a gift from a loved one, or a special treat to yourself. So when something breaks or becomes damaged, it’s not just about fixing it—it’s about preserving the memory, the value, and the sentiment attached to that piece. Every repair is a chance to breathe new life into something that might otherwise be left forgotten in a drawer.

—Repair or Transformation?

Jewelry repair can be as simple as fixing a clasp or restringing a broken chain, but sometimes it’s about transforming the piece entirely. A necklace that’s lost its charm might be reinvented with a new pendant or a broken bracelet could be reimagined with a fresh design. I love the challenge of taking a non-functional item and finding a creative way to make it not only wearable again but even better than before.

Maybe it’s an old brooch that’s missing a stone. Instead of simply replacing it, I might find a way to give it a completely new look, turning it into a modern statement piece. Or a necklace that’s too short could be extended with complementary beads or elements, giving it a brand new vibe. The possibilities are endless when it comes to repurposing and transforming jewelry!

—- The Joy of Solving Jewelry Conundrums

What I love most about jewelry repair and transformation is the *problem-solving* aspect. Each piece brings its own set of challenges, and I get to use my creativity and skills to come up with the perfect solution. It's like being a detective, working to figure out how to make the pieces come together, both functionally and aesthetically. Every repair or transformation is unique, and the joy of seeing the finished piece—whether it’s been repaired to its original state or completely reimagined—is incredibly rewarding.

It’s also a wonderful feeling to know that something that may have been considered "broken" or "useless" has been restored to a meaningful, beautiful state. It’s about more than just fixing; it’s about making sure that piece can continue to tell its story for years to come.

—- Your Jewelry Conundrum

If you have a piece of jewelry that’s been sitting in a drawer, waiting for the right moment to be brought back to life, I’d love to help! Whether it’s a simple repair or a full-on transformation, I’m passionate about solving jewelry conundrums and making sure your beloved pieces are functional and beautiful again.

After all, jewelry isn’t just about the metal and gemstones—it’s about the memories and connections that are held within each piece. No matter how broken it seems, there’s always a way to fix it, or better yet, transform it into something new.

So if you’ve got a jewelry challenge you need help with, don’t hesitate to reach out. Let’s see what we can create together!

Career-Shift

After years of holding a variety of positions, I’m thrilled to announce a new chapter in my career journey. As of September, 2022, I’m officially a full-time Realtor!

Over the years, I’ve worn many hats: from graphics designer and HRIS manager to project manager, facilitator, trainer, beauty and skin care consultant, jeweler/apprentice, Entrepreneur and business owner, and so many other multifaceted roles. Each of these experiences taught me something valuable and shaped my professional identity. But despite all the different jobs I’ve had, something was always missing—a true passion, a career that would bring me both joy and fulfillment.

Then came Covid.

Like many others, the pandemic gave me the time and space to reflect on my life, career, and what I truly wanted to do moving forward. I had the opportunity to pause, think about my strengths, my interests, and what really made me happy. It wasn’t just about finding another job—it was about finding the right job, one that would not only align with my skills but also ignite my passion.

During this time of reflection, my wonderful husband encouraged me to do just that—find something that truly makes me excited to get up every day. After a lot of soul-searching, listing out my skills, and considering all the things I enjoy, Real Estate—more specifically, becoming a Realtor—rose to the top of my list.

The more I thought about it, the more everything clicked. Real Estate brings together so many things I love: people, problem-solving, negotiation, design and customer service.. I’ve always been drawn to homes—whether it’s helping friends and family with home décor advice or simply appreciating the architecture of a place. Real Estate allows me to combine my passion for helping others with my love for homes and design in a way that feels both exciting and fulfilling.

Why Realtor?

You might wonder—why Real Estate? Why the switch from HR and project management to helping people buy and sell homes? Well, there’s something about the process of guiding people through one of the most important decisions of their lives that really resonates with me. I’ve always loved connecting with others and using my skills to make a difference. Real estate allows me to do just that, while also allowing me to tap into my creativity and my passion for design and aesthetics.

It’s not just about showing houses; it’s about helping people find the place where they’ll build memories, where their dreams will come true. It’s about finding the perfect fit for my clients and being with them every step of the way, from the first showing to the final closing. There’s nothing more rewarding than seeing someone’s face light up when they walk into their new home, knowing that I was a part of that journey.

The Future

As of September 2022, I’ve officially taken the leap and am now a full-time Realtor. I’m so excited about this new chapter and all the possibilities ahead. I’m looking forward to helping clients find not just a house, but a place to call home—a place where they can make memories and live the life they’ve always dreamed of.

This career shift isn’t just about a new title; it’s about finding purpose and passion in what I do. And I’m so grateful to my family and friends, especially my supportive husband, for encouraging me to follow this path and pursue a career that makes me truly happy.

If you or someone you know is looking to buy or sell a home, I’d love to be a part of that journey. I’m here to help, guide, and make the process as smooth and enjoyable as possible. Here’s to new beginnings, new challenges, and a bright future in real estate! 🏡✨

Feel free to reach out to me if you’re ready to explore your next big move! Let’s make it happen!

My Weight Loss Journey (this time)

My Weight Loss Journey: Finding Success with Weight Watchers

Like so many others, I’ve struggled with my weight for most of my life. It’s been a constant battle, and I’ve tried countless diets, plans, and quick fixes over the years—some successful for a short time, others not so much. But my recent experience with **Weight Watchers** has been a game-changer, and I’m excited to share my progress!

I joined **Weight Watchers** during the pandemic, when life was already full of uncertainty and challenges. Honestly, I wasn’t sure if it would work for me, but something about the program felt different. For the first time, I didn’t feel like I was following a “diet.” Instead, I felt like I was gaining the tools to build a healthier, more sustainable lifestyle. And the best part? It hasn’t been about deprivation—it’s been about finding balance, making smarter choices, and being kind to myself throughout the process.

The Journey So Far

As of now, I’ve lost 30 pounds—and I couldn’t be happier with my progress! While I still have more to go, I’m so proud of how far I’ve come. It feels amazing to not only see the physical changes, but to also feel the shift in my mindset. For the first time in a long time, I feel in control of my journey. The support from the Weight Watchers community, combined with the flexibility of the program, has made all the difference.

Same outfit - About a year apart.. My face is so much thinner!

CELBEBRATE the SMALL wins!

The app and the resources provided have been incredibly helpful, allowing me to track what I eat, learn about portion sizes, and make better food choices without feeling restricted. It’s also been empowering to know that I can still enjoy the foods I love, just in moderation. That’s been a big part of the success for me—this isn’t about giving up everything; it’s about finding a healthy balance that works for my body and my lifestyle.

The Road Ahead

While I’m celebrating my 30-pound loss, I know my journey isn’t over. There’s still work to do, and I’m committed to continuing this path toward a healthier, happier me. What’s different this time is that I’m not focused on an end goal or a “finish line.” I’m focused on building habits that will serve me for the long term, and that mindset shift has made all the difference.

I’m so grateful for the support I’ve received and the progress I’ve made so far. This has truly been the best experience I’ve ever had when it comes to weight loss, and I’m excited to keep moving forward, step by step.

If you’re on your own weight loss journey, I encourage you to be patient with yourself and remember that progress, no matter how big or small, is still progress. We’re all on our own paths, and the important thing is that we keep moving forward.

Here’s to more progress, more victories, and continued growth!

New Position: A Fresh Start with New Challenges

I want to apologize for the long dry spell and lack of posts here—things have been a bit busy behind the scenes! But now, I’m excited to share some big news and an update on what’s been happening.

In August of 2018, my boss of 7 years, County Commissioner, Smaligo, made the decision to move on from the public sector and pursue a new career path. As he was preparing for his transition, an incredible opportunity in Human Resources opened up within the organization—a role I was not only familiar with but had held in the past.

Needless to say, I was beyond excited about the possibility of stepping into this new role. It felt like the perfect opportunity for me to continue growing in my career while also taking on fresh challenges. So, I applied immediately—and was thrilled when I was offered the position!

This new chapter has come with a lot of new responsibilities and a lot to take in, but I’m truly enjoying the challenge. There’s a lot to learn, and I’m eager to dive into it all. The transition has been both exciting and a bit overwhelming at times, but I feel incredibly grateful for this opportunity to grow and learn in a new direction.

While the learning curve has been steep, it’s been so rewarding to tackle new projects, work with amazing people, and contribute to the organization in a fresh way. I’m excited for what’s ahead, and I’m committed to embracing every new challenge that comes my way.

Thank you all for your patience and continued support. I can’t wait to share more updates and insights as I continue on this journey!

Valentine's Day Art and Crafts: Celebrating Love and Life Through Paper Creations

Valentine’s Day has always been a special day for me—it's not just a time to celebrate love, but also the day I celebrate *my* love for life. That's right, Valentine's Day is my birthday! So, while the world is busy sharing love with others, I’ve always had the unique experience of celebrating both the universal spirit of affection and my own personal journey. For me, this day is doubly special, and over the years, I've come to realize that there’s no better way to commemorate both my love for life and my creative passion than by diving into the world of paper crafting.

I’ve been making cards and paper crafts for over 25 years, and there’s something truly magical about turning a simple sheet of paper into a unique, heartfelt creation. Whether it’s a handmade card, a 3D pop-up design, or a layered collage, crafting allows me to pour my love and energy into something that’s truly personal and meaningful. And for me, Valentine’s Day is the perfect occasion to share that creativity with others.

—- The Magic of Handmade Cards

Valentine's Day cards are a tradition that never gets old, but handmade ones? Those hold a special kind of magic. It’s not just about buying a card from a store and writing a quick note—it’s about dedicating time and effort to creating something uniquely suited to the person you’re giving it to.

For me, I love playing with different paper textures, colors, and patterns to create cards that are as unique as the people they’re meant for. Whether it's a heart-shaped design, a sweet pop-up element, or a thoughtful quote printed on a special kind of paper, the process of making something by hand allows me to infuse a little piece of myself into every project.

 —- Paper Crafting: Beyond Cards

 While cards are the most common form of paper crafting for Valentine’s Day, the possibilities are endless when it comes to using paper for other types of art and decoration. Here are some ideas to inspire your own creations:

 1. Gift Tags and Wrapping Paper:** Handmade gift tags add a personal touch to any present. Try using a stencil to cut out small hearts or roses, or create a custom design that ties in with your gift’s theme. You can also make your own wrapping paper by stamping or drawing cute Valentine’s motifs.

 2. Paper Flowers:** These make for beautiful decorations or gifts. Paper flowers can be as simple or intricate as you like, from basic origami blooms to delicate tissue paper creations. You can even create a whole bouquet!

 3. DIY Valentine’s Day Garland:** A paper garland filled with hearts, cupids, or love letters can brighten up a room or be hung above your Valentine's Day table. This is a great project to do with kids or to share with friends.

4. Love Coupons:** A fun and heartfelt gift idea is creating personalized "Love Coupons" that your significant other can redeem for special treats, like a night of their favorite movie, a homemade dinner, or even just a relaxing massage. These are easy to make with cardstock and a little creativity.

5. Paper Mâché Hearts:** If you're feeling a bit more adventurous, paper mâché can be molded into 3D shapes, like love-themed hearts or even a decorative bowl to hold Valentine’s treats. It’s a great project for crafting enthusiasts and can be customized with paint or embellishments.

—- A Gift of Love: The Art of Giving

One of the things I love most about paper art is the emotional connection it creates. When I make something for someone, it’s not just about the final product—it’s about the thought and love that go into it. The process of creating is as much of a gift as the piece itself.

Over the years, I’ve given countless handmade cards and paper crafts, and I can tell you that the reaction is always worth it. There’s something about receiving a handmade gift that feels so personal. It’s a reminder that someone took the time to create something just for you, and that feeling of being appreciated and loved is priceless.

For me, Valentine’s Day is an extra-special occasion because it also happens to be my birthday. It’s a day when I feel especially connected to others and to the love that surrounds us all. I like to think that the creative energy I pour into my paper art reflects the love and gratitude I feel, not only for the people I care about, but also for the opportunity to share my passion with the world. It’s the perfect day to celebrate both my personal milestones and the beautiful connections I’ve made over the years.

—- Do You Have a Passion Like This?

If you’ve ever felt the joy of crafting something with your own hands—whether it's paper art, knitting, painting, or any other creative pursuit—I’d love to hear about it. There’s a special bond that comes from pursuing a passion and sharing it with others, and I think we could all use a little more of that in our lives.

For me, paper art isn’t just a hobby—it’s a way to connect with people, express my feelings, and celebrate the small but important moments. Valentine’s Day, with its focus on love, is the perfect time to dive into this creative outlet and share something truly unique and meaningful with the people who matter most to us.

Whether you’re making a card for a spouse, a friend, or even a favorite teacher, the possibilities are endless. Paper crafting is not just about creating a physical object; it's about sending a message from the heart. And that, to me, is the greatest gift of all.

Happy crafting, and Happy Valentine’s Day—oh, and Happy Birthday to me!

Card for MY Knight for Valentine’s Day!