Memory Lane

I remember it like it wasn't five years ago. Garrett and I stole away for a much needed lunch. Our youngest was one. Our oldest was five. We had just moved from a "fixer upper," into a house that didn't need any (major) updating. We were feeling the pull towards creativity, but did not know where to start. A whole house renovation came to mind but we didn't exactly know how it would be funded, we also didn't know where to find our first property. At the counter of Elvie's over a delicious appetizer and a great recomendation of a glass of wine, we prayed. We specifally prayed that in the Fall of that year, the Lord would provide a house to renovate.

That Fall, I received a phone call. The son of a dear neighbor wanted me to list his father's house. While mourning that loss, we had a feeling that this was the answer to our prayer. I remember looking for a lender. I called him. He called me back while I was at the pediatrician's office with a sick baby. There will always be a baby in our stories. Things fell into place as they do when the Lord answers prayers and we bought the house.

This post is purely prompted by the fact that I listed the house for sale today. We took entirely too long renovating it, we sold it. Despite the excessive time, the immense learning, and (thankfully) an up market when we went to sell, we could never have imagined what we would receive in exchange for selling the house. A family bought it. In addition to living across the street, they also ended up being our children's classmates. We spent three magical years together; children running from yard to yard, forming clubs, and becoming the best of friends. And now I am listing their house.

The process of listing the house has stirred up the memories of when we lived on that street, of answered prayers, of being stretched creatively, of the best of friends, of change. I thought I would share some of my reminscing.

These children went with their parents in 2020 to see the new house. These four littles toasted with sparkling juice after they went back home. They spent countless hours at the house during the process of renovating as well as with their best friends who moved in.

We all went back today (and some of them really hated that I made them recreate that

picture). I was astonished at how much life happened while we were living it! Part of the life lived in between the pictures is our precious JR. We couldn't leave him out.

I thought it would be fun to do some befores. The majority of the "afters" are listing photos. I am thankful for what came after the renovations. I am honored to still be a part of this property. I pray for it's new owner.

Below are some pictures that I hope you enjoy!

Memory lane is always fun and those that endure it are the best! If you made it this far, you are a gem! Cheers to the changing seasons and the Lord's provision.

Best King Cakes...or so they say

Hear ye, hear ye....

After a mixture of personal experience and some crowdsourcing, we have compiled a list of the Metro's BEST King Cakes.

Below is the list. I am sure it is not exhaustive, but these were the most mentioned from three different platforms. In no order of importance (although you may can guess my #1)...drum roll...Jackson's Best King Cakes:

• Sweet Ami (she can accommodate many allergies and aversions)

• Broad Street Bakery

• Campbell's

• Nandy's Candy

• PJ's

• Sugar Magnolia Takery

• Ramey's on Government (sells Paul's)

• Beagle Bagel

• Frosted Apron

• Tay Tay's

• Cup's

I hope you get to enjoy one (or more) of these delicious King Cakes!

Waiting for the Kickball team

I remember being in fourth grade as a new student at a public school in town. I had previously been homeschooled so this was life changing! Academically I settled in just fine. Socially I was settling as well. But recess. What was this thing? Those early days of everyone grouping together to talk, choosing teams to play some intense ball were mightily intimidating. How was I supposed to be chosen for a team not knowing anyone!? Was I good at this game? What exactly were the rules?

I think we all remember those moments after team captains were chosen. We all breathed differently during this next time. We have made shows based on those same emotions. Chopped comes to mind. Oh how I love that moment waiting for the plate to be revealed, but can you imagine being that actual chef!? They have guts!

If you would have asked that little fourth grade girl if she would make a career of having to be chosen, she would surely say "absolutely not!" But here I am. Having a service based, commission job is a little like grouping around the team captains, just waiting to be chosen. Of course there are so many emotions wrapped into this just like all of life. But now the stakes are higher! My family's well being is based on me being chosen - we are far from the fields at Olde Towne Elementary.

That little girl and grown up Cindy are both still standing waiting to be chosen. The difference is that grown up Cindy (although constantly struggling with a myriad of complexes) is sure she is on the right field. I feel so incredibly confident that the Lord has directed my (and Garrett's) path to real estate. We are in a profession that we love. We are surrounded by wisdom and experience in the field. We are eager to learn more and will always have the opportunity in this ever evolving line of work. We have so much to offer our clients. Throughout my six years in Real Estate, I have built a resume of sales and experience that makes me a worthy player. Now I have someone beside me in all of it! Who wouldn't want two on their team!?

You know what also build confidence? We have a group of cheerleaders! From past clients to friends and family, we are so motivated by the people in our corner. I can still cringe that maybe my posts scream "PICK ME!" but you know what, they kind of do!? I hope you pick us to represent you in your next Real Estate Transaction. I would never have tried to convince those kids on the playground to pick me, but now I know it would be a good choice. I know that having our clients, myself and Garrett working together towards a common goal will make a W. Call us if you need us, we would love to help you.