Home is more than four walls and roof. Home is a door opening to you, your family, your pets, your lifestyle, your neighborhood, your community, your city. It’s all encompassing on so many levels.
January's Market Report
Take a look at January’s Market Report
Looks like we are kick starting 2024 with some activity in the market. We are starting to see rates lower and with the upcoming election. Here’s what January looked like. As you know, I’m always here to answer your real estate questions and you can book an appointment with me anytime.
House of the Dragon
Designing in traditional style Chinese motifs…
Since we are entering the Year of the Dragon and I honor my Asian roots, I thought doing a piece on Asian inspired home decor would be inspiring. First off, although I do have an affinity for Chinoiserie in home styling and quite like it, it is technically not Asian, but European-created. Ah, yes the seduction of the exotic has always been a muse of sorts. I can definitely appreciate that style of wallpaper down a staircase or dragon themed decorative pillows. Truthfully, the motifs themselves are really quiet poetic, but there is a bit of difference when we are talking about the lens in which these two styles are seen through. The western viewpoint captures the romanticism of Chinese landscapes and art, while I feel the traditional Chinese aesthetics delves more into the philosophy and beliefs of the Chinese culture.
Chinese design incorporates the need for balance and tranquility within the home. It uses natural textures and minimalism to enhance the character of the home. You’ll see a lot of intricate woodwork and lacquered furniture. Bold colors like deep reds and blacks are common in traditional Chinese design denoting good luck and sophistication respectively. Chinese decor is warm, but also functional, reflective of the art of Feng Shui. This all accompanied by Chinese art and figurines placed about the home accurately—Budai is everywhere.
Some elements you’ll find in this aesthetic are porcelain vases, decorative screens, intricately adorned chests and cabinetry, and of course Oriental rugs. Fun Fact: Shoppers used to bring their dogs to determine if the rugs were genuine. If the dog detected blood, they would know it was the real deal. Oriental rugs are woven by hand, often incorporating the weavers blood.
Designing an Oriental style home can showcase a bold and inviting space, but one that is also with purpose and practicality. It signifies elegance and suggests strength, peace, and harmony. Adding softer touches with Chinese floral motifs like lotuses, cherry blossoms, and orchids adds to the balance of this aesthetic and can calm any dragon.
For more Chinese decor and design ideas:
We're Going to the Backyard and We're...Gonna Get Married
It’s #NationalWeddingMonth and what better way to save duckets by having your celebration…
“For me it was holding onto the magic of it all. What woman doesn’t want to sip her tea or coffee in the morning while gazing upon the spot she said “I Do”.”
Photo by: Jo Ann Breaux
Kai and Sam Parker tied the knot at their gorgeous historic farmhouse last year.
It’s February, which means love is in the air and it’s officially National Weddings Month. February does own the most weddings to a single day. The trajectory of matrimony has evolved in recent times. No longer are couples waiting to buy homes after they tie the knot and couples are being more cost conscious when thinking about the thousands of dollars spent on a one day event.
Think about it. Would you rather start your life together in debt or would you rather have a budgeted wedding day where you can maybe take a fantastic honeymoon or maybe save for a future endeavor? I love a backyard wedding. There’s so much you can do without the hassle of extra costs or stress from dealing with vendors to time restraints to transportation. Home is where the heart is in this scenario. As of 2022, the average cost of a wedding in the United States is $30,000, which includes the ceremony and reception and that’s only in some states. Depending on where you are, you could be looking at 40K+ for your big day. Imagine how much you could within your home for that much! I don’t—thank you very much.
Here are a few money saving ideas for your backyard wedding, but remember, it is about what you want in the end.
Local Author Ward Howarth and wife of 20 years, Amy had a beautiful and intimate wedding.
“It felt more personal, less formal. No rules, just more like us.”
Lights: You can’t go wrong with a dusky wedding. Ground lanterns to light up walkways or hanging jars with electric candles. And of course string lights will work nicely for the occasion.
Picnic: A great idea is having a picnic wedding in the backyard. Having blankets strewn about as you lay about for the happy couple.
Projectors: Using a projector to provide a slideshow backdrop can be sentimental and fun.
Trees: Trees are great for swings, hanging lights, photos, fabrics, and are great to hold a laundry line where guest can pin up the polaroids or sentimental notes.
Privacy Fences: These are great to hang family photos, lights, or use as a photo backdrop.
Food: Use a local caterer or make it a potluck, it doesn’t have to be from a Michelin star restaurant so make it easy.
“We were about to make a life together. We loved our house and it just felt like the natural thing to do. It is a memory that is etched into where we live and love.”
Have a look at these RVA backyard lovebirds!
Karen and Doug had an intimate ceremony in their backyard and then did it again in Poe’s.
Kristy and Keith Rader opted for the front yard underneath their pretty magnolia tree—how Southern of y’all.
Victoria and Joe Deroche did the casual thing with her children by their sides under the pergola.
Austen and Savannah vowed to have a great time with their fun backyard nuptials.
For more simple and budget friendly ideas:
Guilty by Association
Knowing the difference between an Homeowners Association and a Neighborhood Association…
Photo by: Photographer Frederik Trovatten
Years ago my mother bought a house in a neighborhood in the far West End of Richmond. My mother grew up in the jungle of Santiago, Panama. She knows how to stretch a dollar to the fullest. When she moved in, she would hang her laundry out back because a) it’s what she’s used to and b) it saved money. Neighbors did not take kindly to her resourcefulness nor did they like it if I parked in front of her house, nor did they want her doing anything to tarnish their impeccable image. She hated living there.
I recently had a client dealing with her 2 HOAs in addition to her Neighborhood Association. Yep, two different entities, 3 different fees, and double the disclosure package. So fun. I decided this would be the subject of this month’s piece—educating others on the differences. Here we go…
A Homeowners Association (HOA) and a neighborhood association are both community organizations, but they have distinct differences in their structure, purpose, and functions:
HOA (Homeowners Association): Primarily focused on managing and maintaining common areas and amenities within a residential community. HOAs often enforce community rules and architectural standards, collect dues, and address issues related to shared facilities. For example, there might be rules on what type of structures you can have on your property or if you can have a business out of your home.
Neighborhood Association: Generally has a broader focus on community engagement, social activities, and advocacy. While some neighborhood associations may also address common issues like beautification and safety, their scope is often more varied and may include organizing events, fostering a sense of community, and representing residents' interests to local authorities. For example, a neighborhood association can vote on a pet friendly environment or encourage others to help with buying playground equipment.
Membership and Dues:
HOA: Typically, residents within a specific housing development or community are mandatory members of the HOA, and they are required to pay regular dues to fund the association's activities. In Richmond, HOA fees run on average between $200-$300 a month. Depending on how lux the community will determine price usually. The more amenities, the higher the cost.
Neighborhood Association: Membership in a neighborhood association is often voluntary, and residents may choose to participate by paying dues or getting involved in community activities. Some neighborhood associations are good for maintaining the beautification of a community or helping to prevent criminal activity, although they can be a bit like Mrs. Kravitz where certain neighbors will cause headache to others.
Governance:
HOA: Governed by a set of covenants, conditions, and restrictions (CC&R) that outline rules and regulations for the community. The HOA is usually managed by a board of elected homeowners or the property management company for condos/townhomes.
Neighborhood Association: Governance structure varies, but neighborhood associations are often more informal and may not have the same level of regulatory authority as an HOA. Leadership may consist of volunteers or elected representatives.
Enforcement and Regulations:
HOA: Has the authority to enforce community rules and regulations through mechanisms like fines, architectural review processes, and, in some cases, legal action.
Neighborhood Association: Typically has a more limited regulatory role, focusing more on community engagement and collaboration rather than strict enforcement.
Scope of Activities:
HOA: Primarily concerned with managing property values, architectural standards, and common facilities within a specific development.
Neighborhood Association: Engages in a wider range of activities, including organizing social events, community outreach, and advocating for broader neighborhood interests.
If you choose to live in a community that has an HOA, make sure you understand all the bylaws and restrictions that come with your new home. If you are a homeowner that wants the freedom to do what thy will upon your property, you may not want to get into a home that has an HOA attached to it. It can affect things like the color of your home, where you park, noise restrictions, and so forth. Also note that when you sell your home or condo, you have to pay for the resale package which can be quite pricey.
My mother no longer lives in a restrictive community, but she does have a neighbor who thought it’d be a good idea to park a large RV and build a tiny house right up to her property line. Can’t win them all!
Interested in maintenance free living? Contact Me Today!
Seeing Red
The color red can be tantalizing, energetic, and inviting and shades of it in your home can prove to be a stand out choice…
Ah the color red, when I think of it in cinematic terms, the red room in Twin Peaks comes to mind and The Shining’s geometric rug. Not the most positive use of the color, but I did find Amelie’s bedroom dreamy as well as the grandeur of Downton Abbey’s grand room to the bewitching vibe I was looking for. It’s that time of year where I spotlight the color of the year trends, but unfortunately this years choice has left a bland taste in my mouth. Sorry Pantone but Peach Fuzz doesn’t do it for me. The remainder of 2024 color trends of the year are leaving me with lukewarm feels as I don’t tend to favor too many of the cool tones they’ve chosen this year. This is the year to feel emboldened!
I have always gravitated towards the color red and is the only pop of color I give leeway to in my wardrobe, however, I don’t see it enough in interiors. Reds can invoke warmth and energy in a living space not to mention what it can do when creating a lush bedroom dreamscape. In Asian cultures, red symbolizes good fortune and happiness, perfect in celebrating the Year of the Dragon. It also draws an audience to a focal point within a space. You want to be where it is.
I’m talking about deep warm reds for interiors, for example my staircase wall will be full of drama this year as I coat it with Benjamin Moore’s Flamenco. You have to be careful with reds which makes it all the more exciting to coat you with my dear. It’s a strong color, not for the weak. It says “LOOK. AT. ME.” with danger, desire, and mystery. You have to be confident to use such pigment, but once you yield to it, you won’t regret it.
Entryways
Red in an entryway says, “Greetings, come inside, let me show you more.” It' is a perfect lead in exuding confidence and interest.
Living/Sitting Rooms
I’m a fan of an “conversational” space and how I love thee Victorian aesthetic. I am destined to owned a velvet chaise lounge. Nothing says, “Spill the very juice tea” like a vermillion velvet loveseat. Now, I’m talking a lot of vintage here, but red has its place in the modern decor world as well. Artwork in particular comes to mind, thinking Rothko and Rauschenberg prints or red accent furniture. Red also pairs well with natural materials making it an ease to mix and match with. Finding Oriental rugs dominated by the color is a nice option to tie a room together. Pairing shades of oranges, yellows, and blues with the strength of red can create a relaxing atmosphere.
The Kitchen
Finding pops of ruby in a kitchen through appliances and cabinet backgrounds will bring any kitchen to life. Making tapas was never so vibrant!
The Bedroom
This is a “duh” color for this room. Since red stimulates conversation and invokes passion, it’s a desired choice. You may not want to go too deep with red walls, but you will still feel flushed by adding velvet curtains and linens for a dramatic effect, how Moulin Rouge of you!
Photo by: Pars Sahin
Red courage
Working with reds in your home can be a hard choice. When we think of red, it gives us different connotations of meaning…alert, blood, sirens…vampires—it can be alarming or too kitschy in some instances, so choosing the right shade for you is important. Red can create a beautiful and lush space. We know that red is quite the popular color with exterior doors and why wouldn’t you want your home to stand out! Incidentally, red doors historically mean that your mortgage has been paid off, but I do believe today it’s more of an invitation than a brag. Don’t be afraid to use the shade, have fun with it, play with it, you won’t regret the results. Here are few more ideas to fire you up…
Soup's On!
It’s Soup Season and I’m here for it!
Oh January! We all just want to cuddle up by the fire and enjoy a good read or watch our stories. January is the month of the soup and while you are all cuddled up, perhaps you’ll need some nourishment. I found these soothing and simple recipes for some added warmth.
I’m featuring my top five soups, but I have collected a few on my Pinterest Board. Click on the pincode for more delicious soup recipes and feel free to share yours in the comments.
Italian Wedding Soup
It’s heart and full of good yums.
Photo Source: Good in the Simple
Sancocho
With Panamanian pride, I cherish this cozy comfort from my homeland. This soup is made in different Latin countries with different variations.
Photo Source: Iheartcilantro on AllRecipes.com
Lentil Soup
It’s super easy to make and is totally good for you, add Chorizo or veggie Chorizo for a little spice. Qué Rico!
Photo Source: Maricruz Avalos Flores
Pho
The Cure All! I love Pho when I’m not feeling well or if I just want something that I can feel in my soul!
Photo Source: Ananas J
French Onion
It might be the bread and the crispy cheese on top, but French Onion soup will be put me in a place of satiated comfort.
Photo Source: sheri silver
Honorable Mention: My Mama’s Chicken and Sausage Gumbo
This soup takes some tender loving care, but also not a soup in my definition, more like a stew. It’s all in the roux baby.
Photo Source: My Cousin Tiger Breaux
Photo Source: Nathan Dumlao
Soup Scene
Can’t be bothered making the stuff? No worries, we have some very good brothy finds in RVA proper.
Pho Luca is my Photastic find and of course Pho Tay Do.
French Onion Soup is très bonne at Chez Max.
Garnett’s always has great variety in their Soup du Jours.
Every soup I’ve ever had at Lulabelle’s Cafe has been spot on.
If you ever want just a really good Chicken Noodle Soup, Izzy’s is the spot!
And for our Ramen lovers…Grace Noodle is the highest rated.
Slurp It Up!
For More Soup Recipes, visit my Pinterest Board.
Gratitude Attitude
It’s time for being grateful and giving thanks, but also doling out acts of kindness in a bleak world…
We are at the time of year where we say thanks and graciously appreciate all that we have. I know it’s been rough. I think this year has tried to kill any spirit i have left. I feel a lot of us are struggling in ways we hadn’t seen before and they can be both scary and disorienting. The best thing to do to remedy these feeling is to do something good. I’m big believer in collective energy and I fear that is what the world is missing right now. That energy is also contagious, so if we all just tried to do something kind and good for others, perhaps we can shift this heavy dark weight?
Here’s a start:
VOLUNTEER: Find a local charity and take a day with you, your family, your friends, whoever and go help an organization out.
FUNDRAISE: Hold a donation drive for your favorite local charity. Every bit counts so make it fun and festive while helping these organizations stay afloat.
WRITE A LETTER: Whether you send a card or write a letter, you won’t believe what it feels like to see that in the mail amongst all the bills. I guarantee you, it will make someone’s day.
DELIVER A MEAL: Make some baked goods or a simple meal to bring to other’s doorsteps. It will be a delight for sure!
OFFER TO BABYSIT: My friend’s with kids are so exhausted. They barely have time to spend with each other or do anything for themselves. Frankly, I’m tired of seeing kids at breweries. Volunteer some time to babysit for your friends. They will appreciate the the cherished time spent on adulting.
DRIVE BY COMPLIMENTS: This is one of my favorite TikTok things. I love the people at stop lights or driving by slowly and giving others compliments. The smiles are so worth it! Positive Catcalling if you will!
TEACH: Do you have a friend who is constantly needing help with a skill that you possess? Take a day and have a teaching session. This not only goes a long way, but you are giving something of great value to someone else.
It doesn’t take much to be kind or to appreciate the things you have. Giving others the same will bring everyone to a better place.
This year I am raising money for the following charities, help me reach my goals!
Photo: Jesus Espinosa/Xinhua via ZUMA Press
Cruz Roja Mexicana: The Red Cross in Mexico to help those displaced during Hurricane Otis.
Jeremy and Kristen Turner: Friends of mine who lost everything in the Lahaina, Maui, Hawaii Fire. They are just trying to start over.
Latin Ballet of Virginia: I love this organization and what they do to give kids confidence in their identity and connects them with their culture. It is an organization close to my heart and who doesn’t love to dance!
Before Skynet Takes Over...
Some reasons why AI won’t replace agents anytime soon…
With all the talk surrounding the future of AI, this has become a subject of discussion amongst my peers and my clients. Will AI take over the way we do real estate? And the answer is a resounding “no”, with a sprinkle of “yes”.
First and foremost the role of the realtor is to represent and advocate for their clients. We come with a particular set of tools that go beyond the data analysis and statistics AI can provide. We are licensed professionals that need to be well-versed in the legality of contracts in addition to carrying a vast knowledge of all things real estate related, from nuts to bolts. We are also humans that can handle the emotional rollercoaster of buying and selling homes. So let’s get into the “no” part.
Negotiation Skills: Real estate transactions often involve complex negotiations, and the ability to fight for your clients as well as to effectively get what everyone wants out of the deal is crucial.
Legal Expertise: Realtors need to be informed in local real estate laws and regulations, which can vary significantly from one location to another.
Local Knowledge: Understanding the environment of local neighborhoods and communities, including schools, features, and quality of life, is something AI struggles to replicate.
Emotional Considerations: Homebuying and selling can be highly emotional experiences, and human realtors often provide guidance and support during these times especially during death and divorces.
Creative Problem Solving: Unforeseen issues and challenges can arise during real estate transactions, requiring creativity and problem-solving skills that AI currently lacks.
My first client I ever sold a house to had a huge lender fail as she made her way to the closing table. The amount of stress she was under and the fear of losing the home at the very end created a very tense atmosphere for all of us involved. She was dumbfounded by the lack of communication and knowledge her chosen lender wasn’t giving her. I fortunately work with trusted professionals and called one of my lenders who acted efficiently and easily. She worked diligently to not only get my client a better program, but also a better rate. my client was able to close easily and successfully. I don’t believe AI could have known the people I trust to make things happen.
The amount of work that goes into selling a home can be daunting. From assessing the value of the home through researching comparable markets to helping you increase the curb appeal to the marketing and access to a wide network of internet sites to the paperwork, we do it all for you. A good agent does that is. Just as you pay a lawyer to represent you, you hire us to protect you and your investments through the transaction process. Some of us give you added services like cleanings and staging costs.
I think AI will be good to help those who can’t market, market. I think it will be good at creating reports for us and perhaps showing specific numbers and profitability, but AI will never replace the human touch. AI isn’t going to support you through selling your house through a messy divorce or be the one to hand you keys to your very first home. Do I think we will do real estate differently in the future? With VR gaining ground, I’d have to say it is probably. Because our business is relationship based and relies on empathy, I don’t believe we will be calling on T-800—just yet.
The Pilgrimage to Tradition
Creating new traditions can be a fun way to establish your new home…
The holidays are here and with that comes the legacy of ritual. I’ve been thinking about this a lot lately in terms of what Covid has changed and the way we are in gathering spaces. Growing up, we rarely celebrated the holiday dinner at home, even though my mom was the Queen of cookery between households. The traditional holiday dinner in my family was spent at my Uncle Eddie and Aunt Elgene’s house in the country. With eight of their children along with 12 grandchildren, they didn’t need much to get the party started. By the time our family of four showed up, there was a kitchen counter, a large table, and three additional tables full of food and desserts ready to be gobbled up.
“Eat at a restaurant instead of making everything from scratch. I always thought I’d prefer to make it myself but it ends up becoming a big ball of stress for me!”
“We put up our tree the second weekend in November.”
The creep into the eve consisted of dancing cousins, horses indoors, and George Jones on the turntable. My brother and I remember our dad carrying us out of the backseat of Buick and to our beds if we didn’t win the insistent begging to stay the night.
“I open my doors to anyone I know (and some I don’t) who has no other place to go.”
“We burn a yule log on the solstice, we said goodbye to xmas.”
As I got older with divorced parents, the holidays just became an obligation I was most apathetic about. I had rather been invited to a friend’s family home instead. Whilst in college, I opted to not come home to my my parents with new partners and then I got married. The tradition to visit one, two, three, and a fourth home for the holidays became a treacherous, but bittersweet ritual. His family, like the Walton’s, were easy to get along with and there was never a lack of good eats. I sometimes miss that former life where the table would seat 15-20 people and the din would be loud and full of life.
“Go on vacation for Thanksgiving with my spouse and forgo the family drama.”
So, now we come to today. Mom is East, Dad is South, and Brother is West. My partner’s mom is in Canada, the rest of my family overseas as well. Doesn’t make for the warm gathering of holiday cheer does it? Now that I own my home, I finally get to have a say in annual customs! I thought I’d share for all you who grew up in traditions you may not have liked very much or that weren’t very efficient.
THE TREEDITIONAL DECORATIONS
My brother was allergic to pine growing up so we never could have a real tree. Every year we plan a family trip to a tree farm and spend the day picking and cutting our own while exploring a cute town. Consider the day you want to put up the tree or do decorations, but do it as a family and take an opportunity to get some memorable photos.
THANKSGIVING SUPPER
Make whatever you want. Who says you always have to make a turkey and a ham? I prefer a good steak or italian. I also prefer not to cook on Thanksgiving. Eating out has been pleasurable and so much less mess to clean up!
THE OPEN HOUSE
I love a holiday open house. People come and they go and they bring dishes and so forth. It’s less formal and more fun!
SWITCH HOUSES
Every year, draw for who gets to do the holiday meal and yes, you might have to fight with mom on this one.
Photo Source: Momfluential
SHARING GRATITUDE
Have everyone write down what they are thankful for and put them in a jar. When everyone is indulging in coffee and desert, pass the jar around and read off what you pull.
FLICKS
Every Christmas we watch Elf with cookies and cocoa and popcorn. It’s the best. Watching a holiday movie is more fun with a crowd.
GAMES
My family used to play Bourré after the holiday meal and I cherish those memories of watching them play. Games are a great way to have fun and engage everyone before they fall into the food coma.
HOLIDAY BRUNCH
I love the idea of brunch on Christmas rather than Christmas dinner when everyone is exhausted.
THE FAMILY THAT GIVES TOGETHER
A really great way to honor the holidays is to get a group of family and friends together and give back. Choose a non-profit you can volunteer at or host your own food drive.
BANNING AT THE TABLE
If there is a family member who is the constant friction in your holiday plans, cut them out. Seems harsh, but once they start to notice they aren’t invited to the table, then a real conversation begins. It’s too stressful having someone always being judgy and argumentative for the holidays. Those times are for calm and peace.
ADULT HOUR
Implement a cocktail/mocktail hour before dinner with nice music and company. Send the kids outside or somewhere else in the house and take an hour to ease your way to the holiday meal. As soon as we walk into the door, my mom wants to feed us. I always feel rushed, so in my house, we chill for a little bit while things are cooking and people are arriving.
HELP
Every holiday traditional meal should end with help to break down. Nothing is worse than having loads of dishes and clean up to do after spending hours in the kitchen. This is a good way to teach the kids some empathy!
SLEEP OVERS
I love this tradition of sleeping over the eve of or on the holidays. It’s cozy and fun and a great way for everyone to bond.
TRAVEL
I love traveling on the holidays! It has been my favorite tradition to implement. Book a trip solo or have a beach or mountain stay with the fam.
WISHLISTS
You could all sit and do your holiday wish lists together over hot chocolate and treats.
SANTA LETTERS
I love doing a custom Santa letter that gets “sent” by Santa himself.
Whatever you decide to do for the holidays, make it as stress free as possible. Traditions don’t have to be exhausting or complicated. They don’t have to be conventional or boring either. Have fun with it and enjoy all that holidays are supposed to be—joyous, festive, and cozy.
Sashay RVA
National Square Dance Month has us swinging out partners…
Image Source: Ozark County Times
Do you remember those awkward moments in PE class when you had to learn to do si do and sashay? I grew up in a place where dancing was essential to your being, and whether you grabbed your grandma or your wife, you can be sure you’d be on the dance floor before the night is over. From what I know now, these days, Square Dancing is no longer taught in PE and I wondered how alive this tradition is these days. It seems like the tradition of people dancing together has become obsolete, unless you’re donning leather over at Fallout or waltzing the night away at some cotillion, the act of dancing cheek to cheek or hand to hand is hard to find.
So what is square dancing? Square dancing is a traditional American folk dance with European roots brought over by the settlers and then modified over time with the intermingling of different cultures. It consists of four couples fitting into the corners of a square. Usually square dancing is associated with country folk, but these traditional dances primary stem from Scottish/Irish, French and English origins. There are many types of square dances depending on what region you live in and in Virginia, Square Dance was designated as the official folk dance in 1991.
Square Dancing is made up of different “calls” from “callers”. Callers shout or sing out the instructions to the dancers to follow and often entertain the crowd. Here are a few calls you may or may not have heard of, but are most common:
Circle Left: All eight dancers join hands and walk in a left circle
Allemande Left: Everyone face their corner, take a left forearm with their corner and circles around until they are facing their partners again, Drop arms.
Do Si Do: Face your partner, step past each other passing right shoulders and without turning around step back to back then back up passing left shoulders until you are in front of your partner again.
Promenade: Couples in a skater's position, men on the ladies left side, and slightly behind her, take hands and walk together in a counterclockwise circle until you reach your home position. (Starting Position)
Swing: Couples in a ballroom dance position, circling in a clockwise direction a full 360 degrees or until facing the line of dance. Man twirls the lady under his arm to finish the swing.
Weave the Ring: Everyone face their partner and walk forward in a circle formation passing each other with alternating shoulders, starting with the right. Stop when you get to your partner.
Here’s a little video presentation from RVA Squares featuring Grant Hunnicut as the Caller.
I was actually surprised to find some Square Dance clubs here in RVA and now my interest is peaked. It may not be 7th grade PE, but looks and sounds like a good time. If you are interested in promenading into one of these groups, here are a few suggestions around town.
Livin' La Vida Verde
If you are looking to add some life into your spaces, but are prone to killing all things green…
I grew up with a mother whose green thumb would put Poison Ivy to shame. The woman can cultivate anything! You may think that plant is dead, but give it to my mom and she’ll whisper that thing right back to life and thensome. I, however, was not given such gifts. My plant magic consists of being able to keep a succulent alive half a year. I don’t know why, I just kill anything that hues green.
As I drooled over the past year’s dark cottage core/academia aesthetic styles, I pondered—can I too enjoy the benefits of plant life? I decided to do some research on helping me get started and if you too have a black thumb, maybe you will consider these leafy specimens.
Top 5 Favorite Plants for Your Home
The Snake Plant aka Mother-in-law’s tongue
I’ve seen these around before, but man, did this become a popular plant in recent times. This one will help remove toxins in the air and require a quite minimal maintenance program
Image Source: Plantz
Kentia Palm
Requiring little to no water and light, the Kentia is perfect to add some height (12-18 inches) to your space. They live a long time and are great at purifying the air.
My Favorite RVA Plant Houses
Sneed’s: They are friendly and helpful and have great classes, oh and don’t forget Cricket the kitty!
Cole’s Plants: Love this locally owned shop and has a great variety of houseplants made for home decorating.
Green Vibes RVA Pop Ups: Love what this lady does. It really does feel like walking into someone’s home and picking out what speaks to you.
Lavender Fields: Not only is a nice drive there, but I love ending my purchases with some Lavender Honey Ice Cream or Tea. They have a good variety of things here and it’s a nice place to visit.
Devil’s Ivy aka Pothos Ivy
This climber of a plant has been a staple in my mother’s home for decades. You barely have to glance at her and she thrives. She’s fun to decorate with as well, especially if you have a screen for her to adorn.
The Peace Lily
Just as it suggests, this low maintenance beauty curbs anxiety. I like that it’s a flowering plant to compliment your home decor as well.
Succulents
Yes, I know they’ve been trendy for a while now, but honestly these are my favorites. They just provide such versatile looks with color, shape, and texture. You can do so much with them and they don’t require much in return. Consider the Aloe plant and its medicinal properties.
Planning for the Worse
Here are some good tips to be ready for disaster…
I think a lot of us say we know what we’d do in certain circumstances, but if we’re all being honest here, when panic sets in, it’s hard to think straight. I for one am one of those people that likes to freeze. I’d be the first to die in any apocalyptic scenario due to my ability to disassociate myself from traumatic events. That being said, I think if I can give someone tips on how to be prepared then I feel I at least participated in the disaster relief program.
In all seriousness.—my friend, who lived in Lahaina, HI lost their home and everything in it in the wild fire that ravaged the island last month. It was tragic and she and her husband are still reeling from the loss. I cannot imagine what it was like for them to lose everything they owned, leaving them displaced and in a state of shocked. It makes you stop and think about how you’d prepare yourself for something like that or can you?
Disaster has no mercy nor does it have a timeline. Things just happen and unfortunately sometimes Mother Nature’s chancleta can be quite destructive. As we are in the midst of our Hurricane season and this month is about preparedness, I thought I’d give you some tips on some things we can do to help when disaster strikes.
Have a Plan
Make sure you and your family have a plan.
Do you know your phone numbers by heart?
Do you have a meet up location in case you get separated?
Do you know where the emergency supplies are?
Do you have a nearby place to crash in case you can’t go back home?
Do you know where the nearest hospital is?
This is when knowing your neighbors can be helpful.
Do you know where the evacuation routes are?
Don’t
If the government is actually following protocol for once in its life and thinks it is dangerous enough to issue an evacuation, take heed. Better to be safe than sorry.
Be an amateur storm chaser. Yes, I know it looks really cool to see the inside of a tornado, but do you want to die because you don’t want to disappoint your socials audience?
Divert from the plan. Practice the plan and keep it consistent.
Forget about planning for your pets.
Go swimming when it’s flooding, you know because electricity and water don’t mix.
Do
Invest in a waterproof bin that is easily accessible.
Have a tank of gas available that is also easily accessible.
Have at least three weeks of non-perishable food and water stored, not like Doomsday stored, but you know in case you are stuck.
Include your children in the safety portion of the Plan. You don’t need them panicking while you are all trying to stay safe.
Make sure that you have important documents copied and saved in a safe place.
Get flood insurance if you are in a flood zone area.
Give your neighbors your contact information.
Spend the money on a generator
Know how to disconnect your utilities
Supplies
Remember, easily accessible, in a waterproof container, one on site and one off-site. Here are some things you may want to include:
First Aid Kit
Batteries
Battery Powered Radio
Wireless Charger that is Charged!
Blankets
A set of clothes for each member.
Diapers
Prescriptions
Feminine Products
Multi-Use Tool, ie. Leatherman
Strong Flashlight
Wireless Lanterns
Matches/Lighters
Scissors/Knife
Rope
Flare Gun
Cards
Pet Food
Water
Plastic Cutlery, Save when you get takeout
A list of emergency numbers
Or you can buy one that’s already built for you!
If you would like to donate to Kristen and Jeremy to help them get back on their feet, you can do so by clicking the button below. Thank you!
The Return of Velvet
The look, the feelt, the velvet! Create drama and luxury with velvet decor…
I have a thing for velvet. I find it to be a fabric of luxe and lush finishing and it’s popular again much to my pleasure. I like how velvet can create drama within a room. For instance, I just bought velvet curtains from Amazon and wowsa, what a difference it made in my otherwise plain living room. I think sometimes people take it for granted because they see it as a heavy fabric, but velvets come in all weights and shapes. I found these luscious finds that you could consider decorating with to bring any room to stun.
The Velvet Couch
You know the one that makes any Oscar Wilde prose delicious. I love the comfort of a velvet sectional, so plush and tranquil.
The Velvet Tuft Headboard
Bring luxury to your bedroom with gorgeous velvet headboards.
Velvet Decorative Pillows
These come in different shapes and sizes and create beautiful contrast amongst your furniture.
Velvet Vintage
You can never go wrong with a signature piece in velvet. Create drama with a velvet chaise in the bedroom or a antique velvet sofa for spilling the tea in the sitting room.
Velvet Dining Chairs
Bon Appetious! Dine in elegance with adding a little velvet to your dining area.
Velvet Drapes
What theatrics is this! Velvet curtains create gorgeous texture in any room. Get hideaway rods for a real dramatic effect.
Off-Campus Capital
Investing in your child’s future through home purchasing…
August is National Back to School month, and as we watch the backs of our little ones entering what we hope will be an enriching learning experience, I want you to hold off on the mimosa for a sec and consider this. Have you thought about your child’s future once they hit the college scene? I don’t know about your college experience, but I do recall that come Sophomore year, those young adults are going to start seeking shelter off-campus.
You know how important investing in your child’s education is, but do you also know that actually investing for their future is setting them up for wealth and success? Ponder this—excluding tuition, consider the on-campus expenses you pay. Let’s use VCU as an example:
Those numbers are per year, so imagine little Jimmy going for his 4 year college degree and you’re out $80K. Imagine the expense if they been accepted to a private school!
Consider purchasing a home for your high school grad. It’s not that far-fetched. I’ve known a few parents who did this as a present for their kids’ graduation and it turned out to be a great investment for all involved. The benefits of becoming a landlord to your child and their roommates are plenty, but also what it will do for you all in the future financially is a great reward.
Start them off early and show them that the after-school job can do more for them than any video gaming system purchase. If I had that knowledge in my high school years, those part-time gigs could have relieved many years of renting headaches and saved me thousands of dollars.
The average rent for apartments (1 bed) in Richmond, VA is between $1,285 and $1,786 in 2023 with the average rent for a single family home being around $2,038.
Here are a few pros of buying for the next four years:
Decrease student debt by omitting on-campus room and board.
If there is a roommate/partner situation, mortgage payments will be reduced or paid for.
It could be a nice way to decrease student loan debt.
Student loans can help with rental and living expenses.
Build equity and income.
Once they graduate, you have a few options. They can take over the mortgage payments, become their own landlord, create a vacation rental, or sell it.
They’ll be happier living in their own independent space.
If you have other children going to school in the same area, the residence can be passed down from generation to generation.
It will teach them responsibility and money management.
Of course there are cons:
Maintenance will need to be handled, so you might have to pay extra when things go wrong. Make sure you have a handy network of on call professionals.
Safety. It won’t be like a secured campus. They will have to take more precautions.
Being a landlord can be difficult if your tenants are late or don’t pay their monthly rent.
If you are a student, sometimes there are age restrictions in applying for a mortgage and also debt-to-income ratio can be a challenge.
If you are interested in investing in your child’s future by purchasing a second home or having them purchase their first, contact me so we can get you started. it’s never too early and my lenders are on stand-by to answer any mortgage loan questions. Now feel free to sip those mimosas and wave goodbye to your future investors.
Be Well.
Find the best ways to practice self-care can be a challenge…
These yoga pants are just for show. I’m not a yoga, meditate, find your zen kinda person. Some people enjoy a spa day, some people go to therapy, and others like to throw China in an alleyway to relieve this thing called stress. This month is National Wellness Month and no matter how many times we hear the words “self-care”, I think a lot of us equate it to another task list item. Isn’t self-care the same as being a feminist? It should just be?
My self-care regiment consists of getting my nails done every three weeks and an acupuncture appointment anywhere I can fit it in. The truth is, self-care is expensive. Insurance doesn’t cover self care so we need to be creative on how we deal with the stresses of our lives while being healthy in mind and body.
Richmond has many a place to go to practice caring for oneself, from spas to yoga studios to therapists, we’ve got it covered in the self-care arena. What helps you take care of you? Here are a few tips to help you on your journey to being a healthier, better you that aren’t always conventional.
Try drinking more water. This is a hard one for me, but I downloaded an app that reminds me every hour to intake some H2O goodness.
Invest in a pet. Animals are great ways to ease anxiety and overall wellness .
Give your phone a curfew. Set your phone for a few hours before bedtime and disconnect from it. This one is hard, says the TikTok til midnight viewer.
Find at least one thing that brings you utter joy. Aren’t you tired of always doing what everyone else does or wants? Take some time and do one thing for you. Whether it’s a solo fishing trip or redecorating your office, the important thing is to do it by yourself.
Go get a physical. Yes, it will conjure up nostalgic feelings of high school sports, but practicing preventive self-care is beneficial to your health and peace of mind.
I don’t meditate well, but I do pincushion really well. Acupuncture has done wonders for my anxiety and for me, is a very relaxing way for me to zen out. Some people prefer other methods like floating or actual meditation and that is fully valid to help separate your mind from the stresses of the world.
Dance. In my opinion, the best medicine on Earth is to shake that booty. It’s good for your physically and allows you to release energy.
Stop investing so much time in being in more than one place. I am highly guilty of this. Sure, it’s important to meet with friends, colleagues, and clients, but maybe limit those days to two days a week instead of a whole week of meet ups. Try doing a weekly friend roundup with one place, one time, come if you can situation. This way everyone becomes part of the conversation and you aren’t running all over town.
See stuff. Take a day and expose yourself to something beautiful. A poem, a piece of music, a special meal, whatever it may be—enjoy it.
Take a Walk. It really is a great way to clear your head, reconnect with a family member, or listen to a podcast without interruption.
Write Something. Anything. Take a moment to jot down some thoughts. Getting them out can alleviate a lot of stress and use a pen!
Redesign a Room. Take one room in your house and dream up a mood board for it and then redecorate. You’ll create a whole different energy to breathe in!
Say No. If you are anything like me, saying “no” is one of the hardest things to muster. Sometimes we just don’t have the bandwidth and that’s ok. The world isn’t going to burn.
Find something physical you enjoy. Whether it’s shooting hoops or taking a row class, find something physical you enjoy instead of forcing yourself into a burpee hell. As long as you are moving!
Go on a solo day trip. Just you, yourself, and me. There doesn’t even need to be a destination. You can just go driving for an hour on a back road, stopping at spots you that call to you.
National Adopt a Cat: Meowtastic reasons for owning a cat
Why should you own a feline companion, here are a few reasons…
My first pet was a dog, A beautifully rambunctious German Shepard named Pepi. We had to get rid of her because our home and ourselves were too small for her energy. We opted for a second dog, a cute rottweiler mix named George. Both George and Pepi met untimely deaths. My mother decided we were no longer going to be a dog family, but an unexpected cat family. Our sweet orange tabby, Tommy, was my best friend and he began the tradition of my owning cats.
Yes, I know, there are cat people, there are dog people, and there are animal lovers. I am by nature a cat person, but love my dogs, horses, pigs, birds, and so forth. Funny enough we are more similar in makeup to cats than dogs due to our brain makeup. Since this month is National Cat Month, I thought I’d encourage you all with some fun facts about owning cats.
Less Stress and Anxiety
The number one benefit for owning cats is that they have been clinically proven to relieve stress and anxiety. They help release oxytocin in humans, therefore creating a more harmonious and tranquil enviornment.
BETTER CARDIOVASCULAR HEALTH
If you could reduce your risk of a heart attack by as much as 40% just by owning a cat, wouldn’t you? Studies have shown that owning a cat decreases heart problems.
Improved immune system function
Cats help strengthen your immune system and can potentially reduce the risk of certain allergies and autoimmune disorders by introducing associated microorganisms and bacteria. They may also reduce allergies if you grow up with them.
“Women and cats will do as they please, and men and dogs should relax and get used to the idea.”
Top 3 Cat Breeds in the US
These are the top breeds trending in the cat world.
Ragdolls
The cute factor on these cats has been winning all the competitions in the last few years. They have a gentle temperament and just super chill cats.
Maine Coons
I love this exotic creature. Slightly bigger in size with such a majestic face, these cats make for great companions.
Scottish Fold
Famous for those rounded ears and big ole eyes, this feline is a curious and amiable character.
“You know how it is with cats: They don’t really have owners, they have staff.”
Cool Facts About Cats
Bet you didn’t know these feline fun facts.
House cats share 95.6% of their genetic makeup with tigers.
There is evidence that suggest that cats predated Ancient Egyptians by 4,000 years.
Isaac Newton invented the cat flap to stop his cat “Spithead” from opening the door to his darkroom and ruining light-sensitive experiments.
“A cat will be your friend, but never your slave.”
Adopt a Cat Today
If you are interested in Cat Adoptions, Check out these resources.
Making Room
Amanda Scudder is the Owner and a Certified Professional Organizer in Richmond, VA.
It was a very sunny morning when I met up with Amanda Scudder, Owner and Certified Professional Organizer of Sprucely, Home and Lifestyle Solutions. This one woman show drives this passion project to helping those organize their homes so they can have space for themselves and others, inside and out.
As Fat Rabbit morsels filled space in our bellies, I took some time to discover that organizing goes beyond purging one’s closet, but can become a healthy and liberating habit. I don’t know about you, but I cannot work in a cluttered space for too long. I also cannot deal with the overwhelming sensation of sentimental disposal. I tend to want to keep everything from wine corks to scribble filled napkins. It is the complete opposite of a close friend whose monthly firepit hang ends in the remnants of old love poems and greeting cards.
Amanda began her career with a Masters in Social Work and was all too familiar with implementing effective systems as part of her work. She is also a very kind and gentle person. So while she did her stint in Social Work, including working for United Way, she felt like something was unfulfilled in her. The Universe, my friends, is a powerful ally. It wasn’t until she randomly went to a retreat and met someone needing assistance with organizing her home, that the switch flipped. She had found the missing piece. Sprucely was born out of that passion after doing her time learning and getting certified at the Institute of Challenging Disorganization®.
Doing the unstuck is hard. Where do you start? How do start? Why do you need it? I know when I am doing a thorough clean and organizing things in my home, the energy shifts. I’m able to be more productive, my mood is lifted—of course til I mess it all up again! Many people have a hard time—putting things away, making space for what’s important, or parting with things that have meaningful significance. Amanda is able to facilitate and support those who are ready to take that leap, but she does so without creating resistance. She allows her clients space to be ready for such a task, but also gives them motivations to ponder.
Amanda is also quite certified in not only being a professional organizer, but is also one if not the only local Organizer that is a practicing CPO-CD (Certified Professional Organizer in Chronic Disorganization®). This required her to evaluate case studies, medical histories, and work with a mentor. She has also completed intensive studies in helping those with such disorders as ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Hoarding Disorder, PTSD, TBI and those with individuals suffering from OCD. Her interest lies in the “why” rather than the “what”. A lot of her job is helping those maintain a healthy routine of ‘putting things back where they belong’.
As Realtors®, we help our clients facilitate moving in and moving out of houses, Amanda helps them in both those transitions giving them a real brand new start. She helps clients get rid of the clutter before a move and shows them how to create efficient and good organizational habits to begin their new homes. But it is what Amanda does with clients who are in a life transition that I find dear. She helps clients find a meaningful and resourceful place for those items they part with so that they are beneficial to someone else in need. For example, someone who adheres to lots of books that they don’t necessarily need, could contribute to a library or bookshare. She shows others that the significance in that item could be meaningful to someone else, therefore releasing them, but never pushes them.
I have a box in my home that I will never get rid of. My ‘history’ if you will, can be found easily and within reach, but I tend to have lots of clutter around me. I have lots of clutter in my life as well. I think about how it makes me feel to transform that clutter into an inviting space for me to create and be tranquil in, and it is a desire of mine. Both Amanda and I agree that there is not set “way” to organize—every individual is different with various challenges. Some people need auditory cues while others need the visual, there just isn’t a set method to it all. You have to do what works for you and in the time it works for you. Sometimes we just need a little help seeing the trees through the clutter, while some of us just want to create a roadmap to organizational bliss.
If you are feeling overwhelmed and don’t know where to start, Sprucely can help! If you’d like to have a consultation with Amanda to figure out how to make space in your life, click below and schedule and appointment.
Slimming Down RVA
Eating healthy in RVA was never so easy. We have everything from Vegan to Mediterranean cuisine readily available to help you get that Summer bod in check!
Photo by: Jo Ann Breaux | Kismet Modern Kitchen
Yes, it’s true, we have some amazing restaurants here and the number is growing. We also have Operation Summer Bod Health Journey initiating amongst our denizens. So although, I really want to indulge in our A-Class bakeries and hear the crunch of Southern fried chicken, I’m on the hunt for some healthier options.
Kismet modern Kitchen
This newly installed amazingness is nothing short of tantalizing flavors and fresh plates. Portion control may be a little harder here.
Little Nickel
Little Nickel has the biggest and some of the best salads. They are crisp and light and you can add healthy protein options.
Cava | Mezeh | Roots Natural Kitchen
I’m lumping these three together because although, different flavors same concept. If you want delicious, quick, healthy bowls, i love these spots who have various locations in RVA.
North End Juice Company
I cannot say enough good things about this little gem. Organic and whole foods splendidly made.
Fresca on Addison
This sweet place has been in RVA for quite sometime and has always been a great dining option for those looking for a tasty vegetarian or vegan dish.
Fighting Fish
You can’t go wrong with eating Japanese food. You won’t be disappointed with the sushi and dishes at Fighting Fish.
Jannat Indian Cuisine
I don’t know about you, but I get real tired of salads when I’m trying to be lose weight or be healthier. Indian food is one of the healthiest cuisines and probably the tastiest!
Market Report RVA
Here we go! Tri-city market reports are available.
Yes, I have seen the rise of the interest rates. Yes, I have acknowledged the low inventory of housing here in Richmond. And yes, I cannot be uber positive about you FHA’ers. This is a strange market, as there was a significant lull up until the beginning of the month and although that change has been in the financing realm, I’m starting to see the past frenzy of over askings and inflated prices happening again.
I am also starting to see the Inspection returning, which in my opinion and as a Buyer’s Specialist, is a comfort. More people are moving here whether it’s for the jobs, for diversity, affordability or just how cool we are. The mixed use constructions around the city are becoming a stamp on the growth we are seeing and I wonder, just how fast are we growing? Traffic at 3:44pm is telling a story!
So, here’s a look at the overall tri-city picture. I’m always happy to sit with you and explain these stats or talk to you about your plans and how this all affects your home selling or buying plans.
Can't Delete? Hit Refresh.
When you can’t necessarily renovate, you can definitely take advantage of a good deep clean and some simple room refreshes.
I look around my house and I want to cry sometimes because we are in that stage where we plan to renovate, but can’t right now so things are just left in disarray. Every Spring, hell every 6 months I really enjoy a good cleaning and refresh of my home. That means dusting everything from floor boards to ceiling fans and moving furniture to new places. It really does change the energy.
So this season, I’ve decided to stop whining about it and start room by room with a true renewal. Get the gloves out, initiate the elbow grease, and start envisioning a refreshed living space. Check out these simple and affordable tips for reinvigorating your home.
Kitchen
Fridge
Reorganize and clean your fridge out. Take everything out, wipe down everything, throw out old food and condiments and start anew. Don’t forget to put your baking soda in there to eliminate odors. Throw out freezer burned items and save space by using storage containers and bags.
Pantry
Take everything out. Wipe down shelves and sweep and clean floor space. Contain. Label. Organize by function. Voila! Save space and make it pretty!
CABINETS, FLOORING, BACKSPLASHES
A perfect way to refresh is to add some new color to your kitchen with newly painted cabinets, update them with new hardware. Replace countertops or do a good wipe down of the old ones. Add some decor like flowers, candles, and new containers for oils and culinary essentials. Add an water resistant rug or add additional shelving.
Bedrooms
Bedrooms are easy to update and refreshen. Move beds and furniture (yes, you finally found that lost sock) and thoroughly vacuum or dust/mop underneath. Decorate some repurposed furniture with wallpaper or paint. Paint an accent wall. Wash draperies. Get rid of clutter and organize drawers. Add a new area rug. Change up or frame some artwork. Change the lamps or light fixtures to add a whole new mood. And easiest of all, buy new bed linens and pillows. Replace curtains or buy some unique curtain holdbacks.
Bed Cleaning Tip: Sprinkle baking soda after vacuuming your mattress and let sit for 15-30 minutes before replacing linens.
Offices
Offices can get a refresh by organizing files and clutter. Adding a nice shelf can help with organizing materials or adding some nice decor. Add a plant and get some calmness to your workspace. Clean desks and wipe down monitors good. Clean keyboards, they get real nasty after a while. Get some drawer organizers to help with your drawer clutter. Add some candles to create a tranquil aromatic work environment.
The Rest of the House?
Time to find that lost $20 from 2018. Move all the furniture and thoroughly vacuum or sweep/mop the room. Dust off all shelves, remove books, wipe down floor boards and mouldings, and ceiling fans. Dust picture frames as well. Smell the clean! Replace candles, drape blankets, vacuum inside furniture. Refresh an area rug or paint a wall. Add the ceiling fan you’ve always wanted or create a built-in look with shelves.
Closets: Remove clothing and clean inside. Organize and purge clothing and shoes. I know, I still have hope for those jeans from college. Color coordinate or function coordinate clothing. Invest in some good hangers that won’t have your clothes end up on the floor. Use clear boxes for shoe organization or add hooks for belts and bags. Use dryer sheets to keep clothes smelling fresh.
Just a simple deep clean of your home will refresh and revitalize. Trust me you’ll feel so much better and more energized. Create the space you want to live in. There are so many things you can do to add unique touches and make it feel like a completely new space.
** Cleaning Tip: sprinkle baking soda to all your rugs before vacuuming. Use vinegar to get rid of odors. Invest in good cleaning products!